The world's largest automaker Toyota has warned of an engine fault worldwide in eight models of its luxury Lexus and Crown sedans, potentially requiring a recall that could affect up to 270,000 units. Toyota spokesman Hideto Yukawa said the defective engines, whose valve springs are not working properly, may halt in the worst case scenario while driving. He said, the company is preparing for taking market measures as soon as possible. As many as 270,000 units worldwide, including some 90,000 cars in Japan, may be affected if the company decides to pull the models. Toyota has been hit by a series of safety recalls and has pulled around 10 million vehicles worldwide since late last year.