Toyota issues recall for more than 2.5 million cars

HONG KONG -- Toyota is recalling more than two-and-a-half million Prius second generation models worldwide.

The recall was prompted by problems with the vehicle's steering shaft and electric-powered motor pumps. Toyota says the vehicles could be damaged and neglect to switch into hybrid mode if they aren't fixed.

The automaker plans to notify affected owners by mail starting in December. About 670-thousand of the recalled vehicles were sold in the U-S, the others are spread across Japan and Europe.

This is Toyota's second major recall in as many months.