Nearly half a million Chrysler cars have been recalled after a fuel leak was discovered in some models in the United States.

The Chrysler arm of DaimlerChrysler said that it had recalled 464,315 of its 2001 and 2002 PT Cruisers to install a secondary seal to a fuel pump.

It follows the discovery of a fuel leak following a government crash test.

Chrysler said it knew of no incidents of, or complaints about, the fuel leak problem but was recalling the cars to reduce the possibility of a leak in a severe collision.

Shares down

About a quarter of the same vehicles will also be recalled for a separate safety issue involving the fuel supply line.

Chrysler said the fuel line could rub against the air conditioning service port, which could result in a fuel leak.

Chrysler said it would attach a clip to the fuel line to prevent contact.

DaimlerChrysler shares were down 19 cents at $43.31 on the New York Stock Exchange in early afternoon trading.