Renault automaker has recalled more than 1200 Scenic and Megane cars in Belgium because of technical problems with the breaks.

Throughout Europe, up to 35,000 car will be recalled, says press agency Belga. A manufacturing error could cause the break pedal to become loose. Stopping with the handbrake isn't possible with new cars travelling faster than ten kilometres an hour. In the Netherlands, 1000 cars have already been brought back and inspected.

Last week Toyota had to recall more than eight million cars - under pressure from the US transportation Secretary - due to potentially faulty accelerator pedals. The company stressed the chances of actually finding a flaw are very slim. To make things worse for Toyota, reports emerged on Wednesday that there are problems with the brakes on the latest version of the Prius hybrid car.

Renault Megane looks good, but can it stop? Photo: NWVT.co.uk (Flickr)