WASHINGTON — Toyota said today it plans to idle production temporarily at assembly plants in Texas and Kentucky while it grapples with massive recalls in the United States.

Toyota spokesman Mike Goss said a plant in San Antonio, Texas, will take production breaks the weeks of March 15 and April 12. A plant in Georgetown, Ky., has scheduled a nonproduction day on Feb. 26 and may not produce vehicles on three more days in March and April, Goss said.

Toyota Motor Corp. has recalled 8.5 million vehicles globally during the past four months because of problems with gas pedals, floor mats and brakes, threatening to undermine the safety and quality reputation of the world's No. 1 automaker.

Goss confirmed the decision was connected to the recalls. He said workers at the plants will be retained and paid during the production suspensions and will receive additional training.

The Kentucky plant builds the Camry, Avalon and Venza for Toyota. The Texas plant manufactures the Tundra pickup truck.

Goss said the automaker wants to ensure dealers don't build up excessive inventories as they try to clear to through the cars still on their lots.