16,237 Toyota, 17,853 SAIC vehicles recalled

BEIJING -- Sichuan Faw Toyota Motor Co will recall 16,237 coaches to fix problems that could pose safety risks, China's top quality watchdog announced on Friday.

The recall affects 16,237 Coaster-model coaches manufactured between February 1, 2010 and August 22, 2012, according to a statement on the website of the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine.

The auto maker said a faulty component in the spindle of the affected vehicles might cause the steering wheel to fall off in worst-case scenarios, according to the statement.

Also on Friday, the quality watchdog said SAIC Motor Co will recall 17,853 Roewe 550 vehicles due to safety reasons.

SAIC's affected vehicles were manufactured between May 1, 2008 and June 30, 2009, according to the administration.

The two carmakers promised to check all affected vehicles and replace defective parts free of charge. They will notify customers of the recalls via phone or mail, but didn't say exactly when the recalls will start.

Owners can contact AQSIQ's hotlines (8610-59799619 and 8610-65537365) for more information.