BMW X5

By Lee Hyo-sik

The Ministry of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs said Thursday that BMW Korea will voluntarily recall 50 of its sports utility vehicles sold here over a potential fire risk caused by manufacturing defects.

It said 15 BMW X5s and 33 BMW X6s, both popular among Korean drivers, could catch fire as a result of potential oil leak.

A power-handle gear box installed in both vehicles, which makes it easier for motorists to maneuver the steering wheel, might leak pressure oil. Such a leak could make it difficult for drivers to control the vehicle, and in a worst-case scenario, catch fire, the ministry said.

The BMW X5s subject to the recall were made from May 4 to May 25 this year with the BMW X6s produced between April 24 and May 24.

The ministry said owners of these SUV models can go to any BMW Korea service center here and have their vehicles repaired free of charge, starting today.

Motorists who already had their vehicles fixed for the possible oil leak can receive a refund from BMW Korea.

``We voluntarily informed the government three months ago of the potential defect in BMW X5s and X6s. We will individually contact customers owning the vehicles at issue to bring them in for repair,’’ a BMW Korea spokesman said.