The Brazilian division of German auto giant Volkswagen issued a recall for 193,620 of its popular Gol and Voyage models due to problems with rear wheels.
The company said late on Wednesday that the rear-wheel bearings on the affected units may lack sufficient lubrication, which, “in
extreme cases”, could lead to the loss of a wheel while driving.
At no cost to owners, recalled vehicles will undergo “inspection, application of grease and, if necessary, the replacement of the bearings,” Volkswagen do Brasil Ltda said in a statement.
The Gol is the best-selling car in Brazil.
Both the Gol and its sedan version, the Voyage, were designed in Brazil and are exported from VW’s Brazilian factories to other countries in Latin America.
"It's important to note that this recall only concerns some vehicles in the 2009-2010 lot. Cars made after July don't have this lubrication problem. From July to now, all other vehicles are OK," a Volkswagen spokesman said.
Volkswagen is the second biggest carmaker in Brazil after Italian group Fiat.