BEIJING - Mercedes-Benz (China) will recall 20,779 vehicles in China over faulty seat belts, according to China's top quality regulator.

The recall was filed by Mercedes-Benz (China) Automotive Sales Co. and Beijing Benz Automotive Co. with the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine, the administration said in a statement.

Mercedes-Benz (China) Automotive Sales Co. will recall 1,886 imported S-class, C-class and GLC sport utility vehicles (SUVs) manufactured between July 2016 and December 2016, according to the statement.

Meanwhile, Beijing Benz Automotive Co. will recall 18,893 C-class and GLC SUVs manufactured between October 2016 and February 2017.

The problematic seat belts may not function properly in accidents, which is a safety risk, said the statement.

The recall will start on Mar 9, 2018 and the car makers will replace the faulty parts for free.