BEIJING - BMW will recall 41,685 vehicles in China due to defective airbags, the country's quality watchdog has said.

The recall, set to begin on Oct 9, 2017, affects a batch of 3,926 cars made between Jan 2, 2012 and Dec 26, 2012, as well as a further 37,759 vehicles, different models to the first batch, manufactured between Jan 2, 2012 and Dec 22, 2012, according to an online statement by the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine.

When the driver and front passenger airbags of the affected vehicles inflate, the gas generators inside may become damaged and cause flying debris, posing safety risks to passengers, the statement said.

BMW has promised to replace the defective parts free of charge.