BEIJING - German carmaker Mercedes-Benz started recalling 59 vehicles in China on Tuesday due to defective electronic power steering, according to China's quality watchdog.

The recall affects 29 cars made between July 4, 2013 and March 3, 2015, as well as another 30 vehicles of different models manufactured between June 16, 2014 and June 27, 2015, according to an online statement by the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine.

The defective electronic power steering in these vehicles could lead to vehicle collisions and fires, causing safety risks, said the statement.

The company will replace the defective parts free of charge.