Models pose by a Mitsubishi Lancer EX of South East Motor during the Auto China 2010 in Beijing, China, April 24, 2010.[Photo/IC]

BEIJING - China's South East Motor will recall 2,556 Mitsubishi vehicles to fix defective gear knobs that could cause safety problems, China's consumer quality watchdog said on Tuesday.

The recall by the Fujian-based carmaker, starting Wednesday, involves 1,694 Mitsubishi Lancer-Ex MT vehicles and 862 Lancer Fortis models manufactured between June 18, 2013 and March 17, 2014, the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine said in a statement on its website.

It cited a problem with the knobs' screw nuts that could cause them to fall off and leave drivers unable to shift gears.

Under extreme circumstances, the defect may cause an accident or injury, the auto company warned.

It will offer free repairs of the vehicles, the statement said.

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