BEIJING - BMW will recall 193,611 vehicles in China's mainland due to defective airbags, the country's quality watchdog has said.

The recall, set to begin on Aug 1, 2017, affects 168,861 imported cars made between Dec 9, 2005 and Dec 23, 2011, as well as 24,750 sedans manufactured between July 12, 2005 and Dec 31, 2011, according to the website of 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, said the statement.

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