Volvo recalling 500,000 cars worldwide over faulty engine component amid fire risk fears

Volvo is recalling 507,000 cars worldwide after an investigation discovered a faulty engine component which could cause the vehicles to catch fire.

The Swedish carmaker, which was bought by the Chinese group Geely in 2010, issued the recall on Monday.

More than 69,000 cars in the UK are affected. Volvo said it was contacting all affected customers.

According to the company its internal "investigations by Volvo Cars have identified that in very rare cases, the plastic engine intake manifold may melt and deform" causing a risk of fire.

"In the most extreme cases, there is a possibility that a localised engine bay fire may occur," the company told Sky News.

According to Bloomberg, a spokesperson for the firm refused to provide details of the potential financial impact of the recall, stating: "We don't comment on the cost."

Bloomberg reported Volvo customers would not incur any of the costs related to fixing the faulty component.

All of the vehicles involved in the recall were produced between 2014 and 2019 and have a 2-litre, 4-cylinder diesel engine.

The affected models are:

Volvo has had no reports of accidents or personal injuries related to the issue.

Customers will receive a letter from the company urging them to contact their local dealership in order to have their car fixed.