BMW Korea, the local unit of the German automaker, will recall a total of 3,511 sedans due to potential problems related to the fuel pumps and airbags of 16 models, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said Wednesday.

According to the ministry, 1,751 units manifested potential defects in the fuel pump, which may abruptly cause engines to shut off. BMW Korea’s diesel lineup, including the 320d and 420d coupe models, are subject to the recall plan.

Between last November and April this year, nine BMW cars caught fire while running on the road, raising safety concerns among the owners.

The ministry has since been investigating the case.

“Regardless of the upcoming recall, we’ll continue to investigate whether the fuel pump is related to the repeated fire incidents with BMW vehicles,” said a ministry official.

The automaker said customers will be able to apply for free replacements of the problematic parts at BMW service centers throughout the country starting Thursday.

BMW Korea will also recall 1,760 units of its flagship 7 series sedan models due to a defect with their airbag control units, which may hinder the airbag from functioning properly.

Starting June, customers can get free replacement services for these parts as well, the company said.

By Hong Sung-pyo (hong1@heraldcorp.com)