(October 1, 2010) BMW has issued a voluntary recall of about 198,000 models across both the BMW and Rolls Royce product lines, due to a defect that may compromise power braking.

The recall covers V-8- and V-12-powered BMW 5 Series, 6 Series, 7 Series, and Rolls-Royce Phantom models produced between the 2002 and 2010 model years. BMW reports that in these models, a leak may occur in the power braking system. This leak could cause a vacuum loss that could reduce power braking performance.

The manufacturer points out that mechanical braking isn't affected, and is still on hand to bring the vehicle to a halt. No accidents or injuries have been reported.

Owners will be contacted by mail, but those who notice diminished power braking performance should immediately schedule a service appointment with an Authorized BMW Center.