BEIJING, Oct. 17 -- FAW-Volkswagen Automotive Co. Ltd., a joint venture between Chinese automaker FAW Group and Germany's Volkswagen Group, will recall 581,090 cars in China due to a defect in the rear axles.

Starting from Feb. 2, 2015, the recall involves 563,605 New Sagitar vehicles manufactured between May 2011 and May 2014, as well as 17,485 Beetles cars produced between April 24, 2012 and July 17, 2013, according to a statement from the China's General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine.

The administration said it launched an investigation into the cars in August and the recall is the outcome of months of work on customer feedback and expert analysis.

The carmaker offers to place a metal plate in the trailing arm of the rear axles to ensure the proper operation of the vehicles in case of a rupture.