U.S. auto maker Chrysler is recalling 1,371 Jeep brand vehicles sold in China due to brake problems, the nation's product quality watchdog said.

The affected vehicles were Grand Cherokee and Commander models made between January 31, 2005, and July 12, 2007, the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine said in a statement on its website.

All the vehicles, which had been imported, had problems with their electronic brake control system. In addition, 57 of the units, made between June 11 and July 11 last year, were also found to have flaws in the front brake calipers due to unqualified materials used in their production.

Both problems could increase the vehicles' stopping distance and affect driving safety, it said.

Chrysler Group China Sales Ltd. planned to notify the owners of the vehicles and would make the repairs free of charge.

(Xinhua News Agency January 9, 2008)