US auto giant General Motors (GM) will recall more than two million vehicles produced through a joint venture in China because of an engine component flaw, the firm and officials said.

The venture between GM and Shanghai-based SAIC will recall 2.16 million Buick and Chevrolet branded vehicles because their engine valves could corrode after extended use, the company said on Thursday.

Business media outlet Caixin reported that the recall was the largest in China so far this year. The country is the world's largest car market, making it crucial for foreign automakers as sales have slowed elsewhere.

GM says it is the largest foreign automaker by sales last year in China, delivering more than 3.6 million vehicles in 2015, up some five percent from record sales the previous year.

The recall, also confirmed in a statement from China's General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine, will formally start in August.

It affects some Buick vehicles produced between 2009 and 2015 and Chevrolet cars made from 2009 to 2016, the statements said.

Models include the Buick Excelle as well as Chevy Aveo, Cruze and Epica.

Affected owners can have the defect fixed without charge, according to the statements. The venture could not be immediately reached for comment.

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GENERAL MOTORS