Brake issue prompts recall of BMW and Rolls-Royce vehicles

BMW is recalling about 198,000 cars with V8 and V12 engines to fix a problem with the brake system.

The automaker said a potential leak in the brake system could cause a loss of vacuum, which would reduce the power braking assistance. BMW said the mechanical brakes will stop the vehicle even if there is a vacuum leak.

The cars being recalled are the:

-- 2002-08 BMW 745i/Li, 750i/Li, 760i/Li

-- 2007-08 BMW Alpina B7

-- 2004-10 BMW 645i, 650i

-- 2004-10 BMW 545i, 550i

-- 2003-10 Rolls-Royce Phantom

Owners are asked to take their cars to a dealership to be inspected and repaired.

By Brad Constant