VW do Brasil (Brazil) announced a massive recall, totaling nearly 200,000 cars, due to improperly lubricated rear wheel bearings.

The recall involves a significant number of the 2009-2010 model Novo Gol (new Golf) and Voyage models manufactured in Brazil prior to July 2009.

VW said it found a production run of insufficiently greased rear wheel bearing units and that "use of the vehicle in this condition may cause noise, and eventually cause the rear wheels to lock up. In extreme cases, the wheels could work loose and come off."

When customers bring the vehicles in, the bearings will be inspected and regreased if possible. If the bearings are damaged, they will be replaced at no charge.

Volkswagen operates four factories in Brazil, which manufactured a total of nearly 700,000 vehicles in 2009.

VW did not identify the bearing manufacturer.