Volvo is recalling 6,000 Irish cars over a faulty part that can cause the engine to catch fire.

The company's pulling back more than half-a-million cars around the world over the issue with a plastic engine intake that can melt and deform.

It says there have been no reports of any fires in Ireland – but it’s recalling the models as a precaution.

Models included in the recall include the S60, S80, S90, V40, V60, V70, V90, XC60 and XC90.

It affects 2-litre diesel models, with four-cylinders, made between 2014 and 2019.

The company is writing to everyone affected and is warning drivers to get in contact if they notice anything unusual about their engine.

“Investigations by Volvo Cars have identified that in very rare cases, the plastic engine intake manifold may melt and deform on certain model year 2014-2019 vehicles with four-cylinder diesel engines,” the company wrote in a statement.

“In the most extreme cases, there is a possibility that a localised engine bay fire may occur.

“We are taking full responsibility to ensure the highest quality and safety standards of our cars.

“We will do our utmost to perform this action without any unnecessary inconvenience to our customers and we apologise for the inconvenience caused and are grateful for our customers' cooperation.”

Of the 6,00o cars to be recalled in Ireland, some 5,200 were bought here while 800 were imported.

Volvo said it has had no reports of accidents or injuries due to the fault.