The German carmaker says it is recalling 26,000 BMW models in the UK and nearly 200,000 cars in the US.
Some 1,200 Rolls-Royces in the UK are also affected.
The UK recall involves BMW 5, 6 and 7 Series vehicles powered by V8 and V12 engines from the 2002-2010 model years and some Rolls-Royce Phantom cars from the 2003-2010 model years.
The problem involves leaks which could develop in the power braking system.
BMW said the problem was "without danger" and there was no risk of drivers being unable to stop their cars.
A BMW spokesman said: "We are writing to all the owners involved asking them to arrange a service appointment.
"There have not been any accidents or injuries.
"In extreme cases, a loss of power-assisted steering may occur but mechanical braking is still available."
A similar problem was revealed this year in some BMW motorbikes.
In May BMW announced a recall of 122,000 motorcycles worldwide due to the discovery of a leak in the braking system.
The German vehicle manufacturer said a risk of leaks had been identified in the K 1200 GT model.
Japanese carmaker Toyota has recalled more than 8.5 million cars worldwide due to an accelerator and brake pedal fault.
::BMW owners can contact the BMW customer service number on 0800 325600
Some 1,200 Rolls-Royces in the UK are also affected.
The UK recall involves BMW 5, 6 and 7 Series vehicles powered by V8 and V12 engines from the 2002-2010 model years and some Rolls-Royce Phantom cars from the 2003-2010 model years.
The problem involves leaks which could develop in the power braking system.
BMW said the problem was "without danger" and there was no risk of drivers being unable to stop their cars.
A BMW spokesman said: "We are writing to all the owners involved asking them to arrange a service appointment.
"There have not been any accidents or injuries.
"In extreme cases, a loss of power-assisted steering may occur but mechanical braking is still available."
A similar problem was revealed this year in some BMW motorbikes.
In May BMW announced a recall of 122,000 motorcycles worldwide due to the discovery of a leak in the braking system.
The German vehicle manufacturer said a risk of leaks had been identified in the K 1200 GT model.
Japanese carmaker Toyota has recalled more than 8.5 million cars worldwide due to an accelerator and brake pedal fault.
::BMW owners can contact the BMW customer service number on 0800 325600