Microsoft has played down suggestions that overheating problems relating to its official Xbox 360 Wireless Wheel are more widespread than previously thought.

Back in August Microsoft announced that it was providing consumers with free retrofits to Xbox 360 racing wheels as a “precautionary measure” following some reports of malfunctioning peripherals.

More recently the company sent a message out over Xbox Live reiterating the potential safety issues associated with the product, leading to some speculation that the problem was more serious than first thought.

However, Microsoft has told Next-Gen that only a fraction of its Xbox 360 racing wheels carry any potential safety risks. The message sent out over Xbox Live was simply a way of reaching as wide an audience as possible and not an indication of increasing concern relating to the safety of the product.

“The message you received via Live was a follow up communication from our press release and an effort to reach as many potential owners as possible.

"We have received reports of approximately 70 incidents, out of more than 230,000 units in the field. There have been no reports of any injury to our customers or damage to their property other than the wheel itself.

"We are committed to ensure that the Xbox 360 Wireless Racing Wheel meets our performance and design specifications.”

Microsoft recommends that any consumers with concerns about its products visit Xbox.com for support.