JOHANNESBURG — The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has confirmed yet another vehicle recall, marking the seventh recall campaign in South Africa this year alone. This time, the affected models include select Ford Mustangs, BMW X3 G45 series, Volkswagen Polos, and Hino 500 series buses.
The NCC is calling on all motorists who may be driving any of the affected vehicles to urgently visit their nearest authorised dealerships to verify whether their car is impacted and, if so, to have it repaired or the faulty components replaced — at no cost to them.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday, the National Consumer Commission flagged a list of car models with manufacturing defects that pose serious safety risks. The exact nature of the defects differs by manufacturer and model, but all have been classified as potentially hazardous to both drivers and passengers if not addressed immediately.
“We really want to urge the owners of these vehicles — and the Hino bus in particular — to contact their accredited or authorised dealerships right away,” said NCC spokesperson Phetho Ntaba. “This is not something to delay. The repairs or replacements will be carried out free of charge.”
She added that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the key to confirming whether a specific car is included in the recall.
Affected Models in the National Consumer Commission’s Latest Recall
The following vehicle brands and models have been identified in the current recall notice:
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Ford Mustangs – Certain models are reported to have engine or transmission issues that could result in loss of power while driving.
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BMW X3 G45 series – Affected by brake and electrical system defects, increasing the risk of accidents.
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Volkswagen Polos – Selected units may have fuel line faults or airbag deployment issues.
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Hino 500 series buses – Concerns raised about steering column instability that could endanger passengers and drivers alike.
Each manufacturer is working directly with the NCC and has committed to resolving the defects swiftly.
The National Consumer Commission is urging all vehicle owners to take immediate action if they believe their vehicle might be impacted:
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Locate Your VIN
The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is typically located on the dashboard (visible through the windshield), inside the driver-side door frame, or in your vehicle’s documentation. -
Contact Your Dealership
Provide the VIN to your authorised dealership or service centre. They will verify whether your vehicle is part of the recall and advise on the next steps. -
Schedule the Repair
If your vehicle is affected, the dealership will arrange for the necessary inspection, repair, or replacement of the faulty parts at no cost to you. -
Do Not Ignore the Notice
Even if your car seems to be functioning normally, a hidden fault could become a life-threatening issue. Act proactively.
“Our message is simple: Don’t take chances with your safety or that of your passengers. Take your car in, even if it’s just to confirm it’s not affected,” said Ntaba.
This latest recall brings the total number of automotive recalls issued in 2025 by the National Consumer Commission to seven — an unusually high figure compared to previous years. Industry experts attribute this to:
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Improved safety regulations and post-manufacture testing
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A rise in global supply chain quality issues
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Increased consumer complaints and vigilance
While recalls can cause inconvenience, the NCC stresses they are an essential part of consumer protection, particularly in a market where vehicles are both high-value investments and essential to daily life.
Under the Consumer Protection Act, South African motorists are entitled to safe and defect-free products, including motor vehicles. If a product is found to be faulty or unsafe after sale, the manufacturer or distributor is legally obligated to rectify the issue without charging the consumer.
“It’s not a favour. It’s the law,” said Ntaba. “No consumer should be made to pay for manufacturing defects.”
National Consumer Commission are also encouraged to report dealerships or manufacturers that refuse to assist with recall-related repairs. The National Consumer Commission has dedicated hotlines and online platforms for such complaints.
The National Consumer Commission’s latest vehicle recall is a reminder of the critical role that oversight plays in consumer protection. With over 130,000 vehicles potentially affected by recalls this year, motorists are urged to remain alert, check their VINs regularly, and respond immediately to any official recall notifications.
Your safety — and that of your family and fellow road users — could depend on it.
Source- EWN
