The National Consumer Commission (NCC) is urging all South African motorists to immediately return their recalled vehicles to the nearest authorized dealerships. This follows an urgent recall announcement issued on Wednesday concerning several car brands and models affected by serious safety-related defects.
The NCC, in collaboration with multiple car manufacturers, has identified significant engineering faults in various vehicle models, which could pose serious safety risks to drivers and passengers. These defects include malfunctioning airbags, overheating batteries, and compromised braking systems.
List of Recalled Vehicles Includes Popular Models
The recalled vehicles span a wide range of brands, both luxury and economy. Among those listed in the latest recall are: Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 300c ,Citroën C4, DS4, and DS5 ,Mercedes-Benz CLA and S-Class model series ,Audi e-tron GT ,Volkswagen Polo Sedan ,Volvo XC90
The National Consumer Commission emphasized that some of these issues could directly lead to accidents or mechanical failures if not addressed promptly.
Spokesperson for the NCC, Phetho Ntaba, explained the severity of the situation:
“In some instances, the concerns raised by the manufacturing supplier may increase the risk of an accident—as in the case of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. In other cases, there is a leak leading to brake fluid loss, particularly in some Mercedes-Benz AG models. We want to reiterate this message: Please heed the call. Your safety comes first.”
The commission confirmed that the defects were identified in collaboration with the vehicle suppliers and independent engineering assessments. These findings prompted immediate action to mitigate risk to the public.
Key issues found in the recalled vehicles include:
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Airbag malfunctions: In some models, airbags may fail to deploy correctly or could deploy without cause, leading to severe injury.
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Battery overheating: Some electric and hybrid models, such as the Audi e-tron GT, were found to have high risks of battery overheating, which could lead to fire hazards.
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Brake system failures: In several models, including the Mercedes-Benz range, faulty brake components could result in reduced stopping power or brake fluid leaks.
NCC Encourages Prompt Action
Motorists who own any of the recalled models are being asked to act without delay. Returning affected vehicles to authorized dealers will allow necessary inspections and repairs to be carried out at no cost to the consumer.
According to the NCC, car manufacturers are legally obligated to repair or replace defective components that result in a safety recall. Dealerships have already been notified and prepared to assist customers through the recall process.
If you’re unsure whether your vehicle is affected, the NCC advises taking the following steps:
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Check your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): The VIN is typically located on your car’s dashboard, near the windshield, or inside the driver’s door.
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Contact your dealership or manufacturer: Provide the VIN to confirm whether your vehicle is part of the recall.
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Schedule an inspection: If your car is included, book a service appointment immediately for the required repairs or part replacements.
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Stay informed: Manufacturers and the NCC often release further updates on recall notices via their websites and official communication channels.
This latest recalled vehicle announcement highlights the NCC’s ongoing commitment to consumer safety and protection in South Africa’s automotive sector. The Commission continues to work closely with manufacturers to monitor product safety and ensure that recalls are issued when necessary.
“We understand that recalls may seem like an inconvenience, but they are in place to prevent tragedies. Manufacturers are standing by to help, and we are urging consumers not to delay. These defects are not minor—they can be life-threatening,” said Ntaba.
Vehicle recalls are a normal part of the automotive industry and are not necessarily a sign of poor manufacturing. However, they must be taken seriously. Consumers are reminded that ignoring a recall notice could result in dangerous consequences, including loss of vehicle control, fire hazards, or injury during a crash.
For further details or to verify whether your vehicle is affected by the latest recalled car notice, contact your local dealership or visit the NCC’s website. Acting now could prevent a serious accident and save lives.
Source- EWN