In 2025, a significant vehicle recall has been announced in South Africa affecting Volkswagen Polo and five other major car brands due to serious safety defects. The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has urged affected owners to act swiftly to prevent potential accidents and injuries.
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Overview of the 2025 Vehicle Recall in South Africa
The recall involves 905 Volkswagen Polo Sedans sold from 2 April 2025 onwards. The critical safety issue concerns the rear seat belt latch plates, which were manufactured with insufficient hardness. This defect could cause the seat belt to fail during a crash or sudden stop, increasing the risk of serious injury to passengers.
Alongside Volkswagen, five other brands have been affected by recalls related to airbags, brake systems, and high-voltage battery hazards:
VW (Volkswagen) Polo Sedan (2025)
The 2025 Volkswagen Polo recall in South Africa concerns 905 Polo Sedan vehicles sold from 2 April 2025 onwards. The issue lies with the rear seat belt latch plates, which were manufactured with insufficient hardness. This defect means that in the event of a sudden stop or crash, the seat belt may not perform effectively, potentially failing to restrain passengers properly. As a result, occupants face an increased risk of injury due to reduced retention or protective effect of the seat belt during an accident or hard braking. Volkswagen South Africa has informed the National Consumer Commission (NCC) about this safety concern and is urging affected vehicle owners to contact authorised Volkswagen dealerships immediately.
Chevrolet and Related Brands Recall
Stellantis South Africa has announced a recall affecting Chevrolet, Saab, Cadillac, and Orlando vehicles due to a defective Takata airbag inflator. The driver’s airbag inflator may degrade over time, causing over-aggressive combustion during deployment. This can rupture the airbag and release metal fragments through the cushion, posing severe injury or fatality risks. Owners of these vehicles are strongly advised to visit authorised dealerships immediately for airbag repair or replacement.
- Chevrolet Cruze, Aveo, and Orlando vehicles distributed between 2010 and 2013.
- Chevrolet-Saab and Cadillac vehicles distributed between 2014 and 2018.
- Chevrolet, Saab, and Cadillac vehicles sold from 2006 to 2008.
Jeep Wrangler and Chrysler 300C (2014–2016)
Manufactured by Stellantis South Africa, these models face a dangerous Takata airbag defect – similar to the Chevrolet recall… The passenger airbag inflator may rupture during normal deployment, releasing metal fragments that could cause severe injury or death. Owners are advised to visit authorised dealerships immediately for repairs or airbag replacements.
Citroën C4, DS4, and DS5 (2009–2016)
Also under Stellantis, these models have similar airbag inflator issues. Both driver and passenger airbags may rupture, ejecting metal shards that pose serious risks to occupants. Prompt service at authorised centres is essential.
Mercedes-Benz CLA (118 platform) and S-Class (2020–2023)
Mercedes-Benz South Africa recalled CLA and S-Class models due to brake hose defects. Rear brake hoses on the CLA may chafe and leak fluid, reducing braking performance. Similarly, S-Class models may experience front brake hose leaks in hot, moist conditions, increasing accident risk. Owners should schedule inspections and repairs without delay.
Audi e-Tron GT (From 27 October 2021)
Audi South Africa recalled 46 e-Tron GT vehicles due to high-voltage battery cell defects. Certain battery modules may overheat and ignite, posing severe fire hazards to passengers and property. Affected owners must have their vehicles inspected and battery modules replaced at approved dealerships.
Volvo XC90 (2020–2022)
Volvo Car South Africa recalled 27 XC90 plug-in hybrid models over potential overheating of high-voltage batteries when fully charged. This thermal risk could lead to fires, endangering passengers and property. Owners are urged to book checks and necessary replacements promptly.
Honda Recall: Steering Gearbox Defect
The recall addresses a defect in the Electric Power Steering (EPS) gearbox worm wheel. This component may swell, causing abnormal noise or dangerous sticking when turning the steering wheel. Such a fault poses a significant safety risk, potentially leading to loss of steering control. Honda Motor Southern Africa has announced a recall affecting the following models sold between 2022 and 2025:
- Honda Civic 4-door
- Honda Civic Type R 5-door
- Honda CR-V 5-door
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What Vehicle Owners Should Do
- Check if your vehicle is affected: Confirm your model and production year against recall lists.
- Contact authorised dealerships: Schedule inspections and repairs immediately; recall repairs are typically free.
- Do not delay repairs: Safety defects like faulty airbags, seat belts, or brakes can be life-threatening.
- Stay informed: Follow updates from the NCC and manufacturers to ensure your vehicle remains safe.
Why These Recalls Matter
These recalls highlight the critical importance of vehicle safety standards and consumer vigilance. Defects such as faulty airbags or brake hoses can cause catastrophic accidents. The Volkswagen Polo seat belt issue is particularly concerning as it affects vehicles sold very recently, underscoring the need for ongoing quality control.
The 2025 vehicle recall represents a serious safety alert for South African motorists. Immediate action is essential to address defects involving airbags, seat belts, brakes, and batteries. By responding promptly, vehicle owners can protect themselves, their passengers, and other road users from potential harm. Owners with affected vehicles are urged to visit authorised dealerships immediately to have the defective parts inspected and replaced.
