Six car brands recalled for safety flaws, including VW Polos
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has confirmed the recall of several car models in South Africa due to dangerous safety defects. Volkswagen Polo Sedans are among the affected vehicles. Stellantis South Africa is pulling Jeep Wrangler and Chrysler 300c models manufactured between 2014 and 2016 because of faulty Takata airbags.
'The passenger airbag inflator may rupture during normal airbag deployment events due to excessive internal pressure,' said Stellantis.
In such cases, 'metal fragments could strike vehicle occupants, potentially causing serious injury or death.'
Citroën models C4, DS4, and DS5 built from 2009 to 2016 face a similar risk.
'There is a potential for metal fragments to detach and strike occupants,' confirmed NCC spokesperson Phetho Ntaba.
'This could lead to severe injuries or fatalities.'
Mercedes-Benz is recalling CLA and S-Class models over defective brake hoses. The CLA's rear axle hoses may wear down and leak, while S-Class vehicles produced from 2020 to 2023 may experience leaks in hot and humid conditions. The company warned that in both cases, braking performance is at risk.
Audi South Africa has identified a major fire hazard in its high-voltage battery packs. Forty-six Audi e-tron GT units are being recalled due to 'irregularities in some cell modules,' which could cause overheating. 'The battery may overheat and pose an acute fire hazard,' the manufacturer warned.
'This could result in severe or fatal injuries and significant property damage.'
Volvo has also joined the car recall list. Twenty-seven XC90 vehicles (model years 2020–2022) face overheating battery risks. According to Volvo, 'the risk, in worst-case scenarios, is a thermal event — essentially a fire hazard.'
Volkswagen of South Africa has recalled 905 Polo Sedans sold from 2 April 2025 due to defective rear seatbelt latch plates.
The company admitted, 'There may be a reduced protective effect during a crash, which increases the risk of injury for passengers.'
Acting NCC Commissioner Thezi Mabuza urged affected drivers to act immediately.
'These defects are not minor — they present life-threatening risks. Consumer safety is non-negotiable,' she said.
All repairs or part replacements will be done free of charge.
'This is a clear reminder of why product recalls matter,' added Mabuza.
'The cost of ignoring them could be far greater than just a trip to the dealership.'
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