Sunita Somvanshi
A significant safety recall affecting multiple vehicles across South Africa has been announced by the National Consumer Commission (NCC). The recall covers several well-known brands including Jeep, Chrysler, Citroën, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volkswagen, and Volvo, with some serious safety risks that need immediate attention.
The Safety Issues: Breaking it Down
Dangerous Airbag Problems
The most widespread issue involves faulty Takata airbags in Jeep Wrangler and Chrysler 300C models (2014-2016). These airbags can burst during deployment, sending metal pieces flying into the car – a clear danger to everyone inside. The same problem affects Citroën C4, DS4, and DS5 models made between 2009 and 2016.
Brake System Failures
Mercedes-Benz has identified brake problems in their CLA and S-Class models built between 2020 and 2023. The brake hoses can wear down and leak fluid, which means the brakes won’t work as well as they should. For anyone driving these cars, this could mean longer stopping distances and a higher risk of accidents.
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Fire Risks in Electric Cars
Audi e-tron GT owners need to pay special attention – 46 cars made since October 2021 have battery problems that could lead to fires. Similarly, 27 Volvo XC90 plug-in hybrids (2020-2022) face risks of their batteries overheating when fully charged.
Seatbelt Safety Concerns
Volkswagen has recalled 905 Polo Sedans sold since April 2025 because their rear seatbelts might not protect passengers properly during sudden stops or crashes.
What This Means for Car Owners
Prudence Moilwa, head of complaints and investigations at the NCC, emphasizes that these recalls were initiated following notifications from suppliers, who are legally required to alert the Commission upon discovering a product defect. The NCC’s role is to ensure the recall is successful and to protect consumer safety.
The NCC is also looking into why some of these problems weren’t caught earlier, especially for cars made over a decade ago. As Moilwa states, “Once you create a vehicle and it is still on the road, it is still your responsibility to ensure safety.”
Taking Action
If you own any of these vehicles:
- Contact your nearest authorized dealer immediately
- Schedule an inspection and necessary repairs
- Have your vehicle checked by an approved dealer or agent
The NCC confirms that repairs and part replacements will be carried out at no cost to the consumer. If you’re concerned about your vehicle’s safety, you can lodge formal complaints with the NCC.
Remember: These recalls address serious safety issues identified by manufacturers. Contact your authorized dealer or agent if your vehicle is affected by the recall.
