Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) has issued a safety recall affecting select Polo and Taigo models sold between 2022 and 2024. The move follows a notification to the National Consumer Commission (NCC) under the framework of the Consumer Protection Act, which mandates manufacturers to safeguard the public from potentially dangerous products.
Airbag Defect Behind the Recall
The root of the recall lies in a defective component within the gas generator of the front passenger airbag module. According to the NCC, this defect can compromise passenger safety during a collision.
“In an accident where the front airbag deploys, the faulty gas generator may not provide the expected level of protection,” the NCC explained. “Additionally, the generator housing could rupture or break apart, releasing fragments that pose a severe or even fatal risk to occupants.”
Number of Vehicles Affected
Volkswagen has identified a total of 150 vehicles impacted by the defect:
- 142 Polo models (141 sold nationally since 20 December 2022, and 1 sold since 29 January 2024)
- 8 Taigo models, all sold since 29 January 2024
Volkswagen Advises Immediate Action
Owners of affected vehicles are urged to take the following precautions:
- Deactivate the front passenger airbag as a safety measure.
- Avoid using the front passenger seat until repairs are completed.
- Book the vehicle at a VWSA-approved dealership to inspect and, if required, replace the defective components at no cost.
Previous Recall Involving Polo Models
This is not the first time Polo models have been part of a safety recall. In May 2025, VWSA recalled 905 Polo Sedans due to an unrelated issue involving the rear seatbelt latch plates. These components were found to lack sufficient hardness, reducing their effectiveness during sudden deceleration.
In those cases, the weakened latch plates could fail to restrain passengers properly in the event of a crash or abrupt braking, posing another safety risk.
Consumer Protection Measures
The Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 empowers the NCC to enforce product recalls where public safety may be at risk. It ensures that consumers are informed and protected from hazardous products through oversight and regulatory enforcement.
Affected consumers are encouraged to check their vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) against the recall list and contact their nearest Volkswagen dealer promptly.
Summary of Recall Details
| Model | Years Affected | Issue | Number of Vehicles | Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polo | 2022, 2024 | Faulty front passenger airbag module | 142 | Airbag deactivation and module replacement |
| Taigo | 2024 | Faulty front passenger airbag module | 8 | Airbag deactivation and module replacement |
| Polo Sedan | 2025 | Weak rear seatbelt latch plates | 905 | Component check and replacement |
Concerned consumers should act swiftly to ensure their vehicles meet safety standards. For further information, contact your local Volkswagen dealership or visit the official VWSA website.
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