Volkswagen South Africa has issued a new safety recall, this time affecting 253 Polo sedans sold locally. This comes shortly after an earlier recall involving 18 similar models, bringing the total to 271 vehicles flagged for potential seat belt defects.
Faulty Seat Belts Spark Recall
According to Phetho Ntaba, spokesperson for the National Consumer Commission (NCC), the affected Polo sedans were sold between 11 August 2022 and the present day. The latest recall is linked to improperly installed seat belts on both the driver and front passenger sides, raising significant safety concerns.
Volkswagen clarified that the issue stems from a manufacturing fault in the rear right seat belt, though both rear seat belts (left and right) are being inspected as part of the process. The seat belt webbing mix-up may compromise restraint performance during a collision, increasing the risk of serious or even fatal injuries.
NCC Emphasises Urgency
The NCC, which exists to ensure consumers are treated fairly and protected from unsafe products, has urged vehicle owners to act swiftly. Under the Consumer Protection Act (CPA) 68 of 2008, companies are obligated to recall products that pose safety risks and motorists are equally encouraged to respond promptly to such notices.
“The success of these recalls is dependent on the response by the motorists of these affected vehicles,” said Ntaba.
“We remind consumers that the recalls are safety-critical; therefore, consumers must respond to any recall with urgency.”
How to Check If Your Car Is Affected
If you purchased a VW Polo Sedan from 11 August 2022 onward, you’re urged to visit your nearest VW-approved dealership. There, technicians will inspect the seat belts and replace any faulty components free of charge, if necessary.
What You Should Do Next
- Check your car’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) this will help determine if your model is part of the recall.
- Contact a VW dealership as soon as possible to schedule an inspection.
- Do not delay faulty safety restraints are a serious risk, and timely action could prevent injury or worse.
Vehicle recalls like this are a critical reminder that automotive safety is a shared responsibility between manufacturers and drivers. If you’re unsure about your car’s status, reach out to VW directly or consult the NCC for more information
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