A number of major car brands, including the popular VW Polo Sedan, have issued safety recalls in South Africa. These recalls, announced by the National Consumer Commission (NCC), highlight serious defects ranging from faulty airbags to potential brake failures and battery hazards. Alongside Volkswagen, other affected brands include Jeep, Chrysler, Citroen, DS Automobiles, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volvo.
Here is a comprehensive overview of the 2025 VW Polo and 5 other car brands recalled for safety defects, explaining the issues involved, affected vehicles, and what South African motorists should do to stay safe.
Car Brands Recalled: Defects and Risks
Jeep Wrangler and Chrysler 300C – Takata Airbag Defect
Stellantis South Africa, the local subsidiary of global automaker Stellantis, is recalling Jeep Wrangler and Chrysler 300C models sold between 2014 and 2016 due to a dangerous Takata airbag defect. According to the NCC:
“The passenger airbag inflator may rupture due to excessive internal pressure during normal deployment, potentially sending metal fragments into the vehicle cabin, risking serious injury or death.”
Owners of affected vehicles are urged to visit authorised dealerships immediately for free airbag repairs or replacements.
Citroen C4, DS4, and DS5 – Airbag Inflator Rupture Risk
Stellantis South Africa is also recalling Citroen C4, DS4, and DS5 models sold from 2009 to 2016 with similar airbag inflator issues. The NCC warns:
“The high-energy deployment of the inflator may cause metal fragments to detach and fly towards the driver or occupants, posing a severe injury or fatality risk.”
Affected vehicle owners should arrange airbag inspection and repairs at authorised service centres.
Mercedes-Benz CLA and S-Class – Rear Brake Hose Defect
Mercedes-Benz AG South Africa recalled CLA (118 platform) and S-Class (model series 223) models produced between 2020 and 2023 due to rear axle brake hoses that may not meet specification requirements. The NCC explains:
“Brake hoses may chafe against surrounding parts, causing brake fluid leaks that reduce braking performance in one of the two brake circuits, increasing the risk of accidents.”
Owners are advised to schedule inspections and repairs at authorised Mercedes-Benz dealerships to avoid compromised brake safety.
Audi e-Tron GT – High-Voltage Battery Fire Hazard
Audi South Africa recalled 46 Audi e-Tron GT vehicles produced after 27 October 2021 due to irregularities in individual high-voltage battery cell modules. The supplier stated:
“The battery may overheat, resulting in an acute fire hazard and risk of fatal injuries or significant property damage.”
Affected customers should promptly visit Audi-authorised dealers for battery inspections and possible module replacements.
VW Polo Sedan (2025 Model) – Rear Seat Belt Latch Plates
Volkswagen South Africa issued a recall for 905 VW Polo Sedans sold from 2 April 2025 onwards. The issue involves rear seat belt latch plates manufactured with insufficient hardness. NCC reports:
“In the event of rapid deceleration or accident, the latch plates may not adequately restrain occupants, increasing injury risk.”
Polo owners are urged to contact Volkswagen dealers for component inspections and replacements if necessary.
Volvo XC90 – High-Voltage Battery Overheating
Volvo Car South Africa recalled 27 XC90 models manufactured between 2020 and 2022 due to potential overheating of fully charged high-voltage battery cells. The NCC warns:
“Battery overheating could lead to a thermal event with serious safety implications.”
Owners should visit authorised Volvo dealerships for inspections and component replacements.
What Should Affected Vehicle Owners Do?
- Verify Your Vehicle: Check if your car model and production year fall within the recall lists using manufacturer websites or the NCC portal.
- Book an Inspection: Contact authorised dealerships immediately to schedule inspections and repairs, which are provided free of charge.
- Do Not Delay Repairs: Safety defects like faulty airbags or brake hose leaks are critical and can lead to serious injuries or accidents if unattended.
- Stay Updated: Follow official announcements from vehicle manufacturers and regulatory bodies such as the NCC for ongoing recall updates.
Expert Commentary
David Ward, Executive President of the Towards Zero Foundation, notes the importance of such recalls in South Africa’s broader road safety context:
“The VW Polo remains one of the most popular vehicles on our roads. Volkswagen’s prompt recall and repair initiatives reflect the responsibility manufacturers bear in enhancing vehicle safety standards and protecting South African drivers.”
The recall of the 2025 VW Polo and 5 other car brands underscores the vital role of vehicle safety vigilance. Defects ranging from airbag inflator ruptures to brake fluid leaks and battery overheating pose severe risks to drivers and passengers alike.
Affected vehicle owners in Gauteng and across South Africa are urged to act quickly—verifying their vehicles, scheduling repairs, and sharing this information widely to promote safer roads.
For detailed information and recall verification, visit official manufacturer websites or the National Consumer Commission’s recall portal.
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