Mercedes-Benz and Range Rover Cars Recalled in SA

Critical fuse and airbag defects force recall of popular luxury vehicles across South Africa — Here’s what owners need to do now.

Mercedes-Benz and Range Rover Cars Recalled in SA: Urgent Safety Risks Uncovered

Cars Recalled in SA: South African luxury car owners are being urged to take swift action after the National Consumer Commission (NCC) issued a high-priority recall for a range of Mercedes-Benz and Range Rover vehicles. The safety risks? Potential power failures, fires, and malfunctioning airbags — all life-threatening.

Why the Urgent Recall?

Both Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Jaguar Land Rover South Africa have acknowledged serious faults in several vehicles. According to the NCC, these defects could compromise basic driving safety and occupant protection.

Mercedes-Benz Recall Overview:

• Affected models:
  • C-Class (206)
  • GLC (254)
  • S-Class (223)
  • SL (232)
  • EQS (297)
• Year: 2023 units
• Issue: Fuse boxes may not have been correctly reworked, which can cause:
  • Sudden power loss
  • Instrument cluster failure
  • Restraint system malfunctions
  • Increased risk of fire

The NCC warns of a possible “thermal event”, meaning that in some cases, a fire cannot be ruled out.

Range Rover Recall Overview:

• Affected models:
  • Range Rover Evoque (2021 to 2025)
• Issue:
  • Improperly folded passenger airbags during assembly
  • May tear on deployment
  • Could fail to protect occupants and expose them to burn injuries from hot gases

“This is not a cosmetic issue; these are basic, life-critical flaws,” said Prudence Moilwa, Head of Complaints and Investigations at the NCC.

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What Should Affected Owners Do?

If you own any of the above-mentioned models, do not delay. The NCC stresses that the recall is free of charge and easily resolved.

How to check if your car is affected:

• Use your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to:
  • Check on the manufacturer’s website
  • Call the brand’s customer helpline
  • Visit your nearest authorised dealership

“Even if your vehicle seems to work fine, it could still have the fault. Don’t risk it,” Moilwa warned.

The Repair Process

• Booking a repair is as simple as scheduling a routine service.
• No cost to the owner.
• Some dealerships may offer a courtesy vehicle or drop-off services.
• Parts are already in stock.

Acting NCC Commissioner, Hardin Ratshisusu, reinforced that failure to comply with recall notices does not protect consumers from liability under the Consumer Protection Act (Section 61).

Don’t Ignore the Danger

The NCC has flagged concern that some consumers are not responding to recall notices — a mistake that could have deadly consequences.

“You might feel it’s inconvenient, but it’s far more inconvenient to suffer a burn injury, lose power on the freeway, or risk a fire,” said Moilwa.

Even premium cars aren’t exempt from human error, and this recall proves that quality expectations must be matched with accountability.

Final Advice to SA Motorists

• Check your VIN today
• Don’t delay your booking
• Talk to your dealer
• Stay informed and stay safe

For more info, visit:

• Mercedes-Benz South Africa
• Jaguar Land Rover South Africa
• National Consumer Commission

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