Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) has issued a recall for 374 Amarok bakkies after identifying a potential fault in the braking system. The automaker has already notified the National Consumer Commission (NCC), which is overseeing the process in line with the Consumer Protection Act.
Brake Assistance Problem
According to VWSA, the affected vehicles were sold between 10 January and 12 June 2025. The issue lies with the electromechanical brake servo control unit, which may lead to a loss of braking assistance.
NCC spokesperson Phetho Ntaba confirmed the recall, noting that while the braking system remains operational, drivers may have to apply significantly more effort when pressing the brake pedal. This could result in longer stopping distances, especially if the problem arises while the vehicle is in motion.
What Amarok Bakkies Owners Should Do
Volkswagen has urged all affected customers to immediately contact their nearest VW or VW Commercial Vehicles dealership. Dealers will inspect the vehicles and carry out any required repairs free of charge.
The NCC emphasized the importance of addressing such faults quickly, warning that unresolved mechanical issues can pose risks not only to the driver but also to other road users.
Similar Recalls in the Industry
This is not an isolated case. The Ford Ranger, built in the same local plant as the Amarok, was recently recalled for a similar braking-related defect.
VW’s Other Recalls in 2025
The Amarok recall adds to a series of safety campaigns VW has launched this year:
- 13 June 2025: Recall of 142 Polo units and 8 Taigo models due to defective gas generators in the front passenger airbag module, which could prevent airbags from deploying properly in a crash.
- 10 July 2025: Recall of 159 eighth-generation Golf models, including GTI and R variants, after discovering that the front passenger seatbelt was not securely attached to the lower anchor point.
- Late July 2025: Recall of 271 Polo Sedan units over incorrectly fitted seatbelts.
Consumer Safety Comes First
The NCC reiterated that product recalls are a critical part of consumer safety, stressing that manufacturers are legally bound to act swiftly once potential hazards are identified.
“Recalls are essential to ensure the safety of products in the marketplace, and consumers must take immediate action when contacted,” said Ntaba.
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