
VW Polo Sedan that was made for sale from 2 April 2025 among vehicles that are being recalled due to safety defectsImage: File photo: Thomas Peter/Reuters
(The Post News)- The National Consumer Commission announced a recall of multiple vehicle brands after being notified by suppliers. Affected brands include: Jeep Wrangler and Chrysler 300C, Citroën C4, DS4, and DS5 models, Mercedes-Benz CLA (118) and C-Class (model series 223), Audi, VW Polo Sedan, and Volvo XC90 models. Reasons for the recall range from defects in airbags, axles, seat belts, and battery issues.
JEEP WRANGLER AND CHRYSLER 300C VEHICLE RECALL
In a statement, the NCC said they were informed by Stellantis South Africa (Pty) Ltd that they are recalling the Jeep Wrangler and Chrysler 300C models, which were made for sale from 2014 to 2016. The recall is due to a defect in the Takata airbag. Stellantis South Africa (Pty) Ltd said, “The passenger airbag inflator may rupture due to excessive internal pressure during normal airbag deployment events. In the event of an inflator rupture, metal fragments could strike the vehicle occupants, which may result in serious injury or death.” Owners of these models are required to consult an authorized dealership for airbag replacement or repair.
CITROËN C4, DS4, AND DS5 MODEL RECALL
Stellantis South Africa (Pty) Ltd is recalling Citroën C4, DS4, and DS5 models that were distributed from 2009 to 2016. The recall is due to a driver’s and passenger’s airbag inflator rupture during the airbag deployment phase. The potential high deployment of the inflator might cause metal fragments to detach and fly towards the driver and passengers, resulting in harmful situations.
MERCEDES-BENZ CLA (118) AND C-CLASS RECALL
The NCC said they were notified by Mercedes-Benz South Africa that they are recalling certain models, including Mercedes-Benz CLA (118) and C-Class (model series 223), which were produced between 2020 and 2023. The recall is due to a brake defect. Mercedes-Benz CLA (118) supplier said, “The length of the brake hoses on the rear axle might not have met specifications.” The C-Class (model series 223) is also being recalled for brake hoses on the front axle. The brake hoses not meeting specifications will impact the axles, chipping over time and leading to fluid leaks and impairing braking performance. Impaired braking performance could lead to serious accidents; therefore, it is advisable for owners of these vehicles to consult dealerships to fix their brakes.
AUDI E-TRON GT RECALL
Audi South Africa has announced that they are recalling the Audi E-Tron GT vehicles. A total of 46 affected vehicles were made available in the country, produced from October 27, 2021. The recall is due to a high-voltage battery that may overheat, resulting in a severe fire hazard. Audi encourages customers to consult Audi South Africa-approved dealerships for inspection and, if necessary, a possible module replacement.
VW POLO SEDAN VEHICLES RECALL
According to the NCC, they were notified by Volkswagen South Africa that they are recalling VW Polo Sedan vehicles. The 905 affected vehicles were made available for sale nationally from April 2, 2025, onwards. The recall is due to the latch plates for the rear seat belt being produced with insufficient hardness. This may result in the latch failing to provide adequate protection to passengers during sudden stops and accidents, which may lead to serious injuries. Affected customers are encouraged to visit authorized dealers for check-ups and any replacements needed.
VOLVO XC90 MODEL RECALL
Volvo Car South Africa is recalling 27 Volvo XC90 models (model years 2020-2022). The recall is due to a potential high-voltage battery issue. According to the supplier, the issue might lead to overheating of the battery cells when the battery is fully charged and, in a worst-case scenario, may lead to a thermal event. Customers with affected vehicles are encouraged to visit an authorized dealership for a check and replacement of defective components if necessary.