South African motorists are being urged to take immediate action as the National Consumer Commission (NCC) issues a sweeping vehicle recall affecting several major car brands.

The alert follows safety concerns ranging from airbag malfunctions and brake failures to high-voltage battery hazards.

The recall involves multiple manufacturers, including Jeep, Chrysler, Citroën, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volkswagen, and Volvo, with certain models dating as far back as 2009.

Here’s what car owners need to know:

🚨 Jeep Wrangler and Chrysler 300C (2014–2016)

Stellantis South Africa is recalling these models due to defective Takata airbags. The passenger airbag inflator may rupture under normal deployment conditions, sending metal fragments flying toward occupants. This defect poses a serious risk of injury or even death. Owners are urged to visit their nearest authorised dealership for airbag repair or replacement.

🚨 Citroën C4, DS4, and DS5 (2009–2016)

Also recalled by Stellantis South Africa, these Citroën models are affected by a similar airbag defect. Both the driver’s and passenger’s inflators may rupture during deployment, releasing dangerous fragments that could cause severe injuries or fatalities.

🚨 Mercedes-Benz CLA (118) and S-Class (Model Series 223)

Mercedes-Benz AG South Africa has issued two separate recalls:

• CLA (118): Rear brake hoses may not meet specification and could chafe over time, causing brake fluid leaks and reducing brake performance.
• S-Class (2020–2023): Front brake hoses may gradually leak in hot and moist conditions, increasing the risk of brake failure and accidents.

🚨 Audi e-tron GT (From 27 October 2021)

Audi South Africa is recalling 46 e-tron GT vehicles due to high-voltage battery defects. Certain cell modules may overheat, posing an acute fire hazard. This issue could result in serious or fatal injuries and property damage. Affected owners are advised to contact an Audi SA-approved dealer for an urgent check and potential module replacement.

🚨 VW Polo Sedan (From 2 April 2025)

Volkswagen SA is recalling 905 Polo Sedans over concerns with the rear seat belt latch plates, which may have been manufactured with insufficient hardness. In a crash or sudden stop, this could result in reduced seat belt effectiveness and increased injury risk.

🚨 Volvo XC90 (2020–2022)

Volvo Car South Africa is recalling 27 XC90 units due to potential high-voltage battery overheating. The issue arises when batteries are fully charged, and could escalate to a thermal event, posing fire and safety risks.

What Affected Consumers Should Do

• The NCC urges all affected vehicle owners to immediately contact their nearest authorised dealership or approved service agent for a full inspection and necessary component replacements.
• Safety is non-negotiable. Don’t delay—check your model and act now.