Volkswagen, Volvo, Toyota recalls vehicles over safety concerns
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has issued a warning to vehicle owners following the recall of thousands of Volkswagen, Volvo and Hino vehicles due to safety-related defects that may pose serious risks to motorists.
The Commission confirmed receiving recall notifications from Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA), Volvo Cars South Africa and Toyota South Africa Motors — responsible for the Hino brand — urging affected consumers to contact their dealerships for free repairs immediately.
Volkswagen South Africa is recalling 159 Golf 8 R2.0 TSI and Golf 8 GTI 2.0 TSI vehicles that were sold between 16 April and 30 June.
A manufacturing defect may have left the front passenger seatbelt improperly sewn at the lower anchoring point.
"If the belt system is not securely attached, the protective function of the seatbelt is significantly reduced. In the event of an accident, this could lead to serious or fatal injuries to the occupant," VWSA stated.
Volvo South Africa has recalled 26 of its 2025–2026 XC90 plug-in hybrid vehicles.
The NCC says the vehicles may experience temporary braking failures while operating in 'B' mode or ‘One Pedal Drive’ after prolonged coasting downhill, significantly increasing the risk of collisions.
Toyota has also initiated a recall for 6 739 Hino 500 Series trucks, comprising 6 662 Hino 500 SKD and 77 Hino 500 CBU vehicles sold between May 2017 and December 2024.
According to Toyota, affected units were either fitted with the wrong cage bolt spanner or came without the necessary tool, potentially preventing drivers from releasing the parking brake in the event of a system failure.
Consumers with affected vehicles are urged to urgently book their vehicles with their nearest approved dealerships for a thorough vehicle check at no cost.
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