If you drive a Volkswagen, Volvo, or Toyota, you might want to check your car. The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has announced a series of recalls over potentially dangerous defects that could put drivers and passengers at risk.
Volkswagen South Africa is recalling 159 Golf 8 R and GTI models sold between April and June 2025. The problem? A faulty sewing process means the front passenger seat belt may not be properly attached, greatly reducing its effectiveness in a crash.
Volvo is recalling 26 of its XC90 plug-in hybrids from model years 2025–2026 after discovering a brake issue. When driving downhill in ‘B’ mode or One Pedal Drive, the brakes could temporarily stop working — a dangerous fault that could lead to accidents.
Toyota, meanwhile, has issued a major recall affecting over 6,700 Hino 500 trucks. These vehicles, sold between 2017 and 2024, were delivered with the wrong tool — or no tool at all — for releasing the parking brake. Without the correct equipment, drivers may face operational issues if they ever need to disengage it.
The NCC’s Acting Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu has encouraged all owners of affected vehicles to schedule a free inspection at their dealership. Manufacturers are working with the commission to resolve the issues.
The NCC also noted a worrying rise in motor vehicle recalls lately and promised to keep monitoring closely.
