By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
National Consumer Commission (NCC) announced the recall of over 25,000 VW Polos in South Africa released between February 2025 and February 2026.
The NCC said in a statement on Thursday that it had been informed by Volkswagen Group Africa (Pty) Ltd (VW) that the recall affects 25 729 vehicles that were made available for sale from February 2025 to February 2026, nationally.
“VW has informed the NCC that the rivet height on the handbrake lever fitted to the affected vehicles may be outside the required specification. If the rivet height is out of specification, the handbrake may not engage properly or could, in rare cases, disengage unexpectedly.”
“This may pose a safety risk, particularly when the vehicle is parked on an incline.”
VW further advised that owners of the affected vehicles should take the following precautionary measures until the vehicle has been inspected and, where necessary, repaired:
- Ensure that the vehicle is parked with additional precaution, such as selecting first gear for manual vehicles or “P” for automatic models, as specified in the owner’s manual.
- Do not park the vehicle on any slope (uphill or downhill) until the inspection and any required repairs have been completed.
The NCC said it is monitoring this recall closely to ensure full compliance with the Consumer Protection Act, and to safeguard consumer rights.
“Given the high potential risks of the defect, owners of affected vehicles are urged to immediately get their vehicles to any authorised VW dealership for inspection. Any inspection and associated repairs will be done at no cost to the vehicle owners”, said Acting Commissioner, Hardin Ratshisusu.
The NCC’s decision follows a pattern of recalls for VW models in recent years, where manufacturing flaws have prompted swift action to protect consumers.
Volkswagen South Africa (VWSA) has confirmed the problem affects models with engine codes starting with “EA” and chassis numbers in a specific range, which owners can check on the company’s website or by calling their hotline.
The manufacturer has set up dedicated service centres to handle the repairs, which involve reprogramming the module or replacing it entirely – a process that takes about two hours and is free of charge.
In July 2025, 253 Polo Sedans were recalled for rear seat belt faults, where incorrect fitting could fail in a crash.
Earlier in June 2025, over 150 Polo and Taigo models were pulled back due to defective gas generators in the front passenger airbag, which risked reduced protection during accidents.