The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has announced the recall of 25,729 Volkswagen Polo Vivo vehicles across South Africa after a potential safety defect was identified in the handbrake system.
The recall follows a notification from Volkswagen Group Africa, which informed the regulator that the rivet height on the handbrake lever fitted in certain vehicles may fall outside the required specification. If this occurs, the handbrake may not properly engage or, in rare cases, could disengage unexpectedly, posing a safety risk especially when the vehicle is parked on an incline.
According to the NCC, the affected vehicles were sold nationally between February 2025 and February 2026. The commission has urged owners of these vehicles to act quickly and have their cars inspected at authorised Volkswagen dealerships.
Acting NCC Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu warned that the defect carries potential safety risks and encouraged motorists to respond to the recall without delay.
“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,” he said.
Until the vehicles are inspected and repaired where necessary, the NCC has advised owners to take extra precautions when parking. Motorists with manual vehicles should ensure the car is left in first gear, while those with automatic models should select the “Park” position. Drivers are also advised to avoid parking their vehicles on slopes until the inspection has been completed.
The commission said it is closely monitoring the recall process to ensure full compliance with the Consumer Protection Act and to safeguard the rights and safety of consumers.
Vehicle owners who believe they may be affected are encouraged to contact their nearest Volkswagen dealership for assistance and further guidance regarding the recall process.
