Volkswagen South Africa has issued a safety recall for more than 140 vehicles due to a potentially deadly airbag defect linked to faulty Takata airbags. The recall affects certain Polo and Tiguan models, but motoring experts warn that the issue may extend to more vehicles than officially reported.
The Airbag Defect Explained
Motoring expert Pogiso Dibakoane highlighted that the problem stems from Takata airbags, a global supplier known for previous recalls due to aging and defective inflators. These airbags can deploy unexpectedly or malfunction during a crash, posing serious injury risks to drivers and passengers.
Dibakoane emphasized that the issue is not limited to newer models, stating, “If you have a VW produced as far back as 2005, you should have it checked—whether it’s new or used.” He also noted that the popular Polo Vivo, one of South Africa’s top-selling cars, may be affected despite not being explicitly mentioned in the recall.
Potential Risks
A faulty Takata airbag can deploy without warning, potentially causing severe injuries or accidents. Dibakoane warned that passengers, including children, could be at risk if the airbag activates unexpectedly.
What Owners Should Do
Consumers are urged to:
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Check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) online via Volkswagen’s official recall platform.
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Visit their nearest VW dealership for verification if they lack internet access.
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Schedule a free repair if their vehicle is affected.
Regulatory Oversight
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has been notified, but Dibakoane pointed out that Takata-related recalls are not new—similar issues have led to global recalls in the past, including a 400,000-vehicle recall in the UK between 2005 and 2014.
Final Warning
With VW being a leading brand in South Africa, Dibakoane stressed the urgency for all owners—especially those with older models—to verify their vehicle’s status. “This isn’t just about 140 cars,” he said. “It’s about safety—don’t wait for an accident to find out yours is faulty.”
Affected drivers are advised to act immediately to ensure their safety on the road.
