The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has alerted South African motorists to a recall affecting 25 729 Volkswagen Polo Vivo vehicles, following a notification from Volkswagen Group Africa (Pty) Ltd (VW).
The affected models were sold nationwide between February 2025 and February 2026.
VW has identified a potential issue with the rivet height on the handbrake lever of these vehicles. If the rivet height is outside the required specifications, the handbrake may not engage properly or could, in rare cases, disengage unexpectedly. This poses a safety risk, particularly when the vehicle is parked on a slope.
Owners of the affected vehicles are advised to take precautions until their car has been inspected and, if necessary, repaired. VW recommends parking on level ground, engaging first gear for manual vehicles or “P” for automatic models, and avoiding slopes altogether.
The NCC said it is monitoring the recall closely to ensure compliance with the Consumer Protection Act and to protect consumer rights.
Acting Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu urged owners to act 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.
The affected models were sold nationwide between February 2025 and February 2026.
VW has identified a potential issue with the rivet height on the handbrake lever of these vehicles. If the rivet height is outside the required specifications, the handbrake may not engage properly or could, in rare cases, disengage unexpectedly. This poses a safety risk, particularly when the vehicle is parked on a slope.
Owners of the affected vehicles are advised to take precautions until their car has been inspected and, if necessary, repaired. VW recommends parking on level ground, engaging first gear for manual vehicles or “P” for automatic models, and avoiding slopes altogether.
The NCC said it is monitoring the recall closely to ensure compliance with the Consumer Protection Act and to protect consumer rights.
Acting Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu urged owners to act 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.