Staff Writer | Mon, 8 Dec 2025
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has warned motorists to act urgently following the recall of hundreds of Jeep Wrangler vehicles and thousands of Kia models sold in South Africa due to safety-related defects.
The commision spokesperson Phetho Ntaba said the recalls should be treated with the seriousness they deserve. “Consumers are urged to take these recalls seriously and to immediately arrange for inspections and repairs at authorised dealerships to ensure their safety,” Ntaba said.
According to the commission, Stellantis South Africa (Pty) Ltd has recalled 323 Jeep Wrangler vehicles sold nationally between 2016 and 2018, before the model was discontinued. The recall follows the identification of a potential defect in the clockspring, where dust accumulation may compromise airbag circuits.
The defect could cause the airbag warning light to illuminate and, in some cases, result in the driver’s airbag failing to deploy during a collision.
In a separate recall, Kia South Africa has notified the NCC of the recall of 18,600 vehicles, including the Sportage (SL, KM), Sorento (XM), Optima (TF), Cerato (TD) and Soul (AM) models. These vehicles were sold nationally between 2009 and 2015 through Kia-approved dealerships.
The commision said the affected Kia models require an ABS fuse replacement. Failure to address the defect could lead to a malfunction of the anti-lock braking system, increasing stopping distances and potentially causing engine bay damage.
Ntaba reiterated that all inspections and repairs related to the recalls will be conducted at no cost to consumers and encouraged affected motorists to contact authorised dealerships without delay.
News Junction (Gold Standard)