Volkswagen Group South Africa (VWSA) has announced a critical safety recall affecting 142 Volkswagen Polo vehicles and eight Taigo models due to a potentially life-threatening defect in the front passenger airbag system. The recall targets vehicles sold between December 2022 and January 2024.
The Issue: Faulty Passenger Airbag Gas Generators
The recall stems from a defect in the gas generators of the front passenger airbag module, as confirmed by VWSA and the National Consumer Commission (NCC). The faulty component may lead to two significant risks during an accident:
- Reduced Protective Effect: The airbag may not inflate correctly, diminishing its ability to protect the front passenger.
- Catastrophic Failure: The gas generator housing could rupture or dislodge metal fragments into the vehicle’s cabin.
Affected Vehicles
| Model | Number Affected | Production Period |
|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Polo | 141 vehicles | From December 20, 2022 |
| Volkswagen Polo | 1 vehicle | From January 29, 2024 |
| Volkswagen Taigo | 8 vehicles | From January 29, 2024 |
What Owners Should Do Immediately
- Deactivate the Front Passenger Airbag via the vehicle’s settings or at a VWSA-approved dealership
- Avoid Using the Front Passenger Seat until repairs are completed
- Schedule an Inspection at a VWSA-approved dealership for free repairs
Check Your Vehicle Status
Owners can verify whether their vehicle is part of the recall by using Volkswagen South Africa’s official recall tool:
Alternatively, contact your nearest VWSA-approved dealership directly for assistance.
Context: Volkswagen’s Broader Safety Efforts
This recall follows another recent safety action in May 2025, when VWSA recalled over 900 Polo Sedan models due to faulty rear-seatbelt latch plates.
“The NCC emphasizes that this recall falls under the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008, which mandates swift action to address safety hazards.”
Why This Matters
For South African drivers, this recall serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing safety notices without delay. Airbag defects, particularly those involving potential ruptures, have caused injuries and fatalities globally.
The limited scale of this recall—150 vehicles—does not diminish its urgency, as even a single faulty airbag can have catastrophic consequences.
Stay informed with DriveZA for updates on this recall. If you’re an affected owner, share your experience in the comments below.
Disclaimer: This information is current as of June 18, 2025. Always verify recall status with official Volkswagen channels.
