Warning to Range Rover and Mercedes-Benz Drivers in South Africa Over Serious Safety Recalls

South African motorists driving certain Range Rover and Mercedes-Benz models are being urged to take urgent action after a safety recall was issued for a series of potentially dangerous vehicle faults — some of which could lead to serious injury, or even death.

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has issued a formal warning, noting that Jaguar Land Rover and Mercedes-Benz South Africa are recalling vehicles due to life-threatening defects affecting airbags and electrical systems.

“These are not minor technical issues, they’re basic, life-critical flaws,” said Prudence Moilwa, Head of Complaints and Investigations at the NCC.

What’s Wrong with the Vehicles?

Range Rover Evoque Recall (2021–2025 models)

Jaguar Land Rover identified that passenger airbags in some Range Rover Evoque models were folded incorrectly during assembly. If deployed in a crash, the airbags may tear, which would reduce protection and could release hot gases, causing burns or other serious injuries.

Mercedes-Benz Recall (2023 models)

Affected Mercedes-Benz models include:

• SL (232)

• EQS (297)

• GLC (254)

• S-Class (223)

• C-Class (206)

In these vehicles, fuse boxes may not have been reworked correctly, leading to risks of:

• Sudden power failures

• Instrument cluster malfunctions

• Failure of critical restraint systems

• Electrical fires (thermal events)

Legal Risk for Owners Who Ignore the Recall

While manufacturers are notifying affected drivers, some owners have yet to respond. The NCC is reminding the public that under Section 61 of the Consumer Protection Act, manufacturers are legally liable for any harm caused by their products, even if the consumer ignores a recall notice.

“Don’t assume your car is safe just because it’s running fine. These faults don’t always show themselves until it’s too late,” said Acting NCC Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu.

What Affected Drivers Need to Do

Motorists driving Range Rover or Mercedes-Benz models from the affected years are strongly advised to:

• Check their VIN number on the official manufacturer website or with a dealership.

• Book an appointment at the nearest authorised service centre.

• Take their vehicle in for a free repair, no charges apply for the fix.

“This is as easy as booking a regular service. You may even get a lift or a courtesy vehicle depending on the dealership,” Moilwa said.

Recalls Are Standard and Legal

Moilwa reassured South Africans that recalls are normal international practice and a legal obligation under local consumer law.

“This isn’t about blaming consumers. It’s about making things right before someone gets hurt,” she added.

Don’t Wait for a Problem

Even if your luxury car feels perfectly fine today, these defects could turn deadly in an instant, in a crash or due to an electrical failure.

Check your VIN. Book your recall. Stay safe.

Download Media-Statement-Range-Rover-and-Mercedes-Benz

{Source: BusinessTech}

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