The National Consumer Commission has announced a recall of the Jeep Wrangler and several Kia vehicles in South Africa due to safety defects affecting airbags and ABS systems. This was done as the best decision to ensure the safety of car owners.
In a statement, the National Consumer Commission announced that over 323 Jeep Wranglers sold between 2016 and 2018 may have faulty airbags and require a recall. In addition to the Jeep, more Kia cars have been recalled, with over 18,600 Kia model vehicles being recalled.
A spokesperson from the commission said, “According to the supplier, the dust inside the clock-spring could compromise airbag circuits, causing illumination of the airbag warning light and or a non-deployment of the driver’s airbag during a crash”.
The Kia vehicles recalled include the following: Sportage, Sorento, Optima, Cerato, and Soul models sold between 2009 and 2015. Kia South Africa has been notified, and all the above-mentioned vehicles were sold nationally between the years 2009 and 2015 through Kia-approved dealerships.
Product safety recall: Are you driving a Jeep Wrangler or Kia? Your car might be part of this recall. Read below and check if you are not impacted. #InformedConsumersMakeInformedDecisions@PhethoN @the_dtic pic.twitter.com/vS73lvWawa
— The National Consumer Commission (NCC) (@TheNCC_RSA) December 8, 2025
According to the Kia South Africa supplier, the affected models require an ABS fuse replacement. The defect may result in the malfunction of the ABS, which could increase the vehicle’s stopping distance to a standstill and, in some cases, lead to engine bay damage.
The aim of the National Consumer Commission is the safety of vehicle owners, and the necessary repair work will be carried out at no cost to the consumer.
Owners of these vehicles are urged to take the recalls seriously, ensuring that they have their cars inspected and repaired at authorised dealerships as soon as possible.
Also see: Tata Motors Passenger vehicles re-enters the South African market with new SUV line-up
Feature Image: Gettys
