Volkswagen’s Amarok bakkies hit by recall in South Africa

South Africa – The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has issued a safety recall for 291 Volkswagen Amarok vehicles sold across South Africa over a potential curtain airbag deployment failure.

The affected vehicles were manufactured during a limited production period and sold nationwide between 2 June and 15 September 2026, according to the NCC.

In a media statement, the commission said Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) is recalling the affected vehicles after identifying a potential safety issue involving the curtain airbag.

“According to the supplier, in the event of a front or side impact, the curtain airbag may not fully deploy,” the NCC said.

The commission said the failure is caused by the airbag coming into contact with a component inside the vehicle.

“Sharp-edged plastic components may also come loose or remain in the airbag,” the statement said.

The NCC warned that the defect could reduce the protection offered to the driver and front passenger during a crash.

“Sharp-edged parts of the guide element could also separate or remain in the head or neck contact area, resulting in an increased risk of injury in the event of an accident,” it said.

Owners of the affected Amarok vehicles have been urged to take their vehicles to any approved Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles dealer for the replacement of the affected components.

“The work will be carried out at no cost to the customer,” the NCC said.

Consumers with questions about the recall can contact the NCC at [email protected].