Volvo recalls 3 cars in South Africa

Volvo has issued a recall for three of its vehicle models in South Africa due to safety concerns, according to a statement from the National Consumer Commission (NCC).

The affected models include the Volvo XC40 and two variants of the Volvo XC90, which launched on different dates.

The recall was initiated after Volvo notified the NCC on 31 January, citing both software and mechanical issues that could compromise vehicle safety.

National Consumer Commission said in a statement that Volvo has recalled:

• XC90 (released in SA on 20 January 2023)
• XC90 (released in SA on 29 October 2024)
• XC40 MY2024 (released in SA on 24 January 2024.)

The Volvo XC40 has a defect in its turn indicator system.

This issue may result in the temporary loss of function for the left rear turn indicator, posing a potential hazard to both the driver and other road users, especially in situations requiring clear signalling.

The XC90 is affected in two separate instances.

The 2023 model year (MY2023), sold from 20 January 2023, has a software malfunction within the brake module.

In rare cases, this could lead to a loss of braking support, significantly increasing the risk of an accident.

Meanwhile, the 2024 model year (MY2024) XC90, sold from 29 October 2024, faces a mechanical issue involving the brake system.

A critical rod connecting the brake pedal to the brake booster may not have been assembled according to the required manufacturing specifications.

If this rod detaches, it could prevent the brake pedal from functioning properly, severely affecting the vehicle’s ability to stop and thereby endangering occupants and other road users.

What owners need to do

The NCC has urged all owners of the affected models to contact their suppliers immediately to arrange for the necessary repairs.

Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to ensure the continued safety of both drivers and passengers.

Repairs will be carried out free of charge at authorised Volvo service centres, and vehicle owners are advised to act without delay to avoid potential hazards.

This recall marks the second time in as many months that Volvo has had to address safety concerns with its vehicles.

In January 2025, the company recalled certain XC90 units due to a fault with the second-row seatbelt buckle, which may not have been tightened to the correct specifications.

This defect could result in inadequate protection during a crash, increasing the likelihood of injury.

Fortunately, only five units were affected in South Africa, and Volvo’s customer care service reached out directly to the impacted owners to facilitate prompt repairs.

Volvo’s swift action in identifying and addressing these issues highlights the importance of proactive vehicle safety management.

The company maintains that its priority is customer safety, and owners are encouraged to respond to recall notices without delay to maintain the integrity and safety of their vehicles.