Nearly 26,000 Volkswagen Polo Vivo vehicles have been recalled in South Africa due to a potential safety issue involving the handbrake mechanism, according to the National Consumer Commission (NCC).
The recall affects 25,729 vehicles sold nationwide between February 2025 and February 2026 by Volkswagen Group Africa.
Safety concern linked to handbrake component
In a statement released on 5 March, the NCC said the issue relates to the height of a rivet used in the handbrake lever assembly.
If the rivet does not meet the required specifications, the handbrake may fail to engage properly. In rare cases, it could also disengage unexpectedly.
This defect may create a safety risk, particularly when vehicles are parked on slopes where the handbrake plays a crucial role in preventing movement.
The regulator warned that the issue could lead to hazardous situations if left unaddressed.
“The NCC informs consumers about the recall of VW Polo Vivo vehicles as notified by Volkswagen Group Africa,” the commission said.
Advice for affected vehicle owners
Until the affected vehicles have been inspected and repaired where necessary, Volkswagen has advised drivers to take precautionary measures.
Owners are encouraged to ensure their vehicles are secured using additional safeguards when parked.
For manual vehicles, drivers should select first gear, while automatic vehicles should be placed in “P”, in line with the recommendations provided in the owner’s manual.
Motorists have also been advised to avoid parking their vehicles on steep inclines until the issue has been resolved.
Acting NCC Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu urged motorists who may be affected to take immediate action.
“Given the high potential risks of the defect, owners of affected vehicles are urged to immediately get their vehicles to any authorised VW dealership for inspection,” he said.
According to the regulator, all inspections and related repairs will be conducted at no cost to the vehicle owners.
Recall monitoring and consumer protection
The National Consumer Commission said it will closely monitor the recall process to ensure full compliance with South Africa’s Consumer Protection Act.
Regulators emphasised that recalls play an important role in protecting consumers and ensuring manufacturers address safety defects quickly and effectively.
The Polo Vivo remains one of the most popular cars in South Africa.
Sales data shows that the model ranked fourth among the country’s top-selling vehicles in February 2026, with 2,026 units sold during the month.
Demand for the Polo brand also remains strong in the used vehicle market.
According to AutoTrader’s 2025 Industry Report, the Volkswagen Polo recorded 15,893 used vehicle sales in South Africa last year, while the Polo Vivo followed closely with 15,488 transactions.
These figures highlight the continued popularity of the models among South African motorists across both new and second-hand markets.
