The recall includes Land Rover Defender and Discovery models as well as Range Rover variants and the Jaguar F-PACE
Image: Supplied
The Motor Industry Staff Association (MISA) has welcomed the latest vehicle recall affecting several Jaguar Land Rover models, describing it as evidence that safety systems within the automotive industry are working, while urging motorists to respond promptly and employers to better support technicians carrying out recall repairs.
The comments followed a National Consumer Commission recall involving Jaguar Land Rover vehicles produced between 2024 and 2027 that are fitted with the AJ 20 D6 3 litre V6 turbodiesel engine.
The recall was issued after a defect was identified that could result in engine oil leaks, creating a potential hazard for other road users, particularly motorcyclists.
Owners of affected vehicles have been urged to contact their nearest authorised Jaguar Land Rover dealership to arrange a free inspection and replacement of the FEAD idler pulley.
The latest action follows another Jaguar Land Rover recall involving Defender, Discovery and Range Rover models manufactured between 2020 and 2027.
It also forms part of a broader surge in vehicle safety recalls overseen by the NCC in recent months. More than 40,000 vehicles have been recalled in South Africa so far this year, involving manufacturers including Toyota, Lexus, Volkswagen, MG, Ford, Hyundai and Jeep. The recalls have covered defects ranging from faulty exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valves and malfunctioning windscreen wipers to seatbelt anchorage faults and battery overheating risks.
Earlier this year, the NCC also recalled certain Land Rover Defender and Jaguar I-PACE models over separate safety concerns.
These included a third-row seatbelt anchorage bracket fitted with a weld stud that may not meet required strength specifications, as well as a high-voltage traction battery fault in the Jaguar I-PACE that could result in thermal overload and, in rare cases, smoke or fire.
As an interim precaution, affected I-PACE owners were advised to limit battery charging to 90% until repairs could be completed.
MISA said the safety risks associated with the defect reinforced the importance of responding quickly whenever manufacturers identify faults that could compromise public safety.
"Any defect that compromises road safety must be treated with urgency. MISA believes that every recall is a reminder of the vital role workers play in maintaining safety standards. Every technician who performs a recall repair is contributing to safer roads and stronger public confidence in our sector," said Martlé Keyter, MISA's Chief Executive Officer of Operations.
The organisation said recalls should not be viewed solely as a response to manufacturing defects, but also as an indication that manufacturers are actively monitoring product safety and taking corrective action when necessary.
MISA added that technicians remain central to ensuring recalled vehicles are repaired correctly and returned safely to the road.
The association called on employers across the motor industry to provide technicians with the necessary support during recall campaigns, including appropriate training, sufficient resources and recognition for the work they perform.
According to MISA, collaboration between manufacturers, dealerships, technicians and consumers is essential to maintaining confidence in South Africa's automotive sector while protecting road users.
Keyter said, "Together, manufacturers, workers and consumers can ensure that South Africa's roads are safer and its motor industry remains resilient and trusted."
MISA encouraged affected vehicle owners to respond promptly to recall notices and have the required repairs completed to minimise safety risks and support safer roads for all motorists.
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