Chinese automobile giant recalls over 23,000 vehicles in Africa’s richest country over safety defects after taking over Nissan’s former plant in the $15.2 billion automotive market

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) announced the recall on Tuesday, covering three models: the Chery Tiggo 4, Omoda C5 and Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max 2.0.

The recall comes as the Chinese automaker begins vehicle production in South Africa, following its takeover of Nissan’s former plant, where it is producing the Omoda C4 crossover SUV as part of its wider expansion across the African market.

The latest action adds to a growing number of vehicle recalls involving major international automakers in South Africa this year, with Toyota, BMW, Jeep and Hyundai also issuing safety notices affecting thousands of vehicles.

The recall affects 17,508 Chery Tiggo 4 vehicles sold between October 2023 and March 2024, alongside 2,685 Omoda C5S. Both models may have welding defects that could cause the rear axle to detach and the suspension to collapse.

Another 3,474 Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max 2.0 vehicles face a different safety risk. Their front brake pipes could rub against the turbocharger, wear through and leak brake fluid, potentially weakening braking performance and increasing stopping distances.

Chery owners with affected vehicles are being urged to visit authorised dealerships for free inspections and repairs.

The latest recall adds to Chery’s regulatory troubles, with the NCC investigating allegations that the automaker previously recalled vehicles without notifying the commission.

Acting Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu said the investigation began in October 2026 and is still ongoing.

“Whilst we urge consumers to heed the call and respond to this recall, we also remind suppliers of their obligation to notify any product recall promptly,” he said.

In July, BMW recalled 10,961 vehicles across its 3, 4, 5 and 7 Series, X3 and X4 ranges over concerns that starter motors could overheat and potentially cause fires.

Toyota and Lexus recalled a combined 6,525 vehicles in June over software defects that could cause rear-view camera images to freeze or fail to display. Toyota also announced a separate recall involving 77 RAV4 plug-in hybrid vehicles in November.

More recently, Jeep recalled 1,896 Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles in November over an electrical steering-system defect that could cause overheating and potentially trigger a fire. Hyundai also recalled 253 Tucson vehicles in October over concerns involving side-impact airbag sensors.