Jaguar, Land Rover vehicles recalled in South Africa over defects

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has alerted consumers to recalls affecting certain Jaguar Land Rover Defender and Jaguar I-PACE vehicles due to safety concerns. In a statement, the NCC said the recalls were issued after potential defects were identified that could impact vehicle safety systems and battery performance. “The third-row lower seat belt anchorage bracket may contain a weld stud of insufficient strength due to material contamination during manufacturing,” the NCC said.

This defect could prevent the seat belt from working correctly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury to occupants. In a separate recall, 67 Jaguar I-PACE vehicles from the 2019 to 2021 model years have also been flagged. According to the NCC, the affected vehicles may fault the high-voltage traction battery pack, which could lead to overheating.

“In certain circumstances, the battery may experience thermal overload, which may result in smoke or fire,” the commission said. As an interim measure, affected Jaguar I-PACE vehicles will receive a software update limiting the battery charge level to 90%. The NCC advised consumers to follow precautionary steps, including charging vehicles only up to 90%, parking away from structures and charging outdoors where possible.