20 February 2025: The Malaysian Road Transport Department (JPJ) has issued a recall for 41,688 vehicles from six major manufacturers. The affected brands include Honda, Kia, Ford, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz. This recall addresses various safety defects that could lead to accidents or mechanical failures.
Why JPJ Issued the Recall
JPJ Director-General Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli urged affected vehicle owners to schedule inspections with their manufacturers as soon as possible. He stressed the importance of these inspections to prevent potential road hazards.
List of Affected Vehicles and Issues
Honda: Steering Defects
Honda recalled 36,678 units of the Civic and CR-V models due to steering issues. Owners reported abnormal noises and uneven turning, indicating potential mechanical problems.
Kia: Fire Risk in Sorento XM
Kia identified a fire risk in 4,245 units of the Sorento XM. A possible short circuit in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit could cause a fire if left unaddressed.
Ford: Battery Drain and Window Malfunction
Ford recalled 288 units of the Everest model because of battery drainage and faults in the automatic window reversal system. These issues may compromise safety while driving.
Audi: Brake and Battery Issues
Audi’s recall affects 168 units of the e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT. The company detected defects in brake hoses and inconsistencies in the high-voltage battery modules.
Mercedes-Benz: Engine and Transmission Concerns
Mercedes-Benz recalled 18 vehicles, including various Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG models. Problems in the engine control software and transmission wiring connectors could impact vehicle performance.
Manufacturer Responsibilities and Public Assuranced Owners
Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli assured that any faulty components identified during inspections would be replaced at no cost to vehicle owners, with all expenses covered by the manufacturers. JPJ will monitor the recall process to ensure timely inspections and vehicle safety. Vehicle owners seeking more information are encouraged to contact or visit their nearest sales or service centers.
Why Recalls Matter
Vehicle recalls help maintain safety standards and prevent potential road accidents. JPJ’s initiative highlights the department’s commitment to keeping vehicles safe for Malaysian roads.
A Growing Trend in Vehicle Recalls
Recent years have seen several major recalls due to safety defects. In December 2023, Toyota recalled 1.12 million vehicles worldwide because of an airbag sensor issue. Tesla’s Beijing division also recalled 870 Model X vehicles in August 2024 over faulty roof adhesives.
These cases show the importance of staying informed and acting quickly when recalls occur. Owners should prioritisae vehicle inspections to protect themselves and others on the road.
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