Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Toyota, Stellantis, and Ford, five major vehicle manufacturers, have identified safety defects in 15,671 vehicles sold in South Korea and are conducting a voluntary recall. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced on the 13th that these companies will proceed with corrective actions (recalls) on 11 models they manufactured or imported and sold.
Main Recall Targets and Defect Details
The recall targets include Mercedes-Benz’s ‘S580 4MATIC’ (4,289 vehicles), where a software error in the engine control unit was found to potentially cause fire. Consequently, Mercedes-Benz Korea began corrective actions on March 7th.
Volkswagen and Audi’s ‘Q4 40 e-tron’ (4,226 vehicles) have a brake control unit software error that causes incorrect gear position display on the dashboard, which is non-compliant with automotive safety standards. Recalls for these issues have been underway since March 11th.
Toyota’s ‘Sienna Hybrid’ (2,722 vehicles) was found to be non-compliant with safety standards due to improper fastening of the third-row seat back bolts. Additionally, some models like the ‘Camry’ (1,168 vehicles) have defective fuel pump components, which may cause engine stalling, leading to recalls commencing on March 6th.
Stellantis’ ‘Chrysler 300C’ (1,731 vehicles) has inadequate durability in high-pressure fuel pump parts, posing the risk of engine stalling while driving. Thus, recall measures have been in place since March 10th.
Ford’s ‘Nautilus’ (1,535 vehicles) was identified to have a door control unit software error that prevents the side window anti-pinch function from working correctly, prompting recalls starting March 11th.
Recall Target Confirmation and Measures
Vehicle owners can verify if their car is subject to recall by entering their vehicle or chassis number on the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport’s car recall center website (PC: www.car.go.kr, Mobile: m.car.go.kr). Additionally, inquiries can be made via the car recall center (080-357-2500) for detailed defect information and corrective action guidance.
An official from the Ministry stated, “Automobile recalls are essential measures for vehicle safety,” and recommended that owners of the affected models receive the recall service as soon as possible.