Mazda and Volkswagen have issued significant recalls for thousands of vehicles in Australia, due to potentially hazardous defects in both the fuel system and braking mechanisms. These safety concerns could pose serious risks to drivers, and both manufacturers are working to address the issues swiftly.
Mazda MX-5 Owners Face Fire Risk as Fuel Pipe Defect Prompts Recall
Mazda Australia has recalled 1,174 of its popular ND-series MX-5 sports cars, produced between 2016 and 2018, due to a serious manufacturing defect. The issue centres on a fuel pipe that may become damaged over time from vehicle vibration and extended high RPM usage. According to the company, this damage could lead to fuel leaks, which pose a fire hazard. If fuel is leaked near an ignition source, it could result in a vehicle fire, increasing the risk of serious injury or even death to the occupants, other road users, or bystanders.
The risk arises not only from the possibility of fire but also from the potential loss of power while driving, which could cause an accident. Mazda has urged owners of the affected vehicles to await further instructions, as the repair process is currently in preparation. Once the necessary parts become available, affected owners will be contacted to schedule repairs at no cost. Mazda has stressed the importance of addressing this defect promptly, and drivers are advised to remain cautious and vigilant until their vehicle is inspected.
Volkswagen Amarok Recall: Potential Braking Defect Puts Drivers at Risk
Volkswagen Group Australia has also issued a recall for 646 vehicles from its 2025 Amarok dual-cab ute range, after discovering a significant issue with the vehicle’s braking system. The problem stems from a software malfunction in the electromechanical brake servo control unit. According to Volkswagen, this fault may cause the system to switch off, reducing braking assistance and increasing the amount of force required to stop the vehicle. As a result, the Amarok’s stopping distance could lengthen, creating a serious safety hazard.
This recall mirrors a similar issue recently identified in Ford Ranger vehicles, as the Amarok shares many components with the Ranger, including its core chassis and powertrain. In the event of this malfunction, drivers may struggle to stop the vehicle quickly enough in emergency situations, raising the risk of a collision. Volkswagen has confirmed that once parts for the repair are available, affected owners will be contacted to arrange repairs free of charge. Owners are advised to contact Volkswagen Group Australia for further details or with any questions about the recall.
Both recalls highlight critical safety issues in popular vehicles, underlining the importance of swift action in addressing potentially life-threatening defects. While Mazda and Volkswagen are taking steps to resolve these concerns, vehicle owners must remain alert and take advantage of free repair services once offered.
