MG ANNOUNCES MG3 SAFETY ENHANCEMENT CAMPAIGN

Article 27/01/2026

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Service campaign launched to proactively strengthen driver’s seat sliding mechanism for enhanced occupant safety in the event of a collision
Safety enhancement to be conducted through MG Motor’s national dealer network at no cost to the customer

Johannesburg, 23 January 2026. MG Motor South Africa this week announced a safety enhancement campaign on the MG3 hatchback. The service campaign revolves around an enhancement to the driver’s seat sliding mechanism and affects only 209 vehicles shipped to South Africa since the model’s local introduction in August last year.

This safety enhancement follows the deep analysis of results obtained during the MPDB tests in the Euro NCAP evaluation in the latter half of 2025. During the MPDB tests, which simulates a 50% offset collision at an average speed of 50km/h between two vehicles, the driver’s seat unexpectedly slid forward on one side, creating risk of injury to the driver’s femur in the event of a collision. The service campaign serves to strengthen the driver’s seat sliding mechanism.

“It is most important to note that the MG3, as a global model, still obtained an overall 4-star rating in the authoritative Euro NCAP tests,” explains Alec He, General Manager of MG Motor South Africa. “As a leading global automotive manufacturer, SAIC Motor takes driver and occupant safety very seriously, and its engineering teams immediately set out to analyse the results and provide a solution following the results.

“Now, MG is taking proactive steps to strengthen the seat latch mechanism to ensure that, in the event of a collision, the driver’s seat does not de-latch or cause injury to the vehicle occupants. We have secured all the necessary parts to execute the service campaign quickly and effectively. We apologise for any inconvenience caused and remain committed to exceeding expectations.”

MG Motor dealerships will implement the safety campaign at no charge to the vehicle owner, and customers are encouraged to contact their preferred MG dealership directly to make an appointment.

ENDS

About MG Motor South Africa

Established in 1924, MG Motor boasts a storied legacy that spans more than a century. Our roots are deeply anchored in our maiden venture, the MG 14/28 Super Sports car, a masterpiece crafted by the iconic Cecil Kimber. Steeped in innovation and fuelled by a commitment to the future, our focus has shifted towards envisioning sustainable and accessible mobility for all. Under the ownership of SAIC Motor (Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation) since 2007, the largest automotive manufacturer in China and ranked among the Fortune Global 500, MG Motor entered the South African market in January 2025. It operates a state-of-the-art parts distribution centre out of Johannesburg and retails its models through a growing national network of dealerships.

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What is a vehicle recall campaign?

A vehicle recall campaign is an official safety action initiated by a manufacturer or authorised distributor when evidence shows that a manufacturing defect, component failure, or a design issue could pose a safety risk to drivers, passengers, or other road users. A recall campaign involves inspecting, repairing, or replacing affected parts at no cost to the owner.

Who can initiate and who regulates a recall in South Africa?

A recall can be initiated by the vehicle manufacturer, the National Consumer Commission (NCC), or the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS). The NCC oversees product safety recalls, including motor vehicles, under the Consumer Protection Act (CPA). In most cases, recall campaigns are initiated by the vehicle manufacturer on a voluntary basis. MG Motor South Africa is working closely with the NCC for the successful execution of the recall campaign.

What are my rights as a vehicle owner?

You have the right to be notified promptly if your vehicle is affected, receive a free inspection and repair, be informed about the nature of the defect, and escalate unresolved issues to the Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA) or the NCC.

Why is MG Motor initiating a recall campaign on MG3?

MG Motor has identified a possible safety defect in certain MG3 models. In the event of a collision, it is possible that the front driver’s seat latch mechanism may de-latch. During independent tests, such an occurrence caused the driver’s seat to twist partway through the impact. For your safety, we are taking action to correct this issue.

How will MG Motor know whether my vehicle is affected?

MG Motor keeps meticulous records of each vehicle manufactured globally, which allows it to easily and accurately which vehicles may be affected by the recall campaign. As such, MG has identified that only 209 examples of the MG3 are affected in South Africa.

How will I know if my vehicle is affected?

MG Motor will contact all registered owners directly, utilising the most recent contact details available. You may also check directly with MG’s customer service centre or an authorised MG Motor dealership, using your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

Will the recall repair cost me anything?

No. All recall inspections, repairs, or replacements carried out as part of an official campaign are performed free of charge by authorised dealers.

Where should I take my vehicle?

The MG3 recall campaign will be executed on behalf of MG Motor South Africa by all dealerships in its authorised dealership network. These dealerships are equipped with the appropriate tools, approved parts, and trained technicians to carry out recall work safely.

How long will the recall take?

Your preferred MG Motor Dealership will confirm an estimated timeframe when booking your appointment.

Is it safe to continue driving before the recall repair?

The specific recall campaign on the MG3 does not affect the normal mechanical operation of the vehicle, and it is safe to continue driving the vehicle before the recall repair is executed. The recall campaign is precautionary and designed to eliminate the potential risk of injury in the event of a collision.

What if the defect causes damage or an accident before the recall repair?

The identified precautionary repair is unlikely to cause damage or to be the cause of an accident. It is designed to eliminate the potential risk of injury in the event of a collision.

Can I refuse to participate in the recall?

Participation in the recall campaign is voluntary but is strongly recommended. Declining a recall repair may compromise your safety and could affect your vehicle’s warranty, resale value, or insurance coverage.

What information will I need when contacting the manufacturer or dealer?

You will need to have your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) available, and be able to confirm the model, make and registration details through proof of ownership.

What if parts are not immediately available?

MG Motor South Africa has ensured that sufficient replacement parts are readily available in South Africa by the time of the recall campaign announcement. In the unlikely event of these parts being temporarily unavailable, the MG Motor will schedule the repair as soon as possible and actively communicate an expected timeline.

How will I know when the recall is completed?

Once your vehicle has been inspected or repaired, the dealer will provide documentation confirming completion of the recall. Keep this for your service records or resale purposes.

Does a recall mean my vehicle is low quality?

Not necessarily. Recalls are often a sign of responsible quality management, and in this specific instance, is being executed to reduce the possibility of injury in the event of a collision.