By Levy Masiteng
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has recalled 582 Ford Transit and Transit / Tourneo Custom passenger vehicles from the 2022 to 2026 model years over a battery fault that could expose occupants to hydrogen sulphide gas.
The commission said the affected vehicles were made available for sale nationwide between 2021 and 2025.
The Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa notified it of a problem linked to H7 AGM batteries fitted in the vehicles, it said this week.
According to the NCC, the defect may cause an acidic rotten-egg smell inside the cabin, a “hissing sound”, visible gas venting from the battery, and unusual heat in the vehicle. “In some cases, the seat area may feel unusually warm.”
The commission said increased battery temperatures may trigger a reaction that produces hydrogen sulphide gas, and warned that the defect could pose a health risk to occupants if left unattended.
Owners of affected vehicles have been urged to take them to the nearest authorised dealership for repairs. “The necessary repair work will be carried out at no cost to the consumer.”
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