Tag - faulty seatbelt issue

Key highlights Skoda and Volkswagen recall 47,235 cars in India due to faulty rear seatbelt components. Affected models include the Skoda Kushaq, Slavia, Kylaq and Volkswagen Taigun, Virtus. Owners can check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the brands’ official websites to confirm if their car is affected. Skoda Auto Volkswagen India has issued a mass recall affecting 47,235 vehicles, citing a faulty rear seatbelt buckle latch plate that could pose a safety risk in the event of a frontal collision. The recall impacts models manufactured between May 24, 2024, and April 1, 2025, including the Skoda Kushaq, Slavia, Kylaq and Volkswagen Taigun, Virtus2. What’s the issue? According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), the defect involves the rear seatbelt buckle latch plate, which may break under impact. Additionally, the webbing of the rear center seatbelt assembly and the buckle of the rear right seatbelt could fail, increasing the risk of injury for rear passengers. Breakdown of affected units Skoda models: 25,722 units of the Kushaq, Slavia, and Kylaq are affected. Volkswagen models: 21,513 units of the Taigun and Virtus are included in the recall2. What should owners do? Skoda Auto Volkswagen India is contacting affected customers directly. Owners can also check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the Skoda India and Volkswagen India recall microsites to confirm if their car is part of the recall3. Free replacement The company has assured that faulty seatbelt components will be replaced free of charge at authorized service centers. Customers are advised to schedule an appointment at their nearest dealership to get the issue resolved. Industry response While recalls are common in the automotive industry, this particular issue raises concerns about quality control in locally manufactured vehicles. Skoda Auto Volkswagen India has not reported any accidents or injuries related to the defect, but the recall underscores the importance of rigorous safety inspections. Also read: Volkswagen unveils three new EV concepts at Shanghai Motor Show