Ford Motor Company South Africa has issued an urgent recall for nearly 600 Transit and Tourneo Custom vehicles, due to a hazardous battery defect.

The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has warned that the issue involves the H7 AGM battery, which could pose health risks to drivers and passengers. The NCC says 582 vehicles are affected by the faulty battery that can overheat.

Product Safety Recall: Ford drivers! A strange smell or hissing sound in your vehicle is not something to ignore. Certain 2022–2026 Ford Transit and Transit/Tourneo Custom vehicles are being recalled due to a battery defect. Your safety comes first.@the_dtic @PhethoN pic.twitter.com/l3OTFBXaF7

— The National Consumer Commission (NCC) (@TheNCC_RSA) March 26, 2026

Drivers may notice a distinct smell of rotten eggs inside the cabin, hear a hissing sound, or even see gas venting from the battery. In some cases, the seat area may feel unusually warm.

The commission’s Prudence Moilwa says the chemical reaction inside the batteries produces dangerous hydrogen sulphide gas.

“Prolonged exposure to this gas may pose potential health risks to vehicle occupants. Owners of the affected vehicles are urged to take their vehicles to the nearest authorised dealership for repairs. The necessary repair work will be carried out at no cost to the consumer,” says Moilwa.

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