Overview
The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has announced a safety recall for certain Bridgestone Duravis R660 Eco tires. These tires were originally fitted on some Ford Transit Custom and Tourneo Custom models, as well as a small number of Volkswagen vehicles, sold in South Africa between October 2023 and November 2025.
Why the recall?
Bridgestone identified a defect that makes the tires more prone to cuts and partial punctures when driven in harsh, wet conditions. Moisture can then enter the tire, causing oxidation of the internal belt, which may lead to corrosion, tread separation, and—if left unchecked—loss of vehicle control.
Details of the Affected Tires
| Vehicle Make & Model | Production Years | Sale Period in SA |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Transit Custom | 2024‑2025 | Oct 22 2023 – Nov 8 2025 |
| Ford Tourneo Custom | 2024‑2025 | Oct 22 2023 – Nov 8 2025 |
| Select Volkswagen models (installed at Ford plant) | 2024‑2025 | Oct 22 2023 – Nov 8 2025 |
The tires in question are the Bridgestone Duravis R660 Eco, marketed as premium commercial/light‑truck tires emphasizing durability, fuel efficiency, and wet‑weather handling.
What to Look For
- Visible dents or deformations in the tread
- Additional cuts or nicks on the tire surface
- Uneven wear or bulging areas
If any of these signs appear, the tire should be inspected immediately.
How the Issue Was Discovered
Bridgestone’s ongoing product monitoring and quality assessments revealed that, under harsh and wet driving conditions, the tire’s sidewall is more susceptible to cuts. In some cases, this can lead to tread deformation, separation, or even rapid deflation later in the tire’s life.
Bridgestone has pledged to work with regulators, dealers, and customers to provide free replacements for the affected tires.
What Consumers Should Do
- Check Your Vehicle – Verify if your Ford Transit/Tourneo Custom or the specific Volkswagen models fall within the recall window.
- Contact a Dealer – Reach out to an authorized Ford or Volkswagen service center to confirm whether your tires are part of the recall.
- Arrange a Free Replacement – If your tires are affected, schedule a free replacement at the dealership.
- Drive Cautiously – Until the tires are replaced, avoid prolonged driving in heavy rain or rough road conditions.
The NCC urges quick action: “Act quickly when you learn of a product recall to avoid potential safety risks.”
Broader Context: Recent NCC Recalls
- Hyundai – Recall of 14 Hyundai i30 (FD) and Elantra HD vehicles (2011) due to possible driver‑airbag malfunction.
- Audi – Safety notice for 40 Audi e‑tron GT models (Nov 2021‑Mar 2026) concerning a loose brake‑pedal connection.
- Land Rover & Jaguar – Over 100 Defender and I‑Pace vehicles recalled last month for various safety concerns.
These actions show the NCC’s ongoing effort to keep South African roads safe by addressing defects promptly.
Conclusion
The Bridgestone Duravis R660 Eco tire recall is a precautionary measure aimed at preventing tire‑related accidents caused by cuts, moisture ingress, and potential tread separation. Owners of the affected Ford and Volkswagen models should verify their tires, contact a dealer, and arrange a free replacement as soon as possible. Staying informed and acting quickly helps ensure everyone’s safety on the road.
