Build Your Dreams (BYD), the Chinese automaker currently making the rounds on South Africa’s streets, has some bad news for its Shark 6 plug-in hybrid bakkie owners. The company has recalled several thousand of the bakkies, owing to the potential risk that the spare wheel may just up and detach itself from the undercarriage.
Jumped the Shark?
The notice was initially issued by BYD Australia and reported on by MyBroadband. “Continued movement and friction during vehicle operation may cause the cable to fail, resulting in spare wheel detachment,” BYD said. “This may create a hazard to other road users and potentially cause serious injury or death.” Not good.
The recall affected 32,009 units in Australia. Specifically, Premium models built between 29 August 2024 and 12 June 2026. Performance units manufactured between 27 January 2026 and 15 June 2026 are also at risk. Both models are on sale in SA. It also recalled the Dynamic Cab Chassis version, though this model isn’t sold locally.
It was initially unclear whether Saffas with a Shark 6 parked in their garage would be called upon for the recall. Now, however, BYD South Africa has issued a statement, erring on the side of caution. Probably a good idea.
“As a proactive and precautionary measure, BYD South Africa is advising Shark 6, owners to contact their nearest authorised BYD dealer,” it said. “Dealers will be able to inspect the vehicle, advise owners on the appropriate measures and assist with the required technical action where applicable.”
In the meantime, owners might want to remove the spare wheel entirely ’til BYD’s taken a look. They can check their car’s manual on page 259 for instructions on how to remove the wheel from the undercarriage. The Australian recall made it clear the issue shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes to fix, and is free to owners. It’s unclear what route BYD South Africa will take if it discovers issues plaguing the undercarriage of local models.
