Honda recalled more than 35 000 Civic hybrids in the United States on Monday to fix a problem with the electrical system that could cause the headlights to turn off or the engine to stall.
Separately, Toyota recalled about 22 000 SUVs and bakkies to address faulty tyre pressure monitoring systems and Chrysler recalled about 20 000 Jeep Wranglers over steering issues.
A Chrysler South Africa representative stated that no recall for local vehicles has been issued, but that the company is investigating the matter.
Honda told the government its recall would cover 2006-2007 model year Civic hybrids. The company said the voltage converter that relays power from the motor assist system to the vehicle's electrical components could fail.
Honda has received seven reports of stalling engines and 82 warranty claims connected to the problem. Dealers will replace the voltage converter at no charge.
Toyota's recall includes some versions of the 2008-2011 Toyota FJ Cruiser, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Tacoma and Tundra and as with the Honda, none of these vehicles are sold in South Africa.
The systems that monitor the vehicles' tyre pressure did not comply with federal safety standards. Toyota said the systems didn't illuminate on the dashboard at the minimum activation pressure and needed to be recalibrated.
Owners will be notified of the recall at a future date and dealers will fix the tyre pressure monitoring system.
Chrysler said its Jeep recall covers Wranglers from the 2010-2011 model years over potential loose fasteners to the front and rear axles. The issue could cause poor steering and handling or cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.
The Wranglers were built from mid-July 2010 through mid-September 2010. The recall is expected to begin in mid-March and dealers will tighten the fasteners. -Sapa-AP