Antony Chawagarira
Zimbabwean Isuzu D-Max owners are on alert following a major safety recall involving thousands of the latest-generation bakkies due to a potentially dangerous brake pedal defect.
The recall by Isuzu Motors South Africa affects 2,586 RG19 D-Max bakkies sold between May 11 and July 3, 2026. These vehicles were also exported to Zimbabwe and other African countries.
This development has sparked concern among Zimbabwean motorists who purchased the affected models during this period, particularly because the defect involves the braking system.
According to the National Consumer Commission (NCC), there is a possibility that the brake pedal pivot pin on affected vehicles may be loose.
The fault could cause the brake pedal to move sideways when pressed, making it difficult for the driver to fully depress the pedal and potentially affect braking performance.
The recall covers single-cab, double-cab, and extended-cab versions of the current-generation RG19 D-Max.
Zimbabwe is among the export destinations, listed alongside Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Eswatini, Uganda, and Zambia.
Although the recall was issued in South Africa, the inclusion of Zimbabwe among the export markets means local owners of potentially affected vehicles have been urged to determine whether their bakkies fall within the recall population.
The NCC has advised owners to take affected vehicles to an authorised Isuzu dealership for inspection, with the replacement of the defective component to be carried out free of charge.
Acting NCC Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu said motorists should not delay contacting authorised dealerships, given the critical role played by vehicle braking systems.
Motoring reports have stressed that the recall does not mean every D-Max sold during the period has a defective brake pedal. However, motorists with potentially affected vehicles should have them checked as a precaution.
For Zimbabwean owners, the key issue now is to confirm whether their vehicle is part of the affected batch and to have any identified defect rectified before it compromises braking performance.
