BYD is recalling over 183,000 vehicles in China after authorities found a defect in the brake pedal. The country's market regulator announced the recall, which mainly affects the Tang series of electric and hybrid SUVs, along with about 40,300 Qin sedans.
The problem lies in the materials used for the brake pedal pads. Officials say the parts can crack or break after long-term use, especially in harsh conditions, raising safety concerns for drivers and passengers. Reuters reports that the recall covers vehicles made between 2014 and 2022. The defect involves the brake pedal stopper pads, which may crack or come loose over time. In extreme cases, Reuters reported, the defect could cause brake lights to remain illuminated even when the pedal is not pressed, potentially confusing other drivers and increasing accident risk.
BYD will contact owners of affected cars and ask them to visit authorized service centers or dealerships for a free replacement of the faulty parts. So far, the company has not reported any injuries or accidents linked to the defect. The scale of the recall stands out for a brand that has grown quickly in recent years. All repairs will be done at no cost to customers through BYD's dealer network, as required by Chinese law.
Chinese regulators have stepped up their focus on vehicle safety, warning that fierce competition and fast development cycles can lead manufacturers to cut corners. The BYD recall comes as the industry faces pressure to show that speed does not mean sacrificing reliability. The State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) published the official recall notice, and BYD submitted its plan as required under China's product-defect rules.
The timing is sensitive for BYD, which has been expanding rapidly, including in overseas markets. As reported earlier, BYD recently grew its dealership network in Spain, aiming for 130 locations by the end of the year. The recall could affect consumer confidence as the company works to build its global reputation. Sina Finance reports that Chinese authorities listed separate recall figures for Tang, with 58,026 vehicles, and Tang DM, with 77,846. Tang EV accounts for 7,023 vehicles, while Qin accounts for 40,316, bringing the total to over 183,000 units. The recall comes amid tighter oversight of China's electric vehicle sector and follows recent recalls by other manufacturers, including Nio.
Google/SpainAuto reports that the recall affects many BYD's recent production, highlighting the risks of rapid growth in the car industry. The company now faces the task of regaining trust while meeting safety standards as it competes for market share. With regulators watching closely, manufacturers are under pressure to avoid quality lapses, as reputations can change quickly when safety is in question.
