Cupra, Skoda models recalled over fire risk

VOLKSWAGEN owned Cupra and Skoda vehicles are the latest to face a recall notice in Australia, with Cupra Formentor and Leon, and Skoda Octavia and Superb models facing related issues that may pose a fire risk.

Cupra is recalling just 26 examples of the Formentor and Leon understood to be affected by the issue related to a heat shield between the exhaust and brake master cylinder that may be incorrectly fitted.

“Due to a manufacturing issue, the heat shield between the brake master cylinder and exhaust (manifold) may have been incorrectly fitted,” said the recall notice.

“As a result, a connection to the brake fluid reservoir could melt. If this occurs, brake fluid may leak and cause a reduction in braking performance and/or if brake fluid leaks on to a hot exhaust there is a risk of a vehicle fire.”

Further, the recall notice advises that a reduction in braking performance and/or vehicle fire could “increase the risk of an accident causing serious injury or death to vehicle occupants, other road users or bystanders, and/or damage property”.

Affected Cupra Formentor and Leon vehicles were manufactured between 2020 and 2022. Further information relating to the models is available at the Vehicle Recalls website.

Owners of affected vehicles will be contacted by Cupra or may choose to contact their preferred Cupra service centre to schedule a free inspection and repair. Alternatively, owners may contact Cupra Australia on 1800 879 112.

For related Skoda Octavia and Superb models, the issue is identical, with a higher number of vehicles potentially affected.

Skoda Australia says some 3801 examples of the Octavia and Superb are impacted by the recall, with affected vehicles produced between 2020 and 2024. Further information relating to the models is available at the Vehicle Recalls website.

As is the case for Cupra models, owners of affected Skoda vehicles will be contacted by the importer or may choose to contact their preferred service centre. Alternatively, owners may contact Skoda Australia on 1800 607 540.

All repairs carried out as the result of a Recall Notice are done so free of charge.