Chery OMODA 5 rear axle issue – 600 units potentially affected

UPDATE ON May 11, 2024: Chery Malaysia says it has contacted 59 of the 60 units which are confirmed to have the rear axle assembly manufactured during the time period of the facility upgrade. The vehicles will be inspected and have the rear axle replaced. 540 other units are also being recalled as a precautionary measure.

Chery Auto Malaysia, following investigation of the broken rear axle beam case, has issued a statement this evening which states the following points:

• Isolated case but 600 OMODA 5 SUVs potentially affected
• Replacement of rear axle beam on customer’s vehicle
• Problem related to facility upgrade exercise by vendor
• Owners of affected vehicles will be contacted
• Dedicated website to be available relating to this issue

Full text of statement:
“Chery Auto Malaysia is committed to providing safe and reliable transportation solutions, and we are dedicated to ensuring that all our vehicles meet the highest safety standards.

The customer-reported issue highlighted on Facebook recently was determined to be an isolated case. We have promptly addressed this concern by replacing the rear axle beam component and conducting comprehensive quality control tests on the affected vehicle. We can confirm that the matter has been successfully resolved.

Chery Auto Malaysia views this matter seriously as customer safety is our utmost priority. In ensuring that we provide full transparency and accountability, we have reached out to the parts vendor and have done an in-depth analysis. We are now able to confirm that 600 vehicles are potentially affected due to the facility upgrade exercise.

As a precautionary measure, Chery Auto Malaysia will be reaching out to customers of the
affected Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) for a detailed inspection to resolve all technical component issues.

We would like to reassure customers that no other vehicles are affected. Chery Auto Malaysia continues to focus on upholding the safety of our customers and ensuring their peace of mind. A website to cater to this precautionary measure will be in place for all OMODA 5 customers to confirm that their vehicles are not affected.

Customer satisfaction is our utmost priority. Chery Auto Malaysia is dedicated to ensuring we produce the best vehicles and deliver the best service to our customers.

For queries kindly contact the Chery Malaysia Customer Careline at 03-2771 7070.”

Well done to Chery Auto Malaysia for such speedy work in investigating the serious matter and even identifying the cause right back to the source which must be in China. Such speed – the owner reported the matter on April 28 – is unusual as most companies will take many days to come out with an explanation.

The company is also to be commended for being transparent with its findings and making the information public, which is the best way to end rumours and prevent further speculation (especially on social media). Other companies would do well to emulate the responsiveness and transparency of Chery Auto Malaysia.