Photo of James Cleary
James Cleary

Deputy Editor

2 min read

In response to a design and engineering fault in the driver’s side seat frame of its MG3 hatchback, MG Motor Australia has instigated a recall of more than 10,000 examples of the compact five-door.

A weakness in the driver side seat (with six-way manual adjustment) was identified during Euro NCAP assessment of the MG3 earlier this year.

Specifically, the seat slid forward by 111.5mm on the side closest to the centre console on collision, a movement MG says “may increase the risk of leg injuries in the event of a frontal impact”.

Read More About MG MG3

In fact, a bulletin issued this week by the Federal Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication, Sport and the Arts, said, “In the event of collision, the inner side of the cushion frame may move forward and downwards much further than expected, inadvertently contacting the unlocking lever and then the locking pin, thereby causing the inboard rail to unlock.

“In the event of an accident if the driver seat moves excessively, it could increase the risk of injury or death to vehicle occupants.”

A total of 10,516 MG3s manufactured between March 6, 2024 and July 30, 2025 are now the subject of a safety recall although MG Motor said it is not aware of any incidents relating to the defect.

MG said it will be contacting impacted MG3 owners directly and owners are encouraged to contact their local MG Motor service centre as soon as possible to schedule a visit where MG Motor will fit an additional component to the driver’s seat rail of their MG3.

According to MG: “This fitment will be conducted at no charge. The component will ensure optimal performance and safety and is estimated to take from 30 minutes up to one hour.”

For further information or to confirm if a vehicle is affected, customers can contact MG Motor Australia Customer Care (1800 644 637) or visit its FAQ page at https://mgmotor.com.au/.

Photo of James Cleary
James Cleary

Deputy Editor

As a small boy James often sat on a lounge with three shoes in front of him, a ruler between the cushions, and a circular drinks tray in his hands. He would then play ‘drivings’, happily heading to destinations unknown for hours on end. He’s since owned many cars, raced a few, and driven (literally) thousands of them at all points of the globe. He’s steered around and across Australia multiple times, spent time as an advanced driving instructor, and had the opportunity to experience rare and valuable classics here and overseas. His time in motoring journalism has included stints at national and international titles including Motor, Wheels and TopGear, and when asked to nominate a career highlight, James says interviewing industry legend Gordon Murray, in the paddock at the 1989 Australian Formula One Grand Prix was amazing, especially as Murray waived away a hovering Ayrton Senna to complete the conversation. As Deputy Editor, James manages everything from sub-editing to back-end content while creating written and video product reviews.
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