In an unprecedented move for the Australian market, BYD has announced a safety recall that covers every Shark 6 plug-in hybrid ute sold in the country. The figure stands at 32,009 vehicles – a number that represents virtually the entire domestic fleet of the model since its introduction in late. Australian drivers have embraced the Shark 6, with sales topping 32,000 units in just two years, making it one of the most popular utes in the segment.
The recall stems from a problem with the spare wheel support cable. BYD explains that if the spare tyre is not installed perfectly, or if the tray that houses it is misaligned, the fastening torque may be insufficient. Over time, this combination can cause abnormal wear on the cable, and continued friction while driving could ultimately lead to the cable snapping. The result: the spare wheel could become detached while the vehicle is in motion, creating a serious hazard for other road users.
Technical root cause and risk assessment
The defect is linked to three possible installation errors: incorrect placement of the spare wheel, improper positioning of the spare-wheel tray, and inadequate tightening torque on the fasteners. Each of these factors accelerates wear on the support cable. BYD’s engineering team describes the failure mode as a gradual degradation that can culminate in sudden detachment. In its recall notice, BYD warned that such an event could lead to “serious injury or death,” underscoring the urgency of the remediation.
Remediation plan and owner instructions
To address the issue, BYD will replace the existing spare-wheel lifter assembly with an updated design at no cost to the owner. Dealerships estimate the installation will take roughly 30 minutes although scheduling constraints may require owners to leave their vehicles at the service bay for a longer period. Until the new part is fitted, BYD advises drivers to remove the spare wheel from its mounting point. Detailed removal steps are outlined on page 259 of the Shark 6 owner’s handbook and have also been circulated via email and the BYD mobile app.
Broader context and previous actions
The Shark 6’s rapid market penetration has made this recall the largest BYD safety campaign in Australia to date. It follows an earlier 2022 incident in which a stop-sale notice was issued for the Atto 3 model due to a non-compliant child-seat anchor. While the current issue does not affect the vehicle’s powertrain, it highlights the importance of rigorous quality checks on auxiliary components, especially in a segment where the ute is expected to endure heavy loads and demanding driving conditions.
Owners can verify whether their vehicle is part of the recall by entering the VIN on BYD Australia’s recall information website. BYD is also reaching out directly through email and the company’s app to ensure every affected driver receives the safety notice promptly. With the free fix scheduled to roll out across the dealer network, the goal is to have all 32,009 units back on the road without the spare-wheel risk within the coming months.
