February 2018 DVSA recall round-up: Over 33,000 cars recalled over fire risk

Audi, Ford, Toyota and Mercedes-Benz are among the manufacturers to issue safety recalls in recent weeks, with the most significant being for the Audi A4, A5 and Q5.

Audi is recalling 33,699 A4, A5, A5 Cabriolet and Q5 models - built between 2011 and 2015 - due to a heater component failure, which may result in overheating and fire.

Ford is also involved in a large recall - involving Kuga, Focus, C-Max and Fiesta ST models - built between 2010 and 2014. The 15,000 cars affected may suffer a cracked engine cylinder head and , according to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), this could result in a pressurised oil leak and potential engine fire.

>> Everything you need to know about vehicle recalls

Mazda has also issued a safety notice for the Mazda2; some 8000 cars might be susceptible to mechanical issues, resulting in the handbrake releasing unintentionally. A similar issue faced Mazda last month, with 16,000 Mazda6 being affected by handbrake corrosion.