More than 32,000 BYD Shark utes are being recalled in Australia after the carmaker identified a fault with the spare wheel support cable that could cause the wheel to detach while driving. BYD said incorrect installation or positioning of the spare wheel, or insufficient fastening torque, could cause the cable to wear abnormally and eventually fail, creating a hazard for other road users and a risk of serious injury or death. The recall matters because it affects a significant portion of BYD's ute sales in Australia and involves a safety defect that could endanger not just the driver but other motorists.

The recall covers Premium, Performance and Dynamic Cab Chassis models built between 29 August 2024 and 15 June 2026. BYD has pledged to fit an "updated design" spare wheel lifter assembly free of charge, and in the meantime is advising owners to remove their spare wheel, with instructions available on page 259 of the BYD Shark 6 Owner's Handbook. Affected customers can seek further information from their BYD dealer or the BYD Customer Care Centre on weekdays between 9:30am and 5:30pm AEST.