Volkswagen will recall approximately 900,000 (90万) units of its Golf, Tiguan, and other major models in Germany.
The reason is that bolts fastening the steering system are corroding, which in severe cases could render steering completely inoperable.
Germany's Federal Motor Transport Authority classifies this recall as a safety-related measure.
Three-line summary
1. Volkswagen is initiating a recall due to corrosion of steering system bolts
2. Approximately 90万 in Germany alone; 216万 vehicles globally
3. Vehicle owners must verify whether their vehicle is affected using the vehicle identification number
What Is the Problem?
The problematic component is the bolt that fastens the steering system to the vehicle chassis. When moisture, such as rainwater, seeps in, the bolt gradually corrodes, and over time the bolt head can break. When this occurs, the steering system becomes connected to the front axle frame at only one point, and when subjected to strong forces, the steering system housing can be damaged. In the worst case, the vehicle could become unable to steer. German media outlet Spiegel reported that this issue may be particularly pronounced when parking or making sharp turns at low speeds.
Volkswagen has stated that no accidents or injuries related to this issue have been confirmed so far, and it believes that vehicles with actual defects will represent only a portion of the total affected vehicles. Nevertheless, Germany's Federal Motor Transport Authority classifies this matter as a safety-related recall.
Which Vehicles Are Affected?
The recall covers Golf, Golf Variant, Tiguan, Touran, and Caddy models produced between September 24, 2013 and July 1, 2024. According to the Federal Motor Transport Authority's tally, approximately 2,160,000 (216万) vehicles worldwide are potentially affected, with approximately 895,832 (89万 5,832) vehicles registered in Germany.
The same issue has been found in the affiliated Audi Q3. Vehicles produced between October 31, 2017 and May 23, 2024 are affected, with approximately 700,000 (70万) units worldwide and approximately 58,555 (5万 8,555) units in Germany. When both brands are combined, approximately 950,000 (95万) vehicles in Germany alone are subject to recall.
Verification Method and Repair
Vehicle owners can verify whether their vehicle is affected using the vehicle identification number. Volkswagen's recall code is 48VS with Federal Motor Transport Authority reference number 17016R, while Audi's codes are 48LG and 17014R respectively. Inquiries can be directed to the Volkswagen customer service center (0800-865-5792436) or Audi customer service center (0800-2834-7378423).
Repairs are performed at no cost, with corrosion-resistant bolts used as replacements. Affected vehicle owners are receiving or have already received notification letters by mail.
References
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