James Frazier | | Defective Airbags
Volkswagen has issued a recall impacting nearly 115,000 Beetle and Passat models due to potentially hazardous issues in the driver’s side airbag system. This recall is being conducted in collaboration with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), highlighting the safety risk posed by certain airbag inflators that could explode upon deployment, endangering drivers and passengers alike.

Volkswagen Recalls 115,000 Vehicles for Exploding Takata Airbag Risk: Complete Model List & Details

Volkswagen has issued a recall impacting nearly 115,000 Beetle and Passat models due to potentially hazardous issues in the driver’s side airbag system. This recall is being conducted in collaboration with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), highlighting the safety risk posed by certain Takata airbag inflators that could explode upon deployment, endangering drivers and passengers alike.

Overview of the Volkswagen Airbag Recall

Volkswagen has alerted NHTSA that specific Beetle and Passat models are at risk due to Takata airbags, which have been part of a significant, years-long recall involving millions of vehicles. Below are the details on which Volkswagen models are affected and the crucial safety concerns tied to this recall.

Volkswagen Models Affected by the Recall

The recall affects select models from both the Beetle and Passat lines. Volkswagen drivers should verify if their vehicle falls under this recall. The following models are included:

  • 2017-2019 Volkswagen Beetle
  • 2017-2019 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible
  • 2006-2007 Volkswagen Passat Sedan
  • 2012-2014 Volkswagen Passat
  • 2017 Volkswagen Passat Wagon

Understanding the Airbag Issue: Driver’s Side Inflator Risks

According to the recall notice from the NHTSA, 114,478 Volkswagen vehicles are equipped with driver’s side airbag inflators that contain a propellant prone to degradation over time. Prolonged exposure to conditions like high temperatures, humidity, and temperature cycling increases the likelihood of inflator malfunction. If affected, the inflator could explode during airbag deployment, releasing sharp metal fragments capable of injuring or even killing drivers and passengers.

Volkswagen and the NHTSA emphasize that while no related injuries have been reported, the recall is being carried out as a preventive measure to avoid potential harm.

Background on Takata Airbag Recalls

Takata airbags have been central to one of the most extensive automotive recalls in history. For over a decade, faulty airbag inflators manufactured by Takata have plagued multiple automakers worldwide, resulting in millions of recalls and at least 28 documented fatalities from exploding airbag inflators. The affected Volkswagen models are equipped with Takata’s SDI-D driver frontal airbag inflators, which have shown vulnerability under certain environmental conditions.

Volkswagen is providing free replacement of the affected driver’s side airbag module to all impacted vehicle owners. Here’s what owners of recalled vehicles need to know:

Steps for Volkswagen Owners: How to Address the Recall

Volkswagen is providing free replacement of the affected driver’s side airbag module to all impacted vehicle owners. Here’s what owners of recalled vehicles need to know:

  • Notification: Volkswagen will send notification letters to owners of affected vehicles. This letter will outline details on how to get the airbag module replaced.
  • Dealer Replacement: Owners can visit any authorized Volkswagen dealership to have the driver’s side front airbag module replaced, free of charge.
  • Customer Support Contact: For additional information, Volkswagen owners can contact Volkswagen’s customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Reference recall numbers 69EG and 69GQ when calling for assistance.

How to Check If Your Volkswagen Is Under Recall

Volkswagen drivers unsure about their recall status can easily verify by using the NHTSA’s online recall check tool. By entering the vehicle’s VIN, drivers can confirm if their car is affected by this or any other recall. Additionally, USA TODAY’s recall database offers a resource for tracking the latest automotive and vehicle recalls for various makes and models.

Why This Recall Matters for Volkswagen Drivers

Volkswagen’s proactive approach in recalling these vehicles underscores the automaker’s commitment to driver and passenger safety. Though no incidents have been reported, addressing the Takata airbag inflator issue is essential to prevent potential accidents.

David Paul | Andrew Knopf | Brent Bigger of Paul | Knopf | Bigger - Offices in Orlando and Tampa, Florida

Finding the Right Takata Lawyer at Paul | Knopf | Bigger

The Takata airbag recall represents one of automotive history’s most significant and complex safety issues. If you or a loved one has been affected by this defect, taking swift and informed action is crucial. From checking the recall status of your vehicle to consulting with an attorney, each step is vital to ensure your safety and secure the compensation you deserve.

Negligent corporations must be held accountable for their actions, and pursuing legal action not only helps you recover damages and contributes to greater public safety by highlighting and addressing such serious defects.

For personalized advice and representation, contact Paul | Knopf | Bigger, a trusted law firm with experience in handling defective airbag cases. We can provide the guidance and support needed to navigate this challenging situation and work towards a just resolution for you and your family. Call us now at (800) 434-4327.

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