Volkswagen is recalling more than 208,000 vehicles in the United States because a steering component could corrode and break, potentially causing drivers to lose steering control.
The recall covers 208,724 vehicles, including certain 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan, 2018–2019 Volkswagen Atlas, and 2019–2021 Audi Q3 models, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The problem involves the right-side steering rack mounting bolt, which may corrode and eventually break. If the bolt fails, a driver could lose steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Volkswagen dealers will replace the affected steering rack mounting bolt free of charge. Because recalls can apply only to specific vehicles within the listed model years, owners should check their vehicle identification number through NHTSA’s recall database to determine whether their vehicle is included.
The recall spans four model years and includes vehicles carrying both the Volkswagen and Audi brands. Owners of potentially affected vehicles should check their recall status and arrange for the repair if their vehicle is included.
The Readovia Lens
A recall involving steering deserves particular attention because the defect can affect one of a driver’s most basic means of controlling a vehicle. With more than 208,000 vehicles involved, owners of the affected Tiguan, Atlas and Audi Q3 model years should check their VIN rather than assume their vehicle is—or is not—included.
