Volkswagen Recalls 168,000 TDI Diesel Equipped Jetta, Golf and Audi A3 Cars

Volkswagen is recalling over 168,000 vehicles for possible fuel leaks. The recall covers 2009 through 2012 Volkswagen Jetta and Jetta Sportwagens that were built between May 2008 and September 2011. 2010 through 2012 Volkswagen Golf vehicles built between May 2009 and September 2011 are also listed in the recall, as well as 2010 through 2012 Audi A3 vehicles.

TDI Diesel Fuel Injection

Each of the cars being recalled feature a 2.0L TDI Common Rail Diesel engine with fuel injection. The problem arises from vibrations. Fuel injection pulses from the diesel engine can apparently match the natural frequency of the number 2 injection line causing undue stress on the fuel line. Under certain conditions this can cause fuel leaks and consequently it could cause a fire in the engine compartment.

Repair Plans

Volkswagen plans to install a stronger fuel line in place of the current number 2 injector line as well as installing vibration dampeners on all of the fuel injector lines. This is expected to prevent further risk within the fuel injector system. Audi dealers will do the same for the Audi A3 affected cars.

Recall Notifications

Both companies will be contacting owners regarding the recall and repairs will start in November 2011. If you own a vehicle that is part of the recall you’ll need to contact your local dealer to schedule an appointment for the fuel line replacements. While all vehicles will be repaired under the guidelines of the recall, it is always best to have your vehicle serviced as quickly as possible for such recalls. Though Volkswagen documents state that there have been no known fires, a car fire can be extremely dangerous and once started it can escalate very quickly.

Recall Benefits

As a veteran of vehicle safety recalls, I have been through the recall process multiple times. While a trip to your local dealer can inconvenience your schedule, it does not have to be an entirely unpleasant experience. On multiple occasions the dealers I have dealt with have sent me on my way in a new model loaner vehicle when their maintenance line has been backed up. One such occasion even convinced me to trade in my recall vehicle for the newer model. Of course the biggest benefit of taking care of the recall is piece of mind.

Temporary Sales Freeze

Volkswagen has issued a mandatory sales stop order to dealerships requiring that they freeze the sale of 8,161 TDI fitted vehicles currently in dealership inventories around the country. The stop will be in effect until a solution can be implemented.

Recall Information

Given the severity of the issue, Volkswagen chose to implement this recall voluntarily rather than waiting for a government mandate. Volkswagen’s recall campaign number is 23J9/V5. Owners of affected cars may call VW at 1-800-822-8987 and reference the campaign number for more information on the recall. Alternatively, owners may also contact the NHTSA’s hotline at 1-888-327-4236 to receive more information.


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