Vehicle Data Hub

Recall 08V-577

VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC recalled the 2009 Volkswagen Passat: Steering (gear box (other than rack and pinion)).

At a glance

Campaign number
08V-577
Reported
November 3, 2008
Vehicles affected
130 estimated by the manufacturer

Source: NHTSA recall records

What is wrong

VW is recalling 130 my 2009 passat, passat wagon, and passat cc vehicles. Some vehicles may have an electromechanical steering gear control unit that can malfunction due to a damaged capacitor. If this malfunction occurs, the driver's steering input is not properly processed by the system and the vehicle may not respond as the driver intends. This defect can only occur immediately after vehicle start-up when the steering wheel is moved for the first time and at speeds less than 5 MPH.

The risk

Driver attempts to overcome the system during malfunction will cause (1) vibrations in the steering wheel; (2) the steering system motor to turn off; (3) the red steering system malfunction indicator light to illuminate; and (4) audible warnings to chime. A malfunctioning steering system could lead to a crash without warning.

The fix

Dealers will replace the steering gear in the affected vehicles. The recall began on december 5, 2008. Owners may contact VW at 1-[removed].

Notes from the manufacturer

VW recall no. 48j1/p3.customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-[removed] (tty: 1-[removed]); or go to [link removed]

Affected vehicles