- Recall Overview
- Affected Models
- Cause of the Issue
- Warnings and Remedies
- Recall Population Determination and Updates
- Read More
Recall Overview
Volkswagen is recalling 271,330 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport crossover SUVs because the front passenger airbag may not deploy in a crash.
Affected Models
Recall encompasses the 2021-2024 Atlas three-row crossover SUV
It also includes the 2020-2024 Atlas Cross Sport five-seat crossover SUV
In the affected vehicles, the occupant detection system for the front passenger seat may not function properly, rendering the airbag inoperable. This system is a common safety feature in new vehicles that activates the passenger airbag only when someone is actually sitting in the seat.
Cause of the Issue
The root of the issue lies in the integration of the occupant detection system with the seat heating controls, which is connected to a control unit under the front passenger seat via a wire. According to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall report, this wire may experience a contact fault, which would register as a malfunction to the occupant detection system, potentially deactivating the airbag even when the seat is occupied.
Warnings and Remedies
If this fault occurs, drivers will see an airbag warning light on the instrument cluster and hear a warning chime. The passenger airbag off indicator light will also illuminate. Dealers will replace the occupant detection system sensor mat and wiring harness at no charge. In the meantime, the NHTSA advises owners of recalled vehicles to avoid using the front passenger seat.
Recall Population Determination and Updates
The recall population was determined by production records. Vehicles included in the recall have a specific seat design related to the occupant-detection wiring fault, while other Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport models have a different seat design. Just 3% of the recalled vehicles are thought to have the defect.
The three-row Atlas midsize crossover was introduced for the 2018 model year, and the Atlas Cross Sport, a two-row version, followed as a 2020 model. Both received a significant update for 2024, including revised styling and powertrains.
Owners will be notified by mail as early as August 16 to bring their cars into a VW service center. For more info, contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or visit VW's recall site.
Read More
Previously, RAM initiated a major recall in the U.S. involving 317,630 trucks due to a possible malfunction in the hydraulic braking system, which could lead to brake failure.
Details can be found by clicking:
Saudi Arabia's Honda Commercial Division also previously recalled 17,592 vehicles, including various Honda models manufactured between 2017 and 2020.The recall is due to a defective fuel pump that could cause the engine to shut off unexpectedly while driving, increasing the risk of an accident.
Details can be found here:
