Volkswagen Group recalls over 3 million vehicles over steeri

What is the issue?

The issue concerns a bolt securing the steering rack to the subframe. Volkswagen says corrosion can develop under certain environmental conditions, particularly after prolonged road-salt exposure, potentially weakening the mounting and causing the bolt to fracture.

Transport Canada describes the risk similarly, saying a corroded steering-rack mounting bolt could break, potentially causing the steering-rack housing to fail and resulting in loss of steering control.

Which models are affected?

According to the KBA and dpa (German Press Agency), affected Volkswagen models include the Tiguan, Touran, Golf Variant, Golf Sportsvan and Caddy, produced between September 24, 2013 and July 1, 2024.

Around 700,000 Audi Q3s, produced between October 2017 and May 2024, are also affected. At least 950,000 vehicles in Germany are included.

AFP reports refer more broadly to Tiguan, Touran, Golf and Caddy models built between 2013 and 2024, while the dpa report provides the more specific Golf variants and production dates.

Seat and Skoda

Seat has confirmed the Ateca and Tarraco, with around 224,000 vehicles worldwide affected.

There is a discrepancy in the production dates. Gulf News/AFP reports 2016–2026, while Daily Finland/dpa states April 2016 to September 2024. Owners are therefore advised to check local recall information for their specific vehicle.

Skoda models were also reported by Handelsblatt as part of the recall, according to AFP, but no confirmed Skoda model list or vehicle total was available in the cited sources.

Market-specific variations

In Canada, authorities have issued a parallel recall covering select Volkswagen Tiguan and Atlas models, alongside certain Audi Q3 vehicles. This variation highlights how recall scopes may differ by region based on regulatory findings and vehicle specifications.

No incidents reported

Volkswagen says the issue was found during internal quality-control checks. No injuries or damage linked to the defect had been reported at the time of the announcements.

The company also said affected vehicles can continue to be driven until a dealer appointment is available, with the repair expected to take around one hour.

Because model lists and production periods vary by market, owners should check their VIN with their local Volkswagen Group dealer or national recall authority.