VW Group Expands Recall Over Corroding Steering-Rack Screw
Free replacement screws will be fitted across several VW Group brands, creating a potential multi‑million vehicle campaign that will strain parts supply and dealer capacity.
Overview
- Late September internal checks flagged a steering-rack mounting screw that can corrode when exposed to moisture and road salt, and KBA listings for Volkswagen and Audi were published Sunday with Seat added to the recall on Monday.
- Initial KBA entries show VW models including Golf, Golf Variant, Tiguan, Touran and Caddy and the Audi Q3 in defined production ranges, while Seat has formally listed the Ateca and Tarraco under recall code 48T7.
- Volkswagen has reported about 2.15 million affected vehicles so far and industry estimates say Škoda could add roughly 1.2–1.5 million more, bringing consolidated group totals toward roughly four million cars worldwide.
- Manufacturers and the regulator describe the action as precautionary, say no accidents have been linked to the defect to date, and will notify owners to receive a free one‑hour replacement of the screw with a corrosion‑resistant part.
- The campaign highlights risks of shared MQB components and will hinge on sourcing enough corrosion‑resistant screws and booking workshop slots, which could delay repairs and affect owners who must check VINs to confirm if their car is included.