approximately 2,500 model-year 2003 volkswagen passat sedans, jetta sedans and wagons, golf hatchbacks, eurovan camper and eurovan chassis vans
the problem: in the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal airbag, the inflator could explode with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, which could result in serious injury or death.
while the danger is similar, this recall is unrelated to the massive takata airbag recall. the supplier in this case was zf, and a lapse in its quality control allowed propellant for one batch of inflators to be exposed to too much humidity during manufacture. as a result, long-term exposure to temperature cycles could degrade the propellant and cause the inflator to explode.
the fix: dealers will replace the driver's frontal airbag inflator for free.
what owners should do: volkswagen will begin notifying owners aug. 12. owners can call the automaker at 800-893-5298, the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236 or visit its website to check their vehicle identification number and learn more.
need to find a dealer for service? go to service & repair to find your local dealer. to check for other recalls, and to schedule a free recall repair at your local dealership, click here: volkswagen passat; volkswagen jetta; volkswagen golf; volkswagen eurovan
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