Auburn Hills, Mich. – Nov. 8, 2017 – The Volkswagen Group of America has recalled more than 31,000 vehicles potentially equipped with defective speaker trim, according to documentation submitted to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. The campaign affects multiple models, including:
- 2017-2018 Audi A4 sedans produced between March 10, 2016 and June 22, 2017.
- 2017-2018 Audi A4 Allroad station wagons produced between June 16, 2016 and June 19, 2017.
- 2017-2018 Audi A5 Sportback sedans produced between Feb. 7, 2017 and Sept. 28, 2017.
Volkswagen estimates 100 percent of the vehicles referenced in the recall contain the defective features.
The Defect
The affected models are likely to come equipped with speaker assemblies featuring loose aluminum trim. As a result, these aesthetic components may give way as a result of ineffective adhesive, exposing sharp edges that could cut or puncture occupants and therefore pose a serious safety risk. However, Volkswagen has yet to receive reports connecting the defect to any accidents.
Timeline of Events
In August 2016, Audi received an injury claim related to loose lower trim door paneling. The automaker immediately launched in investigation into the report. At the same time, the company received a number of similar claims. Audi quality assurance personnel continued the investigation into the fall of 2016, reviewing production records and original vehicle design specifications. These staff members also evaluated the time it might take customers to notice the loose paneling before coming into contact with it and possibly sustaining injuries.
Throughout February and March 2017, Audi continued to monitor the market, while also moving forward with the internal inquiry begun in August 2016. Over this time period, the engineering personnel involved in these programs updated the Audi Product Safety Committee regularly. On Oct. 18, 2017, this groups chose to conduct a voluntary safety recall.
The Solution
Volkswagen intends to direct dealers to replace the defective trim in the recalled vehicles with a newer alternative featuring improved adhesive, according to a recall acknowledgment document from the NHTSA. The automaker plans to inform both dealers and owners of the voluntary safety action sometime this month. Individuals in possession of vehicles referenced in the recall who require more immediate assistance can contact Audi customer service representatives at (800) 253-2834. Callers should use the internal campaign reference code 70G6. Owners can also connect with the NHTSA directly via its toll-free Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.
