Volkswagen Jetta, Beetle, Passat Recall Issued Due to Oil Leak, Fire Risk

Roughly 26,452 Volkswagen vehicles from the 2014 model year are being recalled due to a risk of transmission fluid leaks, which may pose a potential fire hazard if the fluid comes into contact with a hot surface.  

The Volkswagen recall (PDF) was announced by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on April 16, after a transmission fluid leak was observed during routine testing at a Port facility.

The problems appear to be related to a faulty O-ring seal between the cooler and transmission, which may allow fluid to come in contact with a hot surface. This could result in an auto fire and occupant injury, as well as property damage.

Volkswagen announced they have not received any reports of fires or injuries but out of precaution initiated a stop-sale of the potentially affected vehicles on April 8, pending the investigation.

The Volkswagen recall includes 2014 Beetle, Beetle convertible, Jetta, and Passat vehicles equipped with the 1.8T engine and torque converter automatic transmission. The affected vehicles have the following range of manufacturing dates; Jetta: February 3, 2014 through April 8, 2014, Beetle: February 3, 2014 through April 8, 2014, Beetle Convertible: February 4, 2014 through April 8, 2014, and Passat: February 3, 2014 through April 8, 2014.

The recall comes just days after the NHTSA ordered the company to stop sales on the vehicles due to the fire risk. It also comes following a March 17 recall of model year 2012 and 2013 Passat vehicles which may have defective headlights.

Volkswagen planned to contact owners and dealers with warnings and instructions on how to obtain a free replacement and repair of the faulty O-rings. Owners should contact their dealer or Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987 for more information about the recall by referencing the recall number 38B9/9V.

Photo Courtesy of RoadOver / C.C. by 2.0