Volkswagen Tiguan Recall Due to Risk of Fire from Sunroof Lightbar

More than 45,000 Volkswagen SUV’s have been recalled due to a risk that an ambient light bar in the the sunroof may short circuit and overheat, posing a risk of vehicle fires. 

A Volkswagen Tiguan recall was announced by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on August 7, following at least two consumer reports that suggest the LED module on the sunroof ambient light bar short circuited, causing smoke and a burning smell to fill the vehicles.

The recall involves certain Tiguan vehicles that are equipped with panoramic sunroofs with ambient light bars that have the potential to short circuit when exposed to high humidity. To date, no injuries or fires have been reported in relation to the recall.

An estimated 45,457 Volkswagen Tiguan SUVs from the 2018 model year have been recalled, which were manufactured from December 2016 through July 2018 and distributed throughout the United States to licensed dealers.

The NHTSA is advising consumers to stop using the sunroof features and if the smell of burning or smoke is noticed inside the cab, consumers should stop using the vehicles and contact their local dealer immediately.

Volkswagen stated the recall is expected to begin on September 11, and will be sending written notice to all customers with instruction on how to schedule a free inspection at their local dealer.

Dealers will be instructed to disconnect the LED light module from its power supply and apply aluminum tape. The LED lights will no longer be functional after this repair, and a subsequent service campaign will be launched by Volkswagen when a safe resolution and parts are available.

Customers with additional questions or concerns regarding the recall may contact Volkswagen customers service at 1-800-893-5298 and reference the recall campaign number 60D1.