Volkswagen and Audi are recalling over 208,000 SUVs in the U.S. due to corroding steering bolts that could cause driver control failure.
Volkswagen recalls over 208,000 SUVs over corroding bolts that cause sudden steering loss
WASHINGTON — Volkswagen Group of America is recalling more than 208,000 SUVs in the United States after federal safety regulators warned that a critical mounting bolt in the steering assembly can corrode and snap, potentially leading to a total loss of steering control while driving.
The recall—filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)—affects 208,724 vehicles across the Volkswagen and Audi brands.
According to safety documents, a right-side steering rack mounting bolt installed on affected vehicles is vulnerable to road salt and environmental moisture, which can cause significant corrosion over time.
Affected vehicle models
The safety recall covers several popular crossover and SUV models from recent model years equipped with a specific steering rack configuration:
- 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan
- 2018–2019 Volkswagen Atlas
- 2019–2021 Audi Q3
NHTSA warned that if the mounting bolt corrodes and breaks, the excessive mechanical stress can cause the steering rack housing to fracture. A fractured housing can instantly disengage driver control over the front wheels, dramatically increasing the risk of a crash.
Free dealer repairs and notification timeline
Volkswagen confirmed that authorized dealers will inspect the steering assembly and replace the vulnerable mounting bolt with an upgraded, corrosion-resistant bolt free of charge to vehicle owners.
Neither Volkswagen nor Audi has received reports of accidents, injuries, or fatalities related to the defect prior to the recall filing.
Official owner notification letters detailing scheduling instructions are expected to be mailed starting November 10, 2026. Drivers who suspect their vehicle may be affected can check their 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the official NHTSA website or contact Volkswagen and Audi customer service lines under recall codes 48LG and 48VT.
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