Volkswagen and Audi are recalling millions of cars worldwide because a single screw in the steering system can break due to corrosion, potentially causing dangerous steering problems. No accidents linked to the defect have been reported so far.
The recall affects Volkswagen models Tiguan, Touran, Golf Variant and Caddy built between 2013 and 2024. For Audi, the Q3 is affected, with all cars from model years 2017 through 2024 requiring attention. Owners will receive a new, corrosion-resistant screw in the steering system.
Nearly 1 million of the recalled vehicles are in Germany. Dutch importer Pon has confirmed that cars in the Netherlands are also part of the action. «Exact numbers we cannot yet provide. Affected owners will receive a letter as soon as possible to have the car repaired free of charge,» Pon said.
The scale of the recall underscores the challenges facing Volkswagen Group as it manages complex global supply chains and vehicle safety. A single component failure can trigger a worldwide campaign involving millions of vehicles, requiring coordination with dealers, importers and regulators across multiple markets.
For owners, the immediate concern is whether their vehicle is affected. The repair itself is straightforward: replacing the screw with a corrosion-resistant version. The work will be carried out at no cost to owners, and the company says it will contact them directly.
The recall covers a wide range of production years, reflecting the long lifecycle of the affected models. The Tiguan, Touran, Golf Variant and Caddy are among Volkswagen's most popular vehicles in Europe, while the Audi Q3 is a key model in the premium compact SUV segment.
Volkswagen Group has not disclosed the full global cost of the recall, but such campaigns typically involve significant logistical and financial resources. The company is working to ensure that replacement parts are available and that the repair process is as efficient as possible.
This is not the first time the automotive industry has faced large-scale recalls due to component defects. Modern vehicles contain thousands of parts from numerous suppliers, and even a small flaw can have widespread consequences. Manufacturers are required to act quickly when safety risks are identified.
For Volkswagen, the recall comes at a time when the company is investing heavily in electric vehicles and new technologies. Managing a major safety campaign alongside these efforts adds pressure to its engineering and customer service teams.
Owners in the Netherlands and elsewhere should wait for official communication from the importer or dealer. The letter will contain instructions on how to schedule the free repair. In the meantime, drivers who notice unusual steering behaviour should contact their dealer immediately.
The recall is expected to take several months to complete, depending on parts availability and the number of vehicles involved. Volkswagen and Audi have pledged to keep customers informed throughout the process.