Volkswagen Group Recalls Nearly 60,500 Vehicles Over Gear Display Malfunction

Volkswagen Group of America has initiated a recall affecting approximately 60,500 Audi and Volkswagen vehicles manufactured between 2021 and 2023. The recall addresses a potentially hazardous issue involving the failure of the instrument panel to accurately display the selected gear position. This malfunction could lead to the vehicle unexpectedly rolling away if the parking brake is not engaged, posing a significant safety risk to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a statement detailing the recall, specifying that vehicles from seven distinct makes, models, and years are impacted. The core problem lies within the instrument panel, where the "N" (Neutral) gear indicator might not illuminate or display correctly when the vehicle is in neutral. This can mislead drivers into believing the vehicle is securely in "Park" when it is not.

The root cause of the recall stems from a flaw in the vehicle’s software that controls the instrument panel display. This software error can cause the display to inaccurately represent the actual gear the vehicle is in, increasing the risk of unintended vehicle movement. Due to this inaccurate display, these vehicles do not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 102, Transmission Shift Lever Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect. This standard outlines the requirements for ensuring drivers have a clear and unambiguous understanding of the vehicle’s transmission status, including the gear selection.

To mitigate the risk of a rollaway incident, Volkswagen Group of America is urging owners of affected vehicles to exercise extra caution before exiting their cars. Drivers should always engage the parking brake and double-check that the red indicator light associated with the parking brake is illuminated on the instrument cluster. This visual confirmation will help ensure that the parking brake is properly engaged and the vehicle is securely immobilized.

The recall specifically targets vehicles where the instrument panel may not properly display the transmission gear lever indicator. The models and years affected are currently not listed in the press release. However, it is essential for owners of 2021-2023 Audi and Volkswagen vehicles to stay informed about the recall and check if their vehicle identification number (VIN) is included in the list of affected vehicles. This information will be made available through the NHTSA and Volkswagen Group of America.

To resolve the issue, owners of the recalled vehicles will be able to bring their cars to authorized dealerships. The dealerships will update the brake control software free of charge. This software update is designed to correct the malfunction in the instrument panel display and ensure that the gear indicator accurately reflects the vehicle’s transmission status. This process should be relatively quick and straightforward for qualified technicians.

Volkswagen Group of America plans to notify owners of the recalled vehicles by mail. Notification letters are expected to be sent out on April 25, 2025. This letter will contain instructions on how to schedule an appointment with a dealership for the software update. However, vehicle owners do not have to wait for the letter to arrive. You can contact the dealership immediately to verify if your vehicle is under recall.

In addition to waiting for the official notification, owners can proactively contact Volkswagen Group of America directly using the phone numbers provided in the recall notice. This will allow them to inquire about the recall status of their vehicle and schedule an appointment for the software update at their convenience. The official phone numbers for the recall are included in the original press release, though they were not copied here. These phone numbers are dedicated to handling recall-related inquiries and providing assistance to vehicle owners.

This recall highlights the importance of adhering to safety standards and the potential consequences of even seemingly minor software glitches. A failure in a seemingly non-critical system like the instrument panel display can have serious safety implications, as demonstrated by the risk of vehicle rollaway. This situation emphasizes the critical role of regular software updates and rigorous testing in ensuring vehicle safety and preventing potential hazards.

The recall of nearly 60,500 Audi and Volkswagen vehicles underscores the commitment of Volkswagen Group of America to addressing safety concerns and protecting its customers. By proactively identifying and rectifying the gear display malfunction, the company is taking steps to minimize the risk of accidents and ensure the safe operation of its vehicles. Owners of affected vehicles are encouraged to take advantage of the free software update to resolve the issue and prevent any potential safety risks.

The incident also serves as a reminder to all drivers to prioritize safety by always engaging the parking brake before exiting their vehicles. Even with modern safety features and advanced technology, the parking brake remains a crucial component for preventing unintended vehicle movement. By consistently using the parking brake and visually confirming its engagement, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of a rollaway incident and protect themselves and others from potential harm.

The contact information provided in the press release for Julia, the USA TODAY reporter, allows interested parties to reach out to her for more information or follow her reporting on this and other related topics. This direct line of communication can be valuable for media outlets, industry professionals, and consumers seeking to stay informed about automotive safety and recall-related news. The importance of clear and accurate reporting on these issues cannot be overstated, as it plays a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting responsible driving habits.

This recall serves as a vital reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and proactive safety measures in the automotive industry. By addressing potential issues promptly and communicating effectively with vehicle owners, manufacturers can help minimize the risk of accidents and ensure the safety and well-being of the driving public.