Volkswagen recalls over 100,000 vehicles over fire risk: See impacted models
More than 170,000 Volkswagen vehicles were recalled last month over a potential safety concern caused by a loose engine cover.
The German automobile manufacturer issued a Feb. 15 notice, warning consumers "a loose engine cover that contacts hot surfaces in the engine compartment can melt, increasing the risk of a fire."
"If the cover has come loose, customers may notice a burning smell coming from the engine compartment or when opening the hood or may recognize that the engine cover has been moved out of its position," Volkswagen said in a letter. "Customers with vehicle concerns should contact an authorizedVolkswagen dealer."
The potential number of vehicles affected by the recall was 177,493, impacting owners with 2024 or 2025 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport vehicles.
The engine cover re-installed on any of the impacted vehicles after a routine maintenance visit may come loose and come into contact with hot engine surfaces if improperly installed, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,
Here's what to know about the Volkswagen recall and how to remedy the situation.
Volkswagen recall: Affected models, remedy
Volkswagen recall notification letters will be sent to all vehicle owners on or about April 18, instructing them to make an appointment with their respective dealer to remove the engine cover, free of charge.
Affected models include:
- 2024-2025: Atlas
- 2024-2025: Atlas Cross Sport
Vehicle owners may contact Volkswagen customer service by phone at 800-893-5298 or the NHTSA Hotline at (TTY 888-275-9171) or go to nhtsa.gov. Volkswagen's identification for this specific recall is 10X5.