- Volkswagen is recalling 8,892 Passat and Beetle models in Canada
- The recalled vehicles are equipped with the Takata SDI-D driver frontal airbag inflator
- The airbag can explode if exposed to long-term high temperatures
Volkswagen is recalling 8,892 now-discontinued vehicles in Canada, and another 114,478 in the U.S., due to an airbag that can explode if exposed to high temperatures long-term. According to documents provided to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the vehicles are equipped with the “Takata SDI-D driver frontal airbag
inflator,” also noting that vehicles not being recalled are not equipped with the same airbag.
In Canada, the affected vehicles include the Volkswagen Passat from model years 2006, 2007, 2012, 2013, and 2014 — NHTSA also notes the 2017 VW Passat Wagon is covered in the U.S. — as well as the 2017, 2018, and 2019 VW Beetle. Back in 2022, the company issued a similar recall for 4,400 Beetles in Canada, from model years 2015 and 2016.
The recalled Takata airbag inflator on the driver’s side is a concern due to the fact it can explode. The chemical inside the airbag should produce a small explosion inflating the airbag in the event of a crash. However, due to deterioration of the chemicals from prolonged heat exposure, the inflators themselves can explode, causing fragments to fly into the cabin, potentially harming those in the vehicle.
Transport Canada notes: “The Canadian climate results in the propellant degrading slowly.” In other words, the heat we experience north of the border isn’t necessarily enough to cause deterioration, but the recall is more of a “precaution to address future risk.” Owners will be notified by mail and advised to take their vehicle to a dealership to have the driver-front airbag replaced, free of charge.
You can also check online at Transport Canada, using your VIN. Transport Canada’s number for VW’s recall is 2024-649, while the manufacturer’s recall number is 69GQ/69EG.
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