Recall 08V577000: Steering Gear Replacement

VEHICLE MAKE/MODEL: MODEL YEAR(S):

Volkswagen/Passat 2009

Volkswagen/Passat CC 2009

Volkswagen/Passat Wagon 2009

MANUFACTURER: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

MFR'S REPORT DATE: October 31, 2008

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 08V577000

NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: N/A

COMPONENT: Steering: Gear Box (other than rack and pinion)

POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 130

SUMMARY:
VW is recalling 130 M/Y 2009 Passat, Passat Wagon, and Passat CC vehicles. Some vehicles may have an electromechanical steering gear control unit that can malfunction due to a damaged capacitor. If this malfunction occurs, the driver's steering input is not properly processed by the system and the vehicle may not respond as the driver intends. This defect can only occur immediately after vehicle start-up when the steering wheel is moved for the first time and at speeds less than 5 MPH.

CONSEQUENCE:
Driver attempts to overcome the system during malfunction will cause (1) Vibrations in the steering wheel; (2) The steering system motor to turn off; (3) The red steering system malfunction indicator light to illuminate; and (4) Audible warnings to chime. A malfunctioning steering system could lead to a crash without warning.

REMEDY:
Dealers will replace the steering gear in the affected vehicles. The recall is expected to begin on or about December 5, 2008. Owners may contact VW AT 1-800-4822-8987.

NOTES:
VW recall No. 48J1/P3. Customers may contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.