Volkswagen and its Audi luxury marque have issued a recall alert for about 74,000 SUVs that could suffer sudden engine failure, and in rare cases, a fire.
Recalled models include:
- 2021-2023 Audi Q5
- 2021-2023 Audi Q5 Sportback
- 2022-2023 Volkswagen Atlas
- 2022-2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
In documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the company explains that connecting rods in the engine may be misshapen, leading to excessive wear. They can shed debris into the engine oil as they turn and rub other parts.
Thankfully, this process makes a lot of noise. Volkswagen says owners should notice “excessive engine noise” and a check engine light if the problem starts to develop.
If the driver keeps going, VW says, “this condition may result in engine failure, potentially causing a loss of motive power while driving, and in rare cases a loss of engine oil which may pose a risk of a vehicle fire.”
Volkswagen is aware of at least two related cases of fire.
It tends to happen early, the company says. An analysis of owner complaints shows that “the vast majority” occurred within the first 1,000 miles of driving.
VW believes that as few as 1% of the recalled vehicles may have the problem. To find them, dealers will inspect running engines, looking for excessive play in the connecting rods.
If they find it, they’ll replace the entire engine. Recall repairs are always free.
Manufacturers attempt to contact every owner, but they don’t always reach them all with the news. Find out if your car has any outstanding repair orders at our recall center.
