Volkswagen Recalls Jetta for Ignition Problems
The federal government has ordered Volkswagen to recall approximately 47,000 Jetta sedans in the United States. The affected vehicles are all from the 2019 and 2020 model years and have an issue with the old-school ignition switch.
Unlike the infamous ignition switch problem at General Motors several years ago, this issue seems to be exacerbated by temperature rather than external factors like key rings. According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), certain Jetta sedans from this time frame equipped with an old-school key ignition switch have a part called a ‘polyfuse’ that can fail, particularly in high-temperature environments. If this failure occurs while driving, it could cause the engine to stall and disrupt the electrical system, increasing the risk of a crash.
A polyfuse is a type of fuse made from polymer material. These fuses are designed to pop at high temperatures, such as in an overcurrent situation. This aligns with the conditions in which the VW ignition switch fault occurs, as described by the NHTSA. High ambient temperatures exacerbate the issue. However, unlike regular fuses, polyfuses do not need to be replaced. Once conditions return to normal operating levels, the polyfuse should resume functioning normally.
Affected Jetta owners may also notice warning messages appearing in their instrument cluster if their vehicle is affected. These warnings are preferably displayed at idle rather than highway speeds. The first warning reads “Ignition switch off, safely stop the vehicle,” while the second states “Starter system faulty, please service vehicle.” The affected model years are 2019 and 2020, with production dates ranging from September 2018 to December of the following year.
Dealers were notified of the recall on the first of this month, and owners should receive official communication regarding the matter in late October. Volkswagen plans to resolve the issue by replacing the entire ignition switch.
It is crucial for Jetta owners to take this recall seriously and follow the instructions provided by Volkswagen. Ignition system failures can lead to dangerous situations on the road, and it is essential to address the issue promptly to ensure the safety of both the driver and other road users.
If you own a 2019 or 2020 Jetta and have not received any communication from Volkswagen, it is advisable to contact your local dealership or Volkswagen customer service for further guidance. They will be able to provide you with specific instructions on how to proceed and schedule an appointment for the necessary repairs.
In the meantime, it is important to remain vigilant while driving your Jetta. If you experience any unusual symptoms such as engine stalling or warning messages related to the ignition system, it is crucial to pull over safely and contact roadside assistance or a Volkswagen dealership for assistance.
Recalls are an essential part of ensuring vehicle safety. Manufacturers take responsibility for addressing any potential issues that may arise after a vehicle has been sold. By promptly addressing recalls and having the necessary repairs performed, owners can help maintain the safety and reliability of their vehicles.
In conclusion, Volkswagen is recalling approximately 47,000 Jetta sedans from the 2019 and 2020 model years due to an issue with the ignition switch. The faulty part, known as a polyfuse, can fail in high-temperature environments, potentially causing the engine to stall and increasing the risk of a crash. Owners should follow Volkswagen’s instructions and contact their local dealership for further guidance. Promptly addressing recalls is crucial for maintaining vehicle safety.
