Volkswagen Recalls 271,330 Atlas SUVs in the US Due to Airbag Issue
Recently, Volkswagen announced a recall of 271,330 Atlas SUVs in the United States following the discovery of a fault with the passenger airbag wiring system. This recall affects owners of 2020-21 Atlas and 2020-24 Atlas Cross Sport models, who are advised not to use the passenger seat whenever possible.
Replacement of Passenger Occupant Detection System Sensor Mat and Harness
Volkswagen has taken the necessary steps to rectify the issue by replacing the passenger occupant detection system sensor mat and harness. This recall has drawn parallels to the Greek myth of Atlas, who was condemned to hold up the sky for eternity, as owners may feel like they are waiting forever for the repairs to be completed.
Delay in Notification and Impact on Airbag Deployment
Although the chances of an actual crash are slim, Volkswagen is cautioning owners not to use the passenger seat until the airbag issue is resolved. The recall notification is set to be sent out on August 16, causing a significant delay for affected owners.
Previous Recall and Fault Description
This recall mirrors a similar issue identified in older models 16 months ago, where a contact fault in the wire connecting the passenger occupant detection system to the seat heating equipment could potentially deactivate the passenger airbag, even if someone is seated with their seatbelt fastened.
Warning Signs and Repair Process
Defective Atlas models will display audio-visual warnings, including chimes, airbag warning lights on the dashboard, and error messages. Owners experiencing these warnings are advised to visit a Volkswagen dealership promptly for repairs. The fix involves replacing the passenger occupant detection system sensor mat and wiring harness with improved components.
Conclusion
This recall serves as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of Atlas SUV owners. Volkswagen’s commitment to addressing these issues promptly highlights their dedication to customer safety and satisfaction.
