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Volkswagen Recalls Over 307,000 Atlas and Atlas Cross SUVs Due to Airbag Defect

Volkswagen has issued a recall affecting more than 307,000 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport SUVs in the U.S. and Canada due to a potential airbag defect. The recall targets the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS), which may cause the front passenger airbags to deactivate even when the seat is occupied, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Details of the Volkswagen Atlas Recall

This recall impacts approximately 271,000 Atlas (2021-2024) and Atlas Cross Sport (2020-2024) SUVs in the U.S. Additionally, 36,000 units in Canada are affected. The issue stems from the PODS wiring, which may malfunction and deactivate the front passenger airbag. When this happens, an error message will appear on the instrument panel, and the airbag warning light will display “passenger airbag off.” An audible warning may also sound.

The recall follows a previous action in March 2023, which affected 143,000 Atlas (2018-2021) and Atlas Cross Sport (2020) models. Volkswagen decided to issue this larger recall after receiving 1,730 warranty claims related to the passenger detection system.

What Volkswagen Owners Should Do

Volkswagen will begin notifying owners by August 16, 2024. Owners will be asked to take their vehicles to a dealership, where the occupant detection sensor and seat wiring harness will be replaced at no cost. Until the recall is resolved, Volkswagen advises owners not to allow anyone to ride in the front passenger seat if the PODS error message or airbag warning light is displayed.

Owners with questions can contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298, or reach out to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at 1-888-327-4236. Additionally, owners can check their vehicle identification number (VIN) on the NHTSA website to determine if their vehicle is affected.

Lemon Lawyers LA: Your Rights Under California Lemon Law

If you are experiencing ongoing issues with your Volkswagen Atlas or Atlas Cross, you may have legal options under California Lemon Law. At Lemon Lawyers LA, we specialize in helping clients receive compensation for defective vehicles. You could be eligible for a refund, vehicle replacement, or legal fee reimbursement.

For a free consultation, call us at (866) 486-9227 or fill out our online form to see how we can assist you with your California Lemon Law claim.

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