Volkswagen is currently in the process of recalling over 33,000 vehicles due to a rollaway risk. Vehicles that are affected by this recall include versions of the 2015-2018 Volkswagen Golf and Volkswagen Golf SportWagen that have automatic transmissions.
Essentially, drivers could potentially remove their car key when it is not in “Park”, violating the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards rule 104. This is because there is a defect in some microswitches that are meant to prevent any key from being removed if the transmission is not in park. The microswitch is able to detect when a car is in park or not, and if it is not in park, drivers are not supposed to be able to turn the key. Because of this, rollaway risk is rather high.
Rollaway accidents are extremely dangerous and have been the subject of many recalls as of late. Whether the recall is due to manufacturing problems, new confusing shifter designs, or something else, it is important to take care of the issue if your vehicle is affected.
Fortunately, there is a remedy at Volkswagen dealerships. They will be able to install an additional switch and a new circuit board, free of charge. If you think you may be affected, enter your vehicle identification number with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to see any outstanding recalls associated with your car.
Please contact Krohn & Moss, Ltd. Consumer Law Center® if you have questions regarding your vehicle if you believe it may be a lemon. Our experienced attorneys will be able to assist you in your lemon law case.