Volkswagen Airbag Recall Update: Is Your Atlas Affected?

Volkswagen has announced a recall of 271,330 Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport crossover SUVs due to potential issues with the deployment of front passenger airbags during crashes.

The issue involves a potential malfunction in the occupant detection system, resulting in incorrect passenger detection and unintended deactivation of the airbag. This defect poses an increased risk of injury to the front seat passenger, as the airbag may not deploy correctly in a crash.

As a precautionary measure, Volkswagen has previously advised owners of recalled models not to allow anyone to occupy the front passenger seat until the issue is resolved.

Volkswagen Airbag Recall 2024

The 2024 Volkswagen Airbag Recall affects specific Atlas three-row crossovers from model years 2021 to 2024 and Cross Sport vehicles from model years 2020 to 2024.

Since the wiring for the seat heater is connected, there is a concern related to a potential contact fault that could deactivate the front passenger sensor, referred to by Volkswagen as the passenger occupant detection system (PODS), according to documentation provided by the NHTSA.

To address this issue, Volkswagen will replace the PODS with an updated version of the part at no cost through its dealerships. For further assistance, owners can reach Volkswagen directly at 800-893-5298. This recall is identified by the NHTSA campaign number 24V464 and Volkswagen’s internal recall number 69PZ.

Following a 2023 recall affecting earlier versions of these vehicles, this latest recall addresses a malfunctioning occupant sensor. Drivers may observe a warning light, an error message on the instrument panel located behind the steering wheel and hear a warning sound.

VW Airbag Recall Overview

Owners are alerted if the front passenger airbag has switched off through an error message and an audible warning from the vehicle’s instrument panel light. Drivers may also experience a Volkswagen airbag light. As a precautionary measure, NHTSA is advising owners to avoid having front-seat passengers until the issue is resolved and the necessary repairs are completed.

It is worth noting that approximately one year ago, Volkswagen issued a recall for over 246,000 SUVs in the United States and Canada due to faulty wiring problems.

These wiring issues caused the vehicles to unexpectedly brake, including instances of sudden braking while in traffic. The severity of the problem was underscored by nearly 50 complaints filed by concerned individuals with safety regulators, including NHSTA. Some drivers reported near collisions, as other vehicles were caught off guard by the abrupt braking.

According to a NHTSA recall report from 2023, the root cause of the Volkswagen Atlas airbag error lies within the vehicle’s passenger occupant detection system, known as Body Sense.

This system is connected to the seat’s heating system via a wire located underneath the front passenger seat. Specifically, the detection sensor, which is situated within the bottom cushion of the passenger seat, is linked to the heated-seat system through this wire.

When a person occupies the seat, Body Sense is designed to activate a sensor that readies the airbag for deployment in the event of a crash. If the sensor is not properly connected, however, the driver will notice an airbag warning light illuminated on the dashboard, accompanied by an error message displaying “Passenger Airbag OFF.” Volkswagen has attempted to repair the airbag problem in newer vehicles by implementing a new shielded cable.

Which years are included in the Volkswagen Atlas recall?

The 2024 VK Airbag recall includes 2021 through 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SUVs and 2020 through 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SUVs.

The previous 2023 Volkswagen airbag recall includes 2018-2021 Volkswagen Atlas and 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport vehicle models.

What should I do if my VW experiences airbag issues?

If you are experiencing airbag issues with your VW vehicle and you have presented it to an authorized Volkswagen dealership for repairs, you may be eligible for remedies under the California Lemon Law.

If your case qualifies, pursuing an individual lemon law claim can prove to be a beneficial option. Through an individual lemon law claim, you can seek legal recourse and potentially obtain compensation for having a vehicle with a faulty airbag system.

The California Lemon Law is specifically designed to protect consumers who have purchased or leased vehicles with persistent defects, ensuring that they are not left with unsafe or unreliable vehicles. The Lemon Law establishes a legal framework that empowers you to seek resolution and hold the auto manufacturer accountable for producing vehicles that do not meet safety and quality standards.

There are a few remedies available with a successful California Lemon Law claim. The potential remedies include having the manufacturer repurchase or replace the defective.

A lemon law repurchase is where the manufacturer reimburses the consumer all monies spent towards the ‘lemon’ vehicle including the down payment, monthly payments (minus a usage fee), reimbursement of all incidental expenses related to the lemon such as tow or rental car expenses and pays off any remaining loan balance or lease payments.

A lemon law replacement is where the manufacturer replaces the lemon vehicle for one that is substantially similar to the lemon.  With this option, the consumer may be responsible for any difference in price and any applicable usage fee.  By pursuing a lemon law claim, one can alleviate the financial burden and inconvenience of owning a defective vehicle, and get into a safer and more reliable new car.

To properly pursue a lemon law claim, we recommend seeking the assistance of an attorney who specializes in lemon law cases. They will guide you throughout the process, evaluate the viability of your claim, and offer personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. With their expertise, you can navigate the legal complexities and increase your chances of obtaining a favorable resolution to the airbag issues.

Be sure to gather and document all relevant evidence, such as repair records, communication with the manufacturer, and expert evaluations, if you are interested in pursuing an individual case. This documentation will strengthen your case and support your claim for compensation.

Contact the Volkswagen Lemon Law Experts

If you are experiencing airbag problems with your VW vehicle in California, it is crucial to seek professional assistance to navigate the complexities of the lemon law. In such circumstances a top lemon law firm like the Lemon Law Experts can help you.

With our expertise and extensive experience in handling lemon law cases, we have proudly assisted thousands of California consumers since 2009. Our team offers a deep understanding of the intricacies of the law and how it applies to VW airbag issues, ensuring that your case is handled with utmost proficiency and accuracy.

Our team of skilled lemon law attorneys has a wealth of experience in dealing with VW and other automakers. Our team understands the common tactics employed by big auto manufacturers and can effectively counter their strategies to protect your rights as a consumer.

With meticulous attention to detail, we will diligently evaluate your case, gather relevant evidence, and construct a compelling legal argument to support your claim.

Do not hesitate to reach out to the Lemon Law Experts for a free, no-obligation consultation if you have any questions about your situation. Our dedicated team is here to provide guidance and support to help you pursue the justice you deserve and to get you back on the road as quickly and as safely as possible. Contact the Lemon Law Experts to learn more.