Volkswagen Recall 2019: More Than 670,000 Vehicles Recalled For A Rollaway Risk

Following the July recall for its Atlas SUVs and Passat sedans for a possible headlight misalignment issue, Volkswagen (VOW3.DE) has issued a recall for 679,027 vehicles because of a potential rollaway risk from a fault in the shift lever.

According to Volkswagen, the recall affects 2015 to 2016 and 2018 to 2019 Volkswagen Golf, 2015 to 2019 Golf GTI, 2012 to 2019 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2017 to 2019 Golf SportWagen, and 2011 to 2018 Jetta vehicle models. The recall only includes these VW models that have an automatic transmission, manual handbrake, and keyless entry.

The issue with the shift lever in the vehicles stems from the buildup of silicate on the micro switch, which indicates when the vehicle is in park. Because of the silicate buildup, the vehicle may not be in park but will allow the driver to remove the key from the ignition, which could cause the cars to roll away and could increase the risk of a crash or injury.

In some instances, Volkswagen said, the vehicles may produce a warning signal or error message while driving, indicating that the micro switch has failed.

To remedy the issue, Volkswagen dealers will disable the micro switch within the gear lever and install an additional switch outside of the gear lever’s housing. Another circuit board will also be integrated to ensure accurate operation. There is no charge for the repairs, the company said.

For Volkswagen owners that have had the shift lever issue repaired already, the automaker is offering a reimbursement program.

Questions about the recall can be directed to Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. The automaker said it will begin notifying owners of the recall around Oct. 11.

The recall number is 37M2.

Shares of Volkswagen stock were down 1.33 percent as of 2:32 p.m. ET on Friday.