Volkswagen Recalls 281,000 Cars for Stalled Engines

Volkswagen is issuing an auto defect recall for almost 281,000 CC and Passat sedans and wagons in the United States because the fuel pumps in these vehicles could fail causing the cars to suddenly stall, increasing the risk of a car accident. According to a CNBC news report, the recall covers the CC from the 2009 through 2016 model years and the Passat sedan and wagon from 2006 through 2010. All of these vehicles have a four-cylinder gasoline engines.

Recall Details

VW says in documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that the fuel pump control computer can lose electrical power. This can stop gas from flowing and cause the engine to stop. That problem also can make the fuel pump continue running after the car is shut off. VW will notify owners about the problem in October and send a second letter when replacement computers become available. Dealers will swap out the computers and move them so they are less vulnerable to mechanical stress and heat.

So far, there have been no reports of crashes or injuries in the United States, the automaker says. An investigation initiated by Chinese officials last year led to a recall in China, which in turn sparked a U.S. recall. It is not known how many cars were recalled in China or if the recall had been issues anywhere else.

Auto Product Liability Issues

When a vehicle stalls, there is the danger of the driver losing control of the vehicle, leading to a potential crash. When a vehicle stalls suddenly on a busy roadway or in the freeway where vehicles are traveling at higher speeds, there is the danger that other cars on the roadway may hit the stalled vehicle. This could result in catastrophic injuries or even fatalities. If you own one of these vehicles included in the recall, it would be in your best interest to schedule an appointment with your dealer and get the necessary repairs made. Never ignore a safety recall notice.

If you or a loved one has been injured as a result of these or other vehicle defects, it is important that you preserve your car in its current condition so it can be thoroughly examined by an expert for evidence of defects, malfunctions and design flaws. Injured victims of defective autos can seek compensation from negligent automakers for injuries, damages and losses. An experienced auto product liability attorney can help victims and families better understand their legal rights and options.