Volkswagen Recalls About 33000 for Rollaway Issues

Volkswagen is recalling 33,168 Golf and Golf SportWagen vehicles because drivers could inadvertently remove the car when the transmission is not in “park” position, which means the vehicle could roll away. According to a report on CNET.com, the problem stems from microswitches that are supposed to detect the position of the ignition switch and prevent the key from being removed. However, Volkswagen says a silicate build-up on the microswitch contacts can help prevent that.

Don’t Delay Recall Repairs

If an owner removes the car’s key thinking the transmission is in “park” when it is not, the car could roll away and cause a crash. To fix this problem, Volkswagen dealers will install an additional switch and a new circuit board. Volkswagen expects to start the recall on Sept. 8. The automaker will also recall the same make and model vehicles in Canada for the same issue. In Canada, the recall affects about 24,000 vehicles.

If you are a VW owner, it is important that you check whether your vehicle is part of the recall. You can do so by entering your vehicle identification number on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) website. If your vehicle is involved, it would be in your best interest to take your vehicle to the dealer and get it fixed.

Danger of Rollaway Vehicles

Vehicle rollaway accidents have been the subject of a number of recalls in recent years, sometimes because of manufacturing problems such as Ford’s recent recall of 550,000 vehicles or Dodge Ram’s 200,000-truck recall. Sometimes, these recalls are triggered by new shifter designs that tend to confuse drivers. In March of this year, the parents of “Star Trek” actor Anton Yelchin who died in 2016 when his Jeep Cherokee SUV rolled down his driveway and crushed him against a security gate, reached a settlement with the automaker. This was probably the most recent high profile rollaway accident, which tragically resulted in Yelchin’s death.

However, this rollaway accident remains a start reminder of what can happen when a recalled vehicle with these types of transmission defects are not repaired. Automakers without question have the responsibility to ensure that the vehicles they manufacture and put on the market are safe for consumers. When they fail to do so, they further have the responsibility to recall the vehicles in a timely manner and warn consumers.

If you or loved one has been injured by a dangerous or defective vehicle, you may be able to file a lawsuit seeking compensation from the automaker. If you have lost a loved one, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the automaker as well. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to help victims and their families evaluate their legal rights and options.

Source: https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/volkswagen-golf-sportwagen-rollaway-recall/