Volkswagen Recalls Vehicles for Fire Risks

The Volkswagen Group will recall about 281,500 vehicles sold in the U.S. due to separate issues that might lead to a fuel leak and potential fire dangers. According to a report on Auto Evolution, Volkswagen’s recall action will also include Audi models, and the units involved are as old as model-year 2007 and as new as 2016 models. Newer Audi models such as the gas-engine versions of the 2012-2013 A6 and A7 models are also affected.

Potential for Dangerous Fuel Leaks

So far, no accidents or injuries related to this potential problem have been reported. Although no fires have been reported, officials say the possibility of fuel leaks could increase the risk of a fire even when a crash doesn’t take place. The recall of the Q5 and Q7 SUVs from Audi targets the fuel pump cap flange, which may crack. In such cases, fuel may leak through the crack and increase the risk of a fire. When the recall begins technicians will clean the pump flange and install a butyl rubber band to protect it from damage.

The Audi A6 and A7 models will be recalled because a fuel hose in the engine compartment may degrade and spring a leak posing a fire hazard. A shared recall for the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3 models in multiple body styles focuses on a problem of the suction pump inside the fuel tank, which may lead to fuel flowing into the evaporative emissions system.

The Facts About Car Fires

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated average of 152,300 automobile fires per year in 2006-2010. These fires caused an average of 209 civilian deaths, 764 civilian injuries and $536 million in direct property damage. Automobile fires were involved in 10 percent of reported U.S. fires and in 6 percent of U.S. fire deaths.

On average, 17 automobile fires were reported per hour and these fires killed an average of four people every week. Mechanical or electrical failures or malfunctions were factors in about two-thirds of the automobile fires. Only 2 percent of car fires began in fuel tanks or fuel lines, but these incidents caused 15 percent of the automobile fire deaths.

If You Have Been Injured

If you or a loved one has been injured a car fire caused by a defective auto or auto part, you may be eligible to seek and obtain compensation for your injuries, damages and losses. An auto defect law firm, which has the experience and track record handling such cases, will be able to not only protect your rights, but also hold the negligent manufacturers accountable.