Audi issues huge recall: SA A4 owners affected

BEIJING, China - Volkswagen and a Chinese partner are recalling 270 000 cars in China to repair a software problem that might prevent air bags from activating properly, the Chinese government reported on Wednesday (Oct 29).

The recall by FAW-Volkswagen Automotive applies to 265 943 Audi A4L cars made in China and 4692 imported Audi A4 Allroad cars, according to the Administration for Quality Inspection, Supervision and Quarantine.

In a collision at some angles the front air bags might fail to open, the agency said.



SA CUSTOMERS AFFECTED



Audi South Africa confirmed that the software issue affects local A4 models, including its A4 Allroad. The automaker reports a total of 16 798 vehicles (built from 2013 - 2015) in SA are affected.



According to Audi SA: "Audi South Africa are in possession of all VIN numbers of affected models and have begun personally contacting customers.



"The software update will be available in Audi dealers on 30 October."



The automaker did not identify the supplier of the air bags but gave no indication they were linked to Japan's Takata Corp. More than 12 million cars that use Takata air bags have been recalled because the airbags can explode, possibly injuring drivers and passengers.

Earlier in October 2014, Volkswagen and FAW announced a recall of some 570 000 vehicles to repair a possible suspension defect.









AP