Volkswagen and Audi are recalling around 2.86 million vehicles worldwide after a potential problem with a steering-system bolt was identified, raising concerns that corrosion could eventually lead to a loss of steering control.

Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) says the issue involves a screw securing the steering gear. Under certain conditions, corrosion caused by moisture and road salt could weaken the component and, in the worst case, cause it to break.

More Than 2.8 Million Vehicles Affected

The recall covers approximately 2.16 million Volkswagen vehicles and 696,547 Audi vehicles worldwide.

For Volkswagen, the affected vehicles include the Golf, Golf Variant, Tiguan, Touran and Caddy, produced between September 24, 2013, and July 1, 2024. Audi’s recall involves the Q3, with affected vehicles built between October 31, 2017, and May 23, 2024.

Almost 900,000 Volkswagen vehicles and 58,555 Audi vehicles are potentially affected in Germany alone.

Corrosion Could Affect Steering

The problem does not mean every recalled vehicle has a defective or damaged component. Volkswagen has said the recall is being carried out as a precaution after the issue was identified during internal quality checks.

However, if corrosion progresses far enough for the bolt to break, the steering system could be affected and drivers could potentially lose control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of an accident.

The KBA has said it is not aware of accidents or injuries linked to the issue so far.

Repairs Will Replace the Affected Bolt

The proposed fix involves replacing the existing bolt with a more corrosion-resistant version. The repair is expected to take about one hour and will be carried out free of charge through authorised workshops.

Audi has described its action as a precautionary recall after inspections found that environmental conditions, including road salt, could cause corrosion over several years.

Owners Will Be Contacted

Owners of potentially affected vehicles can check their vehicle identification number (VIN) with an authorised dealer to determine whether their car is included.

Reports indicate that the issue is not considered an emergency requiring vehicles to be immediately taken off the road, but affected owners will still need to arrange the recall repair once contacted.

Recall Adds Pressure for Volkswagen Group

The large-scale recall comes at a challenging time for Volkswagen Group, which is already facing high costs in Europe, weaker performance in some markets and growing competition from Chinese automakers. The company has also announced deeper restructuring measures as it works to improve profitability.

For drivers, however, the immediate focus is on safety. With millions of vehicles potentially involved, the recall highlights how a relatively small component can become a major issue when corrosion develops over years of use.

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