Recall 16V079000: 2005–2013 Audi A3, 2006–2009 Audi A4 Cabriolet, 2006 Volkswagen Passat

Updated Oct 11, 2026 from NHTSA data · How we count

Report date: Feb 10, 2016
Vehicles affected: 151,767
Models: 3
Initiated by: ODI

The problem

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2006 Volkswagen Passat sedans and wagons, 2005-2013 Audi A3, and 2006-2009 Audi A4 Cabriolet vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.

The risk

In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

The fix

Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began March 2017. Volkswagen owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Audi owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834.

Notes

Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Affected vehicles

2005 Audi A3
2006 Audi A3
2007 Audi A3
2008 Audi A3
2009 Audi A3
2010 Audi A3
2011 Audi A3
2012 Audi A3
2013 Audi A3
2006 Audi A4 Cabriolet
2007 Audi A4 Cabriolet
2008 Audi A4 Cabriolet
2009 Audi A4 Cabriolet
2006 Volkswagen Passat

Details

NHTSA campaign: 16V079000
Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Owner letters: Mar 10, 2017
Components: Air bags:frontal:driver side:inflator module (Airbags)

Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. To see if your vehicle is included, enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov or call the manufacturer.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. Methodology