Recall 21V198000: 2015–2020 Audi A3, 2016–2018 Audi A3 Sportback E-Tron, 2017–2020 Audi RS 3 +1 more

Updated from NHTSA data · How we count

Report date
Mar 22, 2021
Vehicles affected
153,152
Models
4
Initiated by
Manufacturer

The problem

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Audi S3 Sedan, A3 Sedan, 2016-2018 A3 Etron, 2017-2020 RS3 Sedan, and 2015-2019 A3 Cabriolet vehicles. The passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may malfunction and switch off the passenger air bag even when the seat is occupied.

The risk

A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.

The fix

Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and update the PODS control module, free of charge. Owners letters were mailed December 23, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 69BY.

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

Details

NHTSA campaign
21V198000
Manufacturer campaign
69BY
Manufacturer
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Owner letters
Dec 23, 2021
Components
Air bags:on-off switch assembly (Airbags); Air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passenger (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