NHTSA Recall 16V079000: Inflator module (air bags)
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 151,767 vehicles. It affects 3 models including the Audi A3.
| NHTSA campaign | 16V079000 |
|---|---|
| Component | AIR BAGS › FRONTAL › DRIVER SIDE › INFLATOR MODULE |
| Report received | February 10, 2016 |
| Owner notification | March 10, 2017 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation |
Defect
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.
Safety 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.
Remedy
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.
Vehicles covered by recall 16V079000
| Make and model | Model years |
|---|---|
| Audi A3 | 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 |
| Audi A4 Cabriolet | 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 |
| Volkswagen Passat | 2006 |
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.