Volkswagen Jetta recalled for defect in USA

Volkswagen is recalling about 25,000 Jetta models in the United States, built between 2006 and 2009, but only those equipped with the 2.0-litre turbo engine. The Mexican-built compact VW sedan, also sold in the GCC, apparently has a defect that could lead to a crash.

According to the NHTSA, America’s transport safety agency, the fastening-screw contact surfaces on the driveshaft cover plate may not have been manufactured to factory specifications. Some screws may not have been torqued properly during assembly and could loosen over time, causing a knocking sound when the vehicle is in motion. The driveshaft screws could loosen to the point where the driveshaft detaches from the gearbox.

Therefore, if the vehicle is moving when this happens, the detached driveshaft could cause damage the gearbox housing. A damaged gearbox housing could leak gearbox oil onto the street and create a risk of a vehicle crash for the unfortunate Jetta driver as well as other motorists.

U.S. dealers will inspect the driveshaft screws and replace the screws free-of-charge, starting from June 19. However, it is unknown if Jetta models in the GCC are affected, and whether Volkswagen Middle East, based in Dubai UAE, will respond to this issue or simply keep quiet about it.

If this story makes you want a VW sedan even more, visit the Volkswagen Jetta buyer guide.