Audi Recalls Over 3,700 E-Tron GT Models Over Airbag Safety Issue

Volkswagen Group of America has initiated a voluntary safety recall for 3,773 units which were produced between January 2022 and March 2023 due to a faulty seat connection that could deactivate the front passenger airbag. This defect may affect about 5% of the recalled vehicles.

According to the report filed by Volkswagen group to NHTSA, A manufacturing error may cause the passenger occupant detection system (PODS) to detect a malfunction and switch off the passenger airbag even though the seat may be occupied. As designed, a warning light in the instrument panel comes on together with an acoustic warning sound and an error message is displayed in the instrument cluster. The airbag indicator light shows "Passenger Airbag OFF"

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In the event of a crash, there could be an increased risk of injury to the occupant seated in the front passenger seat if the passenger airbag is switched off/not working. The crimp connection of the seat cushion heating mat at the transition of the connection cable to the heating wire may not have been correctly executed in the affected vehicles.

So far, Audi has received 169 warranty claims related to this issue, with reports ranging from July 2023 through December 2024.

To deal with the issue, Audi will replace the seat cushion on the front passenger side with a new version that features an improved crimp connection. The updated component is designed for better durability. The repair will be done free of charge at dealerships. Audi confirmed that all affected vehicles remain under warranty, so no reimbursement plan will be offered.

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