US Authorities Initiate In-depth Probe on More Than 400,000 VW and Audi Models for Potential Fuel Leak Hazards

Dec 16, 2023 01:31 AM EST

A WHITE VOLKSWAGEN STEERING WHEEL — (Photo : PEXELS/Karen Radley Volkswagen)

Volkswagen (VW) and Audi have faced persistent concerns regarding fuel leaks and the potential for fires in their 2015-2016 Golf and Audi A3 models. While VW initially addressed the issue through a recall affecting 110,042 vehicles, complaints have continued to surface. Recently, federal officials started looking again into this matter.

Feds Begins Probe into Audi 3 and VW Golfs Fuel Leak Hazard

They want to know if the problem lasted past 2016 and affected cars until 2020. This investigation, initiated by U.S. auto safety regulators, specifically targets 447,000 Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3 cars.

It is aiming to determine if the 2016 recall effectively resolved the fuel leak reports. These developments make checking and fixing Audi and Volkswagen fuel system safety even more critical to prevent fires.

Reuters reported that The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported receiving 79 complaints regarding fuel leaks and associated concerns in Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf vehicles manufactured by Volkswagen, spanning the model years from 2015 to 2020.

Some vehicle owners have specifically mentioned instances of fuel leaks occurring in the rear right section of the cars, near the fuel tank filler door and the rear right wheel well. In 2016, Volkswagen initiated a recall involving 110,000 Golf and A3 vehicles due to a potential fuel leak issue associated with the suction jet pump located inside the fuel tank.

In 2022, Volkswagen took the step of extending warranties for the fuel tank suction jet pump in Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf vehicles from the 2015-2020 model years, as well as 2019-2020 Jetta GLI models. This extended warranty includes fuel tank replacement with an upgraded suction jet pump to reduce gasoline leaks and fires.

Meanwhile Carscoops reported that The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated a Recall Query for 447,497 vehicles due to an ongoing influx of customer complaints. Additionally, the recall was made because of several Transportation Recall Enhancement, Accountability, and Documentation (TREAD) field reports.

Furthermore, the regulatory authority has received 79 consumer complaints about fuel leaks, spit-back, refueling shut-offs, and gasoline odors in Audi A3 and VW Golf vehicles from 2015 to 2020.

The Volkswagen Group: Models Under Investigation

As shared on its website, the Audi 3 2020' boasts of its sporty elements. These elements enhance the overall dynamic appearance of the A3 Sedan. The bold Singleframe® grille, adorned in titanium black, takes the forefront, while the optional full LED headlights not only provide a unique touch but also improve visibility on the road ahead.

The Audi virtual cockpit, featured in a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, enhances the driving experience. It allows customization of information, including Audi MMI® Navigation and audio settings, and offers access to Google Earth^TM.

On the other hand, MotorTrend shared details about VW Golf. According to its review, the keyless entry, push-button start, heated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof were added to the Golf in 2020. Wi-Fi hotspot and Car-Net smartphone app integration boost the Golf's tech features.

The Volkswagen Golf is a compact car has four doors. It has space for five people and four doors. It has a long history in its class, with the first-generation model going into production in 1974.