The problem
On some vehicles, the fender opening through which the antenna cable is routed may not be properly sealed. As a result, splashed water from the tires could enter passenger compartment through the opening, enter the fuse relay board and cause corrosion of the terminals. Also, because water is a good conductor of electricity, the starter can be activated accidentally; the high flow of electricity may exhaust the battery within a short period of time. Thus restarting the engine would become impossible and parking lights and emergency flashers would become inoperative.
The fix
Dealer will inspect and, if necessary, seal the radio antenna holes and replace corroded components without charge to owner..
Contacts
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions.System: structure; antenna cable opening.Consequences of defect: vehicle would become disabled and a vehicle accidentcould occur if traffic is present.
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized Volkswagen dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 80V035000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.