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Affected are some models of the Beetle and Passat covering the period from 2006 through 2019

A total of 114,478 vehicles in the United States will be recalled by Volkswagen over concerns about the driver-side airbag, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced Thursday. Affected are some models of the Beetle and Passat covering the period from 2006 through 2019.

It is on the driver's airbag inflator. The high humidity exposure for long periods and the heat impact of temperature can degrade the propellant present in the inflator. This results in a blowback of the airbag inflator that may even explode and create shreds of sharp metal pieces piercing the driver or other passengers inside the vehicle.

Affected models are:

  • 2006-2007 Passat Sedan
  • 2012-2014 Passat
  • 2017-2019 Beetle and Beetle Convertible
  • 2017 Passat Wagon

According to Volkswagen's recall report, the airbags do not have an "unreasonable risk" of compromising safety at this point, but the company believes it is simply acting out of "abundance of caution." NHTSA contests that statement by pointing out the very reason why there is a need for recall to protect the drivers and passengers.

The German automobile company will repair the Takata-made airbag module, which was faulty, at no cost to owners of vehicles that were affected. Volkswagen urges all its owners of the affected models to take their cars to a Volkswagen dealer as soon as possible to have the vehicle repaired.

Volkswagen is contributing to a worldwide endeavor in dealing with safety concerns related to the use of Takata airbags. Volkswagen encourages its drivers to seek out repairs for their defective airbags as soon as they are able.

It is the latest in a spate of recalls where airbag safety becomes the centrepiece. After years of worrying several automakers, Takata airbags have become a source.