By: Brett Shainfeld
Audi A3, A3 E-Tron, S3, and RS3 Electrical Problems Forcing A Recall
For Audi A3, A3 E-Tron, S3, and RS3 owners, you may have experienced problems with a faulty detection system in the recent models. With a problem revolving around the electrical components of the vehicle, this most recent Audi recall is problematic for owners in that the result may be a deactivated passenger airbag, posing a great risk to occupants of any Audi S3 or A3 in question.
With that in mind, what should one do if they’re the owner of an Audi A3 or S3? Just who exactly is affected? What’s the cause of the recall, and how can it be fixed? Moreover, what are your rights as a consumer when it comes to being sold a vehicle affected by a recall notice? We’ll cover each of these and more as we take a look at these recent Audi A3 and S3 recalls.
Understanding the Details of the Audi A3, A3 E-Tron, S3, and RS3 Electrical Recall
The details of the Audi electrical problems recall center around multiple models in the S3 and A3 line of sedan vehicles. The total number of vehicles affected is estimated to be around approximately 138,900 Audi’s. The exact models include the model-year 2015-2016 Audi S3 sedans; the model-year 2015-2019 A3 sedans and cabriolets; the model-year 2016-2018 A3 e-tron plug-in hybrids; and model-year 2017-2019 RS3 sedans. With such a diverse range of vehicles affected over a five year window of time, this adds a premium on having your vehicle inspected should it belong to this category of Audi’s.
Audi A3 Electrical Malfunction & Faults
The problem that occurs with these Audi vehicle recalls centers around an improper electrical contact in the system. This may be causing the passenger occupant detection system to falsely detect a malfunction. The result of this is that the passenger airbag may be deactivated, a tremendous hazard in the event of an automobile accident on the road.
The fortunate thing, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is that in reported cases, the problem leads to the “passenger airbag off” warning light to illuminate on the dashboard, so vehicle users are at least made aware of the issue in reported cases. Audi is suggesting that customers who are experiencing this problem take their vehicle to a local dealership as soon as possible to have the error inspected and repaired.
Audi has stated that they will repair any new or used vehicles that they still have in inventory. It’s important to note that not every Audi A3 within the specified model years is included in the recall. Some versions, particularly the 2019 models, have been built with the parts already updated.
Correcting Audi A3 Electrical Problems
In order to correct the Audi electrical problems, customers will have to make an appointment and bring in their vehicle to the dealership to have it inspected and fixed. Local dealers will replace the faulty electrical connector, then reroute the airbag cable in a way that avoids sharp bending that may have led to this recall error. The dealer is completing Audi electrical problems repairs at no charge to vehicle owners; customers simply have to make an appointment and bring in their vehicle to have it fixed.
Audi has announced that they will begin to notify customers and owners of vehicles affected by the Audi electrical recall in mid-August, providing instructions and locations on how and where to bring in their vehicle and have it fixed. You can also call and contact Audi customer support at 800-253-2834 with the recall number 69Z4.
However, if you’d like to find out more information about your vehicle as it pertains to the Audi electrical problems recall notice in the short-term, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued its own recall campaign for consumer protection. In order to go this route, use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recall campaign number (19V474). You can visit their website to find out further information about this recall, as well as other recall information regarding your vehicle. All you need to do is enter the 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) on the website and a list of pending and active recalls will be generated. Due to the frequency with which automakers issue recalls, it’s recommended to check this site often, particularly if you purchased your vehicle secondhand and the manufacturer has no contact information on file to get in touch with you about an upcoming recall.
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What You Can Do if Your Vehicle is Affected by the Audi Audi A3, A3 E-Tron, S3, and RS3 Electrical Recall News
Once you’ve taken your vehicle in and had it inspected and fixed by an Audi dealer, keep track of the service for your records. Should the Audi electrical problems become a recurring issue, your vehicle may qualify under the Lemon Law in the state of California. While this recall is in its early stages, it’s important now to keep diligent notes, only take your vehicle to Audi dealerships and avoid aftermarket work that may void any warranties you have. Should the issue be ongoing and qualify, you may be entitled to compensation or a replacement vehicle.
If you believe that your Audi electrical problems have led to an accident, or if your vehicle is still underperforming due to a constant issue, contact Lemon Law Now for more information on consumer protections for automobile owners and understanding your rights as a consumer. Lemon Law Now, is the #1 provider of California Lemon Law services.