Volkswagen is recalling approximately 115,000 of its Beetle and Passat models because of serious issues with the airbag systems.

A recall notice sent to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) revealed that certain Volkswagen vehicles might have driver’s side airbag inflators that could explode, presenting a danger to both drivers and passengers.

The vehicles impacted by this recall are fitted with Takata airbags, which have been under scrutiny for many years, affecting millions of vehicles worldwide.

Here are the key details regarding the Volkswagen recall.

Which Volkswagen models are part of the recall?

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

Issues with driver’s side airbags

The NHTSA has reported that the 114,478 cars in question have a driver’s side frontal airbag inflator that can become unstable due to high levels of humidity and heat over time. This deterioration can lead to the inflator bursting, potentially sending metal shards towards the driver and passengers, causing severe injuries or even fatalities.

Although Volkswagen and the safety authority have indicated that no incidents connected to this issue have been documented, the recall was issued out of “an abundance of caution.”

The recalled vehicles utilize Takata SDI-D driver frontal airbag inflators. The Takata airbag recall spans 15 years and affects tens of millions of cars, with at least 28 fatalities linked to the failures of these airbags.

Steps to have your Volkswagen repaired

Dealerships will provide a replacement for the driver’s side front airbag module at no cost. Owners of the affected vehicles will receive notification by mail and can also reach out to Volkswagen’s customer service at 1-800-893-5298 using recall numbers 69EG and 69GQ.

Car owners wishing to verify the recall status of their vehicles can input their information into the NHTSA recall check .