Complaints & Recalls
Consumer Complaints
37 ComplaintsVolkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q5 E. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle came to a sudden halt as the malfunction indicator light illuminated the instrument panel. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after approximately 15 minutes and drove the vehicle to a dealer(Audi of Quad Cities-1777 E 53rd St, Davenport, IA 52807) where they discovered a defective switch on the vehicle's battery pack which was linked to TSB-9321462062953/1. The contact had the switch repaired by the dealer. The contact stated that the failure recently occurred again while driving at 30 MPH; however, the time, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer where it remained in their possession and where it had yet to be diagnosed. The manufacturer had been notified of the failure and he was sent a form for a possible vehicle buyback. The vehicle had yet to be repaired or diagnosed. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q5 E. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle came to a sudden halt as the malfunction indicator light illuminated the instrument panel. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after approximately 15 minutes and drove the vehicle to a dealer(Audi of Quad Cities-1777 E 53rd St, Davenport, IA 52807) where they discovered a defective switch on the vehicle's battery pack which was linked to TSB-9321462062953/1. The contact had the switch repaired by the dealer. The contact stated that the failure recently occurred again while driving at 30 MPH; however, the time, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer where it remained in their possession and where it had yet to be diagnosed. The manufacturer had been notified of the failure and he was sent a form for a possible vehicle buyback. The vehicle had yet to be repaired or diagnosed. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q5 E. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle came to a sudden halt as the malfunction indicator light illuminated the instrument panel. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after approximately 15 minutes and drove the vehicle to a dealer(Audi of Quad Cities-1777 E 53rd St, Davenport, IA 52807) where they discovered a defective switch on the vehicle's battery pack which was linked to TSB-9321462062953/1. The contact had the switch repaired by the dealer. The contact stated that the failure recently occurred again while driving at 30 MPH; however, the time, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer where it remained in their possession and where it had yet to be diagnosed. The manufacturer had been notified of the failure and he was sent a form for a possible vehicle buyback. The vehicle had yet to be repaired or diagnosed. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11488734
Recall Date: Oct 11, 2022
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q5 E. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle came to a sudden halt as the malfunction indicator light illuminated the instrument panel. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after approximately 15 minutes and drove the vehicle to a dealer(Audi of Quad Cities-1777 E 53rd St, Davenport, IA 52807) where they discovered a defective switch on the vehicle's battery pack which was linked to TSB-9321462062953/1. The contact had the switch repaired by the dealer. The contact stated that the failure recently occurred again while driving at 30 MPH; however, the time, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer where it remained in their possession and where it had yet to be diagnosed. The manufacturer had been notified of the failure and he was sent a form for a possible vehicle buyback. The vehicle had yet to be repaired or diagnosed. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q5 E. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle came to a sudden halt as the malfunction indicator light illuminated the instrument panel. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after approximately 15 minutes and drove the vehicle to a dealer(Audi of Quad Cities-1777 E 53rd St, Davenport, IA 52807) where they discovered a defective switch on the vehicle's battery pack which was linked to TSB-9321462062953/1. The contact had the switch repaired by the dealer. The contact stated that the failure recently occurred again while driving at 30 MPH; however, the time, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer where it remained in their possession and where it had yet to be diagnosed. The manufacturer had been notified of the failure and he was sent a form for a possible vehicle buyback. The vehicle had yet to be repaired or diagnosed. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q5 E. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle came to a sudden halt as the malfunction indicator light illuminated the instrument panel. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after approximately 15 minutes and drove the vehicle to a dealer(Audi of Quad Cities-1777 E 53rd St, Davenport, IA 52807) where they discovered a defective switch on the vehicle's battery pack which was linked to TSB-9321462062953/1. The contact had the switch repaired by the dealer. The contact stated that the failure recently occurred again while driving at 30 MPH; however, the time, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer where it remained in their possession and where it had yet to be diagnosed. The manufacturer had been notified of the failure and he was sent a form for a possible vehicle buyback. The vehicle had yet to be repaired or diagnosed. The failure mileage was approximately 2,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11488734
Recall Date: Oct 11, 2022
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
A/C condenser leaking. Known issue for Audi Q5.
Corrective Action:
A/C condenser leaking. Known issue for Audi Q5.
Additional Notes:
A/C condenser leaking. Known issue for Audi Q5.
Mfg Campaign: 11475660
Recall Date: Jul 25, 2022
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal noise and all the warning lights illuminated. The contact proceeded and drove at 15 MPH, the vehicle started jerking and could not be driven any further. In addition, all the windows were independently opened and closed. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was pending a diagnosis. The vehicle was not repaired. No further information was available. The failure mileage was 10,000.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal noise and all the warning lights illuminated. The contact proceeded and drove at 15 MPH, the vehicle started jerking and could not be driven any further. In addition, all the windows were independently opened and closed. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was pending a diagnosis. The vehicle was not repaired. No further information was available. The failure mileage was 10,000.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal noise and all the warning lights illuminated. The contact proceeded and drove at 15 MPH, the vehicle started jerking and could not be driven any further. In addition, all the windows were independently opened and closed. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was pending a diagnosis. The vehicle was not repaired. No further information was available. The failure mileage was 10,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11452715
Recall Date: Feb 18, 2022
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal noise and all the warning lights illuminated. The contact proceeded and drove at 15 MPH, the vehicle started jerking and could not be driven any further. In addition, all the windows were independently opened and closed. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was pending a diagnosis. The vehicle was not repaired. No further information was available. The failure mileage was 10,000.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal noise and all the warning lights illuminated. The contact proceeded and drove at 15 MPH, the vehicle started jerking and could not be driven any further. In addition, all the windows were independently opened and closed. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was pending a diagnosis. The vehicle was not repaired. No further information was available. The failure mileage was 10,000.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2021 Audi Q5. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal noise and all the warning lights illuminated. The contact proceeded and drove at 15 MPH, the vehicle started jerking and could not be driven any further. In addition, all the windows were independently opened and closed. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was pending a diagnosis. The vehicle was not repaired. No further information was available. The failure mileage was 10,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11452715
Recall Date: Feb 18, 2022
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
My vehicle was completely shut down. After towing to dealer and had the problem checked out, dealer service department had identify that the problem was the damage of the control module caused by possible liquid reaching to the gateway. This is what the recall is. However, dealer cannot do any repair but rather than forcing me to pay for replacing module part. Dealer claims that they are not aware of any such recall of (Manufacturer Recall Number90S9 NHTSA Recall Number21V947). Manufacturer should be responsible for correcting and paying for any the damage of the flaw in their vehicle design.
Corrective Action:
My vehicle was completely shut down. After towing to dealer and had the problem checked out, dealer service department had identify that the problem was the damage of the control module caused by possible liquid reaching to the gateway. This is what the recall is. However, dealer cannot do any repair but rather than forcing me to pay for replacing module part. Dealer claims that they are not aware of any such recall of (Manufacturer Recall Number90S9 NHTSA Recall Number21V947). Manufacturer should be responsible for correcting and paying for any the damage of the flaw in their vehicle design.
Additional Notes:
My vehicle was completely shut down. After towing to dealer and had the problem checked out, dealer service department had identify that the problem was the damage of the control module caused by possible liquid reaching to the gateway. This is what the recall is. However, dealer cannot do any repair but rather than forcing me to pay for replacing module part. Dealer claims that they are not aware of any such recall of (Manufacturer Recall Number90S9 NHTSA Recall Number21V947). Manufacturer should be responsible for correcting and paying for any the damage of the flaw in their vehicle design.
Mfg Campaign: 11447707
Recall Date: Jan 16, 2022
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
My vehicle was completely shut down. After towing to dealer and had the problem checked out, dealer service department had identify that the problem was the damage of the control module caused by possible liquid reaching to the gateway. This is what the recall is. However, dealer cannot do any repair but rather than forcing me to pay for replacing module part. Dealer claims that they are not aware of any such recall of (Manufacturer Recall Number90S9 NHTSA Recall Number21V947). Manufacturer should be responsible for correcting and paying for any the damage of the flaw in their vehicle design.
Corrective Action:
My vehicle was completely shut down. After towing to dealer and had the problem checked out, dealer service department had identify that the problem was the damage of the control module caused by possible liquid reaching to the gateway. This is what the recall is. However, dealer cannot do any repair but rather than forcing me to pay for replacing module part. Dealer claims that they are not aware of any such recall of (Manufacturer Recall Number90S9 NHTSA Recall Number21V947). Manufacturer should be responsible for correcting and paying for any the damage of the flaw in their vehicle design.
Additional Notes:
My vehicle was completely shut down. After towing to dealer and had the problem checked out, dealer service department had identify that the problem was the damage of the control module caused by possible liquid reaching to the gateway. This is what the recall is. However, dealer cannot do any repair but rather than forcing me to pay for replacing module part. Dealer claims that they are not aware of any such recall of (Manufacturer Recall Number90S9 NHTSA Recall Number21V947). Manufacturer should be responsible for correcting and paying for any the damage of the flaw in their vehicle design.
Mfg Campaign: 11447707
Recall Date: Jan 16, 2022
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
LANE DEPARTURE: ASSIST
Potential Consequences:
My vehicle was completely shut down. After towing to dealer and had the problem checked out, dealer service department had identify that the problem was the damage of the control module caused by possible liquid reaching to the gateway. This is what the recall is. However, dealer cannot do any repair but rather than forcing me to pay for replacing module part. Dealer claims that they are not aware of any such recall of (Manufacturer Recall Number90S9 NHTSA Recall Number21V947). Manufacturer should be responsible for correcting and paying for any the damage of the flaw in their vehicle design.
Corrective Action:
My vehicle was completely shut down. After towing to dealer and had the problem checked out, dealer service department had identify that the problem was the damage of the control module caused by possible liquid reaching to the gateway. This is what the recall is. However, dealer cannot do any repair but rather than forcing me to pay for replacing module part. Dealer claims that they are not aware of any such recall of (Manufacturer Recall Number90S9 NHTSA Recall Number21V947). Manufacturer should be responsible for correcting and paying for any the damage of the flaw in their vehicle design.
Additional Notes:
My vehicle was completely shut down. After towing to dealer and had the problem checked out, dealer service department had identify that the problem was the damage of the control module caused by possible liquid reaching to the gateway. This is what the recall is. However, dealer cannot do any repair but rather than forcing me to pay for replacing module part. Dealer claims that they are not aware of any such recall of (Manufacturer Recall Number90S9 NHTSA Recall Number21V947). Manufacturer should be responsible for correcting and paying for any the damage of the flaw in their vehicle design.
Mfg Campaign: 11447707
Recall Date: Jan 16, 2022
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
While driving in the far left of the 405N in Long Beach, the vehicle experienced some catastrophic failure. The accelerator stopped working, gear shifting was not possible, the interior lights turned on and flashed, there was some text instruction on the screen about the vehicle having lost power, and the emergency On-Star system was not available. There were no warnings, messages or other symptoms prior to the malfunction of the vehicle. We managed to coast across 4 lanes of traffic moving at a high freeway speed, with our hazard lights flashing and honking to get other drivers' attention, and made it to the right shoulder before using the brakes to stop the car. Upon stopping, all four windows automatically rolled down slightly. It was not possible to restart the vehicle, change the gear, put the car in neutral or operate any of the electrical systems in the car, including On-Star. We were fortunate, but still very much in danger, to have stopped at a small triangular shoulder between the 405 freeway and an adjacent on-ramp. Cars were passing us at full speed and in close proximity on both sides of the car. We called AAA as well as 911 to assist us in getting out of that harrowing situation safely. The vehicle was towed directly to the Audi Service Center in Santa Monica, where we left it with an after-hours note describing the issue we experienced. We called Audi the following morning and the service tech, Angel, said they would review the problem. Upon review, Angel confirmed that the issue was a failure in the gateway control module - a problem that Audi is aware of and has occurred in many of the same types of vehicles. We found through online searches of this issue that it is generally caused by water spilled in the backseat of the vehicle. Angel confirmed that no moisture was found inside the vehicle and he did not believe the failure was caused by spilled liquid. Audi is now insisting that we continue to drive the car, without the issue being fixed.
Corrective Action:
While driving in the far left of the 405N in Long Beach, the vehicle experienced some catastrophic failure. The accelerator stopped working, gear shifting was not possible, the interior lights turned on and flashed, there was some text instruction on the screen about the vehicle having lost power, and the emergency On-Star system was not available. There were no warnings, messages or other symptoms prior to the malfunction of the vehicle. We managed to coast across 4 lanes of traffic moving at a high freeway speed, with our hazard lights flashing and honking to get other drivers' attention, and made it to the right shoulder before using the brakes to stop the car. Upon stopping, all four windows automatically rolled down slightly. It was not possible to restart the vehicle, change the gear, put the car in neutral or operate any of the electrical systems in the car, including On-Star. We were fortunate, but still very much in danger, to have stopped at a small triangular shoulder between the 405 freeway and an adjacent on-ramp. Cars were passing us at full speed and in close proximity on both sides of the car. We called AAA as well as 911 to assist us in getting out of that harrowing situation safely. The vehicle was towed directly to the Audi Service Center in Santa Monica, where we left it with an after-hours note describing the issue we experienced. We called Audi the following morning and the service tech, Angel, said they would review the problem. Upon review, Angel confirmed that the issue was a failure in the gateway control module - a problem that Audi is aware of and has occurred in many of the same types of vehicles. We found through online searches of this issue that it is generally caused by water spilled in the backseat of the vehicle. Angel confirmed that no moisture was found inside the vehicle and he did not believe the failure was caused by spilled liquid. Audi is now insisting that we continue to drive the car, without the issue being fixed.
Additional Notes:
While driving in the far left of the 405N in Long Beach, the vehicle experienced some catastrophic failure. The accelerator stopped working, gear shifting was not possible, the interior lights turned on and flashed, there was some text instruction on the screen about the vehicle having lost power, and the emergency On-Star system was not available. There were no warnings, messages or other symptoms prior to the malfunction of the vehicle. We managed to coast across 4 lanes of traffic moving at a high freeway speed, with our hazard lights flashing and honking to get other drivers' attention, and made it to the right shoulder before using the brakes to stop the car. Upon stopping, all four windows automatically rolled down slightly. It was not possible to restart the vehicle, change the gear, put the car in neutral or operate any of the electrical systems in the car, including On-Star. We were fortunate, but still very much in danger, to have stopped at a small triangular shoulder between the 405 freeway and an adjacent on-ramp. Cars were passing us at full speed and in close proximity on both sides of the car. We called AAA as well as 911 to assist us in getting out of that harrowing situation safely. The vehicle was towed directly to the Audi Service Center in Santa Monica, where we left it with an after-hours note describing the issue we experienced. We called Audi the following morning and the service tech, Angel, said they would review the problem. Upon review, Angel confirmed that the issue was a failure in the gateway control module - a problem that Audi is aware of and has occurred in many of the same types of vehicles. We found through online searches of this issue that it is generally caused by water spilled in the backseat of the vehicle. Angel confirmed that no moisture was found inside the vehicle and he did not believe the failure was caused by spilled liquid. Audi is now insisting that we continue to drive the car, without the issue being fixed.
Mfg Campaign: 11446264
Recall Date: Jan 4, 2022
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Potential Consequences:
While driving in the far left of the 405N in Long Beach, the vehicle experienced some catastrophic failure. The accelerator stopped working, gear shifting was not possible, the interior lights turned on and flashed, there was some text instruction on the screen about the vehicle having lost power, and the emergency On-Star system was not available. There were no warnings, messages or other symptoms prior to the malfunction of the vehicle. We managed to coast across 4 lanes of traffic moving at a high freeway speed, with our hazard lights flashing and honking to get other drivers' attention, and made it to the right shoulder before using the brakes to stop the car. Upon stopping, all four windows automatically rolled down slightly. It was not possible to restart the vehicle, change the gear, put the car in neutral or operate any of the electrical systems in the car, including On-Star. We were fortunate, but still very much in danger, to have stopped at a small triangular shoulder between the 405 freeway and an adjacent on-ramp. Cars were passing us at full speed and in close proximity on both sides of the car. We called AAA as well as 911 to assist us in getting out of that harrowing situation safely. The vehicle was towed directly to the Audi Service Center in Santa Monica, where we left it with an after-hours note describing the issue we experienced. We called Audi the following morning and the service tech, Angel, said they would review the problem. Upon review, Angel confirmed that the issue was a failure in the gateway control module - a problem that Audi is aware of and has occurred in many of the same types of vehicles. We found through online searches of this issue that it is generally caused by water spilled in the backseat of the vehicle. Angel confirmed that no moisture was found inside the vehicle and he did not believe the failure was caused by spilled liquid. Audi is now insisting that we continue to drive the car, without the issue being fixed.
Corrective Action:
While driving in the far left of the 405N in Long Beach, the vehicle experienced some catastrophic failure. The accelerator stopped working, gear shifting was not possible, the interior lights turned on and flashed, there was some text instruction on the screen about the vehicle having lost power, and the emergency On-Star system was not available. There were no warnings, messages or other symptoms prior to the malfunction of the vehicle. We managed to coast across 4 lanes of traffic moving at a high freeway speed, with our hazard lights flashing and honking to get other drivers' attention, and made it to the right shoulder before using the brakes to stop the car. Upon stopping, all four windows automatically rolled down slightly. It was not possible to restart the vehicle, change the gear, put the car in neutral or operate any of the electrical systems in the car, including On-Star. We were fortunate, but still very much in danger, to have stopped at a small triangular shoulder between the 405 freeway and an adjacent on-ramp. Cars were passing us at full speed and in close proximity on both sides of the car. We called AAA as well as 911 to assist us in getting out of that harrowing situation safely. The vehicle was towed directly to the Audi Service Center in Santa Monica, where we left it with an after-hours note describing the issue we experienced. We called Audi the following morning and the service tech, Angel, said they would review the problem. Upon review, Angel confirmed that the issue was a failure in the gateway control module - a problem that Audi is aware of and has occurred in many of the same types of vehicles. We found through online searches of this issue that it is generally caused by water spilled in the backseat of the vehicle. Angel confirmed that no moisture was found inside the vehicle and he did not believe the failure was caused by spilled liquid. Audi is now insisting that we continue to drive the car, without the issue being fixed.
Additional Notes:
While driving in the far left of the 405N in Long Beach, the vehicle experienced some catastrophic failure. The accelerator stopped working, gear shifting was not possible, the interior lights turned on and flashed, there was some text instruction on the screen about the vehicle having lost power, and the emergency On-Star system was not available. There were no warnings, messages or other symptoms prior to the malfunction of the vehicle. We managed to coast across 4 lanes of traffic moving at a high freeway speed, with our hazard lights flashing and honking to get other drivers' attention, and made it to the right shoulder before using the brakes to stop the car. Upon stopping, all four windows automatically rolled down slightly. It was not possible to restart the vehicle, change the gear, put the car in neutral or operate any of the electrical systems in the car, including On-Star. We were fortunate, but still very much in danger, to have stopped at a small triangular shoulder between the 405 freeway and an adjacent on-ramp. Cars were passing us at full speed and in close proximity on both sides of the car. We called AAA as well as 911 to assist us in getting out of that harrowing situation safely. The vehicle was towed directly to the Audi Service Center in Santa Monica, where we left it with an after-hours note describing the issue we experienced. We called Audi the following morning and the service tech, Angel, said they would review the problem. Upon review, Angel confirmed that the issue was a failure in the gateway control module - a problem that Audi is aware of and has occurred in many of the same types of vehicles. We found through online searches of this issue that it is generally caused by water spilled in the backseat of the vehicle. Angel confirmed that no moisture was found inside the vehicle and he did not believe the failure was caused by spilled liquid. Audi is now insisting that we continue to drive the car, without the issue being fixed.
Mfg Campaign: 11446264
Recall Date: Jan 4, 2022
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
While driving in the far left of the 405N in Long Beach, the vehicle experienced some catastrophic failure. The accelerator stopped working, gear shifting was not possible, the interior lights turned on and flashed, there was some text instruction on the screen about the vehicle having lost power, and the emergency On-Star system was not available. There were no warnings, messages or other symptoms prior to the malfunction of the vehicle. We managed to coast across 4 lanes of traffic moving at a high freeway speed, with our hazard lights flashing and honking to get other drivers' attention, and made it to the right shoulder before using the brakes to stop the car. Upon stopping, all four windows automatically rolled down slightly. It was not possible to restart the vehicle, change the gear, put the car in neutral or operate any of the electrical systems in the car, including On-Star. We were fortunate, but still very much in danger, to have stopped at a small triangular shoulder between the 405 freeway and an adjacent on-ramp. Cars were passing us at full speed and in close proximity on both sides of the car. We called AAA as well as 911 to assist us in getting out of that harrowing situation safely. The vehicle was towed directly to the Audi Service Center in Santa Monica, where we left it with an after-hours note describing the issue we experienced. We called Audi the following morning and the service tech, Angel, said they would review the problem. Upon review, Angel confirmed that the issue was a failure in the gateway control module - a problem that Audi is aware of and has occurred in many of the same types of vehicles. We found through online searches of this issue that it is generally caused by water spilled in the backseat of the vehicle. Angel confirmed that no moisture was found inside the vehicle and he did not believe the failure was caused by spilled liquid. Audi is now insisting that we continue to drive the car, without the issue being fixed.
Corrective Action:
While driving in the far left of the 405N in Long Beach, the vehicle experienced some catastrophic failure. The accelerator stopped working, gear shifting was not possible, the interior lights turned on and flashed, there was some text instruction on the screen about the vehicle having lost power, and the emergency On-Star system was not available. There were no warnings, messages or other symptoms prior to the malfunction of the vehicle. We managed to coast across 4 lanes of traffic moving at a high freeway speed, with our hazard lights flashing and honking to get other drivers' attention, and made it to the right shoulder before using the brakes to stop the car. Upon stopping, all four windows automatically rolled down slightly. It was not possible to restart the vehicle, change the gear, put the car in neutral or operate any of the electrical systems in the car, including On-Star. We were fortunate, but still very much in danger, to have stopped at a small triangular shoulder between the 405 freeway and an adjacent on-ramp. Cars were passing us at full speed and in close proximity on both sides of the car. We called AAA as well as 911 to assist us in getting out of that harrowing situation safely. The vehicle was towed directly to the Audi Service Center in Santa Monica, where we left it with an after-hours note describing the issue we experienced. We called Audi the following morning and the service tech, Angel, said they would review the problem. Upon review, Angel confirmed that the issue was a failure in the gateway control module - a problem that Audi is aware of and has occurred in many of the same types of vehicles. We found through online searches of this issue that it is generally caused by water spilled in the backseat of the vehicle. Angel confirmed that no moisture was found inside the vehicle and he did not believe the failure was caused by spilled liquid. Audi is now insisting that we continue to drive the car, without the issue being fixed.
Additional Notes:
While driving in the far left of the 405N in Long Beach, the vehicle experienced some catastrophic failure. The accelerator stopped working, gear shifting was not possible, the interior lights turned on and flashed, there was some text instruction on the screen about the vehicle having lost power, and the emergency On-Star system was not available. There were no warnings, messages or other symptoms prior to the malfunction of the vehicle. We managed to coast across 4 lanes of traffic moving at a high freeway speed, with our hazard lights flashing and honking to get other drivers' attention, and made it to the right shoulder before using the brakes to stop the car. Upon stopping, all four windows automatically rolled down slightly. It was not possible to restart the vehicle, change the gear, put the car in neutral or operate any of the electrical systems in the car, including On-Star. We were fortunate, but still very much in danger, to have stopped at a small triangular shoulder between the 405 freeway and an adjacent on-ramp. Cars were passing us at full speed and in close proximity on both sides of the car. We called AAA as well as 911 to assist us in getting out of that harrowing situation safely. The vehicle was towed directly to the Audi Service Center in Santa Monica, where we left it with an after-hours note describing the issue we experienced. We called Audi the following morning and the service tech, Angel, said they would review the problem. Upon review, Angel confirmed that the issue was a failure in the gateway control module - a problem that Audi is aware of and has occurred in many of the same types of vehicles. We found through online searches of this issue that it is generally caused by water spilled in the backseat of the vehicle. Angel confirmed that no moisture was found inside the vehicle and he did not believe the failure was caused by spilled liquid. Audi is now insisting that we continue to drive the car, without the issue being fixed.
Mfg Campaign: 11446264
Recall Date: Jan 4, 2022
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Potential Consequences:
The vehicle automatic emergency braking has engaged over 6 times when no vehicle or other object was in front of the vehicle. The aggressive hard braking has nearly caused rear ending accidents and has also caused a neck injury. The vehicle has been taken to the dealership to address. The dealership indicated they reduced the sensitivity/distance of the system. This has not resolved the problem, and Audi has indicated they have no other actions they can take.
Corrective Action:
The vehicle automatic emergency braking has engaged over 6 times when no vehicle or other object was in front of the vehicle. The aggressive hard braking has nearly caused rear ending accidents and has also caused a neck injury. The vehicle has been taken to the dealership to address. The dealership indicated they reduced the sensitivity/distance of the system. This has not resolved the problem, and Audi has indicated they have no other actions they can take.
Additional Notes:
The vehicle automatic emergency braking has engaged over 6 times when no vehicle or other object was in front of the vehicle. The aggressive hard braking has nearly caused rear ending accidents and has also caused a neck injury. The vehicle has been taken to the dealership to address. The dealership indicated they reduced the sensitivity/distance of the system. This has not resolved the problem, and Audi has indicated they have no other actions they can take.
Mfg Campaign: 11441634
Recall Date: Nov 24, 2021
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
STRUCTURE:BODY
Potential Consequences:
My 2021 Audi Q5e is a PHEV. There are ion-lithium batteries in this vehicle, but absolutely no markings on the body that this is a hybrid vehicle. The only marking is a small clear window sticker on the driver's side window, which is almost impossible to read. As an exvoluntiee fireman, we had extensive how to handle a fire when it involved a hybrid/electric vehicle. Audi has done enough to alert emergency personnel that the Q5e contains ion-lithium batteries. There needs to be much better badging on the Q5e indicating it is a hybrid. Audi should at least add the letter "e" to the Q5 emblem on the rear tailgate.
Corrective Action:
My 2021 Audi Q5e is a PHEV. There are ion-lithium batteries in this vehicle, but absolutely no markings on the body that this is a hybrid vehicle. The only marking is a small clear window sticker on the driver's side window, which is almost impossible to read. As an exvoluntiee fireman, we had extensive how to handle a fire when it involved a hybrid/electric vehicle. Audi has done enough to alert emergency personnel that the Q5e contains ion-lithium batteries. There needs to be much better badging on the Q5e indicating it is a hybrid. Audi should at least add the letter "e" to the Q5 emblem on the rear tailgate.
Additional Notes:
My 2021 Audi Q5e is a PHEV. There are ion-lithium batteries in this vehicle, but absolutely no markings on the body that this is a hybrid vehicle. The only marking is a small clear window sticker on the driver's side window, which is almost impossible to read. As an exvoluntiee fireman, we had extensive how to handle a fire when it involved a hybrid/electric vehicle. Audi has done enough to alert emergency personnel that the Q5e contains ion-lithium batteries. There needs to be much better badging on the Q5e indicating it is a hybrid. Audi should at least add the letter "e" to the Q5 emblem on the rear tailgate.
Mfg Campaign: 11440290
Recall Date: Nov 12, 2021
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
The incident occurred on a busy road during evening rush hour. I was in the middle lane of three lanes, and the lane to the right of me was closed due to construction. The phrase “electrical malfunction” flashed across my dashboard, there were beeping sounds, and about 5-10 later the steering froze up and the car would no longer accelerate. There were no other prior warning indications. I was unable to steer over on a side road or shoulder. I blocked traffic in the middle lane. My 1-and-a-half-year-old was in the back seat with me, and I was 35 weeks pregnant at the time. The temperature was 104 outside and my car wouldn’t start despite several trouble shooting attempts to turn it back on. The car kept beeping and flashing malfunction signals on the dashboard indicating that all the different safety functions were not functioning. The windows were inoperable as well and would randomly go up and down. The vehicle was towed to the dealership, and they determined the J533 Gateway Module needed to be replaced. This module is located underneath the back row in a tub-like recess, which had collected water, and the module had malfunctioned. It is unknown if the module is available for inspection upon request.
Corrective Action:
The incident occurred on a busy road during evening rush hour. I was in the middle lane of three lanes, and the lane to the right of me was closed due to construction. The phrase “electrical malfunction” flashed across my dashboard, there were beeping sounds, and about 5-10 later the steering froze up and the car would no longer accelerate. There were no other prior warning indications. I was unable to steer over on a side road or shoulder. I blocked traffic in the middle lane. My 1-and-a-half-year-old was in the back seat with me, and I was 35 weeks pregnant at the time. The temperature was 104 outside and my car wouldn’t start despite several trouble shooting attempts to turn it back on. The car kept beeping and flashing malfunction signals on the dashboard indicating that all the different safety functions were not functioning. The windows were inoperable as well and would randomly go up and down. The vehicle was towed to the dealership, and they determined the J533 Gateway Module needed to be replaced. This module is located underneath the back row in a tub-like recess, which had collected water, and the module had malfunctioned. It is unknown if the module is available for inspection upon request.
Additional Notes:
The incident occurred on a busy road during evening rush hour. I was in the middle lane of three lanes, and the lane to the right of me was closed due to construction. The phrase “electrical malfunction” flashed across my dashboard, there were beeping sounds, and about 5-10 later the steering froze up and the car would no longer accelerate. There were no other prior warning indications. I was unable to steer over on a side road or shoulder. I blocked traffic in the middle lane. My 1-and-a-half-year-old was in the back seat with me, and I was 35 weeks pregnant at the time. The temperature was 104 outside and my car wouldn’t start despite several trouble shooting attempts to turn it back on. The car kept beeping and flashing malfunction signals on the dashboard indicating that all the different safety functions were not functioning. The windows were inoperable as well and would randomly go up and down. The vehicle was towed to the dealership, and they determined the J533 Gateway Module needed to be replaced. This module is located underneath the back row in a tub-like recess, which had collected water, and the module had malfunctioned. It is unknown if the module is available for inspection upon request.
Mfg Campaign: 11426209
Recall Date: Jul 23, 2021
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
STEERING
Potential Consequences:
The incident occurred on a busy road during evening rush hour. I was in the middle lane of three lanes, and the lane to the right of me was closed due to construction. The phrase “electrical malfunction” flashed across my dashboard, there were beeping sounds, and about 5-10 later the steering froze up and the car would no longer accelerate. There were no other prior warning indications. I was unable to steer over on a side road or shoulder. I blocked traffic in the middle lane. My 1-and-a-half-year-old was in the back seat with me, and I was 35 weeks pregnant at the time. The temperature was 104 outside and my car wouldn’t start despite several trouble shooting attempts to turn it back on. The car kept beeping and flashing malfunction signals on the dashboard indicating that all the different safety functions were not functioning. The windows were inoperable as well and would randomly go up and down. The vehicle was towed to the dealership, and they determined the J533 Gateway Module needed to be replaced. This module is located underneath the back row in a tub-like recess, which had collected water, and the module had malfunctioned. It is unknown if the module is available for inspection upon request.
Corrective Action:
The incident occurred on a busy road during evening rush hour. I was in the middle lane of three lanes, and the lane to the right of me was closed due to construction. The phrase “electrical malfunction” flashed across my dashboard, there were beeping sounds, and about 5-10 later the steering froze up and the car would no longer accelerate. There were no other prior warning indications. I was unable to steer over on a side road or shoulder. I blocked traffic in the middle lane. My 1-and-a-half-year-old was in the back seat with me, and I was 35 weeks pregnant at the time. The temperature was 104 outside and my car wouldn’t start despite several trouble shooting attempts to turn it back on. The car kept beeping and flashing malfunction signals on the dashboard indicating that all the different safety functions were not functioning. The windows were inoperable as well and would randomly go up and down. The vehicle was towed to the dealership, and they determined the J533 Gateway Module needed to be replaced. This module is located underneath the back row in a tub-like recess, which had collected water, and the module had malfunctioned. It is unknown if the module is available for inspection upon request.
Additional Notes:
The incident occurred on a busy road during evening rush hour. I was in the middle lane of three lanes, and the lane to the right of me was closed due to construction. The phrase “electrical malfunction” flashed across my dashboard, there were beeping sounds, and about 5-10 later the steering froze up and the car would no longer accelerate. There were no other prior warning indications. I was unable to steer over on a side road or shoulder. I blocked traffic in the middle lane. My 1-and-a-half-year-old was in the back seat with me, and I was 35 weeks pregnant at the time. The temperature was 104 outside and my car wouldn’t start despite several trouble shooting attempts to turn it back on. The car kept beeping and flashing malfunction signals on the dashboard indicating that all the different safety functions were not functioning. The windows were inoperable as well and would randomly go up and down. The vehicle was towed to the dealership, and they determined the J533 Gateway Module needed to be replaced. This module is located underneath the back row in a tub-like recess, which had collected water, and the module had malfunctioned. It is unknown if the module is available for inspection upon request.
Mfg Campaign: 11426209
Recall Date: Jul 23, 2021
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
The incident occurred on a busy road during evening rush hour. I was in the middle lane of three lanes, and the lane to the right of me was closed due to construction. The phrase “electrical malfunction” flashed across my dashboard, there were beeping sounds, and about 5-10 later the steering froze up and the car would no longer accelerate. There were no other prior warning indications. I was unable to steer over on a side road or shoulder. I blocked traffic in the middle lane. My 1-and-a-half-year-old was in the back seat with me, and I was 35 weeks pregnant at the time. The temperature was 104 outside and my car wouldn’t start despite several trouble shooting attempts to turn it back on. The car kept beeping and flashing malfunction signals on the dashboard indicating that all the different safety functions were not functioning. The windows were inoperable as well and would randomly go up and down. The vehicle was towed to the dealership, and they determined the J533 Gateway Module needed to be replaced. This module is located underneath the back row in a tub-like recess, which had collected water, and the module had malfunctioned. It is unknown if the module is available for inspection upon request.
Corrective Action:
The incident occurred on a busy road during evening rush hour. I was in the middle lane of three lanes, and the lane to the right of me was closed due to construction. The phrase “electrical malfunction” flashed across my dashboard, there were beeping sounds, and about 5-10 later the steering froze up and the car would no longer accelerate. There were no other prior warning indications. I was unable to steer over on a side road or shoulder. I blocked traffic in the middle lane. My 1-and-a-half-year-old was in the back seat with me, and I was 35 weeks pregnant at the time. The temperature was 104 outside and my car wouldn’t start despite several trouble shooting attempts to turn it back on. The car kept beeping and flashing malfunction signals on the dashboard indicating that all the different safety functions were not functioning. The windows were inoperable as well and would randomly go up and down. The vehicle was towed to the dealership, and they determined the J533 Gateway Module needed to be replaced. This module is located underneath the back row in a tub-like recess, which had collected water, and the module had malfunctioned. It is unknown if the module is available for inspection upon request.
Additional Notes:
The incident occurred on a busy road during evening rush hour. I was in the middle lane of three lanes, and the lane to the right of me was closed due to construction. The phrase “electrical malfunction” flashed across my dashboard, there were beeping sounds, and about 5-10 later the steering froze up and the car would no longer accelerate. There were no other prior warning indications. I was unable to steer over on a side road or shoulder. I blocked traffic in the middle lane. My 1-and-a-half-year-old was in the back seat with me, and I was 35 weeks pregnant at the time. The temperature was 104 outside and my car wouldn’t start despite several trouble shooting attempts to turn it back on. The car kept beeping and flashing malfunction signals on the dashboard indicating that all the different safety functions were not functioning. The windows were inoperable as well and would randomly go up and down. The vehicle was towed to the dealership, and they determined the J533 Gateway Module needed to be replaced. This module is located underneath the back row in a tub-like recess, which had collected water, and the module had malfunctioned. It is unknown if the module is available for inspection upon request.
Mfg Campaign: 11426209
Recall Date: Jul 23, 2021
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
When I powered on the car, I got a message "Electrical system failure", and was unable to start the car. After multiple tries, the car started, but had the check engine light on. Had this failure happened while the car was moving, this could have been a very dangerous situation. We live in Arizona, and could have easily been stranded in the desert without cell service, creating another life threatening situation.
Corrective Action:
When I powered on the car, I got a message "Electrical system failure", and was unable to start the car. After multiple tries, the car started, but had the check engine light on. Had this failure happened while the car was moving, this could have been a very dangerous situation. We live in Arizona, and could have easily been stranded in the desert without cell service, creating another life threatening situation.
Additional Notes:
When I powered on the car, I got a message "Electrical system failure", and was unable to start the car. After multiple tries, the car started, but had the check engine light on. Had this failure happened while the car was moving, this could have been a very dangerous situation. We live in Arizona, and could have easily been stranded in the desert without cell service, creating another life threatening situation.
Mfg Campaign: 11420815
Recall Date: Jun 14, 2021
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