Component
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Manufacturer
VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC
What Happened
The automatic transmission in your Audi A8 has a part called the locking cable that keeps the gearshift from moving out of 'park' unless you're in the driver's seat and the key is turned to the 'on' position. Over time, this cable can move out of position.
Risk if Unfixed
If the locking cable fails, you could accidentally shift out of 'park' and the vehicle could roll away, causing an unexpected crash.
Free Fix
Your Audi dealer will add a small adjustment to the locking cable to keep it in place, ensuring the gearshift stays secure. This repair is free, and you should contact Audi to schedule it as soon as possible.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING 13,900 MY 1996-2003 AUDI A8 VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A 5-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. THE LOCKING CABLE MAY MOVE OUT OF POSITION OVER TIME. WITH THE LOCKING CABLE OUT OF POSITION, THE SHIFTER CAN BE MOVED OUT OF THE "PARK" POSITION EVEN IF THE IGNITION KEY IS NOT IN THE IGNITION LOCK.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
THIS COULD ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO ROLL, CAUSING A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL MODIFY THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION LOCKING CABLE BY INSTALLING AN ADJUSTING PIECE THAT WILL SECURE THE LOCKING CABLE IN PLACE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 12, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AUDI AT 1-800-822-2834.
View full recall details →
Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →