Component
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
Manufacturer
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
What Happened
The occupant classification system in your front passenger seat is a sensor that decides whether to deploy the air bag in the event of a crash. In some 2021-2024 Atlas and 2020-2024 Atlas Cross Sport models, the wiring for this sensor can fail, causing the air bag to turn off when someone is sitting in the passenger seat.
Risk if Unfixed
If the air bag doesn't deploy when it's supposed to, you're more likely to get hurt in a crash. This is especially serious because the air bag can help cushion the impact and reduce injury.
Free Fix
Your Volkswagen dealer will replace the faulty sensor mat and wiring harness with new ones at no cost to you. You'll get a letter from Volkswagen telling you when the repair is needed, and you should schedule it as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Atlas and 2020-2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may experience a fault in the wiring and deactivate the front passenger air bag when the seat is occupied.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
Original — Remedy
Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and wiring harness, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 30, 2024. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on October 18, 2024, December 10, 2024, December 20, 2024, and January 17, 2025. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69PZ.
View full recall details →
Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →