Component
STEERING:COLUMN LOCKING:ANTI-THEFT DEVICE
Manufacturer
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
What Happened
The anti-theft device in your Golf or Golf Sportwagen is a mechanism that stops you from removing the key from the ignition unless the shift lever is in 'Park'. In some 2015-2018 models, this device can malfunction due to a buildup of silicate on the contacts.
Risk if Unfixed
If you remove the key while the shift lever is not in 'Park', there's a risk that your vehicle could roll away, potentially causing an injury or accident.
Free Fix
Your Volkswagen dealer will install a new switch and circuit board to fix the issue, at no cost to you. They will contact you to schedule the repair when it's time.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Volkswagen Golf and Golf Sportwagen vehicles. The build of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition while the vehicle shift lever is not in "Park." As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
Original — Risk if Unfixed
Removing the key while the shift lever is in a position other than "Park" increases the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
Original — Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional switch and circuit board, free of charge. The recall began March 19, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 37L5.
View full recall details →
Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →