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 helps keep your vehicle safe by automatically locking the steering column when you take the key out of the ignition. However, in some 2015-2018 models, a buildup of tiny particles on the ignition switch might let you remove the key while the shift lever is not in 'Park'.
Risk if Unfixed
If you take the key out of the ignition while the shift lever is in a position other than 'Park', your vehicle could roll away. This could cause a crash, which might harm you or someone else.
Free Fix
Your Volkswagen dealer will add a new switch and circuit board to your vehicle, free of charge. This fix should take care of the issue, and you'll receive a notification with more information to schedule the repair.
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 →