Australian Volkswagen recall starts

The engine recall process for Australian Volkswagen vehicles affected by the well-publicised emissions issue has commenced. Volkswagen Group Australia (VGA) has advised that 8694 Amarok utility vehicles are first in line for modification, with other models to follow in coming months.

The recall involves a software upgrade, which must be performed by a Volkswagen dealer technician and will take no more than half an hour. VGA has assured customers that the upgrade will not lead to a deterioration of fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions, engine performance, torque or vehicle acoustics. The company said that vehicle values related to type approval will remain unchanged and vehicles will continue to outperform the minimum emissions requirements of both Euro 4 and Euro 5 standards.

2.0-litre EA189 diesel engine recalls will continue throughout the year, followed by 1.6-litre vehicles. Customers should wait until they receive a letter from VGA before booking a dealer appointment. Affected vehicles can be identified by the vehicle identification number (VIN), with a full list available on the relevant brand website: www.volkswagen.com.au, www.skoda.com.au and www.volkswagen-commercial.com.au.