(Reuters) – Volkswagen is recalling more than 271,000 vehicles in the United States over a potential wiring fault that could disable front passenger airbags when the seat is occupied, U.S. auto safety regulators said on Wednesday.
The recall affects certain German automaker Atlas (NYSE:) 2021-2024 Atlas and 2020-2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles, where the Occupant Occupant Detection System (PODS) may have a wiring fault and affect the front passenger airbags.
The Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport are among the automaker’s best-selling vehicles in the United States.
Volkswagen (ETR:) will notify all owners of affected vehicles by August 16, the company said in an emailed statement to Reuters.
“Once the parts are ready, Volkswagen dealers will replace the PODS touch mat and wiring harness with improved parts free of charge,” Volkswagen added.
Until the recall repair is completed, the regulator has advised owners of affected vehicles to avoid using the front passenger seat if possible.
The problem also affects nearly 36,000 vehicles in Canada, according to a memo sent by Volkswagen to its dealers and included with NHTSA’s recall notice.
Earlier this year, Volkswagen announced a recall of more than 261,000 vehicles in the United States due to an issue with the jet pump seal inside the fuel tank.