The problem
On certain passenger vehicles, the left and right tie rod securing nut May be insufficiently torqued.
The risk
An insufficiently tightened tie rod nut May loosen, resulting in separation of a tie rod. This can cause a loss of steering control, which could cause a crash.
The fix
Dealers will inspect and install new left and right tie rod securing nuts at the proper torqued specification. The recall began on December 7, 2005. Owners May contact Volkswagen at 1-800-893-5298.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 05V-540 (05V540000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | M5 |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Steering › Linkages › Tie rod assembly |
| Report date | November 30, 2005 |
| Owners notified | December 7, 2005 |
| Vehicles affected | 15 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the steering
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 05V-540 repair free?
Yes. Volkswagen dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect and install new left and right tie rod securing nuts at the proper torqued specification. The recall began on December 7, 2005. Owners May contact Volkswagen at 1-800-893-5298.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 15 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.