The problem
Vw is recalling 130 my 2009 passat, passat wagon, and passat cc vehicles. Some vehicles May have an electromechanical steering gear control unit that can malfunction due to a damaged capacitor. If this malfunction occurs, the driver's steering input is not properly processed by the system and the vehicle May not respond as the driver intends. This defect can only occur immediately after vehicle start-up when the steering wheel is moved for the first time and at speeds less than 5 MPH.
The risk
Driver attempts to overcome the system during malfunction will cause (1) vibrations in the steering wheel; (2) the steering system motor to turn off; (3) the red steering system malfunction indicator light to illuminate; and (4) audible warnings to chime. A malfunctioning steering system could lead to a crash without warning.
The fix
Dealers will replace the steering gear in the affected vehicles. The recall began on December 5, 2008. Owners May contact vw at 1-800-822-8987.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 08V-577 (08V577000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 48J1/P3 |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Steering › Gear box (other than rack and pinion) |
| Report date | November 3, 2008 |
| Owners notified | December 5, 2008 |
| Vehicles affected | 130 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the steering
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 08V-577 repair free?
Yes. Volkswagen dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the steering gear in the affected vehicles. The recall began on December 5, 2008. Owners May contact vw at 1-800-822-8987.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 130 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.