The problem
Volkswagen is recalling certain model 2009-2012 jetta and jetta sportwagen vehicles, manufactured from May 2008 through September 2011, model year 2010-2012 Volkswagen golf vehicles, manufactured from May 2009 through September 2011, and model year 2010-2012 Audi a3 vehicles, manufactured from September 2009 through September 2011, that are equipped with a 2.0l tdi common rail diesel engine/clean diesel engine. The fuel injection pulses could coincide with the natural frequency of the injector line #2, in specific load and RPM conditions. This resonance creates additional stress in the fuel line.
The risk
Due to the resonance condition, injector line number 2 could develop small cracks which could lead to fuel leakage. Leaking fuel in the presence of an ignition source, May lead to a fire.
The fix
Volkswagen will install an improved fuel injector line for the number 2 cylinder on certain vehicles and will install vibration dampers on all of the injector lines. Volkswagen and Audi will notify owners to have the vehicles repaired free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin during November 2011. Owners May contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 11V-490 (11V490000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 23J9/V5 & 23J8/K5 |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Fuel system, diesel |
| Report date | October 3, 2011 |
| Owners notified | November 15, 2011 |
| Vehicles affected | 168,275 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the fuel & propulsion system
- 2010 Audi A3 fuel system problems 19
- 2011 Audi A3 fuel system problems 10
- 2012 Audi A3 fuel system problems 4
- 2010 Volkswagen Golf fuel system problems 32
- 2011 Volkswagen Golf fuel system problems 48
- 2012 Volkswagen Golf fuel system problems 14
- 2009 Volkswagen Jetta fuel system problems 307
- 2010 Volkswagen Jetta fuel system problems 303
- 2011 Volkswagen Jetta fuel system problems 166
- 2012 Volkswagen Jetta fuel system problems 80
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 11V-490 repair free?
Yes. Audi dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Volkswagen will install an improved fuel injector line for the number 2 cylinder on certain vehicles and will install vibration dampers on all of the injector lines. Volkswagen and Audi will notify owners to have the vehicles repaired free of charge.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 168,275 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.