The problem
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 Audi A4, A5, and Q5 vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the air bag control units may corrode and fail.
The risk
If the air bag control unit fails, the air bags may not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of occupant injury.
The fix
Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag control unit, free of charge. The recall began October 2016. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69O1.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 16V-376 (16V376000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 69O1 |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Air bags |
| Report date | May 27, 2016 |
| Owners notified | October 31, 2016 |
| Vehicles affected | 8,381 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Plus 1 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the air bags
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 16V-376 repair free?
Yes. Audi dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag control unit, free of charge. The recall began October 2016. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69O1.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 8,381 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.