The problem
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Audi Q5 vehicles. The sunroof drainage system may allow water to soak into the foam surrounding the side head air bag inflator canister resulting in the corrosion of the canister. If this happens, the corrosion can weaken the canister and the inflator could fracture without air bag deployment, propelling fragments into the passenger compartment, striking and causing serious injury to vehicle occupants.
The risk
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
The fix
Audi will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the inflator and either coat it or replace it, as necessary, after removing the surrounding foam, free of charge. The recall is expected to began March 2017. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69P1.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 17V-001 (17V001000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 69P1 |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Air bags › Side/window |
| Report date | January 3, 2017 |
| Owners notified | March 3, 2017 |
| Vehicles affected | 234,057 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the air bags
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 17V-001 repair free?
Yes. Audi dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Audi will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the inflator and either coat it or replace it, as necessary, after removing the surrounding foam, free of charge. The recall is expected to began March 2017.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 234,057 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.