The problem
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2003 Volkswagen Passat sedan, Jetta, Jetta wagon, Golf, EuroVan, EuroVan Camper Van and EuroVan Chassis vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to explode.
The risk
In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could explode with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
The fix
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began May 2, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69X3.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 18V-406 (18V406000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 69X3 |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Air bags › Frontal › Driver side › Inflator module |
| Report date | June 13, 2018 |
| Owners notified | May 2, 2019 |
| Vehicles affected | 2,564 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the air bags
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 18V-406 repair free?
Yes. Volkswagen dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began May 2, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69X3.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 2,564 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.