The problem
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen e-Golf and Golf R vehicles, and Audi A3 Sedan and RS3 vehicles. The rear seat frame head restraint guide sleeves may be incorrectly welded to the seat frame.
The risk
If the guide sleeves are incorrectly welded, in the event of a crash, the rear seat head restraints may have reduced stability, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix
Volkswagen and Audi will notify their owners, and dealers will inspect the guide sleeves for incorrect welds, replacing the rear seat frame, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 28, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 72H8 (VW) and 72H9(Audi).
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 18V-803 (18V803000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | VW 72H8 / Audi 72H9 |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Seats › Mid/rear assembly |
| Report date | November 14, 2018 |
| Owners notified | December 28, 2018 |
| Vehicles affected | 169 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Plus 1 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the seats
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 18V-803 repair free?
Yes. Audi dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Volkswagen and Audi will notify their owners, and dealers will inspect the guide sleeves for incorrect welds, replacing the rear seat frame, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 28, 2018.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 169 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.