The problem
Defective ignition switches were improperly manufactured and can cause some electrical accessories to malfunction.
The risk
Some electrical accessories, such as, turn signals, windshield wipers, lamps, power wind0ws and air conditioners can malfunction when the car is started.
The fix
Dealers will replace the ignition switch.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 96V-017 (96V017000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Electrical system › Ignition › Switch |
| Report date | January 29, 1996 |
| Owners notified | April 23, 1996 |
| Vehicles affected | 24,000 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
- 1995 Audi 100
- 1995 Audi 90
- 1996 Audi 90
- 1995 Audi A6
- 1996 Audi A6
- 1995 Audi Cabriolet
- 1996 Audi Cabriolet
- 1995 Audi S4
- 1995 Audi S6
Plus 3 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the electrical system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 96V-017 repair free?
Yes. Audi dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the ignition switch.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 24,000 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.