The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. If the engine backfires during a cold-start, an air screen which is loosely seated in the air flow meter can become damaged.
The risk
Screen pieces could enter the intake air flow system and prevent the throttle plate from returning to its full idle position.
The fix
Dealers will install a retaining ring to hold the air screen in place.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 98V-134 (98V134000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system |
| Report date | June 22, 1998 |
| Owners notified | August 25, 1998 |
| Vehicles affected | 19,800 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the engine & cooling
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 98V-134 repair free?
Yes. Audi dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install a retaining ring to hold the air screen in place.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 19,800 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.