Key Takeaway
Passenger Seat Occupant Detection System may Fail by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. was recalled on December 8, 2015. What to do: Volkswagen will notify owners, and Audi dealers will install a PODS system repair kit, free of charge. The recall began on February 5, 2016. Owners...
Passenger Seat Occupant Detection System may Fail
Description
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 Audi A6 vehicles manufactured March 28, 2011, to March 25, 2013, and 2012-2013 Audi A7 vehicles manufactured January 25, 2011, to March 19, 2013. In vehicles with heated and cooled seats, the Passenger Occupant Detection System (PODS), used to enable the front passenger air bags, may malfunction and prevent the passenger-side air bags from deploying in a crash.
Injuries / Consequence
An air bag that does not deploy as intended increases the risk of occupant injury in a crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and Audi dealers will install a PODS system repair kit, free of charge. The recall began on February 5, 2016. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 74D1.
Products Affected
Vehicle
VehiclesCompany Information
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Unknown location
View all 310 recalls by Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. →Related Recalls
High-Voltage Battery May Overheat and Cause Fire
January 22, 2026
Park Outside - High Voltage Battery May Catch Fire
January 22, 2026
Seat Belt Retractor May Fail to Secure Child Seat/FMVSS 208
December 22, 2025
Rearview Camera Image May Not Display/FMVSS 111
December 22, 2025
Front Passenger Air Bag May Not Deploy
December 11, 2025
Wheel May Detach from Vehicle
December 4, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this recall still active?
Check the status badge at the top of this page. "Ongoing" means the recall is still active and you should follow the remedy instructions. "Completed" or "Terminated" means the recall process has concluded, though the safety issue remains relevant for any unrepaired products.
How do I check if my product is affected?
Compare the model number, lot code, serial number, or date range listed in the recall notice with the information on your product's label or packaging. For vehicles, check your VIN at NHTSA.gov/Recalls.
What remedy is available for this recall?
The listed remedy for this recall is: Volkswagen will notify owners, and Audi dealers will install a PODS system repair kit, free of charge. The recall began on February 5, 2016. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-283...
Where can I find the original recall notice?
This recall was issued by NHTSA. You can view the original notice using the link provided above.