Volkswagen’s United States troubles are mounting as it announced a new recall for several vehicle models for an engine fault that could weaken braking and cause a crash.
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Volkswagen is recalling almost 92,000 cars in the U.S.to fix mechanical problems that can knock out the power-assisted brakes. Other models include the 2015-2016 Golf SportWagen and the 2015-2016 Passat.
In its latest report to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the company noted that the root cause of the camshaft failures has not been fully understood. No injuries have been reported due to the defect.
Effect: If the camshaft lobe shears off there would be a loss of brake assist, lengthening the distance needed to stop the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash. Volkswagen will send owners an interim notification by December 22, 2015 and will send a second notification when a remedy plan has been finalized, now expected to be in March 2016.
VW blames the problem on a high load on the cam that drives the fuel injection and vacuum pump that can cause the camshaft lobe to break off from the camshaft. The result is a vacuum loss to the brake booster, which aids in supplying brake pressure.
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However, Volkswagen is telling owners to continue driving the cars, but to report any malfunction to dealers. USA authorities reportedly could fine the Company $37,500 per vehicle, and with 482,000 vehicles as part of the investigation, the total fine could be $18 billion.
