VW recalls close to 26,000 cars

Troubled German car maker Volkswagen has issued a recall on 25,928 cars sold in Australia. The vehicles affected were built between June 2008 and September 2011 and include the Golf hatchback, Jetta sedan, Polo hatchback, Passat sedan and wagon and the Caddy van.

The automatic “DSG” gearbox will be inspected and if needed repaired on that batch of vehicles. The recall follows two weeks of unprecedented pressure from customers demanding their cars be fixed for wide-ranging mechanical faults.

Complaints included engines that conked out, high oil use, and gearbox issues. In addition to the official recall, Volkswagen Australia will also call 4000 diesel cars back to dealerships for inspection.

News Limited understands that Volkswagen is still yet to issue a separate official recall following customer claims of sudden vehicle de-acceleration. The company says any one experiencing that fault – or any others – should contact their local Volkswagen dealer. Volkswagen Australia has set up a dedicated customer service line to answer customer queries - 1800 504 076.

News Limited understands the boss of Volkswagen Australia, John White, flew to Germany late last week to brief head office in person about the widespread concerns over Volkswagen reliability issues locally.

Motoring bodies and media outlets in Australia have received complaints about the mechanical reliability and durability of Volkswagen cars for several years. But customer concerns over engine dramas and gearbox failures gained renewed exposure following the Victorian coroner’s inquest into the death of a Golf driver in 2011. Her car was struck from behind by a truck after it appeared to slow suddenly. Volkswagen says there was no mechanical fault with the vehicle. The coroner is due to release the findings next month.