Volkswagen is recalling approximately 45,500 cars and SUVs due to seat belt issues. Affected vehicles include model-year 2021 Audi A4, S4, A6, S6, RS6, A8, and S8 sedans; A6 Allroad wagons; A5, S5, RS5, A7, S7, and RS7 hatchbacks; e-tron, Q3, Q5, SQ5, Q7, SQ7, Q8. SQ8 and RSQ8 SUVs; model-year 2021-22 S3 sedans; and model-year 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 SUVs. The rear seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, preventing the child restraint system from securing properly and increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Volkswagen will begin notifying owners on Oct. 1. Owners can call Volkswagen at 800-893-5298, Audi at 800-253-2834, or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle safety hotline at 888-327-4236 to learn more.

To resolve the issue, dealers will inspect and replace the middle-rear seat belt assemblies, as necessary.

Vehicle manufacturers are legally required to repair any recalled issues or replace the defective part for free under the Highway Safety Act of 1970. If the dealership refuses to fix the problem or attempts to charge you for the repair, contact the manufacturer immediately.

Lemon Law Group Partners can assist car owners if they encounter any problems during the recall process with the manufacturer. Our attorneys deal directly with the manufacturer on the client’s behalf to quickly resolve the problem. In many cases, the attorneys get paid directly from the manufacturer so the client does not have to pay any attorneys’ fees to obtain legal counsel. For more information and a free consultation call 888-668-8581.