Volkswagen Group of America has announced a recall for the 2019 Audi E-tron Quattro due to a potentially catastrophic brake failure. The recall affected 218 vehicles in the U.S. and Canada. It stems from an improperly assembled fastener connecting the brake pedal to the brake booster. This defect could lead to a complete separation of the pedal from the booster, significantly increasing the risk of a crash.
The Problem and Investigation
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has identified the issue as a problem with the bolt connection between the input rod on the brake pedal and the actuator rod on the brake booster. A deviation in the screwdriving process at one of Audi’s suppliers resulted in the improper attachment of these components.
Audi’s Product Safety Committee was first alerted to the issue in February 2024. At that time, the company received three customer complaints about unusual brake noises and pedal reset problems. Following a thorough six-month investigation, Audi discovered the fault and promptly initiated a recall.
Safety Implications
In the event of this failure, drivers would be left with only the emergency braking system. It will drastically compromise their ability to stop the vehicle safely. This highlights the critical importance of stringent quality control measures in automotive manufacturing, particularly for safety-critical components like the braking system.
Recall Details and Next Steps
- Affected Vehicles: 2019 Audi e-tron Quattro
- Issue: Improperly assembled fastener connecting the brake pedal to the brake booster
- Solution: Free replacement of the brake booster
- Notification: Owners will be notified by mail starting October 18, 2024
Owners of affected vehicles are strongly urged to respond to the recall notice immediately. They have to schedule a service appointment with their nearest Audi dealership. Audi commits to resolving this issue promptly and ensuring the safety of its customers.
The Audi E-tron Quattro recall is a sobering reminder of the potential consequences of manufacturing defects. Audi’s swift response and proactive recall efforts demonstrate their commitment to customer safety. This incident underscores the vital importance of robust quality control processes throughout the automotive industry, particularly for components that directly impact vehicle safety.
