Corrosion can break a Volkswagen and Audi steering rack bolt
Volkswagen Group of America is recalling 208,724 vehicles because moisture can corrode the right-side bolt that mounts the steering rack to the subframe, according to the Part 573 report. The recall covers the 2018–2019 Volkswagen Atlas, 2018 Tiguan, and 2019–2021 Audi Q3.
If the bolt head fractures, the rack is held to the subframe at a single point. Continued loading could then crack the rack housing, most likely during parking or low-speed maneuvers, and cause a loss of steering. The remedy replaces the bolt with one carrying a corrosion-resistant polymer coating under NHTSA campaign 26V590 (Volkswagen 48LG and 48VT), with owner letters mailing Nov. 10.
Loose pivot bolts can let Jeep Wagoneer roof crossbars detach
FCA US LLC is recalling 97,349 Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer SUVs whose roof crossbar pivot bolts may be insufficiently torqued, according to its recall report. A crossbar that detaches can create a road hazard. The campaign covers 2022–2026 Grand Wagoneer, 2023–2026 Grand Wagoneer L, 2022–2025 Wagoneer, and 2023–2025 Wagoneer L models.
The remedy repairs the pivot joints with redesigned bolts under Chrysler recall 81D, and interim owner letters mail Oct. 8–9. FCA US reported 15 warranty claims across all markets and no injuries.
Three small Ford recalls involve an airbag vent, axle bearings, and suspension fasteners
Ford Motor Co. is recalling seven 2026 Explorer SUVs because the passenger airbag's active vent may not open when the airbag deploys, according to the Part 573 report. If the vent stays closed, cushion pressure drops more slowly than designed, increasing the risk of occupant injury. Dealers will replace the passenger airbag module under campaign 26V581 (Ford 26S65), and owner letters mail Sept. 25.
Ford is also recalling 37 F-150s from the 2026 model year with the max tow package that were built with incorrect rear axle tail bearings, according to a separate filing. Those bearings may seize after extended service and lock the rear wheels or separate the driveshaft, and dealers will replace them under campaign 26V576 (Ford 26S63). A third campaign, 26V577 (Ford 26S66), replaces the Panhard rod fasteners on 17 Raptor-package F-150s because the originals may be undertorqued and could loosen, letting the rod shift and changing handling.
