Regarding the emissions-related compliance matter that Volkswagen faces with the EPA, a lot is still unclear.  Unfortunately our dealership, just like the general public, learned of this matter on September 18th.  And the only information we have is what Volkswagen has publicly released.  Listed below are answers that Volkswagen has provided to some frequently asked questions.

The EPA has been very clear that owners of vehicles identified in this matter do not need to take action at this time. This matter does not involve a defect relating to safety.  If you have additional questions please contact Volkswagen Customer Care at (800) 822-8987.  

The official statement from Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, (now former) CEO of Volkswagen AG can be read here or you can watch the video below.  




What does Volkswagen of America have to say about these allegations?
VWoA takes what the government has said very seriously. VWoA is fully cooperating with the responsible agencies. Volkswagen has also ordered an external investigation of this matter.The trust of our customers and the public is and continues to be our most important asset. We at Volkswagen will do everything that must be done in order to re-establish the trust that so many people have placed in us, and we will do everything necessary in order to reverse the damage this has caused. This matter has first priority for the entire Board of Management.

What is Volkswagen of America doing today to resolve and address this topic?
VWoA is taking this situation very seriously. VWoA will cooperate fully with the responsible agencies and has also ordered an external investigation of this matter. Additionally, we are preparing a remedy that will reduce emissions from our vehicles. Once that remedy is ready consumers will be notified.

Does this affect all VW TDI vehicles?
The vehicles named in the investigation include:
  • VW Jetta (Model Years 2009 - 2015)
  • VW Jetta Sportwagen (Model Years 2009-2014)
  • VW Golf (Model Years 2010-2015)
  • VW Golf Sportwagen (Model Year 2015)
  • VW Beetle and VW Beetle Convertible (Model Years 2012 - 2015)
  • VW Passat (Model Years 2012-2015)
Is my vehicle safe to drive?
Yes, these vehicles are safe to drive. The topic under investigation is not safety related, but specific to the emissions output of the vehicle. When a repair is available consumers will be notified. Consumers do not need to do anything at this time.

Is it true there is a stop sale on TDIs?
Right now we have put a stop sale on all 2.0I 4-cylinder TDI vehicles (new and certified pre-owned) and we are working with government to obtain approval for the MY16 2.0I TDI vehicles, which we are convinced do not have any of the issues the government has identified in other vehicles. We are working very hard to get our 4-cylinder TDI business re-started as soon as possible.

When will the stop sale be lifted?
We are working to develop a remedy, we do not have any details at this time.

Can Volkswagen repair my vehicle today?
Reducing the emissions from our vehicles is a top priority for Volkswagen, but we don't have aspecific remedy to reduce those emissions ready yet. Please know the vehicles are safe to drive. The topic under investigation is not safety related, but specific to the emissions output of the vehicle. When a remedy to reduce emissions is in place, Volkswagen will notify the consumer. There are nonecessary actions for the consumer at this time.

How long until a repair is available?
Volkswagen is working to develop a remedy and will notify the consumer when it is available. A specific timeframe is not yet available.

What is the fix?
We are working to develop a remedy and will notify the consumer when it is available. A specific timeframe is not yet available.

Will the fix decrease fuel economy or change the performance of my vehicle?
We are working to develop a remedy; we do not have any details at this time.

Am I at risk for not passing the emissions test for my state?
We don't anticipate that customers will have any issues with state registration or inspection. If a customer does express an issue regarding state inspections, please have them reach out to Customer CARE at 800-822-8987

I no longer want to drive my TDI. Will Volkswagen of America refund my purchase price, help me into a new "compliant" TDI or provide a rental vehicle until this is resolved?
Please know the vehicle is safe to drive. The topic under investigation is not safety related, but specific to the emissions output of the vehicle. When a repair is available the consumer will be notified. The consumer does not need to take any action at this time.

I want to turn in my vehicle because I am concerned about the pollution it is causing.
VWoA is working with the EPA [CARB, if customer is in California] to determine what steps need to be taken to change the emissions control system on the vehicle. EPA has stated that vehicle owners do not need to take any action at this time. EPA has also said that these vehicles are legal to drive and resell.

I don't want to drive my vehicle anymore because it is harming my health.
EPA has stated that these vehicles do not present a safety hazard.