Volkswagen Recalls Tiguan SUVs, Routan Minivans

(RTTNews) - Volkswagen Group of America, Inc., a unit of German auto giant Volkswagen AG (VKW.L, VLKAY.PK, VLKAF.PK, VOW.BE) is recalling 151,389 Tiguan sport utility vehicles or SUVs due to the possibility of stalling, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or NHTSA.

Volkswagen is recalling Tiguan vehicles of model years 2009 to 2014, as in certain conditions, gas bubbles may form in the fuel system when winterized fuel with high vapor pressures is used in warmer areas or months. This could result in the vehicle stalling and increase the risk of a crash.

Volkswagen said it will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle's software to increase the fuel pump pressure, free of charge. Owners may also contact Volkswagen customer service. The recall is expected to begin August 19, 2014.

In a separate statement, Volkswagen also said it is issuing a voluntary recall of about 18,526 Routan minivans of model year 2009, citing an ignition switch problem that could affect the safe operation of the airbag system. The company has informed the NHTSA of the recall.

Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob, if applicable, should also be removed from the key ring.

The company noted that if the ignition key inadvertently moves into the 'Off' or 'Accessory' position, the engine will turn off and depower important safety systems, including air bags, power steering and power braking.

The loss of functionality of these systems may increase the risk of crash or injury. However, the company added that no accidents or injuries related to this issue have been reported.

Volkswagen will notify all owners of affected vehicles and will instruct them to arrange for an appointment with an authorized Volkswagen dealer. To fix the issue, Volkswagen will modify the ignition switch and install a WIN Module Detent Ring on all affected vehicles.

VLKAY closed Friday's trading at $44.60, up $0.35 or 0.79 percent on a volume of 127,860 shares.