Volkswagen Jetta Recalled for Risk of Fires

Volkswagen is calling back nearly 50,000 Jetta sedans, citing a transmission problem that the automaker says could lead to fires.

Loose wiring in the vehicles’ automatic transmissions could short-circuit and cause fires, the company recently told federal regulators. Volkswagen said factory workers may have inadvertently failed to connect ground wires. 

“If the ground wire is not connected, there will be an open electrical circuit,” the company said in a recall report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “An open circuit may increase the risk of excessive current draw, possibly increasing the risk of a fire.”

Volkswagen said it has already received at least seven warranty claims related to the issue. At least three of those claims involved engine compartment fires, according to Volkswagen.

The recall covers certain 2025 and 2026 Jetta sedans built between March 2025 and February 2026. Volkswagen said it planned to notify owners of recalled vehicles by May 8. Owners can also check the NHTSA website to see if their cars are covered by the recall.

Volkswagen wants owners of recalled cars to bring their vehicles to authorized service providers for inspection and possible repair. “At no cost to owners, the affected transmission ground wire will be inspected and, if necessary, repaired,” the automaker said.

The move comes on the heels of another fire-related recall for Volkswagen. The company in February said it was recalling some 700 ID.4 sport utility vehicles due to defective battery cells. Volkswagen warned owners to park outside until their cars are repaired to avoid fires that start in cars and potentially spread to houses and other structures. 

California Lemon Law Rights for Volkswagen Drivers

These situations are all too familiar. Major car manufacturers recall millions of vehicles every year, often due to serious defects that increase the risk of accidents and injuries.

That is where the California lemon law comes in. Car owners in the Golden State do not have to wait around for recalls to get malfunctioning vehicles fixed.

The lemon law, known formally as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, requires automakers to perform a full range of repairs on cars while they are under warranty. It also forces companies to buy back (or, in some cases, replace) vehicles they are unable to, or simply decline to, fix. 

The buyback requirement includes compensating the owner for any down payment on the car, as well as for monthly loan payments and the outstanding loan balance. The manufacturer is also responsible for towing, rental car, and other related expenses. 

There is no specific number of repair requests or attempts required before the buyback or replace requirement kicks in. An experienced California lemon law attorney can help you understand your rights and take action.

Talk with a Los Angeles Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a Los Angeles lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a Los Angeles lemon law attorney.