All the talk in the automotive world lately is the Volkswagen diesel emissions scandal. The company recently admitted it falsified output of carbon emissions from diesel cars by programming engine management software in some diesel models to turn on emission controls only during testing. Once affected vehicles passed testing and returned to the roadways, they would rup up to 40 times more emissions than revealed at the test site, according to officials with the US Environmental Protection Agency. That's one dirty move.
In the aftermath of the confession, Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn stepped down and the company issued a recall of some 11 million vehicles in the US alone, with upward of $7.2 billion set aside to cover related costs. Affected models are:
- Jetta (Manufacturing year 2009 – 2015)
- Jetta Sportwagen (MY 2009-2014)
- Beetle (MY 2012 – 2015)
- Beetle Convertible (MY 2012-2015)
- Audi A3 (MY 2010 – 2015)
- Golf (MY 2010 – 2015)
- Golf Sportwagen (MY 2015)
- Passat (MY 2012-2015)
At issue are models outfitted with Type EA 189 engines. If you have that particulr engine model in your ride, you'll to have it repair and could be due monetary compensation. Just how that compensation ultimately will get to you is still being worked out, so check the company's website often or talk with your Volkswagen dealer.
The good news is that you don't have to stop driving your car, but keep in mind that the issue ultimately may cost you in fuel consumption and performance.
Do you drive an affected Volkswagen? Post your comments on the E3 Spark Plugs Facebook Fan Page.
