Recall campaign

Recall 21V198000: Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger

Official campaign-level recall information with affected vehicle links and a VIN-first buyer check.

NHTSA recall 21V198000 data summary graphic
21V198000campaign
12affected model pages
22/03/2021recall date

Reviewed June 2026 from NHTSA recall campaign records. Carchieve is independent and not affiliated with any vehicle manufacturer or government agency.

Recall summary

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Audi S3 Sedan, A3 Sedan, 2016-2018 A3 Etron, 2017-2020 RS3 Sedan, and 2015-2019 A3 Cabriolet vehicles. The passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may malfunction and switch off the passenger air bag even when the seat is occupied.

Safety risk

A deactivated passenger air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.

Recall remedy

Dealers will replace the PODS sensor mat and update the PODS control module, free of charge. Owners letters were mailed December 23, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 69BY.

Frequently asked questions

What is recall campaign 21V198000?

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Audi S3 Sedan, A3 Sedan, 2016-2018 A3 Etron, 2017-2020 RS3 Sedan, and 2015-2019 A3 Cabriolet vehicles. The passenger occupant detection system (PODS) may malfunction and switch off the passenger air bag even when the seat is occupied.

How do I know if this recall applies to my car?

Use the exact 17-character VIN. A campaign can affect only certain production ranges, trims or equipment configurations.

Are recall repairs free?

Safety recall remedies are generally performed by franchised dealers at no charge when the exact VIN is affected and the remedy is available.

Check the exact VIN before you buy

Model-level pages show public safety patterns. A full VIN report helps confirm the exact vehicle, decoded specs, recall applicability and buyer checks.

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