More Than 8,000 VW Cars Recalled in Canada Over Increased Crash Risk

A line of GTI and Jetta sedans sit at a Volkswagen dealership, March 17, 2024, in Denver, Colorado. AP Photo/David Zalubowski

Volkswagen Canada is recalling more than 8,040 vehicles across the country due to an elevated crash risk.

The recall—affecting the 2025 models of the Volkswagen Jetta and Volkswagen Taos—was prompted by a software malfunction that can lead to the instrument cluster failing to show when the vehicle is turned on, according to a notice issued on March 25 and updated by Transport Canada on April 2.

“As a result, you may not be able to see certain information about the vehicle, including the speedometer, gear selection indicators, warning lights and malfunction tell-tales,” the alert said. “Warnings, tell-tales and gauges that don’t display could increase the risk of a crash.”

Affected customers will receive a notification from the car manufacturer in the mail, instructing them to take their vehicle to a dealership for a software update, according to the notice.

Automakers are obliged to inform vehicle owners within 60 days after notifying the government about a new safety recall, even if the parts for the repair are not yet available, Volkswagen said on its website.

“Dealerships may not always be able to begin repairs within that 60-day period,” the company said. “Even if a repair is not yet available, it is important for vehicle owners to stay informed about recalls affecting their vehicles and follow any safety recommendations provided by the manufacturer.”

The recall notice did not say whether Volkswagen has the parts necessary to start fixing the instrument panels.

Volkswagen also issued a recall earlier this year due to an electrical problem in the 2026 and 2025 Jettas that could lead to overheating and pose a fire hazard.

A March 13 recall notice posted by Transport Canada said the transmission ground wire may not have been connected during production of certain vehicles, which could cause some of the cars to overheat.

“Wiring or parts that overheat can create the risk of a fire,” the advisory said, adding that affected owners would be notified by mail.

Other Recalls

Toyota, meanwhile, has issued a recall for 17,195 Lexus models due to a software issue that may cause the rearview camera to malfunction when the transmission is shifted into reverse.

The 2022-2025 models of the NX 350, the 2023-2026 models of the RX 350, and the 2024-2026 models of the TX 350 are affected by the recall, according to a notice from Transport Canada updated on April 1.

“A rearview camera image that doesn’t display could reduce a driver’s ability to see behind the vehicle while backing up,” the advisory said. “This could increase the risk of a crash.”

Toyota will also contact all affected owners by mail, the notice said. The company is offering to update or replace the rearview camera software for free at its dealerships.