Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) has approved Volkswagen‘s proposed modifications to vehicles with the 1.2-litre EA189 TDI diesel engine.
The KBA approval applies to 460,000 group brand vehicles, including the Volkswagen Polo and Seat Ibiza models which will get a software update. VW said it was contacting owners to schedule workshop service.
In Germany customers are being informed in a two-stage process. In stage one, all of the owners concerned have already been notified through a letter agreed with the KBA that their vehicle is affected by the modification programme. In a second letter, customers then get asked to make an appointment with a dealer.
Modifications to vehicles with two-litre TDI engines began at the start of the year.
“Following the modification the vehicles fulfil all statutory requirements,” VW said in a statement. “The KBA has also confirmed without any restrictions that the technical solutions for these models cause no changes to fuel consumption levels, performance data or noise emissions. The KBA had previously already affirmed this for all other vehicles approved to date for the recall.”
As part of the recall process all customers are offered replacement transport free of charge.
“The affected vehicles are technically safe and fit to drive. Between now and their modification, they can continue to be used on the road without any restrictions. The required technical solutions are being implemented across Europe based on a schedule and action plan agreed with the KBA,” VW added.
