Volkswagen recalls more than 271,000 SUVs for potential faulty wiring in front passenger air bag

The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport concept SUV is unveiled at the New York International Auto Show, March 28, 2018.
The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport concept SUV is unveiled at the New York International Auto Show, March 28, 2018. Photo credit Drew Angerer/Getty Images

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Volkswagen is recalling more than 271,000 SUVs in the U.S. because the front passenger air bag may not inflate in a crash.

The recall covers certain Atlas SUVs from model years 2021 through 2024, and some 2020 through 2024 Atlas Cross Sport SUVs.

Volkswagen says wiring under the front passenger seat can develop a fault. If that happens, it could deactivate the sensor that determines if a passenger is on board, disabling the air bag and increasing the risk of injury in a crash.

Volkswagen says owners should avoid use of the front passenger seat if possible until the recall repairs have been made.

Dealers will fix the problem at no cost to owners, who are expected to get letters starting in mid-August.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Drew Angerer/Getty Images