Volkswagen Group’s Audi and Porsche brands are recalling more than 62,000 vehicles in the U.S. due to separate software-related issues that pose safety risks, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Audi is recalling 44,387 vehicles from the 2021 model year over a software defect that may cause the instrument panel—known as the virtual cockpit—to shut down unexpectedly. The issue could result in the loss of critical safety information such as speed, warning lights, and other vital data.
“An instrument panel display that fails to show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, increases the risk of a crash,” the NHTSA said in its recall notice. The affected models include the Audi A6, A6 Allroad, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, RS 6 Avant, RS 7, RS Q8, S6, S7, S8, SQ7, and SQ8. Audi dealers will update the instrument panel software free of charge, and owners will begin receiving notification letters by May 30.
Separately, Porsche is recalling 8,571 Macan electric vehicles from model years 2024 and 2025 due to a faulty rear-view camera that may display a blurry image or fail to activate, violating federal rear-visibility standards. All affected vehicles are believed to have the defect. Dealers will update the control unit software and replace the camera if needed. Notifications will be sent to owners by June 6.
In another action, Porsche is also recalling 9,735 Taycan vehicles from the 2022–2023 model years. A system error could deactivate the front passenger airbag due to an issue with the seat cushion. Approximately 3% of the vehicles are estimated to be affected. Dealers will replace the front passenger seat cushion at no cost to owners, who will be notified by June 6.
The recalls add to the growing list of safety-related software concerns across the auto industry as digital features become more embedded in vehicle operations.
