Audi has recalled 4,616 plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) because their high-voltage batteries may overheat and trigger a fire.
Recalled models include the:
Audi tells the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), “In rare circumstances, the high-voltage battery modules may experience a thermal overload possibly resulting in smoke or fire.”
The company is not aware of any accidents or injuries caused by the problem, but it cites four fires outside the U.S. Audi is still investigating the cause of the problem.
In the long run, Audi says it will deploy “advanced onboard diagnostic software” that will monitor the battery and alert the driver before a problem occurs. For now, it has a two-part interim solution for owners.
Some owners have already enrolled in an online data tracking program. Audi says that program should flag problems before they develop. “If the online data indicates a critical module, the affected modules or high-voltage batteries must be replaced.”
Owners who haven’t enrolled in the system “will be instructed not to charge the vehicle from external sources or via the combustion engine until the new software becomes available.”
Recall repairs are always free.
Drivers sometimes miss recall notices, so check our recall center to see if your car has been subject to any urgent repair orders.