Volkswagen just announced a recall for 130 Passats, which include the Passat Wagon and Passat CC.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said that a capacitor that is damaged could cause the gearbox to malfunction.  This defect would most likely occur just after the car is started and after the steering wheel is moved for the first time at a low speed of less than 5 mph.

This will make the steering wheel vibrate or even shut down completely, which might cause a bad accident.  A roadside assistance program is beneficial for this reason.  You don’t want to end up stranded with no road service because of a car malfunction.

The steering gear can be replaced in affected vehicles at dealerships.  Also, car owners can call VW at 1-800-822-8987 or the safety hotline for the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236.