VW Passat Fuel leak

2003 Volkswagen Passat Wagon 1.8T 5-speed.
Started smelling gas this morning, didn't take long to find the fuel line leaking.

Got fuel lines totally replaced with metal ones under the new recall:

Safety Recall R5

What vehicles are affected?
1999-2005 model year 5th generation Passat vehicles with (all engines except diesel).

How many vehicles are affected?
Approximately 412,000 in the United States, approximately 22,000 in Canada.

What is the problem and what can happen?
The affected vehicles with automatic transmissions may have an underbody heat shield that can become damaged. If a damaged heat shield contacts the exhaust system there is a risk of fire. Also, some affected vehicles equipped with 1.8T engines can have a fuel line that may fracture and leak. Additionally, some affected vehicles equipped with 4Motion all-wheel drive may have a fuel tank ventilation valve that may fracture and leak. Leaking fuel, in the presence of an ignition source, can result in fire. Volkswagen has not identified any reports or allegations of crash or fires resulting from this condition; however in the interest of consumer safety, Volkswagen is conducting this safety recall.

Can I drive the vehicle until it is repaired?
The vehicle can be driven until the inspection/repair is conducted. If you can smell fuel in your vehicle, customers are advised to proceed immediately to the nearest authorized Volkswagen dealer or qualified workshop if they believe that it is safe to do so in order to have the fuel system on the vehicle inspected.

What exactly will be repaired on the vehicle?
Dealers will install additional underbody heat shields on automatic transmission vehicles to cover the possibly damaged areas and flash the 1.8T engines with a precautionary software update. Additionally, Dealers will inspect the fuel line for excess tension and adjust the fuel line routing on 1.8T vehicles. Dealers will also inspect the fuel tank ventilation valve on 4Motion all-wheel drive vehicles and replace components if necessary.

How long does the repair take?
The inspection and repair will take several hours to complete; however, dealers may need additional time for the preparation of the repair, as well as to accommodate their daily workshop schedule.

Is a loaner vehicle or towing being covered under this action?
If the repair includes replacing the fuel tank or the existing heat shield, a loaner vehicle may be required and should be covered under the existing loaner vehicle policy through your FOM. Towing will be covered under certain conditions that will be described in the upcoming campaign circular.

Do I have to make an appointment?
Yes, after you receive a letter confirming that you are the owner of an affected vehicle and parts are available.

When will this repair be available?
Dealers will be notified and parts will be shipped on or about May 27, 2008. The owner notification is scheduled for May 30, 2008.

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

Tags:

• VW
• fuel
• leak
• line
• gas
• 1.8T
• wagon
• Volkswagen
• turbo
• fire
• explosion
• recall