Audi issued a large-scale recall for its Q7 SUVs to fix a problem that could potentially cause head injuries in the event of a crash.
The problem is believed to be associated with the C-pillar’s internal padding, the roof support structure located just behind the rear door on either side of the vehicle. Audi fears that rear passengers who are not buckled up may be at risk of suffering head injuries if the padding does not absorb enough impact force in the event of a crash. Thankfully, no cases of severe injury due to the defect have been reported so far.
The recall affects 94,144 SUVs built between July 24th, 2017, and March 5th, 2020. The German manufacturer has clarified that Q7s built from April 2020 have been fitted with better parts, either at the factory or at the dealers.
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The defect was discovered during routine testing for mandatory head injury prevention requirements as per federal safety regulations. While testing, the Head Injury Criterion (HIC) measured at 1,007, exceeding the maximum permissible HIC by 7 points.
Audi realized that a thorough analysis of the defect would take a long time, so in the interest of passenger safety, it decided to go ahead with the recall “out of an abundance of caution.”
To fix the defect, Audi will notify owners of affected vehicles and replace the potentially faulty elements on both pillars with ones that meet specifications. The recall is scheduled to begin on December 23rd, 2020, and all repair work will be carried out free of charge, of course.
Q7 owners can wait for an official notification from Audi or contact Audi’s customer service at 1-800-253-2834 and refer to 70H8, Audi’s number for this recall. In the meantime, owners are requested to drive safely and make sure all occupants are wearing seatbelts.
Source: AutoNews
