NHTSA complaint #11723984

Owner complaint summary

The vehicle has a recurring door handle/door lock malfunction associated with Volkswagen safety recall 57J9. Symptoms include the vehicle unlocking and immediately re-locking, auto-unlock failure, and difficulty entering the vehicle. All four door handles were previously replaced under the recall (Feb 2025), but the malfunction recurred. On 01/26/2026 I delivered the vehicle to a Volkswagen dealer for recall repair; it was fully drivable at drop-off. During the recall-related software/coding procedure, the dealer reported the procedure could not be completed because the software would not accept the currently installed headlamp modules. A manufacturer Techline case was opened (SK-1561187) and the dealer reported they were advised to replace both headlamp assemblies due to part number incompatibility. After the attempted recall procedure/diagnostics, the vehicle became not drivable and has remained at the dealer continuously for over 30 business days. The manufacturer later denied warranty coverage and closed the case unless the owner pays to replace headlamps (approx. $3,887.79) in order to complete the recall procedure. The door locking/entry malfunction and inability to complete a safety recall repair creates a safety risk (potential inability to enter/exit and vehicle immobilization after recall service). The vehicle is available for inspection at the dealer.