Volkswagen Recalls Nearly 92,000 Vehicles For Engine, Braking Issues

Already facing emission control issues in more than 11 million diesel-engine vehicles worldwide, Volkswagen announced Wednesday a new recall for tens of thousands of gasoline-powered cars equipped with engines that could weaken braking power and cause a crash. 

The voluntary recall covers approximately 91,800 model year 2015 to 2016 Jetta, Beetle, Beetle Convertible, Passat, Golf/GTI and Golf SportWagen vehicles.

According to a notice [PDF] with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the camshaft lobe that drives the brake vacuum pump in the affected cars may shear off, resulting in a loss of brake assist. If this occurs, the car would need a longer distance to stop, increasing the risk of a crash.

So far, VW says it is unaware of any accidents or injuries related to the issue.

A remedy for the recall is currently under development, but VW says it will notify owners of the by Dec. 22 and will have a fix in place by March 2016.

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