The 2009 CC was part of a larger Passat recall in 2008 for a malfunctioning steering system that could lead to a crash without warning, said NHTSA.
In the latest recall, "some affected vehicles may have an incorrectly routed right front passenger-seatbelt buckle wiring harness, creating the potential for wires to become damaged when the seat is moved fully up or down or fore and aft," said the government watchdog. "If this wiring damage occurs, the airbag control module will switch to a fallback algorithm and deactivate the passenger's front airbag. Vehicle occupants will be made aware of this airbag deactivation when both the airbag warning light in the instrument cluster and the passenger 'off' lamp illuminate.
"In the event of a crash, the passenger's frontal airbag will not deploy and will not be able to properly protect an occupant, increasing the risk of injuries."
Volkswagen dealers will inspect and adjust the routing of the right front passenger seatbelt wiring harness. If a damaged wiring harness is found, the harness will be replaced for free. The recall is expected to begin in April. Owners can contact VW at (800) 822-8987.
Inside Line says: If you own one of the aforementioned Volkswagen CCs, have it checked out ASAP with your dealer. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent

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