Recall wrap: Audi Q3 brake lights issue

Audi Australia is recalling 2598 units of the Q3 built between June 2014 and November 2016.

The small SUV's electro-mechanical parking brake used in an emergency-stop scenario should illuminate the brake lights, but doesn't. Vehicles travelling behind may be left with reduced braking distance in that context and could even collide with the rear of the Audi. According to the importer, the root cause of the problem is software-related.

Owners are advised to contact their nearest Audi dealer for inspection and repair – a software update. Audi Australia will also contact owners of the affected Q3 by mail.

Peugeot is writing to owners of the 308 and 508 passenger cars sold in Australia between November 1, 2014 and March 31, 2017, for a problem with the starter motor that could lead to the subject vehicles catching fire.

According to the importer, a 12-Volt connection lug to the starter motor may have been fitted incorrectly and could cause a short circuit if it comes into contact with another metal component in the proximity of the lug. This could result in a fire if left unresolved.

Owners are to take their vehicles to the nearest servicing Peugeot dealer for the connection lug to be repositioned if necessary.

Volkswagen Australia has announced a recall for the Skoda Yeti and Rapid for the 2017 model year. Only 27 cars are affected by the recall and the importer is contacting the owners by mail to bring their cars to the nearest servicing dealer for inspection and repair.

The nature of the defect relates to the front seatbelt pretensioners. Gas generators may have been incorrectly crimped into the actuator pipe of the tensioner. In the event of a collision, parts of the pyrotechnic system may discharge into the cabin, placing occupants at risk of injury.