Safety Recall Code: 40Q7 – Steering Knuckle(s) – 2021 Volkswagen Atlas & 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport

SEOCONTENT-START

TOPIC TYPE
RECALL
CODE QUESTION ANSWER
Safety
Recall
40Q7
Safety
Recall 40Q7
What vehicles are
included in Safety
Recall 40Q7?
What is the safety
concern for Safety
Recall 40Q7?
A front steering knuckle may fracture in
the area of the strut mounting. A
steering knuckle that fails while driving
may lead to a loss of vehicle control
without warning, which can increase
the risk of a crash.
What is the repair
for Safety Recall
40Q7?
To identify/correct this defect, your
authorized Volkswagen dealer will
inspect and, if necessary, replace the
steering knuckle(s). The inspection will
take up to two hours. Replacement, if
necessary, may take up to half a day to
complete and will be performed for you
free of charge. Please keep in mind
that your dealer may need additional
time for the preparation of the repair, as
well as to accommodate their daily
workshop schedule.
When will the
repair for Safety
Recall 40Q7 be
available?
Parts are available now and repairs
have begun. Please contact your
authorized Volkswagen dealer without
delay to schedule this recall repair. To
set up an appointment online, please
visit www.vw.com/find-a-dealer.

******************************************************************************************************************

NAME
Title
Department
Phone
Fax
Date
Dear Mr. Owens:
Volkswagen hereby submits the following chronology associated with the subject recall.
Chronology of Defect
October 03, 2020: Supplier Thyssen-Krupp informs Chattanooga about two (2) parts which failed in succession during tightening in the area of the strut mount. Chattanooga begins daily emergency meetings, analysis started.
October 5-9, 2020: Investigation shows that the Versatec parts have been produced without the necessary engineering release and that the failed part is out of specification with regards to the machining in the failed area. Several tests are performed in order to duplicate the failure, without success. Crack inspection, material strength, and durability tests are also initiated on parts produced in the same lot and timeframe as the failed parts, in order to determine if the parts pose a risk to customers in possession of vehicles produced with the parts. Identification of potentially affected vehicles started.
October 06-26, 2020: Ongoing investigation, durability tests continue.
October 27, 2020: Yard vehicle inspection and test drive initiated in order to understand behaviour of potential mis-build parts.
November 02, 2020: During the inspection a fractured part is found with Julian Date (JD) 253. Determining the full scope of potentially affected vehicles started and determining which vehicles may be equipped with parts from JD253.
November 11, 2020: Topic was presented to Volkswagen Product Safety committee. Volkswagen decided to recall all vehicles that may have received parts out of the production batch “JD253”.
November 2020 – January 2021: Further investigation revealed an additional failure that had occurred previously (inconsistencies in the material properties of JD254). Two batches (JD253 and JD254) were affected by this failure. Parts with casting date JD254 are affected by this failure; however, certain parts from JD253 that were machined together with the JD254 parts are also affected due to the extreme machine tooling wear caused by the JD254 parts. This resulted in machining of some parts with JD253 that was out of specification.
James C. Owens, Acting Administrator
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.
Washington, DC 20590
Subject: Chronology for Volkswagen Recall 40Q7
Steering Knuckle
Christopher T. Sandvig
Director
Group Customer Protection
248-754-5000
248-754-5093
January 27, 2021
The sub-supplier incorrectly believed that all JD254 parts had been successfully quarantined; however, it was later determined that not all parts had been quarantined, and that parts from JD254 have been found on vehicles. Identification of potentially affected vehicles started and risk evaluation initiated.
Ongoing analysis conducted to better understand failure mode and evaluate potential consequences. Durability testing of a pre-cracked part (JD254) with 5 times the minimum required amount of load cycles (according to VW specification) showed no failure.
January 20, 2021: New findings were presented to Volkswagen Product Safety committee. Volkswagen decided to also recall all vehicles that may have received parts from production batch “JD254” in addition to the previous decision to recall production batch JD253 [VW Recall 40Q6].
Please contact me if you require any additional information or have any questions related to this information.
Sincerely,
Christopher T. Sandvig
Director, Group Customer Protection
Group Quality

******************************************************************************************************************

TOPIC TYPE
RECALL
CODE QUESTION ANSWER
Safety
Recall
40Q7
Safety
Recall 40Q7
What
vehicles are
included in
Safety
Recall
40Q7?
What is the
safety
concern for
Safety
Recall
40Q7?
A front steering knuckle may fracture in the area
of the strut mounting. A steering knuckle that
fails while driving may lead to a loss of vehicle
control without warning, which can increase the
risk of a crash.
What is the
repair for
Safety
Recall
40Q7?
To identify/correct this defect, your authorized
Volkswagen dealer will inspect and, if
necessary, replace the steering knuckle(s). The
inspection will take up to two hours.
Replacement, if necessary, may take up to half
a day to complete and will be performed for you
free of charge. Please keep in mind that your
dealer may need additional time for the
preparation of the repair, as well as to
accommodate their daily workshop schedule.
When will
the repair for
Safety
Recall 40Q7
be
available?
Parts are available now and repairs have begun.
Please contact your authorized Volkswagen
dealer without delay to schedule this recall
repair. To set up an appointment online, please
visit www.vw.com/find-a-dealer.

******************************************************************************************************************

The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 1 of 25
Safety Recall
Code: 40Q7 REVISION
Subject Steering Knuckle(s)
Release Date June 10, 2021
REVISION SUMMARY Steering knuckles/housings are no longer on techline block. Parts information and
work instructions have been updated.
Affected Vehicles
Country
Beginning
Model
Year
Ending
Model
Year
Vehicle Vehicle
Count
USA 2021 2021 ATLAS 6,741
USA 2020 2021 ATLAS CROSS SPORT 3,502
CAN 2021 2021 ATLAS 154
CAN 2020 2021 ATLAS CROSS SPORT 210
Check Campaigns/Actions screen in ELSA on the day of repair to verify that a VIN qualifies for repair
under this action. ELSA is the only valid campaign inquiry & verification source.
 Campaign status must show “open.”
 If ELSA shows other open action(s), inform your customer so that the work can also be
completed at the same time the vehicle is in the workshop for this campaign.
Problem Description A front steering knuckle may fracture in the area of the strut mounting. A steering knuckle
that fails while driving may lead to a loss of vehicle control without warning, which can
increase the risk of a crash
Corrective Action Inspect and, if necessary, replaced the steering knuckle(s).
Code Visibility On or about February 05, 2021, the campaign code was applied to affected vehicles.
Owner Notification Owner notification took place in February 2021. Owner letter examples are included in this
bulletin for your reference.
Additional Information Please alert everyone in your dealership about this action, including Sales, Service,
Parts and Accounting personnel. Contact Warranty if you have any questions.
IMPORTANT REMINDER ON VEHICLES AFFECTED BY SAFETY & COMPLIANCE RECALLS
New Vehicles in Dealer Inventory: It is a violation of federal law for a dealer to deliver a
new motor vehicle or any new or used item of motor vehicle equipment (including a tire)
covered by this notification under a sale or lease until the defect or noncompliance is
remedied. By law, dealers must correct, prior to delivery for sale or lease, any vehicle
that fails to comply with an applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard or that
contains a defect relating to motor vehicle safety.
Pre-Owned Vehicles in Dealer Inventory: Dealers should not deliver any pre-owned
vehicles in their inventory which are involved in a safety or compliance recall until the
defect has been remedied.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 2 of 25
Dealers must ensure that every affected inventory vehicle has this campaign completed
before delivery to consumers.
Fill out and affix Campaign Completion Label (CAMP 010 000) after work is complete.
Labels can be ordered at no cost via the Compliance Label Ordering portal at
www.vwhub.com.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 3 of 25
Parts Information (if necessary)
Parts Control Type:
Free Order
Parts will be managed by Free Order
Initial Allocation:
NO
There will be no parts allocation. Please reference the Repair Projection Tool (below)
to view your potential VIN population.
Repair Projection Tool:
(right click to open)
Criteria Quantity Part Number P.O.C. Part Description
Ordering Method
(see descriptions
above)
01
Up to 1
3QF-407-255-E Housing (steering knuckle – left)
-OR- Free Order
3QF-498-998* Steering knuckle assembly – left
Up to 1
3QF-407-256-E Housing (steering knuckle – right)
-OR- Free Order
3QF-498-998-A* Steering knuckle assembly – right
*Note: Assembly part numbers have the wheel bearing and ball joint already installed.
 Bearing (3QF-598-625) would NOT be required.
 One Nut (N 909-429-02) would NOT be required
 Axle bolt (WHT-005-437-A) IS required
Up to 2 3QF-598-625* Bearing Free Order
Up to 2 N -101-064-02 Nut Free Order
Up to 2 N -102-058-02 Nut Free Order
Up to 4 N -909-429-02* Nut Free Order
Up to 2 N -909-548-02 Bolt Free Order
Up to 6 N -912-332-01 Hex Nut Free Order
Up to 2 WHT-005-437-A*
12POINT S (axle bolt)
Use ONLY if installing a steering knuckle
assembly (3QF-498-998 or 3QF-498-998-A)
Free Order
NOTE
The specified part numbers reflect the status at the start of this service action. Interim updates made in ETKA can
cause a listed part number to become unavailable. In this case, the new part number specified in ETKA should be
used.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 4 of 25
Claim Entry Instructions
The labor times listed here may differ from the labor operations and labor times listed in ELSA.
After campaign has been completed, enter claim as soon as possible to help prevent work from being duplicated
elsewhere. Attach the ELSA screen print showing action open on the day of repair to the repair order.
If customer refused campaign work:
 U.S. dealers: Submit request via WISE under the Campaigns/Update/Recall Closure option.
 Canada dealers: Upload the repair order [signed by customer] to Volkswagen WIN/Operations/Campaign
Closure.
Service Number 40Q7
Damage Code 0099
Parts Vendor Code WWO
Claim Type Sold vehicle: 7 10
Unsold vehicle: 7 90
Causal Indicator Mark labor as causal
Vehicle Wash/Loaner Do not claim wash/loaner under this action
U.S.A.: Loaner/rental coverage cannot be claimed under this action. However,
loaner/rental may be covered under the Alternate Transportation Program. Please refer
to the Volkswagen Warranty Policy and Procedures Manual for loaner claims information
and reimbursement details.
Canada: Loaner/rental coverage cannot be claimed under this action. Please refer to t
Volkswagen Service Loaner Program to determine loaner eligibility.
Criteria I.D. 01
Inspect left and right steering knuckles, no further work required
LABOR
Labor Op Time Units Description
0183 00 99 90 Inspect left and right steering knuckles
Continued on next page
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 5 of 25
-OR- Inspect left and right steering knuckles, one steering knuckle requires replacement
LABOR
Labor Op Time Units Description
4050 55 99 230 Replace one steering knuckle
4495 03 99 100 Vehicle alignment front + rear measure
ADD as needed:
4488 15 99 20 Front wheel track adjust
4493 15 99 20 Rear wheel track adjust
4494 15 99 20 Rear wheel camber adjust
PARTS
Quantity Part Number Description
1.00
3QF407255E
or
3QF407256E
Housing (steering knuckle)
-Or-
1.00
3QF498998
or
3QF498998A
Steering knuckle assembly with bearing
-And-
1.00 3QF598625
Bearing
(claim ONLY if Housing 3QF407255E or
3QF407256E is installed)
1.00 N 10106402 Shouldered Hex. Nut, Self-Locking
1.00 N 10205802 Shouldered Hex. Nut, Self-Locking
2.00 N 90942902
Hex. Nut, Self-Locking
(claim ONLY one if Housing 3QF407255E or
3QF407256E is installed)
1.00 N 90954802 Oval Hexagon Socket Head Bolt
3.00 N 91233201 Hex. Nut
1.00 WHT005437A
12Point S (axle bolt)
(claim ONLY if steering knuckle assembly
3QF498998 or 3QF498998A is installed)
Continued on next page
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 6 of 25
-OR- Inspect left and right steering knuckles, both steering knuckles require replacement
LABOR
Labor Op Time Units Description
4050 56 99 380 Replace left and right steering knuckles
4495 03 99 100 Vehicle alignment front + rear measure
ADD as needed:
4488 15 99 20 Front wheel track adjust
4493 15 99 20 Rear wheel track adjust
4494 15 99 20 Rear wheel camber adjust
PARTS
Quantity Part Number Description
1.00
3QF407255E
or
3QF498998
Housing (left)
or
Steering knuckle assembly with bearing (left)
1.00
3QF407256E
or
3QF498998A
Housing (right)
or
Steering knuckle assembly with bearing (right)
-And-
Up to 2.00 3QF598625
Bearing
(claim ONLY if Housing 3QF407255E or
3QF407256E is installed)
2.00 N 10106402 Shouldered Hex. Nut, Self-Locking
2.00 N 10205802 Shouldered Hex. Nut, Self-Locking
4.00 N 90942902
Hex. Nut, Self-Locking
(claim ONLY two if Housing 3QF407255E
and 3QF407256E is installed)
2.00 N 90954802 Oval Hexagon Socket Head Bolt
6.00 N 91233201 Hex. Nut
Up to 2.00 WHT005437A
12Point S (axle bolt)
(claim ONLY if steering knuckle assembly
3QF498998 or 3QF498998A is installed)
-AND- ONLY IF REAR
AXLE TOE REQUIRES
ADJUSTMENT
Add as needed depending on vehicle equipment and only if vehicle requires driver assist
calibration
LABOR
Labor Op Time Units Description
9163 15 99 40 Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) System Adjust
9638 15 99 50 Camera Driver Assist System Adjust
0150 00 50 Time stated on
diagnostic protocol GFF operations
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 7 of 25
Customer Letter Example (USA)

This notice applies to your vehicle: ,
NHTSA: 21V026
Subject: Safety Recall 40Q7 –Steering Knuckle(s)
Dear Volkswagen Owner,
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Volkswagen has
decided that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2020-2021 model year Volkswagen
vehicles. Our records show that you are the owner of a vehicle affected by this action.
What is the issue? A front steering knuckle may fracture in the area of the strut mounting. A steering
knuckle that fails while driving may lead to a loss of vehicle control without warning,
which can increase the risk of a crash
What will we do? To identify/correct this defect, your authorized Volkswagen dealer will inspect and, if
necessary, replace the steering knuckle(s). The inspection will take up to two hours.
Replacement, if necessary, may take up to half a day to complete and will be performed
for you free of charge. Please keep in mind that your dealer may need additional time
for the preparation of the repair, as well as to accommodate their daily workshop
schedule.
What should you do? Please contact your authorized Volkswagen dealer without delay to schedule this
recall repair. To set up an appointment online, please visit www.vw.com/find-a-dealer.
Lease vehicles and
address changes
If you are the lessor and registered owner of the vehicle identified in this action, the law
requires you to forward this letter immediately via first-class mail to the lessee within ten
(10) days of receipt. If you have changed your address or sold the vehicle, please fill
out the enclosed prepaid Owner Reply card and mail it to us so we can update our
records.
Can we assist you
further?
If your authorized Volkswagen dealer fails or is unable to complete this work free of
charge within a reasonable time, or if you should have any questions about this
communication, please reach out to us using your preferred method of communication
at www.vw.com/contact or by calling us at 800-893-5298.
Checking your vehicle
for open Recalls and
Service Campaigns
To check your vehicle’s eligibility for repair under this or any other recall/service
campaign, please visit www.vw.com/owners/recalls and enter your Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN) into the Recall/Service Campaign Lookup tool.
If you still cannot obtain satisfaction, you may file a complaint with: The Administrator, National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590; or call the toll-free Vehicle Safety
Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to https://www.safercar.gov.
We apologize for any inconvenience this matter may cause; however we are taking this action to help ensure your
safety and continued satisfaction with your vehicle.
Sincerely,
Volkswagen Customer Protection
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 8 of 25
Customer
Customer Letter Example (Canada)
Example (USA)

This notice applies to your vehicle: ,
Transport Canada Recall: 20210132
Subject: Safety Recall 40Q7 –Steering Knuckle(s)
Dear Volkswagen Owner,
This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. This is to inform you
that your vehicle may contain a defect that could affect the safety of a person. Our records show that you are the
owner of a vehicle affected by this action.
What is the issue? A front steering knuckle may fracture in the area of the strut mounting. A steering
knuckle that fails while driving may lead to a loss of vehicle control without warning,
which can increase the risk of a crash
What will we do? To identify/correct this defect, your authorized Volkswagen dealer will inspect and, if
necessary, replace the steering knuckle(s). The inspection will take up to two hours.
Replacement, if necessary, may take up to half a day to complete and will be performed
for you free of charge. Please keep in mind that your dealer may need additional time
for the preparation of the repair, as well as to accommodate their daily workshop
schedule.
What should you do? Please contact your authorized Volkswagen dealer without delay to schedule this recall
repair.
Lease vehicles and
address changes
If you are the lessor and registered owner of the vehicle identified in this letter, you
shall forward this letter (and any subsequent notice, if applicable) to the lessee within
ten (10) days of receipt. If you have changed your address or sold the vehicle identified
in this letter, please fill out the enclosed prepaid Owner Reply Card and mail it to us so
we can update our records.
Can we assist you
further?
If your authorized Volkswagen dealer fails or is unable to complete this work free of
charge within a reasonable time, please contact Customer Relations, Monday through
Friday from 8AM to 8PM EST by phone at 1-800-822-8987 or via our “Contact Us” page
at www.vw.ca.
We apologize for any inconvenience this matter may cause; however we are taking this action to help ensure your
safety and continued satisfaction with your vehicle.
Sincerely,
Volkswagen Customer Protection
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 9 of 25
Repair Overview
 Inspect left front and right front wheel bearing
housings and replace if necessary.
NOTE
 These repair instructions may differ from the labor operations and labor times listed in ELSA.
 Damages resulting from improper repair or failure to follow these work instructions are the dealer’s
responsibility and are not eligible for reimbursement under this action.
 This procedure must be read in its entirety prior to performing the repair.
 Due to variations in vehicle equipment and options, the steps/illustrations in this work procedure may not
identically match all affected vehicles.
 Diagnosis and repair of pre-existing conditions in the vehicle are not covered under this action.
 When working during extreme temperatures, it is recommended that the vehicle be allowed to acclimate
inside the shop to avoid temperature-related component damage/breakage.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 10 of 25
Required Tools (if necessary)
Puller – Ball Joint
-3287ASpreader
Tool
-3424-
Puller – Ball Joint
-T10187-
Drive Shaft Remover Kit
-T10520AEngine
and Gearbox Jack
-VAS6931-
(or equivalent)
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 11 of 25
Repair Instruction
Section A – Check for Previous Repair
TIP
If Campaign Completion label is present, no further work is required.
 Enter the VIN in Elsa and proceed to the
“Campaign/Action” screen.
TIP
On the date of repair, print this screen and keep a
copy with the repair order.
 Confirm the Campaign/Action is open . If the status is closed, no further work is
required.
 Note the Applicable Criteria ID for
use in determining the correct work to be done
and corresponding parts associated.
CRITICAL REPAIR STEP
STOP!
If multiple software update Campaign/Actions are
open, they must be performed in order of the Start
date . The oldest should be performed
first.
 All Safety Recalls must be completed prior
to completing this campaign.
 Proceed to Section B.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 12 of 25
Section B – Wheel Bearing Housing Inspection
NOTE
 Both front wheel bearing housings must be inspected.
 The following describes the inspection procedures for one side of the vehicle. Inspection on the opposite side is
similar.
 There are two inspection steps that must be
performed on both front wheel bearing
housings.
1. Wheel bearing housing casting date.
2. Wheel bearing housing casting date
AND machining code.
 Remove front wheels.
 Remove bolts <1> from the brake caliper
carrier <2>.
 Remove brake caliper carrier <2> and secure
it using wire to prevent damage to the brake
hose.
 Remove bolt <3> and brake rotor <4>.
 Remove bolts <5> and backing plate <6>.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 13 of 25
 Inspect both front wheel bearing housings.
 Locate the wheel bearing housing casting date
(Fig. 1).
 If the casting date is 254:
o THE VEHICLE MUST NOT BE
RETURNED TO THE CUSTOMER
OR DRIVEN!!
o The affected wheel bearing housing
must be replaced.
o Proceed to Section C.
NOTE
The casting date may be preceded by the letters
“JD”.
 Inspect both front wheel bearing housings.
 Locate the production stamping on the wheel
bearing housing (Fig. 2).
 If the casting date is 253 (Fig. 1) AND the
machining code VT is present (Fig. 2):
o THE VEHICLE MUST NOT BE
RETURNED TO THE CUSTOMER
OR DRIVEN!!
o The affected wheel bearing housing
must be replaced.
o Proceed to Section C.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 14 of 25
 If both wheel bearing housings do not meet the
above replacement criteria:
o Wheel bearing housing does not
require replacement.
 Reinstall brake components in the reverse
order of removal.
 Torque fasteners as follows:
o Backing plate bolts <5> – 12 Nm.
o Rotor bolt <3> – 8 Nm.
o Brake caliper carrier bolts <1> – 200
Nm.
 Clean bolts and mounting
surfaces before installing.
o Wheel bolts – 120 Nm.
Proceed to Section D
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 15 of 25
Section C – Replacing Wheel Bearing Housing
NOTE
The following describes the removal and installation procedures for one side of the vehicle. Removal and installation
on the opposite side is similar.
Reinstall brake components:
 Reinstall brake rotor, brake caliper and
wheels.
 Torque fasteners as follows:
 Rotor bolt <3> – 8 Nm.
 Brake caliper carrier bolts <1> – 200 Nm.
o Clean bolts and mounting surfaces
before installing.
 Wheel bolts – 120 Nm.
o Leave wheel center cap off.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 16 of 25
Loosen front drive axle bolt:
 Secure the front wheels from turning.
 Loosen the front axle bolt .
CAUTION
 The wheel bearing must not be under load when
the drive axle threaded connection on the wheel
side is loose.
 If the wheel bearings are under the load of the
vehicle weight, the wheel bearing will be
damaged. This reduces the service life of the
wheel bearings.
 The drive axle bolt may be loosened maximum
90° when the vehicle is standing on its wheels.
 Vehicles without a drive axle must not be
moved, otherwise the wheel bearing will be
damaged. If a vehicle must be moved, be sure
to note the following:
o Install an outer joint in place of the drive
axle.
o Tighten the outer joint to 120 Nm.
Remove brake components:
 Remove front wheel.
 Remove bolts <1> from the brake caliper
carrier <2>.
 Remove brake caliper carrier <2> and secure
it using wire to prevent damage to the brake
hose.
 Remove bolt <3> and brake rotor <4>.
 Remove bolt <7> and secure bracket <8> out
of the way.
 Free up wires from the wheel bearing housing.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 17 of 25
Remove ABS wheel speed sensor:
 Disconnect connector <3>.
 Remove bolt <2>.
 Remove ABS wheel speed sensor <1>.
Remove tie rod end from wheel bearing housing:
 Loosen the nut from the tie rod end, but do not
remove it yet.
 Install Puller – Ball Joint -T10187- <1> as
shown.
 Tighten bolt using hand tools on -T10187- until
tie rod end is pressed off the wheel bearing
housing.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 18 of 25
Remove level sensor bracket from control arm (if
equipped):
 Remove nut <1>.
 Remove bracket <2> from control arm <3>.
Remove wheel bearing housing from control arm:
 Remove nuts .
 Press the drive axle outer joint out of the wheel
bearing by hand.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 19 of 25
If the Drive Axle Cannot Be Pulled out of the Wheel
Bearing, Then the Drive Axle Can Be Pushed out of
the Wheel Bearing Using the Drive Shaft Remover
-T10520A- as follows:
 Before using the -T10520A-, make sure that
the thrust piece <1> is installed.
 Secure the -T10520A- <1> with three wheel
bolts <2> on the wheel hub, so that the drive
axle <3> can be pressed out.
NOTE
The brake rotor may have to be reinstalled
temporarily.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 20 of 25
 Follow the specified sequence exactly.
o I – Tighten the knurled nut <1> handtight.
o II – Turn the bolt <2> using a wrench
and press out the drive axle using the
-T10520A-. DO NOT use power tools
on bolt <2>.
NOTE
After the tool is used, the spindles must be brought
back into the original position so that the hydraulic
operation can be used again.
 Secure the drive axle to the body using a wire.
Remove ball joint:
NOTE
Depending on the supplier of the part, the ball joint
may already be pre-installed on the wheel bearing
housing. If so, ignore this step.
 Loosen the nut on the ball joint <2> but do not
remove it.
 Install Puller – Ball Joint -3287A- <1> as
shown.
 Tighten bolt using hand tools on -3287A- until
ball joint is pressed off the wheel bearing
housing.
 Remove the ball joint nut and remove the ball
joint.
Remove wheel bearing housing:
 Place the -VAS6931- under the wheel bearing
housing.
 Remove the threaded connection on the wheel
bearing housing/suspension strut .
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 21 of 25
 Insert -3424- into the wheel bearing housing.
NOTE
Pay attention that the -3424- is only inserted in the
wheel bearing housing. Only insert it far enough that
the suspension strut metal retainer is not damaged.
 Turn the ratchet 90° and remove it from the
-3424-.
 Remove the wheel bearing housing downward
from the suspension strut.
Install new wheel bearing into wheel bearing
housing:
NOTE
Depending on the supplier of the part, the wheel
bearing may already be pre-installed in the wheel
bearing housing. If so, ignore this step.
 Install new wheel bearing into wheel bearing
housing with new bolts .
 Torque bolts to 70 Nm + 90°.
Part Number Part Description
3QF-598-625 Wheel Bearing
NOTE
A new wheel bearing kit includes new mounting
bolts and a new drive axle bolt. If the new
wheel bearing housing used during this repair
comes with the wheel bearing pre-installed, a new
drive axle bolt will be required.
NOTE
Avoid contaminating
with dirt and damaging
the seal <1> when lifting,
setting down/storing.
Always set the wheel
bearing unit down on the
wheel hub <2>.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 22 of 25
Pos. Part Number Part Description
1 N -909-548-02 Bolt – wheel bearing
housing to strut
2 N -101-064-02 Nut – wheel bearing
housing to strut
3 N -909-429-02 Nut – ball joint to wheel
bearing housing
4 N -912-332-01 Nuts – ball joint to lower
control arm (x3)
5 N -909-429-02 Nut – tie rod end to wheel
bearing housing
6 N -102-058-02 Nut – level sensor to control
arm
Install new wheel bearing housing:
 Installation is the reverse order of removal.
 Install new bolt <1> and new nut <2>.
o The bolt tip must point in direction of
travel.
 Remove -3424- after installing wheel bearing
housing onto strut and installing new bolt and
nut.
 Counter hold new bolt <1> and torque new nut
<2> to 70 Nm + 180°.
 Counter hold ball joint stud. Install and torque
new nut <3> to 60 Nm.
NOTE
Wheel bearing assembly part numbers 3QF-498-
998 and 3QF-498-998-A have the ball joint preinstalled.
Nut <3> will not be required.
 Install and torque new nuts <4> to 40 Nm +
45°.
 Install tie rod end into wheel bearing housing.
 Counter hold tie rod end stud. Install and
torque new nut <5> to 20 Nm + 90°.
 If equipped, install level sensor arm into
control arm. Install new nut <6> and torque to
8 Nm.
o The level control system sensor lever
must point toward vehicle exterior.
o The thread on the level control system
sensor must be installed into the
exterior hole in the control arm. The
retaining tab on the level control
system sensor must engage into the
inner hole in order to assure a correct
installation position.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 23 of 25
Reinstall brake components:
 Installation is the reverse order of removal.
 Torque fasteners as follows:
o Backing plate nuts <5> – 12 Nm.
o Rotor bolt <3> – 8 Nm.
o Brake hose bracket bolt <7> – 8 Nm.
o Brake caliper carrier bolts <1> – 200
Nm.
 Clean bolts and mounting
surfaces before installing.
o Wheel bolts – 120 Nm.
 Leave wheel center cap off.
 Install ABS wheel speed sensor and torque
bolt to 8 Nm.
o Before inserting the speed sensor,
clean the inner surface of the hole and
coat speed sensor all-round with Hot
Bolt Paste -G 052 112 A3- (shop
supply).
Install drive axle bolt:
 Press the brake pedal. A second technician
will be needed.
 Tighten the twelve-point bolt to 200 Nm.
 Set the vehicle on its wheels.
 Tighten the twelve-point bolt an additional 90°.
NOTE
A new wheel bearing kit includes a new drive axle
bolt. If the new wheel bearing housing used during
this repair comes with the wheel bearing preinstalled,
a new drive axle bolt WHT-005-437-A will
be required.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 24 of 25
Perform four-wheel vehicle alignment:
 Follow the ELSA Repair Manual and wheel
aligner equipment directions as needed.
 Was the rear axle toe adjusted?
o If YES, proceed to the next step.
o If NO, Proceed to Section D.
Calibrate driver assist systems depending on
vehicle equipment:
 Calibrate Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) only
if rear axle toe required adjustment.
 Calibrate Driver Assistance Systems Front
Camera only if rear axle toe required
adjustment.
 Follow the ELSA repair manual procedures,
GFF test plan directions and wheel aligner
software directions as needed.
Proceed to Section D.
The repair information in this document is intended for use only by skilled technicians who have the proper tools, equipment and training to correctly and safely maintain your vehicle. These
procedures are not intended to be attempted by “do-it-yourselfers,” and you should not assume this document applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle has the condition described. To
determine whether this information applies, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer. 2021 Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. and Volkswagen Canada. All Rights Reserved.
June 2021 40Q7 Page 25 of 25
Section D – Campaign Completion Label
Install Campaign Completion Label
 Fill out and affix Campaign Completion
Label, part number CAMP 010 000, next to
the vehicle emission control information
label.
TIP
Ensure Campaign Completion Label does not cover
any existing label(s).
Proceed to Section E
Section E – Parts Return/Disposal
Properly store (retain), destroy or dispose of removed parts in accordance with all state/province and local
requirements, unless otherwise indicated and/or requested through the Warranty Parts Portal (WPP) for U.S. and
the Part Destruction and Core Disposition Report for Canada.

******************************************************************************************************************

VOLKSWAGEN DEALER COMMUNICATION
Ensure all dealership personnel are aware of this notice so they are able to address customer questions. Contact Warranty if you require
additional assistance. Direct press inquiries to Volkswagen Public Relations.
Volkswagen Customer Protection 40Q7_DLR_LAUNCH
Repair Available – Safety Recall 40Q7 / Steering Knuckle(s)
This notice is for:  Dealer Principal
 General Manager
 Sales Managers
 Service Manager
 Parts Manager
 Service Consultant
 Warranty Administrator
 Technicians
Date: February 04, 2021
Issue: A front steering knuckle may fracture in the area of the strut mounting. A steering knuckle
that fails while driving may lead to a loss of vehicle control without warning, which can
increase the risk of a crash
Repair:  REPAIR AVAILABLE – February 05, 2021 / Inspect and, if necessary, replace the
steering knuckle(s).
 See ELSA/ServiceNet for complete repair & claiming instructions
 Check both the daily Campaign Open Inventory report and OMD for affected
vehicles in inventory. Verify OPEN status in ELSA on the day of repair.
 Repair every affected inventory vehicle before delivery to consumers.
Parts Allocation: There will be no parts allocation.
Affected Vehicles
Country Beginning
Model Year
Ending
Model Year Vehicle Vehicle
Count
USA 2021 2021 ATLAS 6,741
USA 2020 2021 ATLAS CROSS SPORT 3,502
CAN 2021 2021 ATLAS 154
CAN 2020 2021 ATLAS CROSS SPORT 210
*Counts reflect overall population; some vehicles may have already been repaired. Check Campaigns/Actions
screen in Elsa on the day of repair to verify that a VIN qualifies for repair under this action. Elsa is the only valid
campaign inquiry & verification source.
Notes:  Schedule owner repairs immediately
 Owner mailing – February 2021
U.S.A.: Loaner/rental coverage cannot be claimed under this action. However,
loaner/rental may be covered under the Alternate Transportation Program. Please refer
to the Volkswagen Warranty Policy and Procedures Manual for loaner claims information
and reimbursement details.
Canada: Loaner/rental coverage cannot be claimed under this action. Please refer to the
Volkswagen Service Loaner Program to determine loaner eligibility.
IMPORTANT REMINDER: VEHICLES AFFECTED BY SAFETY & COMPLIANCE RECALLS
New Vehicles in Dealer Inventory: It is a violation of federal law for a dealer to deliver a new
motor vehicle or any new or used item of motor vehicle equipment (including a tire) covered by
this notification under a sale or lease until the defect or noncompliance is remedied. By law,
dealers must correct, prior to delivery for sale or lease, any vehicle that fails to comply with an
applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard or that contains a defect relating to motor
vehicle safety.
Pre-Owned Vehicles in Dealer Inventory: Dealers should not deliver any pre-owned vehicles in
their inventory which are involved in a safety or compliance recall until the defect has been
remedied.
-END OF MESSAGE

SEOCONTENT-END