Hundreds of Volkswagen Touareg recalled over fears the battery could overheat and catch fire when charging

A popular hybrid SUV has been recalled over a deadly fear it could catch fire when the battery is charging.

An urgent recall was issued for 214 Volkswagen Touareg viehcles made between 2020 and 2024 by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts.

Authorities warned a manufacturing issue installed in a high voltage battery may be defective and overheat during charging.

“If this occurs, it could lead to a vehicle fire,” a department spokesman said.

“A vehicle fire could increase the risk of injury or death to vehicle occupants, other road users and bystanders, and/or damage to property.”

Touareg users were urged to refrain from charging the high voltage battery using an external charging source and to stop driving the vehicle in electric only mode until new software was installed.

“We further request ask that the setting “battery hold” in hybrid mode be selected at a charge level of a maximum of 50 per cent,” a spokesman said.

“These measures are required for the safety of your vehicle. You can of course continue to safely drive your vehicle in petrol mode.”

Touareg owners of affected vehicles were urged to contact a Volkswagen dealership to make an appointment to have the software update installed free of charge.

Further information can be provided by visiting the Volkswagen website or phoning a recall hotline on 1800 504 076.