Safety Recall NHTSA · 08V397000 Reported August 14, 2008

Transmission locking cable

Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. · Power Train · 13,900 vehicles potentially affected

NHTSA ID
08V397000
Manufacturer Campaign
37D5/J2
Manufacturer
Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc.
Component
Power Train
Vehicles Affected
13,900
Recall Type
Vehicle
Report Received
August 14, 2008

Defect Summary

Volkswagen is recalling 13,900 my 1996-2003 audi a8 vehicles equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. the locking cable may move out of position over time. with the locking cable out of position, the shifter can be moved out of the "park" position even if the ignition key is not in the ignition lock.

Safety Consequence

This could allow the vehicle to roll, causing a crash without warning.

Corrective Action

Dealers will modify the automatic transmission locking cable by installing an adjusting piece that will secure the locking cable in place. the recall began on september 12, 2008. owners may contact audi at 1-800-822-2834.

What you should do

  1. Look up your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm this recall applies to your vehicle.
  2. Contact an authorized Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. dealer and reference recall ID 08V397000 or campaign 37D5/J2.
  3. Schedule the free repair. By federal law, the manufacturer must remedy the defect at no cost.
View Official NHTSA Notice →
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FAQ: Recall 08V397000

Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.

What is recall 08V397000?

NHTSA recall 08V397000 was issued by Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. on August 14, 2008. It addresses: Transmission locking cable. The recall affects approximately 13,900 vehicles, with the defect involving the Power Train component.

How do I get this recall repaired?

Contact any authorized Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 08V397000 or the manufacturer campaign number 37D5/J2. Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.

Is my vehicle included in this recall?

The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.

How long do I have to get a recall repair done?

There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.

Where does the data on this page come from?

All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.