VW Recalls 98-01 2.0L New Beetles - Volkswagen Recalling 324,000 Cars

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WASHINGTON (AP) - Volkswagen is recalling about 324,000 Golf, Jetta and New Beetle automobiles sold in the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency said Friday. The EPA cited the vehicles for faulty exhaust systems.

The German automaker is voluntarily recalling the four-cylinder, two-liter gasoline engine vehicles from the 1999, 2000 and 2001 model years. The EPA said its tests showed the 1999 models' emissions were elevated because of malfunctioning oxygen sensors.

The company also agreed to recall 2000 and 2001 models with a similarly defective sensor. The vehicles may emit excessive amounts of pollutants such as nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, the EPA said.

Volkswagen has agreed to reprogram the engine control module with updated oxygen sensor control software and to inspect and replace, if needed, the defective sensor at no cost to vehicle owners.

The company is sending letters to vehicle owners directing them to take their vehicle to a Volkswagen dealership for repair.