Volkswagen Sends A Proposed Fix For The 3.0L TDI

Under a deadline yesterday, Volkswagen turned in a plan to recall and fix thousands of vehicles equipped with the 3.0L TDI V6 that was found to have illegal emission software.

Last November, the EPA and CARB accused Volkswagen of having three emission control systems that were not disclosed to either agency. U.S. law requires an automaker to disclose all emission control systems used in a vehicle. One of those systems was declared to be an illegal 'defeat device'. Later in the month, Volkswagen admitted they had violated emission standards with the 3.0L TDI V6.

This engine is used mostly in Audi vehicles (A6, A7, A8, Q5, and Q7). But this engine can be found under the hood of the Porsche Cayenne and Volkswagen Touareg..

What could be the possible fix?

Automotive News reports that details of the plan are unknown at this time. But officials at Audi - the brand behind the development of the 3.0L TDI V6 - said back in November that a simple software reflash could fix the issue.

Any chances this plan actually gets approved?

Considering how Volkswagen's proposed plan for the 2.0L TDI fix was rejected by CARB last month, it would be to safe to assume this plan might have some problems of getting approved. But Audi who is taking the lead on the 3.0L TDI V6 issue could have a better shot.

CARB spokesman Dave Clegern tells Automotive News that Audi has been working very closely with them since the allegations came out in November and presented a number of solutions in December.

“The Audi people worked much more closely with us” than did VW. They asked more questions and we were able to give them more input. Plus, they saw what VW went through,” said Clegern.

Audi CEO Rupert Stadler said last month that if CARB and the EPA give the green light for their proposed plan, “We believe we can start pretty early with the quick fix, and hopefully then, for us, it’s done. But of course we have to discuss and keep contact with the authorities. That’s for sure."