Auburn Hills, Michigan – Volkswagen Group of America has announced a voluntary recall of all gasoline-powered Passat models from 1999 through 2005 for inspection and repairs, if required. Volkswagen Canada has not yet made a similar announcement.

The company said that some Passat vehicles with an automatic transmission may have an under-body heat shield that could be subject to damage and could create a risk if it comes in contact with the vehicle’s exhaust system. These heat shields will be inspected and an additional shield will be installed.

Additionally, some vehicles equipped with 1.8T engines have a fuel line that requires inspection and potential replacement. A small number of vehicles equipped with 4Motion all-wheel drive will be inspected for potential damage to a fuel tank ventilation valve.

The voluntary recall affects 410,000 vehicles. Owners in the U.S. are encouraged to take the vehicle to an authorized dealer or qualified workshop if a fuel smell exists. No accidents or injuries have been recorded, and owner notification is scheduled to begin by May 30.