Skoda recalls 1.7 million vehicles over steering safety risk

Skoda is recalling approximately 1.7 million vehicles worldwide due to a safety risk in the steering system. The issue involves a hexagonal bolt, costing roughly 6 euros, that secures the steering box to the front axle subframe.

Reports indicate that exposure to moisture and road salt can cause the bolt to corrode and eventually break. If the bolt fails, the steering mechanism may lose its connection to the vehicle chassis, potentially leading to a sudden loss of steering control or vehicle instability. No accidents or injuries have been reported in connection with this defect so far.

The recall affects models produced between November 2015 and August 2026, specifically including the Octavia, Superb, Karoq, and Kodiaq. Because these vehicles utilize the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, similar recall campaigns have also been initiated for certain Volkswagen, Audi, and SEAT models. Affected owners will have the faulty bolt replaced with a more corrosion-resistant component at authorized service centers.