The 2011 Audi R8 Spyder. Image: Audi USA
If you own a 2011 or 2012 Audi R8 Spyder, heads up: Audi is recalling 920 models to address a potentially serious fuel line routing issue. Only cars built between May 18, 2010 and June 22, 2011 are affected, and the recall documentation doesn’t distinguish between 4.2-liter V-8 models and 5.2-liter V-10 models. In other words, it’s likely that both versions are included in the recall.
At issue is a fuel supply line, located in proximity to an engine compartment heat shield. The fuel supply line can rub against the heat shield, eventually leading to a small fuel leak within the engine compartment. Fuel, in the presence of an ignition source, can obviously lead to a fire, although no fires, accidents or injuries have been reported to date.
It’s worth noting that Volkswagen Group, Audi’s parent, initiated this voluntary recall based on the experience of a single customer who smelled gasoline in his engine compartment during refueling. If you own a 2011 or 2012 R8 Spyder, expect to get a recall notice in the mail by the end of the month. Once parts are in stock, dealers will inspect the affected vehicles and repair as necessary.
Also, don’t forget that you can get discounted new car pricing with a free quote through qualified local dealer partners.
If you have questions or concerns about this recall, you can reach Audi’s customer service hotline at (800) 822-2834, or you can contact the NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236 for the latest information.
Source: NHTSA
Kurt Ernst has been passionate about automobiles and driving nearly his entire life. His early years were shaped working in the family service station, though his real passion was auto racing. After graduating from the University of Colorado, Kurt spent a year club racing with the Sports Car Club of America, before focusing on a business career in marketing and project management. Later, his passion for writing and the automotive hobby found him freelancing for a variety of automotive news sites, including Automotive Addicts and Motor Authority, where his work was syndicated and appeared in several national publications. Recognized as an expert in the automotive field, Kurt joined Hemmings Motor News as an Associate Editor in 2013, and in the years since has progressed to Editor, Hemmings Daily; Managing Editor for Hemmings Motor News, Hemmings Classic Car, Hemmings Muscle Machines, and the Hemmings Daily; and now, Managing Editor, Hemmings Auctions. Kurt was instrumental in organizing the Hemmings Motor News Concours d’Elegance from 2013-2019, and has served as a judge at this event and The Vintage Racing Stable Concours d’Elegance. A Skip Barber Racing School graduate and prolific writer, Ernst is also skilled in copyediting, project management, brand development, and public relations.
