Volkswagen is recalling some 2009 Passat and CC sedans and wagons due to a potentially dangerous steering defect.

In a Defect Notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, VW explains, "some affected vehicles may have an electromechanical steering gear control unit that can, in rare cases, malfunction due to a damaged capacitor. If this malfunction occurs, the driver's steering input is not properly processed by the system and the vehicle may not respond as the driver intends."  The problem reportedly occurs only immediately after starting the vehicle, at speeds under 5 miles per hour, at which point an audible alert will sound and a malfunction light will illuminate.  Still, driver attempts to overcome the warnings mean "the malfunctioning steering system could lead to a crash without warning."

Volkswagen dealers will replace the affected components free of charge.  VW will contact owners beginning Dec. 5 (the delay allows VW time to ship parts to dealers), but those who wish to make their own repair arrangements ahead of time can contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987.

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