Volkswagen and Audi have announced a recall affecting about 13,500 2009 and 2010 model-year vehicles equipped with dual-clutch transmissions to correct a defect that might cause the transmission to unexpectedly shift into neutral while driving. The recall is voluntary, and not currently coordinated with a government safety agency.

Affected vehicles include Volkswagen Jetta, Jetta Sportwagen, Eos and GTI cars equipped with DSG transmissions, as well as Audi A3, TT and TT Roadster cars equipped with S-tronic transmissions.

In a press release, the automaker explains, "A small number of these may be affected by a faulty temperature sensor in the DSG transmission. Failure of the temperature sensor could result in illuminated warning lamps in the dashboard, and in rare instances the transmission may shift into neutral."

Volkswagen dealers will begin contacting owners "in the coming weeks." Dealers will inspect, and if necessary, repair the problem free of charge. Those who wish to make their own repair arrangements may contact VW at 1-800-444-8982.