Consumer security

Volkswagen Recalls 500,000 After Company Hides Pollution for Years

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is forcing German-based automaker Volkswagen to recall 500,000 models due to a device that masks pollution levels.

The recall affects 2009-2014 Jettas, Beetles, Audi A3s and Golfs, as well as 2014-2015 Passats.According to the BBC, the device allows these cars to detect when they are going through smog-emission tests and lowers the pollution rate. These emission controls are then turned off during regular use.
"Using a defeat device in cars to evade clean air standards is illegal and a threat to public health," said Cynthia Giles, assistant administrator for the Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance.