Days after BMW->ke178 announced that they would be recalling their 1-Series over possible fire risks, Volkswagen->ke94 is joining them on the sidelines by recalling over 15,000 of their very own Routan->ke3023 minivans that were manufactured between June 2008 and July 2009 because of similar fire risks that could potentially lead to something much more catastrophic.

According to Volkswagen, the problem with the Routan minivans stems from the door hinges on some models that could tear because of wire insulation and thus, could lead to a short circuit and, worse case scenario, could possibly start a fire.

The Routan's problems have also plagued the Dodge Grand Caravan->ke2783 and the Chrysler Town & Country->ke1171 with which Chrysler issued a similar recall earlier this month that covered about 284,831 units of the two models.

Volkswagen has already announced that owners of the Routan will have their vans inspected - and if necessary, repaired - including both the wire assembly and the sliding door power drive unit, as well as two harnesses that will be tied together and be rerouted under the sliding door weather strip. All repairs will also come at no expense to the vehicle owner.

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