The contact owns a 2010 Volkswagen Gti. While idling at a traffic light, the entire instrument panel illuminated and smoke appeared from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. The technician stated that the starter melted due to the battery being cracked and acid spilled onto the engine compartment. The wire between the battery and starter were melted. The independent mechanic recommended that the vehicle should be taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not repaired. The mechanic and the auto insurance company stated that the failures were not caused by a fire. The manufacturer was notified. The approximate failure mileage was 72,000.

- Lexington , SC, USA