Steering column and ignition problems on Jettas and Passats

Hi all - have a 2006 Passat 2.0T with 70k miles on it, and have been getting a "steering wheel defective" error every time I start the car up. Many times, the car will try to start and not turn over, and I have to wait a few minutes before trying again with any success. Yellow or red steering wheel symbol flashing on the instrument panel, yet no steering issues whatsoever. The issue has been happening for several months, and I just took it to the shop, where they said it's a problem that's been occurring on many Passat's and Jetta's, and that there's no recall (yet). Estimate to replace both the steering column and ignition (they say both need to be done) is $1400 (and because of mileage, warranty doesn't apply).

Anyone else have this problem, or heard of it? I'm wondering a few things:

* since this is a problem that's been happening fairly regularly, has anyone heard of an upcoming recall I should wait for?
* assuming I waited and didn't have the repair done, what's the likelihood of doing damage to either the ignition or steering column?
* can the parts be ordered elsewhere, and put in by a master tech (NOT the local VW shop)?

Any questions I should be asking of the shop, or looking into? I appreciate any helpful assistance you can provide!