1998 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
8 recalls, 289 complaints - 114 TSBs
14E007000 Mar 7, 2014
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Defect Description
The Gates Corporation (Gates) is recalling certain aftermarket Tru-Flow Water Pumps, part number TFW 41127, sold at certain NAPA Auto Parts and/or installed by automotive service technicians after November 1, 2013 (and manufactured August 2013 through October 2013) that have a black-colored pulley/s... Read more
Consequence
A failure of the timing belt may cause the engine to shut down, potentially increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Gates will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pump, free of charge. The recall began during May 2014. Owners may contact The Gates Corporation at 1-303-744-1911.
09E012000 Apr 7, 2009
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Defect Description
SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES... Read more
Consequence
DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy
SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
08E050000 Aug 11, 2008
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Defect Description
K2 MOTOR IS RECALLING 1,921 AFTERMARKET HEADLAMPS OF VARIOUS MODELS SOLD FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS ARE MISSING THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTOR WHICH FAILS TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND A... Read more
Consequence
WITHOUT THE AMBER SIDE REFLEX REFLECTORS, THE LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY BE AFFECTED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy
K2 MOTOR WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMEBER 17, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT K2 MOTOR AT 1-909-839-2992.
06E060000 Jun 29, 2006
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Defect Description
CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIA... Read more
Consequence
LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
Remedy
AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
06E049000 May 24, 2006
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Defect Description
CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. ... Read more
Consequence
WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy
CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
06V183000 May 24, 2006
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Defect Description
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC OR MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS AND CRUISE CONTROLS, A BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH ON THESE VEHICLES MAY MALFUNCTION IF IT WAS INSTALLED INCORRECTLY DURING SAFETY RECALLS 03V-265 OR 04V-096.
Consequence
THE BRAKE LIGHTS COULD BECOME INOPERATIVE, OR REMAIN ON. FAILURE TO PROVIDE THE PROPER SIGNAL WHEN BRAKING COULD LEAD TO A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSTALL THE NEWLY DESIGNED BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 27, 2006. VEHICLES WITHIN THE MAKE, MODEL, AND MODEL YEAR OF THIS POPULATION MAY BE INVOLVED IN EITHER THIS RECALL OR 06V-183, BUT NOT BOTH. THE REMEDY IS THE SAME FOR EACH RECALL. VOLKSWAGEN ... Read more
06E026000 Mar 23, 2006
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Defect Description
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE D... Read more
Consequence
WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
Remedy
PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
98V100000 May 13, 1998
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
Defect Description
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE ELECTRICAL WIRING LOCATED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT WAS ROUTED TOO CLOSE TO THE ENDGE OF THE VEHICLE'S BATTERY TRAY. THE WIRING CAN BECOME DAMAGED OVER TIME BY CHAFING AND THE AIR-CONDITIONER COMPRESSOR AND/OR THE FUEL PUMP CAN MALFUNCTION.
Consequence
A MALFUNCTION OF THE FUEL PUMP CAN CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO STALL, AND IN SOME INSTANCES, COULD ALSO RESULT IN A WIRING FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A MODIFIED BATTERY TRAY AND INSPECT, PROPERLY ROUTE, AND SECURING THE WIRING IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE RECALL REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS.
Complaint Statistics
289 total complaints
25 crashes 27 fires 10 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS | 24 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE | 14 |
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS | 13 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 13 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD | 11 |
| SEATS | 11 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS | 10 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING | 9 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY | 9 |
| UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 8 |
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Jul 24, 2023
Incident date: Mar 3, 2021
Vehicle stalls/doesn’t start when gas tank is full. This has happened while driving.
SERVICE BRAKES
Oct 26, 2021
Incident date: Oct 4, 2021
The driver was driving the speed limit (55 mph) and tried to slow down as they approached a red light. The brakes failed to work, and the driver rear-ended the vehicle waiting at the stoplight. The airbags did not deploy.
Crash
AIR BAGS
Oct 26, 2021
Incident date: Oct 4, 2021
The driver was driving the speed limit (55 mph) and tried to slow down as they approached a red light. The brakes failed to work, and the driver rear-ended the vehicle waiting at the stoplight. The airbags did not deploy.
Crash
SERVICE BRAKES
May 26, 2019
Incident date: May 25, 2019
DON'T WORK
ENGINE
Oct 31, 2014
Incident date: Oct 31, 2014
DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING TO SCHOOL, CAR STALLED, RESTARTED CAR THEN SAW SMOKE AND FIRE UNDER PASSENGER SIDE DASH. CAR BURNT COMPLETELY, TOTALED. HAVE BEFORE AND AFTER PICTURES. ..UPDATED 11/12/14 *BF
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Oct 31, 2014
Incident date: Oct 31, 2014
DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING TO SCHOOL, CAR STALLED, RESTARTED CAR THEN SAW SMOKE AND FIRE UNDER PASSENGER SIDE DASH. CAR BURNT COMPLETELY, TOTALED. HAVE BEFORE AND AFTER PICTURES. ..UPDATED 11/12/14 *BF
Fire
ENGINE
Jun 18, 2014
Incident date: Jun 2, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND FAILED TO SHIFT INTO ANY GEAR WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 85,00... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Aug 5, 2013
Incident date: Aug 2, 2013
OWNER WAS DRIVING VEHICLE AND ATTEMPTED TO TURN ON A/C. WHEN A/C WOULD NOT WORK PROPERLY, SHE PULLED OFF ROADWAY AND STOPPED. SMOKE AND BURNING ODOR CAME OUT OF VENTS, WITH FIRE EVENTUALLY SHOWING FROM CLIMATE CONTROL PANEL. INTERIOR OF VEHICLE WAS FULLY INVOLVED IN FIRE WHEN FD ARRIVED. ENGINE ... Read more
Fire
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
Aug 5, 2013
Incident date: Aug 2, 2013
OWNER WAS DRIVING VEHICLE AND ATTEMPTED TO TURN ON A/C. WHEN A/C WOULD NOT WORK PROPERLY, SHE PULLED OFF ROADWAY AND STOPPED. SMOKE AND BURNING ODOR CAME OUT OF VENTS, WITH FIRE EVENTUALLY SHOWING FROM CLIMATE CONTROL PANEL. INTERIOR OF VEHICLE WAS FULLY INVOLVED IN FIRE WHEN FD ARRIVED. ENGINE ... Read more
Fire
SEATS
Mar 19, 2013
Incident date: Mar 18, 2013
TWO SMALL BOLTS THAT HOLD DOWN THE FRONT OF THE DRIVERS SEAT BECAME LOOSE AND OVER TIME THEY EVENTUALLY BROKE COMPLETELY FREE ALLOWING THE SEAT TO ROLL AND TIP BACKWARD AND SIDEWAYS. THIS WAS A COMPLETE SHOCK WHEN IT OCCURED, I HAD NOTICED THE SEAT BECOMING LOOSE BUT THEN TO HAVE IT BREAK FREE WAS ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Aug 28, 2012
Incident date: Aug 26, 2012
WINDOWS STARTED GOING UP AND DOWN RANDOMLY AND DOORS LOCKING/UNLOCKING RANDOMLY. AS I WAS REACHING THROUGH MY WINDOW TO GRAM MY KEYS FROM THE IGNITION MY ARM GOT PINCHED, AND LODGED IN THE WINDOW THAT WAS GOING UP, (I WAS TRYING TO GET MY KEYS BEFORE GETTING LOCKED OUT OF THE CAR (AGAIN) DUE TO THE... Read more
1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
Jun 27, 2012
Incident date: Sep 1, 2010
THE VEHICLE AIR CONDITIONING STOPPED WORKING IN 9/2010. AFTER PAYING FOR REPAIR OF THE AC SYSTEM IT STILL DID NOT WORK AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE PROBLEM WAS IN THE WIRING AND WOULD HAVE TO BE REPAIRED BY THE DEALER. RECENTLY, 4/2012, THE GAS PEDAL HAS STARTED TO FLUCTUATE ON ITS OWN WHILE DRI... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 27, 2012
Incident date: Sep 1, 2010
THE VEHICLE AIR CONDITIONING STOPPED WORKING IN 9/2010. AFTER PAYING FOR REPAIR OF THE AC SYSTEM IT STILL DID NOT WORK AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE PROBLEM WAS IN THE WIRING AND WOULD HAVE TO BE REPAIRED BY THE DEALER. RECENTLY, 4/2012, THE GAS PEDAL HAS STARTED TO FLUCTUATE ON ITS OWN WHILE DRI... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jul 3, 2011
Incident date: Jun 29, 2011
I PURCHASED A 98' VW NEW BEETLE 3 DAYS AGO FROM A DEALER AND EVERYTHING SEEMED FINE W/ IT UNTIL TODAY. THE CAR STARTED OVER HEATING AND COME TO FIND OUT THE ENGINE FUSE HAD MELTED OVER THE BATTERY TERMINAL THAT RUNS THE COOLANT FAN. AFTER THE FUSE WAS REPLACED THE TEMP. LIGHT WENT OUT THE ENGINE L... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Oct 2, 2010
Incident date: Jan 30, 2010
MY 98 VW NEW BEETLE HAS 68,000 MILES ON IT. AROUND 66,000 MILES IT BEGAN TO SHIFT REAL HARD. IN ORDER TO GET THE CAR TO SHIFT INTO 3RD GEAR OR HIGHER I HAVE TO ACCELERATE ENOUGH TO GET THE ENGINE UP TO 4,000+ RPM'S, EASE OFF THE GAS A LITTLE AND THEN IT WILL FINALLY LURCH INTO THE NEXT GEAR. THI... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Sep 30, 2010
Incident date: Sep 29, 2010
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE TEMPERATURE LIGHT BEGAN BEEPING, THEN SUDDENLY STOPPED BEEPING AND A RED LIGHT BEGAN FLASHING. THE CONTACT NOTICED A THUMP UNDER THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL SO SHE STOPPED THE VEHICLE ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE ... Read more
Fire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
Mar 24, 2010
Incident date: Jul 16, 2009
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 VW BEETLE DIESEL. DRIVER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 5MPH ON A CLEAR DAY WHEN SHE NOTICED A SQUEAK IN THE ENGINE. TOOK TO DEALER FOR A NEW BATTERY AND TO CHECK SQUEAK IN FRONT END AND CHECK AIR CONDITIONER. THE TECHNICIAN DISCOVERED FUSES WERE BURNT AND THAT BOTH FANS WERE MELTE... Read more
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
Mar 24, 2010
Incident date: Jul 16, 2009
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 VW BEETLE DIESEL. DRIVER WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 5MPH ON A CLEAR DAY WHEN SHE NOTICED A SQUEAK IN THE ENGINE. TOOK TO DEALER FOR A NEW BATTERY AND TO CHECK SQUEAK IN FRONT END AND CHECK AIR CONDITIONER. THE TECHNICIAN DISCOVERED FUSES WERE BURNT AND THAT BOTH FANS WERE MELTE... Read more
Fire
SEATS
Jan 17, 2010
Incident date: Sep 20, 2009
MY DRIVER SEAT WAS DISLOCATED N PUSHED TO THE BACK WHILE THE CAR WAS IN MOTION. LUCKILY I WAS DRIVING IN THE TOWN N THE SPEED WAS SLOW N I MANAGED TO PARK MY CAR AFTER MUCH DIFFICULTY COS I COULD NOT REACH THE PEDAL OF BRAKE N HAD TO PULL MYSELF FORWARD TO DO IT. GOD BLESSED ME THAT NOTHING HAPPENED... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Oct 13, 2009
Incident date: Aug 20, 2009
VOLKSWAGEN OVERHEAT WITH FUSE BLOCK ELECTRICAL FIRE. FIRE WAS CONTAINED TO THE FUSE BLOCK OF 1998 VOLKSWAGEN NEW BEETLE. THE FUSE BLOCK ON TOP OF THE BATTERY CAUGHT FIRE. *TR
Fire
SEATS
Oct 1, 2009
Incident date: Sep 20, 2009
MY 1998 VW NEW BEETLE DRIVER SEAT DISLODGED COS SCREWS UNDERNEATH CAME OUT WHILE DRIVING ON OAKLAND HIGHWAY. I WAS PUSHED TO THE BACK ON THE SEAT N I WAS NOT ABLE TO REACH MY ACCELERATOR N BRAKE PEDALS. I WOULD HAVE BEEN KILLED ON FREEWAY IF IT HAPPENED FIVE MINUTES EARLIER. THE SCREWS CAME LOOSE TH... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Jul 5, 2009
Incident date: Jul 4, 2009
LOW BEAM HEADLIGHT BULBS FAIL PREMATURELY CAUSING LOSS OF VISION AT NIGHT. NEW BULBS ONLY LAST ABOUT 3 MONTHS BEFORE THEY BURN OUT. WE ASKED THE VW DEALERSHIP IF THERE IS A REMEDY FOR THE PROBLEM, BUT THEY ANSWERED "NO". I KNOW OTHER PEOPLE THAT HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. *TR
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
Apr 28, 2009
Incident date: Apr 27, 2008
DRIVER SIDE POWER WINDOW STUCK IN DOWN POSITION. PRESSING THE WINDOW UP TOGGLE RESULTS IN GRINDING NOISE AND BURNT/ELECTRICAL SMELL. *TR
AIR BAGS
Mar 7, 2009
Incident date: Jan 12, 2008
AIRBAG LAMP TURNED ON WITHOUT ANY PHYSICAL INCIDENT. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Dec 31, 2008
Incident date: Dec 11, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT WAS NOT THE DRIVER AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH ON A SNOW COVERED ROAD, THE DRIVER NOTICED AN 18-WHEELER HEADING TOWARDS THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER APPLIED PRESSURE TO THE BRAKES IN ORDER TO AVOID A CRASH. ... Read more
Crash
AIR BAGS
Dec 31, 2008
Incident date: Dec 11, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT WAS NOT THE DRIVER AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH ON A SNOW COVERED ROAD, THE DRIVER NOTICED AN 18-WHEELER HEADING TOWARDS THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER APPLIED PRESSURE TO THE BRAKES IN ORDER TO AVOID A CRASH. ... Read more
Crash
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Dec 25, 2008
Incident date: Oct 20, 2007
I HAVE A 98 VOLKSWAGEN NEW BEETLE. I HAVE HAD THE EXACT PROBLEMS LISTED IN ONE OF THE RECALLS THAT HAS BEEN DONE ON SOME NEW BEETLES, BUT WHEN I TALKED WITH VOLKSWAGEN, THEY SAID THAT BASED ON MY VIN #, MY CAR IS NOT ELIGIBLE FOR THAT RECALL. WHAT IS MY RECOURSE SO THAT THIS ISSUE CAN BE RESOLVED?... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Sep 18, 2008
Incident date: Sep 1, 2008
MY CAR BEGAN TO OVER HEAT IN JULY AND I TOOK IT TO THE MECHANIC. I HAD TO REPLACE THE WATER PUMP, THERMOSTAT AND TIMING BELT. @ MONTHS PASS AND AGAIN ITS OVERHEATING AGAIN NOW I'M TOLD THE HEAD GASKET IS BAD. I FIX THE HEAD GASKET AND ITS OVERHEATING. THEY DO NOT KNOW WHAT IS CAUSING IT TO OVERH... Read more
STRUCTURE
Jan 12, 2008
Incident date: Dec 31, 2007
LARGE PUDDLE OF WATER ACCUMULATES IN REAR PASSENGER FOOTWELL AFTER A HEAVY RAIN. I DO NOT HAVE A MOONROOF SO THERE ARE NO CLOGGED DRAINS THERE. ALL DRAINS HAVE BEEN CLEAR IN THE DOORS AND UNDER BATTERY AND POLLEN FILTER. I HAVE CONCLUDED THIS IS A DESIGN FLAW AS HUNDREDS OF OTHER POSTS ONLINE WIT... Read more
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Dec 15, 2007
Incident date: Dec 12, 2007
1998 VW NEW BEETLE: BOTH DOOR LOCKS FAILED. AT FIRST ONLY DRIVER DOOR WITH FOB. PROGRESSED TO NOT BEING ABLE TO LOCK EITHER DOOR WITH FOB OR KEY. VW DEALER IN ALEXANDRIA, VA SAID PROBLEM COULD HAVE DETERIORATED FURTHER TO THE ALARM SYSTEM AND BE UNABLE TO START THE CAR. REPAIR COST $850. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Aug 25, 2007
Incident date: Aug 1, 2007
SINCE I PURCHASED MY BEETLE IN 2001, IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING MONEY DRAIN. IN 6 YRS. I HAVE REPLACED THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION TWICE, HAD THE BRAKES WORKED ON A NUMBER OF TIMES, BEEN UNABLE TO OPEN THE GAS "DOOR" ON THE CAR W/ THE GAS CAP LATCH, HAD TO REPLACE THE HOOD OPENING LATCH, HAD REPEATED ELECT... Read more
STRUCTURE
Aug 25, 2007
Incident date: Aug 1, 2007
SINCE I PURCHASED MY BEETLE IN 2001, IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING MONEY DRAIN. IN 6 YRS. I HAVE REPLACED THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION TWICE, HAD THE BRAKES WORKED ON A NUMBER OF TIMES, BEEN UNABLE TO OPEN THE GAS "DOOR" ON THE CAR W/ THE GAS CAP LATCH, HAD TO REPLACE THE HOOD OPENING LATCH, HAD REPEATED ELECT... Read more
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
Aug 25, 2007
Incident date: Aug 1, 2007
SINCE I PURCHASED MY BEETLE IN 2001, IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING MONEY DRAIN. IN 6 YRS. I HAVE REPLACED THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION TWICE, HAD THE BRAKES WORKED ON A NUMBER OF TIMES, BEEN UNABLE TO OPEN THE GAS "DOOR" ON THE CAR W/ THE GAS CAP LATCH, HAD TO REPLACE THE HOOD OPENING LATCH, HAD REPEATED ELECT... Read more
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Aug 25, 2007
Incident date: Aug 1, 2007
SINCE I PURCHASED MY BEETLE IN 2001, IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING MONEY DRAIN. IN 6 YRS. I HAVE REPLACED THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION TWICE, HAD THE BRAKES WORKED ON A NUMBER OF TIMES, BEEN UNABLE TO OPEN THE GAS "DOOR" ON THE CAR W/ THE GAS CAP LATCH, HAD TO REPLACE THE HOOD OPENING LATCH, HAD REPEATED ELECT... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Aug 25, 2007
Incident date: Aug 1, 2007
SINCE I PURCHASED MY BEETLE IN 2001, IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING MONEY DRAIN. IN 6 YRS. I HAVE REPLACED THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION TWICE, HAD THE BRAKES WORKED ON A NUMBER OF TIMES, BEEN UNABLE TO OPEN THE GAS "DOOR" ON THE CAR W/ THE GAS CAP LATCH, HAD TO REPLACE THE HOOD OPENING LATCH, HAD REPEATED ELECT... Read more
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Aug 25, 2007
Incident date: Aug 1, 2007
SINCE I PURCHASED MY BEETLE IN 2001, IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING MONEY DRAIN. IN 6 YRS. I HAVE REPLACED THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION TWICE, HAD THE BRAKES WORKED ON A NUMBER OF TIMES, BEEN UNABLE TO OPEN THE GAS "DOOR" ON THE CAR W/ THE GAS CAP LATCH, HAD TO REPLACE THE HOOD OPENING LATCH, HAD REPEATED ELECT... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
Aug 25, 2007
Incident date: Aug 1, 2007
SINCE I PURCHASED MY BEETLE IN 2001, IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING MONEY DRAIN. IN 6 YRS. I HAVE REPLACED THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION TWICE, HAD THE BRAKES WORKED ON A NUMBER OF TIMES, BEEN UNABLE TO OPEN THE GAS "DOOR" ON THE CAR W/ THE GAS CAP LATCH, HAD TO REPLACE THE HOOD OPENING LATCH, HAD REPEATED ELECT... Read more
EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
Aug 25, 2007
Incident date: Aug 1, 2007
SINCE I PURCHASED MY BEETLE IN 2001, IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING MONEY DRAIN. IN 6 YRS. I HAVE REPLACED THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION TWICE, HAD THE BRAKES WORKED ON A NUMBER OF TIMES, BEEN UNABLE TO OPEN THE GAS "DOOR" ON THE CAR W/ THE GAS CAP LATCH, HAD TO REPLACE THE HOOD OPENING LATCH, HAD REPEATED ELECT... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Aug 25, 2007
Incident date: Aug 1, 2007
SINCE I PURCHASED MY BEETLE IN 2001, IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING MONEY DRAIN. IN 6 YRS. I HAVE REPLACED THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION TWICE, HAD THE BRAKES WORKED ON A NUMBER OF TIMES, BEEN UNABLE TO OPEN THE GAS "DOOR" ON THE CAR W/ THE GAS CAP LATCH, HAD TO REPLACE THE HOOD OPENING LATCH, HAD REPEATED ELECT... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Aug 25, 2007
Incident date: Aug 1, 2007
SINCE I PURCHASED MY BEETLE IN 2001, IT HAS BEEN AN ONGOING MONEY DRAIN. IN 6 YRS. I HAVE REPLACED THE MANUAL TRANSMISSION TWICE, HAD THE BRAKES WORKED ON A NUMBER OF TIMES, BEEN UNABLE TO OPEN THE GAS "DOOR" ON THE CAR W/ THE GAS CAP LATCH, HAD TO REPLACE THE HOOD OPENING LATCH, HAD REPEATED ELECT... Read more
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
Jul 13, 2007
Incident date: Jun 8, 2007
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHEN THE CONTACT ACTIVATED THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS, THE WIPER ARM DETACHED. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE CAUSE OF FAILURE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 85,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 84,500.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jul 9, 2007
Incident date: Jul 3, 2007
I OWN A VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE, 98. I WAS DRIVING MY CAR TO WORK AROUND 9:00 AM. THE AIR CONDITIONER WOULD NOT TURN PAST 2. I COULD NOT GET IT TO TURN OFF EITHER. SMOKE THEN BEGAN TO COME OUT FROM AROUND THE VENTS OF THE AC. I PULLED OFF OF THE ROAD, CALLED MY WORK, AND MY FIANCE. THE SMOKE THEN GOT WO... Read more
Fire
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Jul 3, 2007
Incident date: Jun 26, 2007
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE PLASTIC TUBE THAT EXTENDS FROM THE VACUUM PUMP TO THE VACUUM BRAKE BOOSTER IS CRACKED AND DEFECTIVE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WITHOUT THIS PIECE, BRAKE FAILURE IS LIKELY TO OCCUR. AS A RESULT, HE WOULD HAVE TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL VERY HARD IN O... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
Apr 16, 2007
Incident date: Apr 12, 2007
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE VEHICLE HAD EX THE SAME FAILURE AS INDICATED IN RECALL # 98V100000. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO OVERHEAT AFTER THE ENGINE RAN FOR FIVE MINUTES. THE VEHICLE WAS BROUGHT TO THE DEALER, SAVAGE KIA, AND THE CAUSE WAS DIAGNOSED AS WI... Read more
SEATS
Apr 9, 2007
Incident date: Jan 15, 2005
WITH NORMAL USE OF THE SEATS IN THE VEHICLE, THE 2 BOLTS THAT HOLD THE RAIL TO THE SEAT OF THE FLOOR OF THE VEHICLE CAME LOOSE AND THE SEAT SLID AROUND RECKLESSLY. IT ALMOST CAUSED NUMEROUS ACCIDENTS BECAUSE IT WOULD COME LOOSE WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. WE FINALLY HAD TO USE LOCK TIGHT ON THE BOLTS... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL
Jan 2, 2007
Incident date: Dec 28, 2006
TL* - THE CONTACT STATED THAT ON 12-28-06 VEHICLE WHICH WAS PARKED CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE AND MADE A REPORT. THE FIREMAN SAID THAT THE BATTERY WAS COMPLETELY MELTED, AND COULD HAVE BEEN THE POSSIBLE REASON FOR THE FIRE. THAT 15 MIN... Read more
Fire
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
Aug 23, 2006
Incident date: Apr 14, 2004
I OWN A 1998 VW BEETLE AND TWO YEARS AGO THE DRIVER WINDOW WOULD NOT GO UP OR DOWN SO I TOOK IT TO MY MECHANIC AND HE THEN NOTIFIED ME OF A RECALL ON THE WINDOWS SO HE TRANSPORTED IT TO THE NEAREST VW DEALER THEY REPAIRED IT THEY ALSO SCRATCHED THE WINDOW DURING THE REPAIR AND AFTER THAT REPAIR TOOK... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Aug 8, 2006
Incident date: Aug 8, 2006
I AM REPORTING THE SECOND FAILURE OF A BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH ON MY 1998 VW BEETLE. THE FIRST SWITCH WAS REPLACED LESS THAN A YEAR AGO UNDER A FACTORY RECALL -- IT FAILED, LEAVING THE BRAKE LIGHTS INOPERATIVE. THE SWITCH WAS REPLACED WITH A "REVISED" PART WHICH HAS ALSO FAILED, LEAVING THE BRAKE LIGHT... Read more
EQUIPMENT
Jun 30, 2006
Incident date: May 1, 1998
IN EARLY MAY I HAD AN ACCIDENT WITH OUR 1998 VW BEETLE WHICH WAS CAUSED BY A DEFECTIVE PART. THE CAR WAS IN DRIVE, AND I PUSHED DOWN THE BRAKE PETAL. THEN I CHANGED GEARS TO REVERSE AND GENTLY STEPPED ON THE GAS PEDAL. THE CAR LURCHED FORWARD UNCONTROLLABLY AT AN ACCELERATED SPEED AND HIT A TRAILER ... Read more
Crash
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Jun 30, 2006
Incident date: May 1, 1998
IN EARLY MAY I HAD AN ACCIDENT WITH OUR 1998 VW BEETLE WHICH WAS CAUSED BY A DEFECTIVE PART. THE CAR WAS IN DRIVE, AND I PUSHED DOWN THE BRAKE PETAL. THEN I CHANGED GEARS TO REVERSE AND GENTLY STEPPED ON THE GAS PEDAL. THE CAR LURCHED FORWARD UNCONTROLLABLY AT AN ACCELERATED SPEED AND HIT A TRAILER ... Read more
Crash
Showing 50 of 289 complaints.
Technical Service Bulletins, 1998 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
114 manufacturer communications from 71 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL | 17 |
| 110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 10 |
| 350000 EQUIPMENT | 8 |
| 120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING | 7 |
| 060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING | 6 |
| 121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS | 5 |
| 357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER | 5 |
| 060000 ENGINE (PWS) | 5 |
V171901201285565
Aug 21, 2023
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards
V171901201285562
May 30, 2023
061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION
Volkswagen Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.
V171901201285560
Apr 24, 2023
061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION
Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.
V941901201152119
Dec 12, 2022
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Update model year applicability to include 2023.
V271901201189422
Dec 6, 2022
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery testing and charging using special tools VAS6161 & GRX3000VAS Charger. Updated to include additional model year applicability.
V171901201285534
May 11, 2021
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Update engine oil quality standard lists (attachments)
V871806201994714
May 12, 2020
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Tool number added to table. Removal of Behr Flush Kit. VAS 6337/1A
V941901201152115
Apr 21, 2020
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
Updated to include additional models and model year applicability.
VOS-19-09
May 2, 2019
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Software Version Update, Enhancements and Fixes. Also includes 1998 Beetle.
SM 33-2019
Mar 27, 2019
350000 EQUIPMENT
The part number listed in the document is to be returned if it meets the criteria provided.
TT 91 19 01
Mar 22, 2019
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Alternative method for radio code retrieval.
TT 91 19 01
Mar 22, 2019
350000 EQUIPMENT
Alternative method for radio code retrieval.
V171901-2012855
Mar 12, 2019
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standards
V271901-2011894
Feb 19, 2019
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Battery Testing and Charging instruction. Updated to include model year 2019 applicability.
V941901-2011521
Feb 18, 2019
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Condensation and or water droplets visible on inside of exterior light lenses. TB updated to include model year 2019 applicability.
TT 10 12 01
Sep 28, 2018
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
Engine replacement tip
TT001703
Nov 10, 2017
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Tip for Scan tool concerns that may occur duing a test plan
TT 271002
Sep 14, 2017
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Updated to include model year 2014 thru 2018 applicability.
TT 271002
Sep 14, 2017
111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
Updated to include model year 2014 thru 2018 applicability.
TT 200901
Aug 18, 2017
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Update to existing tip for fuel quality checking.
V171701 2012855
Jul 5, 2017
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
17 17 01 July 5, 2017 2012855 Supersedes Technical Bulletin 17-16-02 (V171602) dated April 29, 2016 due to updated oil standards lists to current specifications. Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standards
SM 44-2017 EN
Jun 28, 2017
350000 EQUIPMENT
This special notice is to inform dealers to return all part numbers listed in the document and order the superseded part numbers going forward.
VHW-17-11
Jun 22, 2017
350000 EQUIPMENT
VAS 6154 Replacement Part Setup Guide
1-2017 Update
Feb 1, 2017
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
This communication is to update our ProFi dealers of the current status of the latest inbound and outbound ProFi requests.
V691601 2010479
Oct 31, 2016
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Update model year applicability to include 2017.
V871622 2019947
Oct 24, 2016
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Update to model year applicability.
TT 97-12-02
Sep 23, 2016
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Data Link connector pin assignment chart that is applicable to all models. Update model year applicability.
Airbag
Jan 22, 2016
140000 AIR BAGS
Airbag Issues.
V921502 2026253
Jul 22, 2015
130000 VISIBILITY
Technical Bulletin (Windshield Wipers Streak or Smear): Windshield or rear window is streaked, has a snakeskin appearance, or the surface feels rough. To avoid unnecessary replacement of wiper blades, the condition and cleanliness of the w
V871506 2019947
Jul 7, 2015
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Technical Bulletin (Air Conditioning, Cleaning of the Refrigerant Circuit (U.S.Only)): In cases where an air conditioning system component (such as a compressor or other system component) has failed and debris from the compressor or compon
V871506 2019947
Jul 7, 2015
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Technical Bulletin (Air Conditioning, Cleaning of the Refrigerant Circuit (U.S.Only)): In cases where an air conditioning system component (such as a compressor or other system component) has failed and debris from the compressor or compon
Elsa 6-29-15
Jun 29, 2015
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
This document contains the VW Elsa Newsletter that contains a general overview of wiring diagrams updates, technical bulletins, pending service solutions, tech tips, campaigns, updates, and suggestions.
Elsa 6-22-15
Jun 22, 2015
350000 EQUIPMENT
This document contains the VW Elsa Newsletter that contains a general overview of wiring diagrams updates, ElsaPro infomedia icons grayed out, workshop equipment tool storage application, technical bulletins, pending service solutions, tech
Elsa 6-22-15
Jun 22, 2015
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
This document contains the VW Elsa Newsletter that contains a general overview of wiring diagrams updates, ElsaPro infomedia icons grayed out, workshop equipment tool storage application, technical bulletins, pending service solutions, tech
TT 64-14-02
May 8, 2015
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Tech Tips (Heated Rear Window, One or More Lines Inoperative): To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 V, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engin
TT 64-14-02
May 8, 2015
132000 VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
Tech Tips (Heated Rear Window, One or More Lines Inoperative): To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 V, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engin
TT 64-14-02
May 8, 2015
133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
Tech Tips (Heated Rear Window, One or More Lines Inoperative): To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 V, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engin
V941501 2011521
Mar 27, 2015
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Technical Bulletin: Condensation and or water droplets becomming visible on inside of exterior light lenses issue is discussed in this document
V941501 2011521
Mar 27, 2015
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Technical Bulletin: Condensation and or water droplets becomming visible on inside of exterior light lenses issue is discussed in this document
V271501 2011894
Feb 16, 2015
111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
Technical Bulletin: Battery, Testing and Charging Using Midtronics VAS6161, MCR340V, InCharge 940, or GRX3000VAS Charger
Edition115
Dec 8, 2014
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition115
Dec 8, 2014
103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition115
Dec 8, 2014
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition115
Dec 8, 2014
133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition115
Dec 8, 2014
160000 STRUCTURE
VW Elsa Newsletter
271402
Dec 3, 2014
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
Battery, Testing and Charging Using Midtronics VAS6161, MCR340V, InCharge 940, or GRX3000 Charger
V871409 2019947
Sep 24, 2014
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Technical Bulletin (Air Conditioning, Cleaning of the Refrigerant Circuit): In cases where an air conditioning system component (such as a compressor or other system component) has failed and debris from the compressor or component is circ
871409
Sep 24, 2014
138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
Air Conditioning, Cleaning of the Refrigerant Circuit (U.S.Only)
V171404 2012855
Sep 2, 2014
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
Technical Bulletin (Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standard): This document informs of a sample list of products generally available in the North American market that meet the Volkswagen Oil Quality Standard
TB171404
Sep 2, 2014
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standard VW 502 00/505 00/505 01 and VW 504 00/507 00
V941403 2011521
Jun 4, 2014
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Technical Bulletin (Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation): This document informs of the Condensation and or water droplets visible on inside of exterior light lenses. The document also informs how to service the issue.
V941403 2011521
Jun 4, 2014
350000 EQUIPMENT
Technical Bulletin (Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation): This document informs of the Condensation and or water droplets visible on inside of exterior light lenses. The document also informs how to service the issue.
941403
Jun 4, 2014
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation
Edition86
May 19, 2014
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition86
May 19, 2014
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition86
May 19, 2014
136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition86
May 19, 2014
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition86
May 19, 2014
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition86
May 19, 2014
136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition86
May 19, 2014
350000 EQUIPMENT
VW Elsa Newsletter
TT 24-08-01
May 9, 2014
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
Tech Tips (Models with 1.8T Engine - Pressure Loss issues): Fault code P1297 may be set and fuel mixtures may go lean if the vehicle is driven under load or revved up and then returned to idle. This document informs of what to do should th
TT240801
May 9, 2014
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Fault code P1297 may be set and fuel mixtures may go lean if the vehicle is driven under load or revved up and then returned to idle.
TT240801
May 9, 2014
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Fault code P1297 may be set and fuel mixtures may go lean if the vehicle is driven under load or revved up and then returned to idle.
V001404 2010380
Apr 10, 2014
350000 EQUIPMENT
Technical Bulletin (Squeaks, Rattles, Noise, Repair Materials): This doucment contains a list of components and applications developed to repair concerns of squeaks, rattles, noise and trim fit conditions.
TB001404
Apr 10, 2014
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Squeaks, Rattles, Noise, Repair Materials
V941402 2011521
Mar 6, 2014
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Technical Bulletin (Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation): Exterior light assemblies (headlights, taillights, fog lights, turn signals) are vented and may collect moisture on their inner surfaces, depending on humidity and other climatic
941402
Mar 6, 2014
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation
Edition70
Jan 27, 2014
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition70
Jan 27, 2014
130000 VISIBILITY
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition70
Jan 27, 2014
138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition70
Jan 27, 2014
199000 TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition70
Jan 27, 2014
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
VW Elsa Newsletter
TB001403
Jan 27, 2014
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Fuel Additive to Help Prevent Sporadic Misfire Faults
TB001403
Jan 27, 2014
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Fuel Additive to Help Prevent Sporadic Misfire Faults
TT 64-14-02
Jan 24, 2014
138200 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW
Tech Tips (Heated Rear Window, One or More Lines Inoperative): To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 V, which will be present after the open in the grid line. This document informs of how to diagnose t
TT641402
Jan 24, 2014
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 V, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engine running and heated rear window switched on. Switch OFF the ign
TT641402
Jan 24, 2014
116100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 V, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engine running and heated rear window switched on. Switch OFF the ign
TT641402
Jan 24, 2014
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 V, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engine running and heated rear window switched on. Switch OFF the ign
TT641402
Jan 24, 2014
138220 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT
To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 V, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engine running and heated rear window switched on. Switch OFF the ign
V851401 2012432
Jan 22, 2014
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Technical Bulletin (Temperature Output Control Cannot Be Adjusted): Customer states cannot adjust temperature and/or A/C is not cold. The blend door control lever moves freely, but the blend door does not operate. A bushing that fits on t
851401
Jan 22, 2014
138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
HVAC, Temperature Output Control Cannot Be Adjusted
PDITECHCHECKa
Oct 28, 2013
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Perfect Delivery Inspection (PDI) - Technician and Detailer Inspections
PDI - BEETLE TEC
Jul 17, 2013
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Beetle Perfect Delivery Inspection (PDI) - Technician and Detailer Inspections: A checklist to insure a customer receives a wonderful delivery of a vehicle that looks, feels, and meets the expectations of a new vehicle that he/she has purc
PDI - BEETLE TEC
Jun 13, 2013
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Beetle Perfect Delivery Inspection (PDI) - Technician and Detailer Inspections: A checklist to insure a customer receives a wonderful delivery of a vehicle that looks, feels, and meets the expectations of a new vehicle that he/she has purc
Edition35
May 13, 2013
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
VW Elsa Newsletter
Edition35
May 13, 2013
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
VW Elsa Newsletter
SM-91-2012
Nov 5, 2012
072100 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
AUDI/VOLKSWAGEN: A PARTS CIRCULAR IS ISSUED REGARDING THE FUEL PUMP CLAIMS PROCEDURES. NO MODEL OR MODEL YEARS LISTED. *PE
921301
May 6, 2012
131000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Customer States Windshield Wipers Streak or Smear
921301
May 6, 2012
136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
Customer States Windshield Wipers Streak or Smear
921301
May 6, 2012
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Customer States Windshield Wipers Streak or Smear
TT-21-10-01
Apr 2, 2012
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
VOLKSWAGEN: DIAGNOSIS N75 SOLENOID VALVE ON TURBOCHARGER, WITH FAULT CODES P0299 AND P0234, THAT LEADS TO TESTING ON WHICH VACUUM PORTS THAT WOULD HOLD AND WHICH ONES WILL NOT. NO MODELS WERE LISTED. MODEL YEARS 2006-2013 WITH 2.0T GASO
TT-21-10-01
Apr 2, 2012
061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER
VOLKSWAGEN: DIAGNOSIS N75 SOLENOID VALVE ON TURBOCHARGER, WITH FAULT CODES P0299 AND P0234, THAT LEADS TO TESTING ON WHICH VACUUM PORTS THAT WOULD HOLD AND WHICH ONES WILL NOT. NO MODELS WERE LISTED. MODEL YEARS 2006-2013 WITH 2.0T GASO
941401
Feb 14, 2011
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation
TB-09-10-02
Aug 9, 2010
111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
VOLKSWAGEN: HEADLIGHTS MAY INTERMITTENTLY DIM SLIGHTLY AT IDLE. AT IDLE SPEED THE ALTERNATOR VOLTAGE CAN FLUCTUATE, AS THE ALTERNATOR CANNOT FULLY COMPENSATE THE FLUCTUATIONS. SOME ELECTRIC CONSUMERS COME ON IN CYCLES OR HAVE NO CONSTANT
TB-09-10-02
Aug 9, 2010
112000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
VOLKSWAGEN: HEADLIGHTS MAY INTERMITTENTLY DIM SLIGHTLY AT IDLE. AT IDLE SPEED THE ALTERNATOR VOLTAGE CAN FLUCTUATE, AS THE ALTERNATOR CANNOT FULLY COMPENSATE THE FLUCTUATIONS. SOME ELECTRIC CONSUMERS COME ON IN CYCLES OR HAVE NO CONSTANT
TB-09-10-02
Aug 9, 2010
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
VOLKSWAGEN: HEADLIGHTS MAY INTERMITTENTLY DIM SLIGHTLY AT IDLE. AT IDLE SPEED THE ALTERNATOR VOLTAGE CAN FLUCTUATE, AS THE ALTERNATOR CANNOT FULLY COMPENSATE THE FLUCTUATIONS. SOME ELECTRIC CONSUMERS COME ON IN CYCLES OR HAVE NO CONSTANT
TB-94-10-02
Aug 9, 2010
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
VOLKSWAGEN: HEADLIGHTS MAY INTERMITTENTLY DIM SLIGHTLY AT IDLE. THE HEADLAMPS OR INSIDE LIGHTS INTERMITTENTLY DIM SLIGHTLY AT IDLE SPEED. AT IDLE SPEED THE ALTERNATOR VOLTAGE CAN FLUCTUATE, AS THE ALTERNATOR CANNOT FULLY COMPENSATE THE F
TB-94-10-02
Aug 9, 2010
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
VOLKSWAGEN: HEADLIGHTS MAY INTERMITTENTLY DIM SLIGHTLY AT IDLE. THE HEADLAMPS OR INSIDE LIGHTS INTERMITTENTLY DIM SLIGHTLY AT IDLE SPEED. AT IDLE SPEED THE ALTERNATOR VOLTAGE CAN FLUCTUATE, AS THE ALTERNATOR CANNOT FULLY COMPENSATE THE F
TB-94-10-02
Aug 9, 2010
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
VOLKSWAGEN: HEADLIGHTS MAY INTERMITTENTLY DIM SLIGHTLY AT IDLE. THE HEADLAMPS OR INSIDE LIGHTS INTERMITTENTLY DIM SLIGHTLY AT IDLE SPEED. AT IDLE SPEED THE ALTERNATOR VOLTAGE CAN FLUCTUATE, AS THE ALTERNATOR CANNOT FULLY COMPENSATE THE F
2015831
Aug 28, 2008
063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
VOLKSWAGEN: EXHAUST HEAT SHIELD, REPLACEMENT GUIDELINES. HEAT SHIELDS ARE TO BE INSPECTED AFTER COMPLETION O ANY TYPE OF REPAIR TO THE UNDERBODY (EXHAUST SYSTEM TRANSMISSION, ETC.), AND IF DAMAGED, REPLACED. *PE
Showing 100 of 114 bulletins.
NHTSA Safety Investigations, VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.
PE08012
Opened: Feb 15, 2008 , Closed: Apr 24, 2008
FRONT AIR BAG CRASH SENSOR FAILURE
CERTAIN SUBJECT VEHICLES, MODEL YEAR (MY) 2003 CONVERTIBLE AND MY 2004 SEDAN AND CONVERTIBLE VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH AN ADVANCED DUAL-STAGE AIR BAG SYSTEM.THE AIR BAG CRASH SENSORS (#1F0 909 606) CONTAIN A SOLDER JOINT ON THE CIRCUIT BOARD THAT MAY CRACK UNDER CERTAIN HIGH TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS.... Read more
RQ06004
Opened: Feb 28, 2006 , Closed: Aug 7, 2006
BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH FAILURE
BY LETTERS DATED MAY 24, 2006 AND AUGUST 4, 2006, VOLKSWAGEN (VW) NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT IT IS CONDUCTING A SAFETY RECALL (NHTSA RECALL NO 06V-183) INVOLVING MODEL YEAR (MY) 1998-2002 VOLKSWAGEN NEW BEETLE AND 1999-2002 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH CRUISE CONTROL.VOLKSWAGEN?S RECALL COV... Read more
EA03002
Opened: Apr 8, 2003 , Closed: Aug 20, 2003
BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH
THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH USED IN CRUISE CONTROL EQUIPPED MY 1998-1999 AND ALL MY 2000 AND LATER MODELS HAS UNDERGONE MULTIPLE REVISIONS.ANALYSIS OF WARRANTY AND COMPLAINT DATA INDICATES HIGH REPLACEMENT RATES OCCURRED IN VEHICLES BUILT WITH BRAKE SWITCH PART NUMBERS 1J0 945 511A AND 1J0 945 511B, THE ... Read more
PE02084
Opened: Nov 18, 2002 , Closed: Apr 8, 2003
BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH OPERATION
THE BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH USED IN NEW BEETLE IS ALSO SPECIFIED IN GOLF AND JETTA MODELS.ONE TYPE OF SWITCH IS USED ON CRUISE EQUIPPED MODELS, A SECOND TYPE IS USED ON NON-CRUISE MODELS.VW REPORTS 86 CONSUMER COMPLAINTS AND 2575 WARRANTY CLAIMS OF INOPERATIVE BRAKE LIGHTS, THE MAJORITY OF WHICH ARE RELA... Read more
DP76006
Opened: Mar 18, 1976 , Closed: May 20, 1976
UNSTABLE STEERING AND FISHTAILS
UNSTABLE STEERING AND FISHTAILS
VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE - All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE across all model years (1968, 2019).
119
Total Recalls
3,640
Total Complaints
5
Investigations
169
Reported Crashes
160
Reported Fires
4
Reported Deaths
VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE - Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 4 | 16 | View |
| 2018 | 4 | 21 | View |
| 2017 | 4 | 22 | View |
| 2016 | 4 | 63 | View |
| 2015 | 6 | 108 | View |
| 2014 | 6 | 71 | View |
| 2013 | 7 | 125 | View |
| 2012 | 7 | 88 | View |
| 2010 | 3 | 42 | View |
| 2009 | 2 | 39 | View |
| 2008 | 3 | 109 | View |
| 2007 | 2 | 79 | View |
| 2006 | 4 | 161 | View |
| 2005 | 6 | 330 | View |
| 2004 | 6 | 469 | View |
| 2003 | 5 | 405 | View |
| 2002 | 8 | 231 | View |
| 2001 | 8 | 291 | View |
| 2000 | 7 | 373 | View |
| 1999 | 7 | 280 | View |
| 1998 (current) | 8 | 289 | |
| 1977 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1974 | 0 | 4 | View |
| 1973 | 3 | 1 | View |
| 1971 | 3 | 0 | View |
| 1970 | 0 | 1 | View |
| 1969 | 0 | 1 | View |
| 1968 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1965 | 0 | 5 | View |