2002 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE

8 recalls, 231 complaints - 275 TSBs

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.

50 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: The Gates Corporation

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.

16,270 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: SABERSPORT

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.

1,921 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: K2 MOTOR CORPORATION

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH

Defect Description

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER, WAGON, AND CONVERTIBLE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH OR WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL, A BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH MAY MALFUNCTION IF IT WAS INSTALLED INCORRECTLY.

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 APRIL 27, 2007, AND WILL BE CONDUCTED IN SEVERAL STAGGERED MAILINGS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 21, 2007. VEHICLES WITHIN THE MAKE, MODEL, AND MODEL YEAR OF THIS POPULATION MAY BE INVOLVED IN EITHER THIS RECALL OR... Read more

1,002,000 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC

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.

87,745 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC

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.

27,176 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.

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

646,246 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC

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.

61,944 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.

Complaint Statistics

231 total complaints 18 crashes 6 fires 14 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
AIR BAGS	32
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	31
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION	15
SEAT BELTS	10
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	10
STRUCTURE:BODY	8
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH	6
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE	6
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS	6
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	5

Incident date: Oct 1, 2024

Fuel gauge shows full after driving 120 miles.

Incident date: Oct 1, 2024

I have a 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and the front seat headrest popped out while I was driving at 35 miles per hour. My daughter was sitting there, and fortunately, no injuries occurred. This happened on the passenger side, but six months ago, it happened on the driver’s side as well, which I repla... Read more

Incident date: Oct 1, 2024

Fuel gauge shows full after driving 120 miles.

Incident date: Apr 2, 2023

Everything was really grate no problems. My brakes sounds like there is LOTS of AIR Coming from somewhere. My key ignition sometimes want turn over or easy to come out. Than the car started running hot. I've had it looked at Few times and can't seem to fix the problem. I've even brought a new coola... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Apr 2, 2023

Front window has a hairline crack inside glass about 6 in. long. There is no impact point from a rock or object, it just suddenly appeared.

Incident date: Apr 2, 2023

Front window has a hairline crack inside glass about 6 in. long. There is no impact point from a rock or object, it just suddenly appeared.

Incident date: Apr 2, 2021

I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY WITH MY DAUGHTER AND GIRLFRIEND WHEN SUDDENLY THE CAR CAUGHT AN ELECTRICAL FIRE OUT OF NOWHERE. I PULLED OVER AND CLOUDY SMOKE WAS ARISING LUCKILY THE STATE TROOPER HAD A FIRE EXTINGUISHER TO PUT IT OUT BEFORE THE CAR CAUGHT ON HEAVY FLAMES.

Fire

Incident date: Jun 27, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE ABS MAIN CONTROL UNIT INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC STATED THAT THE ABS WAS MALFUNCTIONING. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER (VOLKSWAGEN OF OAKLAND, 2740 BROADWAY, OAKLAND, CA 94610) WHO STATED THAT T... Read more

Incident date: May 3, 2018

VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION (ABOUT 25 MPH) WHEN A FRONT END COLLISION OCCURRED WHICH RESULTED IN THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG ACTIVATING ONLY. THE DRIVER SIDE STEERING WHEEL AIRBAG DID NOT ACTIVATE. DRIVER'S FACE HIT THE STEERING WHEEL.

Crash

Incident date: May 3, 2018

Crash

Incident date: Aug 15, 2017

ABS TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONING, TOLD BY DEALER AND MECHANIC THAT THE CONTROL MODULE IS DEFECTIVE. THE ABS KICKS IN EVEN WHEN NOT BRAKING AND NO LIGHT ON. CAR ABRUPTLY SWERVES AS BRAKES ENGAGE ONE WHEEL ONLY. THE DEALER SAID THERE IS NO RECALL FOR MY VIN NUMBER BUT THE PART IS THE SAME NU... Read more

Incident date: Oct 17, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING INDICATOR REMAINED ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Incident date: Oct 10, 2016

THE CAR WAS DRIVEN IN THE MORNING THEN PARKED AT MY HOME. WHEN I WENT TO USE IT AGAIN IT WILL NOT COME OUT OF PARK. THE LIGHT WILL NOT GO OUT SO THAT I CAN PULL THE GEAR SHIFT OUT OF PARK.

Incident date: Aug 9, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE CONVERTIBLE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH IN THE RAIN, WATER SUDDENLY LEAKED INTO THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE AND ONTO THE DRIVER. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILU... Read more

Incident date: Aug 3, 2016

WE PURCHASE OUR 2002 VW BEATLE FROM A PRIVATE 6 YEARS AGO. WE HAVE REPLACED THE FUSE BOX ABOVE THE BATTERY ON 3 PREVIOUS OCCASIONS AS THE BOX SHORTS OUT AND MELTS CAUSING THE CAR TO TURN OFF AND NOT RESTART. THE FIRST TWO TIMES WE HAD REPAIR FACILITIES FIX THE PROBLEM TO THE TUNE OF $500 PLUS EACH ... Read more

Incident date: Jul 13, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, ALL THE WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE BATTERY DIED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE SAME FAILURE... Read more

Incident date: Oct 30, 2015

THE INTERIOR SMELLS STRONGLY OF CRAYONS AND WILL NOT GO AWAY WITH SHAMPOOING, CLEANING AND/OR OTHER METHODS OF ODOR REMOVAL. THE ODOR IS VERY STRONG AND RUBS OFF ON CLOTHING AND SKIN WHILST SEATED.

Incident date: Oct 30, 2015

THE INTERIOR SMELLS STRONGLY OF CRAYONS AND WILL NOT GO AWAY WITH SHAMPOOING, CLEANING AND/OR OTHER METHODS OF ODOR REMOVAL. THE ODOR IS VERY STRONG AND RUBS OFF ON CLOTHING AND SKIN WHILST SEATED.

Incident date: Oct 30, 2015

THE INTERIOR SMELLS STRONGLY OF CRAYONS AND WILL NOT GO AWAY WITH SHAMPOOING, CLEANING AND/OR OTHER METHODS OF ODOR REMOVAL. THE ODOR IS VERY STRONG AND RUBS OFF ON CLOTHING AND SKIN WHILST SEATED.

Incident date: Mar 25, 2016

WHEN I DRIVE THE CAR GO SLOW THEN FAST

Incident date: Mar 25, 2016

WHEN I DRIVE THE CAR GO SLOW THEN FAST

Incident date: Mar 25, 2016

WHEN I DRIVE THE CAR GO SLOW THEN FAST

Incident date: Jan 11, 2003

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE WIRING HARNESS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE F... Read more

Incident date: Jul 10, 2010

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHEN THE CONTACT STARTED THE VEHICLE, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE DEALER PREVIOUSLY REPLACED THE AIR BAG SENSOR, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000. UPDAT... Read more

Incident date: May 10, 2015

I WAS STRUCK BY A DRIVER ON THE FREEWAY GOING ABOUT 30 MPH WHO WAS SWITCHING LANES AND HIT MY DRIVER SIDE TIRE AND DRIVER SIDE FENDER ON MY CAR. MY AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. I HAVE CONTINUOUSLY CONTACTED AND HAD MY VEHICLE SERVICED FOR THE DEFECTIVE AIRBAG SEVERAL TIMES. I AM A SINGLE MOTHER OF TWINS ... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Sep 27, 2002

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS AT NIGHT, THE HEADLIGHTS AND TAIL LIGHTS FAILED TO WORK INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 32,000.

Incident date: Sep 25, 2014

BOUGHT THIS VW BEETLE USED. HAD TERRIBLE SMELL, LIKE BURNT CRAYONS. CLEANED IT INTENSELY, INSIDE AND OUTSIDE. THOROUGH DETAIL JOB. STILL SMELLS, CAUSING HEADACHE. AIR BAG LIGHT AND BUZZER STAYED ON EVEN AFTER LATCHING SEAT BELT. CRUISE CONTROL WORKS ERRATICALLY, LUNGING FORWARD SUDDENLY, THEN CHUGS,... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: Sep 25, 2014

1 injured

Incident date: Sep 25, 2014

1 injured

Incident date: Aug 15, 2014

ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 15, 2014 AT 12:19 PM, I REAR ENDED A TOYOTA HIGHLANDER AT A SPEED OF ABOUT 30 MPH. MY PASSENGER WAS NOT WEARING A SEAT BELT AT THE TIME OF THE ACCIDENT AND ON IMPACT MY PASSENGER WAS EJECTED OUT OF THE SEAT AND SMASHED HER HEAD OFF THE WINDSHIELD AND THEN ONTO THE DASHBOARD. ALSO S... Read more

Crash 2 injured

Incident date: Jun 30, 2014

ON JUNE 13TH I WAS DRIVING MY CAR AND I WENT TO TURN OFF THE AC AND IT MADE A LOUD CLICKING NOISE, AFTER THE NOISE THE AC WOULDN'T TURN OFF SO I ENDED UP DRIVING 3 HOURS WITH THE AC FULL BLAST. A FEW DAYS AFTER THIS I WAS ABLE TO TURN OFF THE AC, AND LEFT IT LIKE THIS FOR ABOUT 2 WEEKS. AT THIS POIN... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Jun 30, 2014

Fire

Incident date: Feb 7, 2008

THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AS THEY SHOULD HAVE IN A HEAD ON CAR ACCIDENT. SOMEONE HIT MY CAR IN THE RIGHT REAR END AND I LOST CONTROL OF THE CAR AND IT CAREENED HEAD FIRST INTO A TREE. BEFORE THE CAR WAS HIT IT WAS GOING ABOUT 30 - 35 MPH BUT AFTER IT WAS HIT IT WENT FASTER, I CAN'T S... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Oct 19, 2013

I WAS SITTING IN STANDSTILL TRAFFIC, BY MYSELF, WAS HIT FROM BEHIND AT FULL FREEWAY SPEED, FORCED INTO THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME, RESULTING IN A DOMINO EFFECT AND A 6 CAR PILE UP. I SUSTAINED BOTH FRONT END AND BACK END DAMAGE, TOTALING MY CAR, MY PASSENGER AIRBAG DEPLOYED (AGAIN, I WAS ALONE) THE DRIV... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Sep 3, 2013

THE FRONT SEAT BELT BUCKLE BECOMES DEFECTIVE AND SETS AN AIRBAG CODE MAKING THE AIR BAG LIGHT TURN ON AND POSSIBLY NOT WORK. THIS IS THE THIRD TIME I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE BUCKLE ON THIS VEHICLE IN 187,000 MILES. I HAVE CHECKED A NUMBER OF VW CLUB FORUMS AND HAVE FOUND THIS IS A VERY COMMON ISSU... Read more

Incident date: Sep 3, 2013

Incident date: Jul 2, 2013

THIS IS MY DAUGHTERS CAR AND WE ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF IT WITH HER GOING TO SCHOOL AND WORK. IT HAS BEEN JERKING VERY HARD ENOUGH TO THROW YOU WHOLE BODY FORWARD I JUST CAN'T BELIEVE THE COMPLAINTS I'VE SEEN WITH THIS CAR I WOULD HAVE NEVER BOUGHT IT KNOWING ALL THESE PROBLEMS. PARENTS C... Read more

Incident date: Jul 27, 2013

THE VW NEW BEETLE I JUST GOT HAS A STRONG INTERIOR SMELL OF CRAYONS. IS THIS HARMFUL TO OUR HEALTH? *TR

Incident date: Jul 18, 2008

THE IGNITION COILS ON MY 2.0L AZG ENGINE CRUMBLED DURING A TUNE UP,WHICH RESULTED IN A $647.00 REPAIR BILL. NEW VW IGNITION COIL, SPARK PLUG WIRES AND OEM SPARK PLUGS WERE INSTALLED. TODAY, 4/26/2013, IGNITION COIL CRUMBLES AGAIN DURING TUNE UP. VW CLAIMS THEIR WARRANTY ON PARTS IS 12 MONTHS. VW ... Read more

Incident date: Dec 18, 2012

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH IN RAINY WEATHER, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS BECAME INOPERABLE. THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE WHO ADVISED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS FOR THE FAILURE AND THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS SENSORS WOULD HAVE TO BE... Read more

Incident date: Jul 12, 2012

WATER LEAKING FROM MOONROOF. HEADLINER DAMP AND LOOSE. *TR

Incident date: May 3, 2012

VEHICLE STALLED APPROACHING AN INTERSECTION. IT WOULD NOT RESTART, AND NONE OF THE ELECTRONICS FUNCTIONED. THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE PUSHED INTO A NEARBY PARKING LOT. UPON REPAIR, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE BATTERY FUSE BLOCK HAD MELTED, AND THE IN-LINE FUSES WERE ALL DAMAGED. THE BATTERY FUSE BLOC... Read more

Incident date: Feb 17, 2009

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED AN ABNORMAL ODOR THAT CAUSED THE CONTACT TO RECEIVE HEADACHES. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER WHERE THE DEALER ADVISED THAT THE ODOR WAS CAUSED BY A STAIN ON THE FLOOR MATS. THE CONTACT STATED T... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: Jun 15, 2007

CURRENTLY HAVE VERY LOW MILEAGE(NOW UNDER 20000) 2002 VW NEW BEETLE PURCHASED NEW. AFTER TIME WARRANTY EXPIRED BOTH POWER WINDOW(PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDES) REGULATORS FAILED (AT DIFFERENT TIMES AND MILEAGES) SPONTANEOUSLY NOT DUE TO ANY EXTERNAL EVENT.. BOTH REGULATORS REQUIRED REPLACEMENT AT CONS... Read more

Incident date: Jun 15, 2007

Incident date: Nov 30, 2011

THE BLUE TEMP GAUGE COMES ON FOR A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME...THEN WHEN I SLOW DOWN THE JUMPS/JERK REALLY HARD...I NOTICE IT ONLY DOES WHEN I SLOW DOWN....TO AVOID IT I TRY TO LET THE CAR SLOW DOWN ON ITS OWN BUT IT STILL DOES IT....OTHERS THAT IVE DISCUSSED THE ISSUE WITH ADVISED ME THAT IT MAY BE THE ... Read more

Incident date: Oct 12, 2011

THERE IS AN UNUSUALLY STRONG, AND OBNOXIOUS, ODOR (SMELLING OF BURNT CRAYONS) COMING FROM THE INTERIOR OF THE CAR. THE SMELL IS SO OVER-POWERING I HAVE TO OPEN THE WINDOWS, AND LEAVE THEM OPEN, THE ENTIRE TIME I AM DRIVING THE CAR, OTHERWISE I BECOME DIZZY AND NAUSEOUS. I SEARCHED THE INTERNET, AND ... Read more

Incident date: Oct 12, 2011

Incident date: Sep 8, 2007

SINCE I BOUGHT THE VEHICLE, I HAD ALL KINDS OF PROBLEMS ALL THE WAY FROM CHANGING MY WHOLE ENGINE, AND CHANGING ALL KINDS OF SENSORS AND NOW I HAVE THIS BIG CONCERN WITH THIS STRANGE SMELL PROBLEM WHICH I CAN'T GET RID OFF, I HAD SPRAY AND BOUGHT ALL KINDS OF DEODORANTS AND STILL CAN'T GET RID OFF.... Read more

Incident date: Nov 24, 2010

MY FIANCEE AND I PURCHASED THIS BEETLE IN NOVEMBER OF 2010 AND HAVE HAD NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS WITH IT. IT HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP A NUMBER OF TIME (5-7) AND WE HAVE SPENT HUNDREDS IN TRYING TO FIX IT. YET NO LUCK. IT IS A DANGER TO MY FIANCEE AND NEW BORN BABY. ON DAY IT WILL RUN FINE BUT THEN AFTER DR... Read more

Showing 50 of 231 complaints.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2002 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE

275 manufacturer communications from 160 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	33
350000 EQUIPMENT	26
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	24
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	16
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	13
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER	13
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER	12
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	11

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Airbag / Pyrotechnic Safety Belt Deployment Inquiries, update to contact information due to retirement.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Volkswagen Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Update model year applicability to include 2023.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Battery testing and charging using special tools VAS6161 & GRX3000VAS Charger. Updated to include additional model year applicability.

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

This bulletin contains general instructions for software updates.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Update engine oil quality standard lists (attachments)

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Tool number added to table. Removal of Behr Flush Kit. VAS 6337/1A

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Updated to include additional models and model year applicability.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Quick Reference Update Guide.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Update vehicle metadata to include pull ahead models. Also includes R32 2002-2007 and 2002-2006 Jetta Wagon.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Update vehicle metadata.

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Update vehicle metadata.

350000 EQUIPMENT

The part number listed in the document is to be returned if it meets the criteria provided.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Alternative method for radio code retrieval.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Alternative method for radio code retrieval.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standards

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Gasoline Engine Misfire Diagnosis document

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Battery Testing and Charging instruction. Updated to include model year 2019 applicability.

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Condensation and or water droplets visible on inside of exterior light lenses. TB updated to include model year 2019 applicability.

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Update vehicle metadata.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Engine replacement tip

350000 EQUIPMENT

To include an additional model year applicability.

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

To include an additional model year applicability.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This information bulletin contains instructions for checking the pins/terminals for contacts and nano contacts.

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Tip for Scan tool concerns that may occur duing a test plan

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Update to model year applicability.

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Update to model year applicability.

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

Updated to include model year 2014 thru 2018 applicability.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Updated to include model year 2014 thru 2018 applicability.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Update to existing tip for fuel quality checking.

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

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.

350000 EQUIPMENT

VAS 6154 Replacement Part Setup Guide

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Quick Reference of vehicle concerns. Includes a list of Software versions and the technical bulletin numbers that referred to the concerns Updated

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.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Update model year applicability to include 2017.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Reminder for dealers to reference the repair manual and replace all necessary fasteners (bolts, nuts) that cannot be re-used

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

Update to model year applicability.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Update to include additional model year applicability.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Update model and model year applicability.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Contacting the parts helpline

160000 STRUCTURE

Contacting the parts helpline

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Data Link connector pin assignment chart that is applicable to all models. Update model year applicability.

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Quick Reference Update Guide of the vehicles expected upgraded software level. The latest corresponding technical bulletins that address the issues, and concerns that have been had with the vehicles.

162000 STRUCTURE:BODY

Technical Bulletin about Paint Finish, Reducing Swirl Marks and Fine Scratches New vehicles (prior to Retail Delivery) with swirl marks and or fine scratches from polishing or cleaning. The document also have infromation about where to fi

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Fuel Additive to Help Prevent Sporadic Misfire Faults

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Quick reference update guide.

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Quick Reference of vehicle concerns. Includes a list of Software versions and the technical bulletin numbers that referred to the concerns Updated

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Technical tips on what to do if improper gasoline has been added to the vehicle.

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

Gasoline quality.

117000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

Coding the Replacement Instrument Cluster.

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Coding the Replacement Instrument Cluster.

117000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

Beetle-Coding the Replacement Instrument Cluster

140000 AIR BAGS

Airbag Issues.

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Technical Bulletin (HVAC, Unpleasant Odor): Unpleasant odor is coming from Heating and Ventilation system. Odor mainly occurs after vehicle has been sitting (unused) at least 5 hours and within 20 to 60 seconds after vehicle is first start

350000 EQUIPMENT

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

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

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.

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

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

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

132000 VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Technical Bulletin: Condensation and or water droplets becomming visible on inside of exterior light lenses issue is discussed in this document

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

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

Technical Bulletin: Battery, Discharged, Diagnosis for Excessive Static Current Draw

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

Technical Bulletin: Battery, Testing and Charging Using Midtronics VAS6161, MCR340V, InCharge 940, or GRX3000VAS Charger

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Discusses the issues associated with using contaiminated gasoline. There are recommendations to use top tier gasoline retailers

346000 COMMUNICATION:MANUFACTURER TELEMATICS

Quick Reference Update Guide

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

VW Elsa Newsletter

160000 STRUCTURE

VW Elsa Newsletter

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

VW Elsa Newsletter

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

VW Elsa Newsletter

103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

VW Elsa Newsletter

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Battery, Testing and Charging Using Midtronics VAS6161, MCR340V, InCharge 940, or GRX3000 Charger

353630 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:BLUETOOTH/WIFI

When performing SVM updates, the scan tool should be hardwired to the vehicle and the Bluetooth physically turned off. A hard wired internet connection is also recommended.

350000 EQUIPMENT

When performing SVM updates, the scan tool should be hardwired to the vehicle and the Bluetooth physically turned off. A hard wired internet connection is also recommended.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

When performing SVM updates, the scan tool should be hardwired to the vehicle and the Bluetooth physically turned off. A hard wired internet connection is also recommended.

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Tech Tips (SVM Update Instructions): This document informs when performing SVM updates, the scan tool should be hardwired to the vehicle and the Bluetooth physically turned off. A hard wired internet connection is also recommended.

091200 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:FUEL GAUGE SYSTEM

Tech Tips (ECM Fault P1250 "Fuel Level Too Low" Will Not Clear): This document informs to clear static ECM fault P1250 "Fuel Level Too Low", add fuel to vehicle and complete a road test of at least 10 miles. Simply adding fuel without co

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

Air Conditioning, Cleaning of the Refrigerant Circuit (U.S.Only)

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The DLC is intended for use with diagnostic scan tools and by emissions testing stations. However, aftermarket devices (i.e., drive data recorders) that connect to the DLC have now become available.

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

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standard VW 502 00/505 00/505 01 and VW 504 00/507 00

080000 FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL

Use the diagram below to test the N75 Solenoid Valve in the event of a turbocharger fault code such as P0299 or P0234. This applies to Mechanical Injection Style Diesel Engines, Pumpe Duse Style Diesel Engines and the new Common Rail Style

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

061200 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL

061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER

080000 FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL

Tech Tips (TDI Engine - N75 Solenoid Valve Diagnosis): This document informs with graphical aid the testing of the N75 Solenoid Valve in the event of a turbocharger fault code such as P0299 or P0234. This applies to Mechanical Injection St

061120 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

Quick Reference Update Guide: This document informs of the corresponding software/hardware and disc availability to the customer concerns about a vehicle

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Oil Consumption Measurement

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Technical Bulletin (Oil Consumption Measurement): Customer states oil consumption is higher than the Volkswagen oil consumption standard of up to 0.5 quarts per 600 miles, or 0.5 liters per 1000 km. In order to provide effective lubricati

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Oil Consumption Measurement

Showing 100 of 275 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.

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2003

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

RQ, Closed , Model Year: 1998

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

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1998

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

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1998

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

DP, Closed , Model Year: 1972

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 (current)	8	231
2001	8	291	View
2000	7	373	View
1999	7	280	View
1998	8	289	View
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

Other VOLKSWAGEN Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
JETTA	249	14,075	View
GOLF	190	2,084	View
PASSAT	185	10,492	View
GTI	116	1,926	View
ID.4	115	1,606	View
ATLAS	101	2,700	View
TIGUAN	78	3,173	View
ATLAS CROSS SPORT	73	701	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2002 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

Technical Service Bulletins, 2002 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE

VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE - All Years Overview

VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE - Year by Year

Other VOLKSWAGEN Models