Volkswagen Beetle 1998

• Recall 102145 [USA]: A failure of the timing belt may cause the engine to shut down, potentially increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
  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/sprocket or do not have 'us9377' stamped on the water pump housing. These service replacement parts were sold for use in model year 1999-2005 audi a4, 2000-2006 audi tt, 1998-2005 volkswagen beetle, 1999-2006 golf, 1999-2008 and 2011-2013 volkswagen jetta, and 2000-2005 volkswagen passat. In the affected water pumps, the pulley or sprocket that turns the timing belt may develop microfractures causing the timing belt to fail.
  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.
  owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.Safercar.Gov.

• Recall 83110 [USA]: Decreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.
  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, and associated equipment." these lamps do not contain the required amber side reflectors.
  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.
  this recall only pertains to aftermarket replacement equipment and has no relation to any original equipment installed on vehicles produced by the vehicle manufacturer.In order to determine if your aftermarket lamp assembly is affected by this noncompliance, please review the list of model numbers provided to us by sabersport.The list can be found under "document search" located at the bottom of your screen.Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.Safercar.Gov .

• Recall 79557 [USA]: Without the amber side reflex reflectors, the lighting visibility may be affected, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
  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 associated equipment."
  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.
  this recall only pertains to aftermarket replacement equipment and has no relation to any original equipment installed on vehicles manufactured by honda, ford, or chrysler llc. Customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.Safercar.Gov.

• Recall 50795 [USA]: Lack of amber side reflectors in the lamps will decrease lighting visibility to other drivers and may possibly result in a vehicle crash
  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 associated equipment."
  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.
  this recall only pertains to aai motorsports aftermarket lamps and has no relation to any original equipment installed on the listed passenger vehicles.For more information on the lamp model numbers, click on document search and view document titled "lamp model numbers."customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.Safercar.Gov.

• Recall 48067 [USA]: The brake lights could become inoperative, or remain on. failure to provide the proper signal when braking could lead to a crash without warning.
  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.
  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 dealers will apply the remedy based on the vin number of the vehicle. Owners may contact vw at 1-800-822-8987.
  vw recall no. N4.Customers may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.Safercar.Gov.

• Recall 51108 [USA]: Without the amber reflectors, the vehicle will be poorly illuminated, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash without warning.
  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. 108, lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment.
  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.
  this recall only pertains to aftermarket replacement equipment and has no relation to any original equipment installed on vehicles manufactured by the vehicle manufacturers.For more information on the lamp model numbers, click on document search and view document titled "lamp model numbers."customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.Safercar.Gov.

• Recall 11696 [USA]: 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.
  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.
  dealers will install a modified battery tray and inspect, properly route, and securing the wiring in accordance with the recall repair instructions.
  owner notification began may 14, 1998.Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact vw at 1-877-4-beetle (1-877-423-3853).Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

• Recall 2006122 [Canada]: Lights and instruments
  On certain golf, gti, jetta, jetta wagon, new beetle, new beetle convertible, passat and passat wagon, the brake lamp switch may malfunction. If this happens, the brake lamps could become inoperative; or could come on and stay on, even though the vehicle is parked. Correction: dealers will replace the brake lamp switch with a newly revised version. This action includes vehicles previously affected by transport canada recall 03-184 and 04-075. The switch installed during this prior repair may not function properly. Note: parts available december 2006.

• Recall 2003184 [Canada]: Electrical
  On certain vehicle, the brake lamp switch may malfunction. If this happens, the brake lamps could become inoperative; or the lamps could come on and stay on, even though the vehicle is parked. Correction: dealer will inspect and, if necessary, replace the brake lamp switch.

• Recall 1998101 [Canada]: Electrical
  Electrical wiring may chafe against the battery tray during normal vehicle operation. If damage occurs, the fuel pump could malfunction, causing the vehicle to stall without warning. In some instances chafing could also result in a wiring fire in the engine compartment. Correction: a modified battery tray will be installed and wiring will be properly routed and secured.

To ensure accuracy and for your safety, it is recommended to do a free VIN recall check here or here [USA] - UK - Canada.

Bulletins are notices put out by manufacturers in conjunction with the NHTSA to notify the public of manufacturing issues or changes.

• Brake light switch failure investigation as of 20060228

  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 covers 646,246 vehicles.Previously, vw recalled these vehicles to replace a defective brake light switch (recalls 03v-265 and 04v-096) that was unique to vehicles with cruise control.Volkswagen reports that the brake light switch may malfunction if it was installed incorrectly during recalls 03v-265 and 04v-096.Volkswagen will install a new design brake light switch.Based on volkswagens safety recall action, this investigation is closed.
  

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• Brake light switch investigation as of 20030408

  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 original and first revision levels, respectively.The failure of the switch could result in failure of the brake lights to illuminate when the brakes are applied, or could cause the brake lamps to stay continually illuminated.Either condition results in the inability of the brake lights to notify other motorists of vehicle braking.Under safety recall 03v-265, volkswagen will inspect the brake light switch on all vehicles built through november 2001.Any affected switch will be replaced free of charge with the most current version, part number 1j0 945 511d.
  

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• Brake light switch operation investigation as of 20021118

  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 related to the brake switch.Two of the vw complaints involve failures that were also reported to odi.Additionally, over 100,000 brake switch service components have been sold under 4 different part numbers.The investigation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis.
  

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Common OBD Error codes specific to this vehicle.

• P1297 [3] Injector High Side Short To GND Or VBATT - Bank 2
• P0234 [1] Engine Turbocharger/Supercharger Overboost Condition
• P0299 [1] Turbocharger/Supercharger "A" Underboost Condition
• P1557 [1] P1557
• P0332 [1] Knock Sensor 2 Circuit Low Input (Bank 2)

Don't work

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

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 85,000.

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 compartment not involved. Radio operating properly prior to incident. No prior issues with vehicle. *tr

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 a scare. Thankfully there was not a crash and injury as a result. It appears that i am not the only one this has happened to so it is surprising that that cars are not recalled to have thread locker or different bolts installed. *tr

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 random locking and unlocking). Auto reversal of the windows when an appendage gets lodged in the window did not occur. This pinched and lodged my left arm in the window to a point of bruising an area of 4 inches by 2 inches. After exhaustively researching this issue (which is a common issue with the door lock modules on the 98-02 vw beetles with the old style "loud" power locks) i concluded that the door lock module and the door closed microswitch were with culprits of this incident. I am very grateful that this only occurred to a 32 year old man and not one of my 4 small children (7mo-7 years). Vwoa should do their research and see that hundreds if not thousands of vw owners have had to replace dlms on multiple doors at a cost of at least $200+ each door (more at the dealership). This should be a recall for the safety factor alone, let alone the inconvenience factor of having to replace a dlm because of a $3 microswitch at the door closed sensor, or 1 of 6 bad solder joints on the circuit board inside the door lock module. Information on the exact problem can be found on multiple vw repair sites (tdiclub.Com; vwvortex.Com; newbeetle.Org; etc, etc, etc) i do understand that my car is 14 years old, however i have had to spend over $1000 fixing vw factory mistakes on this car already. I love vw, being a former owner of several air cooled vws in the past, however this will severely affect my decision to ever buy another water cooled vw. *tr

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 light came on. I had the codes read and it sad it was a P0332 knock sensor 2 circuit low. I've read alot of sights and alot of people have said they have had this problem too, but i haven't had a chance to fix yet. I also have had the same problem i have read in other posts about not being able to get your car started. I turn the key everything comes on it cranks it sounds like it just about to start but it just won't turn over. I would like to know more about that too. It's a good idea about sights like this, but there's alot of people out there that have alot of complaints that have no idea about these sights. There should be a way to advertise somewhere to get to more people on how they could make complaints on this sight or sights like these and maybe eventually something could be done and we could get some help to get these cars fixed instead of fixing all the same exact problems ourselves. *tr

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 highway. She attempted to drive the vehicle to the right side, but the vehicle would not start, so she coasted over to the right side of the highway. When the hood was opened, there were flames erupting and the entire vehicle was engulfed in flames. The vehicle was destroyed. The fire department was called but no report was filed. The manufacturer had not been notified. The vin was unavailable. The current and failure mileages were approximately 136,000.

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 driving the vehicle. When this happens the car must be pulled over and turned off for to reset the electrical system and then started again to control the problem. However the problem continues to occur at frequent intervals. I contacted vw after reading about the recalls concerning electrical wiring caused by a wire connection too close to the battery tray (recall id # 11675 - electrical system:wiring:front underhood) they told me the vin number of the vehicle was not eligible for the recall even though the recall was in the same 1998 model year. I told them we are having the exact same problems as stated in the recall. The car is now unsafe to drive and we are left to diy on this one. Is there any resoltion that can be achieved here? It seems it should absolutely be recalled/repaired by vw. *tr

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. This is a safety issue when accelerating after stopping in intersections due to the high traffic volume in my area. This problem is consistent and happens whenever the car is running. I haven't taken it to be serviced because of the extremely high cost of repairing the transmission. The car is worth less than the necessary repair. *tr

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 except rushing of adrenaline. Later i found out that the dislocation of seat was caused by the loosing screws which secured the seat. The screws are in perfect condition. They certainly cannot come loose cos there is not wear n tear. It much be manufactured defect. I report to vw dealer but they want diagnostic charge. What a joke. I do not send my car for repair cos i want the truth of the matter. I only taped my screws to fix them. Still they will come loose after a while.

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

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 melted. After repairs made contact states that squeak still present and fans still not working. Technician informed contact that repairs made correctly. Contact took vehicle back to dealer and it is still there. Failure mileage was 106,000. Current mileage 106,075.

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

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. The brakes failed and the driver rear ended the preceding vehicle. The air bags failed to deploy. There were no injuries. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a body shop and an insurance agent informed the owner that the vehicle was destroyed. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified. The vin was unavailable. The current and failure mileages were 100,000.

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 overheat. $1500 later i'm still in the same boat. *tr

Driver side power window stuck in down position. Pressing the window up toggle results in grinding noise and burnt/electrical smell. *tr

Airbag lamp turned on without any physical incident. *tr

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 with vw's seem to have the same problem which is not covered under vw's warranty. *tr

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

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? Here is the information on the recall that i think they need to do on my car: electrical system:wiring:front underhood vehicle description: passenger vehicles. The electrical wiring located in the engine compartment was routed too close to the edge 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. I have had to get a new fuel pump for my car this year and my mechanic is telling me that i now need to get a new ac compressor. Since these are the things that are affected by a bad electrical wiring, and my car has had issues with these, i believe that my car should be eligible for this recall. Please help! *tr

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 electrical failures, problems w/ front & rear light wiring, had door locks/alarm fail & subsequently had my laptop stolen from the car, the radio has not worked for 1+ year, & it's cover panel is loose & falling back into the dash, the rear-view mirror switches have failed, the power window switches have had to be replaced, the drivers side door fell off (!) of its top hinge when the hinge broke while opening the door normally at a gas station, the air compressor has failed many times, the a/c is currently not working, the drivers side door lock fell out of the handle(!!!!), the catalytic converter has been replaced twice, & the list goes on. Currently i have not been driving the car for several wks b/c though only a week or two out of the shop, again it is having transmission problems. I am at my wits end with this car & having recently graduated from college, am not in the greatest position to have to buy a new car. Moreover, i am so displeased w/ the car that i would literally feel guilty about trading it in to be sold to some other unsuspecting person. Vw should be so ashamed of themselves, & should be reimbursing owners of the 1998 beetle in full for all of the strife & trouble that they have caused. In fact, after writing this & realizing how many problems this car has had, i may try to take legal action - this is totally unacceptable! Finally, our local vw dealer is terrible, keeping my car for wks. Longer than expected, one time leaving a candy bar stuck to my passenger side seat!!!, and acting like they could care less about the poor quality of their products & labor. *tr

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 worse, then were flames. I then called 911. Police and fire trucks arrived. My car was totaled. The inside was completely destroyed, and most of the outside. *ak

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 order for them to work. The vehicle has not been driven since the failure occurred. The current and failure mileages were 89,957. The consumer stated plastic line replaced with 3/8" vacuum line. Updated 07/26/07 *tr

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.

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 wiring failure. The dealer remedied the failure. On april 12, 2007, the contact drove the vehicle for three miles at 45 mph and the vehicle overheated once more. The check engine indicator light also illuminated. The vehicle was returned to the dealer , who stated that the electrical wires were too close to the battery. This failure could cause the wires to heat and short out, preventing the fans from operating. The contact called the manufacturer, and was told that the vehicle was not included in the recall. The current and failure mileages were 75,000. *ak updated 05/21/07. *jb

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 minutes before the fire she heard whistling noise from under the hood, and saw dark gray smoke coming out. The contact said that the car was in idle at the time she heard the noise and saw the smoke. The contact found recall 98v100000 which the contact felt could be the possible reason for the fire. *ak

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 lights stuck on. I have heard of countless reports of this issue with these cars; some users are reporting that their switches have been replaced four or more times. I will be seeking another replacement and will keep the old part. *nm

Dt*: the contact stated without incident, both the lower pivots for the exterior rear view mirrors fractured. The mirrors are inoperable and cannot be turned. The dealership determined the entire mirror assembly needed to be replaced.

The lock mechanism on the passenger side door of my 1998 beetle just fell out without warning. I discovered that it was missing and went to a repair shop to get it replaced, only to learn the this is a common problem with beetles because the lock is held in by only one tiny screw. This defect will cost me $350.00 to repair, in a car that has only 50,000 miles on it. I also recently had to replace a fuse that powered the radiator fan because there is no early warning system in the car to indicate that the fan is not working. I was only aware there was a problem when the check-engine light came on, by which time there could have been extensive damage to the radiator. The fuse itself had gotten so hot it had virtually melted. This problem cost me nearly $370.00 to fix. The mechanic noted that he had seen this happen with beetles several times because there is no temperature indicator on the dash -- you have no idea there is a problem until the check-engine light comes on. *nm

The turbo charger on the tdi volkswagons are failing at a very high rate. The cost for repair averages about $1600. The company should be forced to address this problem and repair this premature failure. *jb

I have invested in a 1998 volkswagen beetle i only drove it 3 times it when down on me 6 miles from my house the guy that's working on said my headon motor was crack , then i had ele , problems everyday i call it is something else i pay down to ezway auto 5,000.00 then i pay 383.00 a month i have only had this car for 2 weeks . I ask for my money back they said no .What such i do i am disable on a limit income. *nm

Dt: had an issue with the brake lights remaining on. This occurred when both brake pressure was applied and even when it was not. Consumer removed brake light fuse on his own. Also, replaced brake light switch but still problem recurred. . Consumer was c without any brake lights . Consumer has not contacted dealer or manufacturer. *ak

This vehicle has had a series of problems since i have owned it. I have always been a volkswagen enthusiast. So when i saw the new beetles i was naturally excited and couldn't wait to own one. What i expected was volkswagens usual excellent quality and value for money. What i got was a vehicle that not only is an inconvenience to drive, but is also a safety concern. This vehicle has had at least 8 major defects. I call them defects because so many others have experienced similar issues with their new beetles. Keep in mind the vehicle is regularly maintained, and is only at 97,000 miles. 1. Check engine light is on and vehicle stalls or cuts out on a regular basis. 2. The low beams on my headlights always burn out. I change the lights and they just burn out again. I always have to drive instead with my high beams on. 3. My driver side and passenger side windows have fallen into my doors. Meaning that they wont roll up, a loud, noise can be heard when you try. I was told by volkswagen that they were "aware" of the problem. They even told me that it was because they used plastic clips to hold the windows and they are now replacing with metal clips. Fine and good, but while my windows were down my seats became severely stained. (they stain easy) who's going pay for that??? 4. The window switch that controls the windows going up and down broke off in my hand. 5. The radio tries to load a tape when there isn't one. Hood latch broke, has to be opened with screwdriver now. Thanks vwoa!! 6. Heater motor turns up and down on its own 7. Engine holds high rpms in highway, rapid iol consumption. 8 reverse lights malfunctioned. Questions vwoa? Call me, we'll chat 269-986-0996 . *ak

I own a 1998 volkswagen beetle. About a year ago the electrical system malfunctioned and i was locked in my car. Fortunately i was able to get out using a new remote i had just purchased.*ak secondly, two days ago i was driving on an interstate, it was warm, and i turned on the fan. It immediately started blowing 'high' and wouldn't turn off. Within a minute the dashboard began smoking and there was a distinct eletrical smell. I stopped, raised the hood and there was no fire. The fan stuck in the 'high' position and caused a fire which 'totalled' the car. The dash and seats melted and the front windshield broke out from the flames.

Dt: the consumer stated that 1998 volkswagen beetle intermittently stalled while driving. The speed was not a factor. The whole electrical system failed when the car stalled. This started happening in january of 2005. The consumer to the car took the dealership, and the dealership could not find the cause of the problem. The consumer did not call the manufacturer. Diagnostic testing was done with no results. *ak the consumer stated the problem has been rectified. The window switch was replaced. *jb

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 to hold them in place because even after tightening it back it place it would still come loose.*ak

Driving down the road in my car the day time running light went out. The brights still work but the passenger side headlight doesn't unless it is on brights, i thought this was just normal maybe the light work out but i was told it was the connection and i have seen so many with the same headlight out this is unsafe and can potentially result in a ticket or a wreck. *nm

I own a 1998 beetle and i am making you aware of a safety concern that can possibly lead to an accident or even cause a death. I have complained before and nothing has been done. The external mirrors on the early new beetles are dangerously oversized thus causing a significant blind-spot(s) when driving. These blind spots, (especially drivers side) prevent visibility to the front sides of the vehicle. Ex. If there is someone in the crosswalk in front left of you, you cannot see them or it!!! On too many occasions to count i and others have almost hit a pedestrian and another oncoming vehicle due to this failure!!! I don't know how many more times i will be so lucky, but i feel as if i am driving a ticking time bomb. Vw has come up with the solution by redesigning newer beetles with smaller and relocating the external mirrors thus eliminating the problem. But, those of us who have theses older versions are stuck with this very critical safety concern...Please help! *jb

I was driving my 98 bug when the entire seat fell off the track, and i fell in the backseat, the car stalled while on a 45 mph road i was not injured.Keffer volk recured the seat but say i will cost $1000 for a new floor track. Volks says this isn't a warranty issue. It would be nice to have a seat to drive the car. My concern is how many other cars/volks have done this and i cannot believe their lack of concern. Had i been injured or worse killed there would be a huge lawsuit at this time. I do not weigh 300 pounds nor am i abusing to my vehicles. I do believe a motor car industry should be able to build a car that keeps the seat in place. I rarely have even moved the seat back and forth on the track. I am the second owner and the car has never been involved in a wreck. We are getting rid of the car very soon. I have lost my confidence in volks. This was my second car with them. Thank you. Previous firefighter and er nurse and safety previontion officer with the fire depart. *ak

My driver side seat on my 98 beetle has collapsed and needs a new seat frame. It is unsafe to drive.

Upon starting the vehicle the side air bag deployed. There was no collision. Consumer was injured. One month prior to the air bag deployment, the air bag light illuminated on the dash board. Also, the engine light illuminated prior to the side air bag deployment. Recall 98v100000 was issued. *ak

1998 beetle.*mr after the vehicle was purchased it was driver 120 miles to the consumer's home. The vehicle was taken to a local repair shop because the consumer heard a noise coming from the rear of the vehicle. The technician determined that eh vehicle's brakes and clutch were bad. The consumer contacted the dealer but the refused to provide any assistance. *nm

The electric window would not move in the consumers vehicle. The manufactured issued a recall for the same problem , however they refused to pay for the repair since the vehicle was originally registered in canada. The (the owner bought the parts and repaired the vehicle. *jb

While driving check engine light appeared on dashboard and remained on. Then, vehicle stalled. Consumer tried to restart vehicle, but was unable to do so. Consumer had the vehicle towed to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic could not duplicate the problem. Consumer informed the mechanic that problem occurred more than once, and had not been resolved. *ak

While driving at any speed vehicle vibrated and jerked uncontrollably. Consumer was able to maintain control of the vehicle, and drove it to the dealer for inspection, but mechanic was not able to duplicate the problem. Two weeks later, vehicle was taken back to the dealer for the same problem, and mechanic determined that one motor mount bolt was missing and one needed to be tightened. *ak *jb

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 place i still had problems with it i called the dealership that supposedly repaired it and left message for gm to call me well i never got a return call and the problem with the window still was there the service manager at this dealership located in colerain twp cincinnati ohio northgate volkswagon was very rude to me and never did the general manager return my call well long story short i had to have this window problem repaired now originally this was covered under a recall issued by volkswagen but the problem still existed and they told me sorry we cannot re-fix this sorry well my feelings are that's crazy if the problem still existed they should fix it or volkswagen should refund my money for having it fixed due to their lack of doing it incorrectly. *jb

While driving at an undetermined speed the vehicle stalled. The consumer took the vehicle to a mechanic. Please add any additional information. *nlm

The power windows rolled down by themselves without warning. Please provide additional information. *jb

Air bag on passenger side of 1998 beetle activated. Side bag only. Neither front bags, nor driver's side. No collision with other car. Later examination showed damage to right wheel rim. *jb

Headlights failed while driving without warning. *ak

I bought a 1998 volkswagen beetle from torrance nissan on 5 january, 2003: since the date of purchase, this car had been overheating off and on. I returned it to the dealership but was informed that it was nothing to worry about.? They went as far as taking it to a vw service rep on 5 and 6 january, 2003 for confirmation. I found out later that vw has no record of ever servicing or even seeing the vw until 1 april, 2003! During the months of february and march, 2003 i still experienced the vehicle overheating and each time i called amir, i would follow up with a visit to torrance nissan. Their replies were always the same, they could not find a problem for the overheating? There were many times i told the dealership that i no longer wanted this car and even submitted it in writing on 15 april, 2003. On 1 april, 2003 i took the beetle to volkswagen myself and had it fixed, but the water pump broke again and was replaced on 4-9-03. Three days later, the car was getting hot. I told both volkswagen and torrance nissan that i no longer want this car! I have proof of all the repairs performed and still it overheats! On 12 april, 2003 i took the car once more to volkswagen to thoroughly check it out and they called their technical support. A few days later they found a cracked head on the engine block. To top it off, i had a car accident on 28 april, 2003 on my way to work and had to be towed to the long beach honda body shop. Later that night the car caught fire and was burned down with 3 other cars in the body shop. Before the car caught fire, i was in process of a valid claim under the lemon law & magnuson-moss warranty act with the adam krohn of the consume law center. Issues: rental car $1,607.78 (my insurance only covered $600.00, my insurance covered only actual value of $10,788.31; leaving me with a balance of $1,043.00 out-of-pocket. Which my insurance informs me make a claim against the body shop for difference on balance and $ 1007.78 of the car rental.

Beetle has had a number of major repair problems. Air conditioning system failed at 3years old resulting in a complete rebuild. Recently, window parts failed on both sides resulting in windows falling down into the doors. Power window on driver side, hatch release and gas tank door release switches have all failed or broke resulting in replacement. Ecm module has been replaced. Glove box door broke and has been replaced. Currently dealing with another series of check engine lights and awaiting diagnosis.

The vehicle was involved in a frontal collision and the air bags did not deploy.*ak ph *jb

The vehicle experienced symptoms of recall 98v-100000 which was related to the vehicles electrical wiring under the hood. The consumers vehicle was not included in the recall due to vin. *nlm

The vehicle experienced the same problem regarding the electrical system as stated in recall#98v100000, however the vehicle identification number was not included in the recall. *jb

1998 vw beetle, passenger power window switch defective. The driver side broke for the same reason last yr. And was reported to nhtsa on this web site. I have been told by vw part that these break all the time. *nlm

Problems with front window mechanism. *dt

Power window regulator failed. Passenger side window now stuck in down position. Same failure happened on driver's side window one year ago. Obviously outside of 24,000 mile warranty. Mr

Vehicle caught on fire, possible engine failure, while driving the vehicles brake system failed and the driver had to use the emergency brake to stop vehicle. *mr the head light malfunctioned and the vehicles is flling apart after one month of ownership. The dealer refused to fix it. *yh

No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak

Plastic part on orig. Harness melted on both front headlamps. The part was changed to eliminate the plastic but no recall was initiated. I have had no problems since the redesign of the part. Dt

While driving. The headlights short out which burns the bulbs. The wiring harness is defective. The consumer has taken the vehicle into the dealer. The problem still remains. Please provide any further information. *nm

Consumer stated that the belly pan broke off of the car, dealer installed under body splash shields, and replaced left side piece. *tt

Left side transmission/engine mount bolts came loose due to viberation. One bolt broken, believed to be defective, causing other two bolts to come loose from transmission case. Bolts can no longer be tightened up to secure engine in place. Volkswagen of america denies that this a defect, will not cover the repair under thier powetrain warranty, even though it states in the manual that the transmission case is a covered part, and will not repair car or look into this matter any further.*ak

When jump starting or replacing battery vehicle would run approximately three miles or less before it stalls compelety out. Vehicle had to be towed to dealers shop to reset all electrical components in order to get vehicle to run again. If this occurs in a town or city that does not have a volkswagen dealer shop, what can one do? Asking nhtsa to look into this matter. Feel free to provide any further information concerning this matter.*ak

Left headlight went out first, then again. Air compressor replaced 3 times. Car now stalls. Replaced fuel/air filters, still stalls. Car was recalled for the electrical system wiring harness under hood, recall states all problems i have had. I was not the owner at time of recall. Apparently was not fixed at recall. *ak

While traveling at approximately 60 mph consumer's son broadsided a truck, causing a crash. Both frontal air bags failed to deploy, and vehicle has not been examined to determine the cause. Please provide any additional information/attachments.*ak

Hood failed to close completely. Dealership has examined vehicle, and determined that hood latch assembly will have to be replaced at consumers expense. *ak consumer states it took five weeks to get an apppointment. *slc

No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak

Car overheats routinely. Initially in for repair on 1/25/01 when dealer claimed to have replaced the water pump and thermostat. Since then, car has overheated on three occasions, and water leakage has been observed. Dealer says they can not replicate the issue. Driver's side door does not lock and unlock reliably, forcing me to enter and exit car through passenger door. Reported to dealer three times (initially 5/31/00). One time dealer lubricated lock; currently they say they can not replicate the issue and will not fix. After water pump repair in 1/01, car exhibited a whining noise and power steering stiffness at low rpms -- likely due to improper workmanship during that repair. Dealer claims power steering fluid was low, and has been "topped off" to alleviate problem. However, i recently had rountine maintenance at another establishment just 4 days prior to taking into shop; during that service, power steering fluids were indicated as "ok." oil consumption is excessive. Despite repeated reports to vw (initially 5/00), have received no resoluion or investigation into this issue. Through research, i have learned that this is a common beetle problem, and some beetle owners are receiving new engines or valve stem repairs to remedy. Transmission jerks severly when shifting from reverse to drive. Initially reported 9/29/98 at 9596 miles and not addressed by dealer. Recurring problems with headlight sealant leakage and water getting into headlight assembly, causing headlights to be unreliable and potential electrical/fire hazard. Have researched vw and learned during initial beetle production in puebla, mexico, they experience an abominal 40% defect rate. From research into other consumer issues with 1998 beetles, i am certain that vw passed these defective vehicles on to consumers. Please contact me for further details. I have also experienced window reglator failures, dead battery, interior pieces falling apart and other issues. Thank you!*ak

Consumer was driving , approaching a stop light, and applying brakes and seat came loose. Driver was forced into steering wheel, and then went all way back, not allowing driver to reach the pedals. Only component that held the seat to vehicle was a wheel mounted in a track. There were 2 screws (3/4") that had come loose which caused this defect. Please provide any additional information/attachments.*ak

Consumer states the drivers seat slides foward each time the vehicle stops, the dealer was notified and they still have not fixed the problem.*jb

Brake light switch replaced five times from dealership . When backing up there was no light showing up. Dealership is aware of problem.*ak

Coolant loss on two occasions causing engine to blow, no warning until last minute, all fluids and maintenace done and under extended warranty, dealer refused to pay for new engine. *ak

Failure of hood latch assembly. *ak

Complete failure of unit. Seems to be a very comman problem in new vw's. No safety defect listed. *ak

Driver's side window switches replaced twice, window regulator failed as well. *ak

Battery problem. I stopped at signal and when i restarted the engine stopped and i was almost rear end. The abs and brake lights came on. The car was towed. Apparently the battery was falling out of the car at 13,000 miles. A few months later i heard a noise and slipping within the transmission. As it turned out, engine coolant had leaked into the transmission and a rebuilt was put in. Within a few weeks after the rebuilt was put in, it was making some noise and it had intermittent lurching. I complained to vw of america and the dealership. They took care of the noise and said they would be unable to help with the lurch problem. I was in an accident a month and a half after getting the rebuilt. I went into a pole sideways. I had an independent transmission specialist test drive it after the car was repaired. He reported an unusually long pause for engagemet. I believe that when i was in a roll forward motion and would put my foot to the gas, it would not engage properly and lurched. The reason it was intermittent , is due to the fact that sometimes when you would be in a rollforward motion it would be in gear and not lurch. If it was not in gear due to the long pause, you would get a lurching movement. My first transmission never had this problem. There is a potential design flaw with this transmission. When i was talking to the service manager at commonwealth, with my first transmission, he had stated they were having problems with the jetta transmissions.*ak

Driver's seat is loose from floorboard. There's alot of movement when driving and braking. Seat was repaired by an independent repair shop. Consumer will attach additional information. *ak seat bolts failed. *slc

The vw dealership repaired this electrical problem caused by the engine fan control box which also burned wires in the engine harness the dealership only repaired what they considered necessary. I was driving 12/14/00, during the rain and stopped the vehicle and the windshield wipers, signal lights, air condition, fan control for heat, etc., and the ememergency brake light remained on without being pulled up. I do not know what else may have not been working in the vehicle during the rain. I paid almost $700.00 tp have this electrical problem fixed after only owning the car for only 4 months. Could someone please assist me in finding out repair information before i invest any more $$$ into this vehicle?*ak

I am stuck paying $650.00 in repairs for something i think the vw or my extended warranty should cover. No safety defect listed. *ak

I have had my car for a little over a year now and this is the problems i have had... The lights keep going out on me .. Always the left one first then the right follows... Leaving me with only the brights... Dealership has fixed them maybe three times now... And now they work when they want to .. Leaving me only my bright lights... Dealership explained to me that the electrical was not done properly and said could be fixed at a price of 350.00... No way.. I should have to pay that when he said they were made with a defect... The second thing gone wrong was my battery... The first time.. It just gave a loud pop and everything died... Dealership fixed it and.. The second time the battery went out it gave another loud pop but this time the acid from the battery exploded out of the battery and onto the driveway...The dealership fixed it .. The third time the fuses needed to be changed that are on the battery...The cooling system stopped working as well which caused the car to over heat... They fixed it and my water pump... A month later.. The cooling system failed again... Had to take it back to fixed a second time... . The switches on the left door that control the windows are broken and this is the second time.. The first time they fixed it.. Now they wont even fix it.. They claim its not on my warranty and want me to pay 400.00 to have it fixed... When warranty covered it the first time... And now my right window dont want to go up... Dealership again claims warranty wont cover it... When my insurance agent says it will... Dealership refuses to fix it.. Want me to pay 600.00 to have it fix... Now the dealership says my left window wont go up... So now i have two windows that wont go up ...So in a brief summary.. My headlights failed four maybe five times.... My cooling system twice... My water pump once... My window switches twice.... My battery twice... And the dealership does not help matters any either... Please get back to me on this...Thank you. *ak

A vital wiring harness has failed and possibly burned up causing the car to die in the middle of major expressway. Volkswagon claims that the part will take three months to get if special ordered from the manufacturer in germany and will cost thousands of dollars to replace. Volkswagon claims that replacing this harness may not correct the problem entirely. In october of 1999, volkswagon replaced an electrical part associated with the diesel fuel glow plug assembly fourteen months after purchase. Volkswagon replaced the battery in may of 2000 and has replaced 5 headlamps in two years. This vehicle has experienced major electrical problems since purchase.

Passenger and driver's window failed. *slc

This vehicle has been nothing but problems from the start. When the vehicle was purchased about three weeks afterwards, if you hit a bump the hubcaps would come flying off. This would happen going at the speed of 25mph. I've taken it back to the dealer for service. They said that was a problem with the new models. They replaced the hubcaps, but the problem would continuously happen. Finally i took it back again for service and demanded that this problem be fixed. So far they are all changed and it hasn't occured again. Between these problems a total of 5 hubcaps have been replaced. The other problems, are the steering wheel would knock and make loud noises. The first time it was brought in, i was told that there was nothing wrong with the car, and that the car was classified as safe. It started happening again, and they looked and said it was a "defect" in that years model. So they replaced it, "because my car was still under guarantee". This problem has started all over again, i took it in for service just recently and they said it's because of the damp weather we've been having. Just yesterday i brought the car in for turning off on the middle of the highway. The service center was not helpful. They would not give me a loaner and would not even give me a ride home or work because i worked in the bronx. My car is still not ready, and the comment was when i called if my car would be ready today was, "well you could take it back the way you brought it in." great customer service. I've have been very unhappy with the car and the service center. I was told that this problem was nothing that i had caused, it is again another "defect" and it will be replaced free of charge only because i'm still under warranty until 8/27/00. He said i was lucky it happend now than later. But, explain something to me, if it is what they call a "defect" aren't they supposed to fix it anyway?

The vw is not as reliable as the old ones. Nosafety defect. *ak

Multiple problems with car since purchase.

Many problems/failures between 10600 and 19000 miles. Dashboard left turn signal indicator intermittent failure persists for >1 year and devonhills vw refuses to fix the problem because it would be expensive for them (in the mean time, the light is useless since half the time it is on, half off).*ak

Consumer states that battery cables are melting. Dealer notified. *ak

June 19, 2000 - driving at 40 mph and heard a loud noise that sounded like a rock had hit the passenger side. No damage found upon inspection. Shortly after, put passenger window down and it sounded bad, power window failed to close. *ak

Consumer was traveling on the highway and noticed that headlight went out on the passenger's side. Consumer took the vehicle to the dealership, and mechanic told him he needed a new headlight assembly.*ak

I have had my car into the dealer several times and they just told me to keep driving until hte "dying" became closer. I told them (and reported it to volkswagen "case # 407289" ) it wasn't safe for me to drive this car i drive 280-320 miles a day. They are now replacing the fuel injection pump (it shorted out) they are charging me for this. *ak( dot number: tire size: 20555r16 )

I"ve had multiple failures with my 1998 beetle. The car was overheating--found out that the engine fuses were melted over the battery terminal. My reverse lights stopped working--no one has been able to correct that yet, my daytime running lights don't usually work, but sometimes will come on all by themselves. Got locked in my car twice. The alarm sometimes goes off for no reason. The car periodically doesn't start. Had it towed to vw twice for this. They could find no problems. Also, something in the car's electrical components is drowning the battery--have to buy a new battery every six months. I have replaced both windows once . I had the brake light switch replaced three times and was rear -ended once before vw finally did a recall on that part. I'm sure i have left something out--there is so much it's hard to remember. Bottom line--this car is a hazard on the road for the person driving and other motorists. *jb

Odometer failed. *mjs

Possible engine failure caused vehicle fire. Yh

Check engine light came on due to evaporation system purge control valve failure. Yh

Faulty brake switch caused gear shifter to be difficult to move into gears/sticking. *mjs

While driving vehicle stalls out and engine completely shuts down, also engine check light illuminates. *ak *tt

Driver and passenger side window switch is sticking due to window regulator switch failure. Yh

While driivng at 50 mph a deer ran out in front of the vehicle, and the consumer avoided the deer and ran into a ditch. Then hit a tree on the left of the driver's door, and driver side/ passenger's side air bags didn't deploy. Consumer had the seat belt on and wasn't hurt. *ak

When cruise control was engaged vehicle would suddenly accelerate beyond the set speed. The dealer examined the vehicle, and found that the throttle control module was defective. *ak the vehicle's speedometer would not go past 60 mph. The a/c compressor failed which caused a loud squealing noise when turning the a/c on. The mil light illuminated intermittently. The dealer replaced the air hose , air pump and mass air flow sensor. *nm

Pin for rear deck lid broken. Yh

On 9/1/99, i drove the car all day (bout 200 miles) and did not know that the top of the gas tank was leaking gas. (i have no sense of smell!!) until i got home and took a friend to dinner and he said "this car stinks like gasoline"! We looked under the back seat and removed the cover plate and the entire top of the gas tank in the area of the sending unit retaining ring was filled with gas (about 1/2 inch deep) . Took car to dealer and they replaced the seal on the top of the tank. Two days later 9/4/99, gas smell returned and upon inspection the same thing happened again! Gas pouring out of the closed retaining ring!! Due to the holiday, i have to wait til tues. To have car looked at. I have also contacted joe bertran at volkswagen of america re this serious defect.

Bad wiring, alarm goes off in the middle og the night, rear hatch light comes on and off, wiring is bad in cold weather, front headlights keep burining out, excessive oil consumption, at about 2000 miles engine will be bone dry, excessive road nosie, radio no longer works, in general the car is in bad shape after two years of use and it seesm to be all factory related type of problems.

Dealer refuses to schedule prompt repair for current headlight failure (request 5-10 days); current headlight failure includes permanent failure of left headlight and intermittent failure of both headlights; consumer reports reports 1998 new beetle as "used car to avoid" (april 2000issue, p. 75); new beetle website conducted survey of owners of 1998 model - 55 percent report trouble with the car, 90 percent of which is electrical; a recall was issued for 1998 beetles manufactured in first half of 1998 because of faulty wiring that could cause fire in engine compartment (we were not notified of a recall); there are many complaints of beetle owners regarding vw consumer service; we have received substandard service from our dealer, including one repair on a failed headlight that was not performed as stated, forcing us to return the car. *ak

This car drinks oil, the engine knocks, vw has done nothing to even aknowledge the problem. The window regulators are defective and one broke completely with the window falling out. The passenger side door can not be opend with a key and has been corode

Plastic clip in cooling system broke, causing all coolant to be discharged all over the engine and engine to overheat. Dealer replaced plastic clip with metal clip. Vw sent dealer 8 metal clips the week previous. They said other beetles probably had this problem, that's why vw sent them 8 metal clips ahead of time. *ak

Vehicle has high oil consumption, radio/cassette failure which resulted in fire, previous incident radiator failure, computer failure, defective control switches and defectice engine.

While driving at 45 mph, engine turbo went out, causing vehicle to accelerate to 120 mph. Consumer applied brakes/emergency brake, and downshifted vehicle, it didn't work. Consumer kept pushing on the emergency brake, vehicle started slowing down, and then it accelerated back to high speed. Finally, slowed back down and came to a stop. *ak

Car damaged by dealer during maintenance. Damage is prevalent to vw design and is evident on a number of cars (various owners & various dealers). Is this a design flaw? Vwoa has refused to investigate or issue a safety/maintenance bulletin to caution service personnel about improver lifting of the car. This has damaged the cars frame. See the following for an example of the damage: http://www.Geocities.Com/motorcity/downs/5610/beetle.Html - thank you. *ak

Passenger's side window doesn't work. Also, remote contro is works intermittently, and when the radio is on the tape deck will play. *ak

Consumer was driving on county narrow road and a dog was on the road. She swerved onto the side of the road, went airborne onto a hill. Hit a tree on the passenger's side. Car was airborne and caught by a tree and roof was torn off. After that, vehicle went into another tree on the rear corner, and driver's side door crushed in. *ak

Vehicle has had continued problems with transmission operation and shifting, replacement of the speed sensor,throttle cable and tcm wiring rectified problems. *mjs

Driver side head light continually stops working. *jb

Failure 1-power steering pump broke down, no power steering fluid in reservoir. Failure 2-while driving off of a highway exit vehicle lost acceleration and coasted to a stop in traffic. It was found that the bolts came off the axel. Also, the driveshaft needed to be removed and fixed. The left driveshaft flange was also replaced.

Power steering pump is whinning due to pressure hose failure. Yh

Rear left window will not go down. Yh

Headlamp: i stated to my dealer that my headlamps were not properly adjusted, dealer found left headlamp had no possible adjustment, and replaced the entire assembly. Fog lights: fog lamps when switched on, don't light. After a few minutes of driving, they come on sometimes. *ak

Splash guard failed. Yh

Dealership service department claims wrong parts being sent for repair; as of 2/3/1998 odometer still not repaired. *ak

The vehicle was parked and vehicle caught on fire for no apparent reason. Dealer claimed the cause to be a faulty wiring in the motor. Please provide further information and vin#. *ak

Motor for electrical mirror failed. Yh

Window glass malfunctioned. Yh

Driver side window switch out of order. Yh

Consumer was at stop when she was rearended at point of contact, the driver seatback broke, causing the seat to fall backwards, resulting in injuires. *ak

Battery failed. Nlm

Consumer hit an other vehicle on the front or the side, and air bags did not deploy. *ak

Rear trunk solenoid. Yh

Radio/cd/cassette unit failed.

Brake make noise.

Rear hatch lock failed. Nlm

Passenger door lock failed.

Oil consumed at rate of 1qt/1500 miles. No leak or smoking exhaust. Vw recommends oil change every 10,000 miles. Engine would have no oil by 6,000 miles. Could cause engine to seize and possible accident. Other new beetle owners i know have told me they have the same problem with their gas 2.0l engine, 5spd new beetle. This situation is very unsafe. *ak

The malfunction indicator lamp "mil" comes on all the time and stays on. Vehicle has been to dealership seven times. He hasn't solved the problem.*ak the yellow light came on and went out several times at different mileage. The dealer kept telling the customer it is okey to drive it. But the customer does not feel safe. *yh

Trunk hard to close due to liftgate lock mechanism failure.

Electrical wiring under battery tray.

Splash shield falling down.

Recall # 98v100000 vw/engine compartment wiring. Owner unable to schedule appointment with dealership because parts are not available. Dealer not sure when parts will become available. *ak

Mil light is on in the dash due to faulty secondary air change valve. *mjs

Cable in steering column.

Vehicle had missing items at the time of delivery, hood prop and seat belt holder cover. *mjs

The rear window or rear hatch glass is severlydefected such that viewing through the rear view mirror or directly through the glass is substantially impaired. The defect creates a terrible danger on rainy nights when it is impossible to view through the window trafic as it approaches because the glass is deformed in such a way that it blurrs the headlights and or environment lights such as; street lights. You are unable to judge whether the other car is going to pass or will be able to stop in time to prevent a collision.

My 1998 bug has burned approx. 1 quart of oil every 1000 miles, dealership reported this as normal? Don't think so. I have also replaced the headlights every six months until the switch on the emergency brake for the daytime runnings lamps broke. I open the car door (still in warranty) and the handle fell off in my hands. Fog light had moisture in it, now both have fallen out. Both door hinges broke. You cannot open doors and shut them, i had to climb in and out of the windows to get into the car. The trunk latch had to be repaired, it wouldn't open. The gas latch is broken and doesn't hinge, the glove box hinges don't work, the compartment above the clock doesn't hinge properly. The radio turns itself off, the temp read out in the car fades in and out, something on the transmission broke and i only had 2nd and 3rd gear, i have replaced the oxygen sensors twice, my air bag light is on, i have been told i need a new seat to correct this, even though it is due the the electrical problems every bug seems to have. Hub cap has fallen off several times. I have lost antifreeze, but no one seems to be able to find out where ii's going. I'm sure there is more, but this car constantly has so many things wrong with it, i can't keep up anymore. Unfortunately the dealerships are the only people who can't seem to see all the cronic problems with this vehicle.*ak

There is an electrical problem, such as the headlights and the power windows malfunctioning. *ak

Electical wiring located in the engine compartment was too close to the battery tray causing the wire to damage (recall-98v-100), owner is not satisfied with vehicle with this defect. Yh

Consumer replaced brake lights/headlights/rear brake pads and rotors/ engine shield and cooling system. *ak *jb

Am doing this form to let people know there are beetles and problems. Also that vw is not standing behind repairing these problems. The headlights have blown (bad wiring) 4 times at night. Not a fun thing to have happen at 65 mph. You try stopping blind. *ak

Power window switch not operable. Yh

When traveling up an incline vehicle started jerking. Vehicle cut off without prior warning, causing it to roll backwards. Consumer has contacted dealer. Please provide any further details. Also, recall 98v100000 did not include this vehicle. *ak

Battery blew up, causing windows to lock/ door locks not to work. Volkswagen was contacted. *ak

While driving plastic cover that protects engine/ exhaust system and plugs disengaged from under vehicle. Please give any further details.*ak

Electrical wiring located in engine compartment was routed too close to endge of vehicle battery tray. Wiring became damaged by chafing. Air conditioner compressor and fuel pump could malfunction. Please provide further information. *ak

Rubber and trim around driver side window is coming off. Molding also around rear hatchback is coming off. Dealer contacted. *ak

The drivers seat completely detached itself causing consumers daughter to fall backward. Consumer re-attached the bolts and the defect occured again. Consumer re-attached the bolts a second time this time adding a lock washer to the bolt and some locktite on the threads. Consumer would like this issue to be looked into. *jg

Tail lights intermittently function, and the dealer cannot determine or duplicate the problem. *ak

While driving at highway speeds speedometer only registered up to 65 mph. Dealer determined the cause of the problem, but did not inform the consumer what parts had to be fixed. *ak

Defective battery on a 1998 volkswagen beetle. *mr the battery was replaced. The battery did not accept charging due to a dead cell. The battery was only 7 1/2 months old. *scc *jb

Headlights will go out while in use without warning. When vehicle is in cruise control mode it will either surge or continue to accelerate. Dealership stated they need to separate the engine and transmission in order to fix the problem. *ak the windshield wiper works intermittently. The dealership replaced the motor but the problem recurred. Consumer noted he has seen a lot of one headlight beetles and that the problem is widespread. *ph *nm

Air conditioner compressor valve failed. Nlm

Radio failed. Yh

Power window switch failed. *yc

Losing oil at rate of 1qt every 1,500 miles. Vw ordered new engine for me. Service said nothing could be done about it, and it is normal. I don't think so. Owner's manual recommends oil changes at 10,000 mile intervals. The engine would be bone dry at 6,000 miles. *ak

The pistons in the engine had to be replaced because they were leaking oil. Dealer does not know the cause. *ak

Consumer rolled down the passenger's power window for the first time and the inside mechanism for the window broke, causing the window to be inoperative.The cable and regulator for the power window is on backorder. Dealer cannot determine when part will be available. *ak