Investigation PE02084: 1998–2000 Volkswagen Beetle

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Nov 18, 2002

Closed

Apr 8, 2003

Model years

1998–2000

Subject

Brake light switch operation

Component: Exterior lighting › Brake lights › Switch

Summary

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.

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.

Model years covered

• 2000 Volkswagen Beetle263 complaints
• 1999 Volkswagen Beetle174 complaints
• 1998 Volkswagen Beetle171 complaints