Investigation PE98037: 1995–1996 Volkswagen Golf

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Jul 1, 1998

Closed

Jul 20, 1998

Model years

1995–1996

Subject

Hood latch failure

Component: Body and structure

Summary

Odi has received three reports, including the petitioners, regarding alleged hood latch failures.all of the odi reports indicate the hood flew up while driving.following a telephone inquiry, volkswagen provided odi with some limited information regarding six additional reports of hood fly-up for model years 1995 and 1996.this investigation was opened to further study this issue.defect description:it is possible that on some of the affected vehicles the bolts securing the front hood latch may lose their specified fastening torque over time.should this happen, the latch could move out of its design position and cause disengagement of the hood striker from the latch.in some vehicles the latch may not have been properly aligned during production.repeated opening and closing of the hood with an improperly aligned latch could result in damage to the latch.either condition could result in unexpected opening of the hood and could obstruct a portion of the driver's view of the road while driving, and result in an accident.remedy: volkswagen of america, inc. Will initiate a voluntary safety recall instructing its authorized dealers to check the hood latch and securing bolts and replace them if necessary.

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

• 1995 Volkswagen Golf43 complaints