Investigation RQ06004: 1998–2002 Volkswagen Beetle

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Feb 28, 2006

Closed

Aug 7, 2006

Model years

1998–2002

Subject

Brake light switch failure

Component: Exterior lighting › Brake lights › Switch

Summary

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 volkswagen's safety recall action, this investigation is closed.

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

• 2002 Volkswagen Beetle165 complaints
• 2001 Volkswagen Beetle203 complaints
• 2000 Volkswagen Beetle263 complaints
• 1999 Volkswagen Beetle174 complaints
• 1998 Volkswagen Beetle171 complaints