1998 Volkswagen Beetle Recalls

NHTSA lists 2 recall campaigns for the 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. A recall applies only to vehicles built within the affected range, so check your own VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Repairs for recalls are free at a franchised dealer.

• 06V183000May 24, 2006646,246 vehicles potentially affected
  Exterior lighting › Brake lights › Switch
  Covers: Volkswagen Beetle 1998–2002, Jetta 1999–2002

  Reported issue: 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.

  Possible 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 dealers will apply the…

  Full campaign details →

• 98V100000May 13, 19988,500 vehicles potentially affected
  Electrical system › Wiring › Front underhood
  Covers: Volkswagen Beetle 1998

  Reported issue: 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.

  Possible 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.

  Remedy: Dealers will install a modified battery tray and inspect, properly route, and securing the wiring in accordance with the recall repair instructions.

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NHTSA investigations

• RQ06004Brake light switch failureClosed · Feb 28, 2006
• EA03002Brake light switchClosed · Apr 8, 2003
• PE02084Brake light switch operationClosed · Nov 18, 2002

← All problems reported for the 1998 Volkswagen Beetle