1998 Volkswagen Cabrio Body and structure Problems

“The top on my 1998 vw Cabrio has dried out and is cracking due to a defect in the manufacturing in the vinyl used for the top. Vw has refused to replace it even though I know 3 other owners locally with the same exact year/car/problem.”

“My tan-vinyl convertible top begin to chemically break-down after 3 1/2 years of owning the car. I was told by vw of america that I was past my warranty and there is nothing they can do. The top continues to deteriorate over time. I have found 15 other 1998 Cabrio owners who have experienced the same problem. All these 98 cabrios were manufactured at the Volkswagen de mexico plant between 11/97 and 10/98 and have all exhibited the same problems after exposure to the weather and the sun. …”

“1998 Volkswagen Cabrio gls front windshield header has rusted and no longer capable of supporting the weight of the vehicle. The consumer had to incur the cost of having the front windshield replaced after the front windshield cracked because of the deformities in the windshield header. The vehicle was examined by an auto repair shop and their conclusion was that the front windshield was no longer safe enough to protect the occupants in the event of a roll over since the frame had rusted out. …”

“After one year, the top started developing black marks, the marks do not come off with soap and water, the top also started turning orange and became sticky, the dealer stated the problem was sun damage, however the vehicle was mostly kept in a garage, the top is now ripping near the back window, vw stated they will pay for half of the repair costs, consumer feels they should be for 100 percent.”

“The convertible top ripped above the rear window. The consumer contacted the manufacturer and the dealer and was told the vehicle was not included in the recall. The manufacturer told the owner that the vehicle was no longer under warranty. Provide further details. .....the dealer stated this car of different years was recalled. Consumer found many complaints of same tear/rip in rag at same spot. The material the roof was made off distintegrated a sa few years went by. The vehicle was noisy and potentially dangerous by not having a secure roof.”