CarRecallWatchThe 1998 Volkswagen Beetle has 2 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 171 complaints with NHTSA, including 14 crashes, 16 fires, 9 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Electrical System (63 reports).
1998 Volkswagen Beetle recalls
Most common 1998 Volkswagen Beetle problems
Problem areas named in the 171 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Electrical System | 63 |
| Visibility | 39 |
| Engine And Engine Cooling | 35 |
| Exterior Lighting | 28 |
| Structure | 17 |
| Air Bags | 15 |
| Equipment | 14 |
| Power Train | 12 |
| Seats | 12 |
| Latches/Locks/Linkages | 11 |
What owners report
Separation between belts near the sidewall Cooper cs5 grand touring 205/65 r16. I have had 4 tires that this has happened to. Replaced both front tires twice. This seems to be a recurring problem with these tires.
The driver was driving the speed limit (55 mph) and tried to slow down as they approached a red light. The brakes failed to work, and the driver rear-ended the vehicle waiting at the stoplight. The airbags did not deploy.
DON'T WORK
DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING TO SCHOOL, CAR STALLED, RESTARTED CAR THEN SAW SMOKE AND FIRE UNDER PASSENGER SIDE DASH. CAR BURNT COMPLETELY, TOTALED. HAVE BEFORE AND AFTER PICTURES. ..UPDATED 11/12/14 *BF
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND FAILED TO SHIFT INTO ANY GEAR WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 85,000.
1998 Volkswagen Beetle questions
Does the 1998 Volkswagen Beetle have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls for the 1998 Volkswagen Beetle: Exterior Lighting:Brake Lights:Switch; Electrical System:Wiring:Front Underhood. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 1998 Volkswagen Beetle?
Based on 171 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (63), Visibility (39), Engine And Engine Cooling (35).
How do I check if a recall on my 1998 Volkswagen Beetle has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.