Wiring problems of the 1998 Volkswagen Beetle

Ten problems related to wiring have been reported for the 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. The most recently reported issues are listed below.

1 Wiring problem

Failure Date: 03/01/2002

While driving. The headlights short out which burns the bulbs. The wiring harness is defective. The consumer has taken the vehicle into the dealer. The problem still remains. Please provide any further information.

2 Wiring problem

Failure Date: 07/04/2001

Left headlight went out first, then again. Air compressor replaced 3 times. Car now stalls. Replaced fuel/air filters, still stalls. Car was recalled for the electrical system wiring harness under hood, recall states all problems I have had. I was not the owner at time of recall. Apparently was not fixed at recall.

3 Wiring problem

Failure Date: 01/30/2001

My 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is falling apart. I've had to replace my headlights 6 times within the past 4 years that I've owned this used vehicle. My interior trim, window switches, gearshift knob & several plastic covers in the car have fallen now fallen apart. My 6 headlights have cost me approx. $600. 00 plus rent-a-car fees which my warranty doesn't cover! please help me.

4 Wiring problem

Failure Date: 11/07/1998

The vehicle was parked and vehicle caught on fire for no apparent reason. Dealer claimed the cause to be a faulty wiring in the motor. Please provide further information and VIN#.

5 Wiring problem

Failure Date: 06/01/1998

Electrical wiring under battery tray.

6 Wiring problem

Failure Date: 05/19/1998

Recall # 98v100000 vw/engine compartment wiring. Owner unable to schedule appointment with dealership because parts are not available. Dealer not sure when parts will become available.

7 Wiring problem

Electical wiring located in the engine compartment was too close to the battery tray causing the wire to damage (recall-98v-100), owner is not satisfied with vehicle with this defect. Yh.

8 Wiring problem

When traveling up an incline vehicle started jerking. Vehicle cut off without prior warning, causing it to roll backwards. Consumer has contacted dealer. Please provide any further details. Also, recall 98v100000 did not include this vehicle.

9 Wiring problem

Electrical wiring located in engine compartment was routed too close to endge of vehicle battery tray. Wiring became damaged by chafing. Air conditioner compressor and fuel pump could malfunction. Please provide further information.

10 Wiring problem

While driving plastic cover that protects engine/ exhaust system and plugs disengaged from under vehicle. Please give any further details.



Safety Ratings of Beetle Cars
Fuel Economy of Beetle Vehicles
Beetle Service Bulletins
Beetle Safety Recalls
Beetle Defect Investigations