One problem related to other fuel system pump has been reported for the 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I read the recall announcement in the paper (NHTSA 17v-509, vw 20ae) regarding the fuel pump cut out. I have complained to vw a number of times over the years that my vw engine stops when driving between 55 and 65 mph. The service writers response was that the fuel pump needs to be replaced - a $1000 item. Other mechanics that I've asked have said that if that was the case the engine would not get fuel and not work and that it was probably something else. When I read the symptoms reported in 20ae, they were exactly what I have experienced many times, but not consistently. At 65 mph when the engine cuts out, the deceleration is almost immediate to 50 mph. The symptoms started about 8-10 years ago. I have not driven the car on the freeway since because I was nearly run over by a cement truck. The article I read said that no known crashes or injuries were caused by the problem. Please consider expanding the investigation to include the 2001 new Beetle to see if there were any serious injuries due to this issue. I believe my issue is exactly the same as the issue reported in the press.