Wiring problems of the 2001 Volkswagen Beetle

Three problems related to wiring have been reported for the 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. The most recently reported issues are listed below.

1 Wiring problem

Failure Date: 12/20/2010

The headlamps have been replaced four times. According to a vw dealership who serviced the vehicle, I was informed that the vehicle's wiring harness is defective, causing the headlights and instrumentation cluster to fail. The dealership informed me that they are aware of the wireing harness problem, but are not aware of any service recalls.

2 Wiring problem

Failure Date: 01/04/2006

Daughter's 2001 vw new Beetle, purchased pre-owned odometer reading 34908 with highest level extended warranty available. Electrical circuitry (igniter of air bag) had sporadic voltage reading. Pre-emptying warnings of air bag malfunction. The actual problem was in the electrical circuitry, however since the bottom line to correcting the electrical circuitry would rely on replacing the air bag, the warranty refuses to cover the charge. Service technician insists it is an electrical problem, which warranty does cover. . . Warranty insists the correcting of electrical circuit results in air bag replacement. . . Warranty does not state air bag coverage-therefore we will not cover expense.

3 Wiring problem

Failure Date: 09/15/2005

I own a new vw Beetle and the instrument cluster has been giving displays that come on and off concerning the abs system, air bag and engine. I had the car looked at and was told that there is corrosion of the terminal strip from the coolant tank that is causing the problem. I was further told that and given a field service technical bulletin that outlined the problem due to a design flaw. This can be a problem as the instrument panel is unreliable and the safety systems cannot be sure to be working. I contacted Volkswagen to no avail. I would like to know what recourse I have to have a design flaw corrected?.




Safety Ratings of Beetle Cars
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Beetle Service Bulletins
Beetle Safety Recalls
Beetle Defect Investigations