Two problems related to tail light switch have been reported for the 2002 Volkswagen Beetle. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I own two of the vw new Beetles. One is 2002 and the other is 2003. Both of them have trouble with the taillight/stoplight and turn signals not working due to a defective contact design in the bulb socket. In order to fix the problem you have to take the assembly out and bend the contact to put more spring in them which puts more pressure against the bulb. This may fix the problem for a time ( 1 to 60 days) then the problem reverts. All parts are oem equipment. I have contacted vw about this and there is not a recall. I would think that turn signals and tail lights would be considered a safety issue. I know I am not the only person to have this problem. I am concerned about my families safety and don't understand why a mandatory recall has not been issued.
Tl-the contact owns a 2002 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact stated that his headlights and tail lights intermittently work. The contact stated that while driving at night the lights sporadically go out. The dealer was not made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 32,000. Mc.