Volkswagen Cabrio owners have reported 3 latches/locks/linkage related problems since 1996. Table 1 shows the 1 most common latches/locks/linkage problems. The number one most common problem is related to the vehicle's door latch (3 problems). For details of each of the problem category, use the links in the table.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Door Latch problems |
Lock module for the passenger side door failed. As a result, the door latch does not catch.
Convertible top accumulating some kind of black substance that hardens and cannot be removed. At the three year mark, the car just began to deteriorate very quickly. Timing belt, convertible stopped working, abs brakes kick in when not supposed to, exhaust system had to be replaced at 40k miles. Key lock button fell out, cannot get it to stay in. Seat belt assembly fell apart. Interior door handles not made well, loosened and feel as if they may fall off. Cd changer has never worked properly.
The alarm system does not activate on the drivers side door. The door also occasionally does not lock on the drivers side door either. You must go to the passenger side to compensate for this flaw. Additionally the drivers side window does not always go up. About half of the time, or more it goes up and then goes back down on its own. You must hold the up button for the window for it to go all the way up when its suppose to be an automatic up automatic down window.