The problem
On some passenger vehicles, the fuel tank filler neck can suffer abrasion damage if the rear tire goes flat and the vehicle is driven until the tire disintegrates.
The risk
Fuel leakage can occur increasing the risk of a fire.
The fix
Dealers will fit passat vehicles with a new wheel house liner that will better protect the car's filler neck. Jetta vehicles will be fitted with a different metal shield designed to enhance abrasion protection in the event of tire disintegration. Owner notification began June 13, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 02V-026 (02V026000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | WK |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Fuel system, gasoline › Storage › Tank assembly › Filler pipe and cap |
| Report date | January 25, 2002 |
| Owners notified | June 13, 2003 |
| Vehicles affected | 487,284 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the fuel & propulsion system
- 1998 Volkswagen Cabrio fuel system problems 1
- 1997 Volkswagen Jetta fuel system problems 4
- 1998 Volkswagen Jetta fuel system problems 10
- 1999 Volkswagen Jetta fuel system problems 13
- 1998 Volkswagen Passat fuel system problems 17
- 1999 Volkswagen Passat fuel system problems 29
- 2000 Volkswagen Passat fuel system problems 46
- 2001 Volkswagen Passat fuel system problems 44
- 2002 Volkswagen Passat fuel system problems 74
- 2003 Volkswagen Passat fuel system problems 171
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 02V-026 repair free?
Yes. Volkswagen dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will fit passat vehicles with a new wheel house liner that will better protect the car's filler neck. Jetta vehicles will be fitted with a different metal shield designed to enhance abrasion protection in the event of tire disintegration.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 487,284 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.