The problem
On certain passenger vehicles, the electrical portion of the ignition switch assembly can fail causing the headlights and windshield wipers to become inoperative.
The risk
If such failures occur while the vehicle is in use at night or in rainy or snowy weather, a crash could occur.
The fix
Dealers will replace the electrical part of the ignition switch assembly. Owner notification began November 20, 2002. Owners should contact vwoa at 1-800-822-8987.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 02V-256 (02V256000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | WQ |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Electrical system › Ignition › Switch |
| Report date | September 18, 2002 |
| Owners notified | November 20, 2002 |
| Vehicles affected | 10,450 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 02V-256 repair free?
Yes. Volkswagen dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the electrical part of the ignition switch assembly. Owner notification began November 20, 2002. Owners should contact vwoa at 1-800-822-8987.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 10,450 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.