The problem
On certain passenger vehicles, the brake lamp switch May malfunction.
The risk
If this happens, the brake lamps could become inoperative; or the lamps could come on and stay on, even though the vehicle is parked.
The fix
Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the brake lamp switches. Owner notification began September 26, 2003. Owners should contact vwoa at 1-800-822-8987.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 03V-265 (03V265000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | WT |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Exterior lighting › Brake lights › Switch |
| Report date | July 25, 2003 |
| Owners notified | September 26, 2003 |
| Vehicles affected | 295,136 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the lights
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 03V-265 repair free?
Yes. Volkswagen dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the brake lamp switches. Owner notification began September 26, 2003. 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 295,136 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.