The problem
On certain passenger vehicles equipped with automatic or manual transmissions and cruise controls, a brake light switch on these vehicles May malfunction if it was installed incorrectly during safety recalls 03v-265 or 04v-096.
The risk
The brake lights could become inoperative, or remain on. Failure to provide the proper signal when braking could lead to a crash without warning.
The fix
Dealers will install the newly designed brake light switch free of charge. The recall began on November 27, 2006. Vehicles within the make, model, and model year of this population May be involved in either this recall or 06v-183, but not both. The remedy is the same for each recall. Volkswagen dealers will apply the remedy based on the VIN number of the vehicle. Owners May contact vw at 1-800-822-8987.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 06V-183 (06V183000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | N4 |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Exterior lighting › Brake lights › Switch |
| Report date | May 24, 2006 |
| Owners notified | November 27, 2006 |
| Vehicles affected | 646,246 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the lights
- 1998 Volkswagen Beetle headlight problems 23
- 1999 Volkswagen Beetle headlight problems 17
- 2000 Volkswagen Beetle headlight problems 19
- 2001 Volkswagen Beetle headlight problems 30
- 2002 Volkswagen Beetle headlight problems 14
- 1999 Volkswagen Jetta headlight problems 20
- 2000 Volkswagen Jetta headlight problems 34
- 2001 Volkswagen Jetta headlight problems 80
- 2002 Volkswagen Jetta headlight problems 51
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 06V-183 repair free?
Yes. Volkswagen dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install the newly designed brake light switch free of charge. The recall began on November 27, 2006. Vehicles within the make, model, and model year of this population May be involved in either this recall or 06v-183, but not both.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 646,246 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.