The problem
Volkswagen is recalling 76,900 my 2004-2005 new beetle and my 2003-2005 new beetle convertibles equipped with an advanced (dual-stage) air bag system. This system May have air bag frontal crash sensors that contain a solder joint on the circuit board that May crack under certain high temperature conditions. If this occurs, the air bag indicator light will illuminate and the fallback algorithm will ensure that the front air bags always deploy in a frontal crash in which the vehicle's deceleration is high enough to activate the frontal air bags.
The risk
In low-severity frontal impacts, the front air bags May deploy more forcefully than designed, increasing the possibility of injury to out-of-position front seat occupants.
The fix
Dealers will inspect each vehicle to determine that the specific defect crash sensor is present on one or both sides of the vehicle. All of the defect crash sensors will be replaced free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on or before July 31, 2008. Owners May contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 08V-178 (08V178000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | R6 |
| Manufacturer | Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. |
| Component | Air bags › Frontal › Sensor/control module-inactive |
| Report date | April 17, 2008 |
| Owners notified | July 31, 2008 |
| Vehicles affected | 76,900 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the air bags
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 08V-178 repair free?
Yes. Volkswagen dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect each vehicle to determine that the specific defect crash sensor is present on one or both sides of the vehicle. All of the defect crash sensors will be replaced free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on or before July 31, 2008.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 76,900 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.