Volkswagen Recall 98V-100: Electrical system – front underhood

Affected: 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. Filed with NHTSA on May 13, 1998, covering about 8,500 vehicles.

The problem

Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. The electrical wiring located in the engine compartment was routed too close to the endge of the vehicle's battery tray. The wiring can become damaged over time by chafing and the air-conditioner compressor and/or the fuel pump can malfunction.

The risk

A malfunction of the fuel pump can cause the vehicle to stall, and in some instances, could also result in a wiring fire in the engine compartment.

The fix

Dealers will install a modified battery tray and inspect, properly route, and securing the wiring in accordance with the recall repair instructions.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign98V-100 (98V100000)
ManufacturerVolkswagen Group of America, Inc.
ComponentElectrical system › Wiring › Front underhood
Report dateMay 13, 1998
Owners notifiedMay 14, 1998
Vehicles affected8,500
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the electrical system

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 98V-100 repair free?

Yes. Volkswagen dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install a modified battery tray and inspect, properly route, and securing the wiring in accordance with the recall repair instructions.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 8,500 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.