- Volkswagen is recalling and replacing 27 2010 New Beetle and 2010 New Beetle Convertible vehicles because they do not meet new safety requirements that went into effect on September 1, 2010.
- Volkswagen dealers will replace the vehicle with a "comparable vehicle" that meets the safety requirements.
- The affected vehicles do not meet the new barrier test requirements. VW says final assembly of these vehicles took place during a "brief period" after the new regulation went into effect.
WASHINGTON — Volkswagen is recalling and replacing 27 2010 New Beetle and 2010 New Beetle Convertible vehicles because they do not meet new safety requirements that went into effect on September 1, 2010, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The affected vehicles do not meet the new barrier test requirements of the federal government. In documentation filed with the federal government, VW says final assembly of these vehicles took place during a "brief period" after the new regulation went into effect. The VIN numbers identifying the affected vehicles are posted on the NHTSA's Web site.
"[Volkswagen] dealers will offer to replace their vehicle with a comparable vehicle that was produced prior to September 1, 2010, compliant [with federal regulations]," said the NHTSA.
The recall involves 26 2010 New Beetle vehicles and one 2010 New Beetle Convertible. Volkswagen said it has not identified any reports or allegations of "actual injury or crash resulting from this non-compliance."
Owners will be notified on February 1 and will be able to contact Volkswagen at (800) 822-8987.
Inside Line says: If you own the aforementioned 2010 New Beetle, take it to your dealer for a replacement. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
Add A Comment »
juan_mx says:
06:51 AM, 02/02/2011
Actually, I don't see the word "new" in what VW says, they say
'dealers will offer to replace their vehicle with a comparable vehicle that was produced prior to September 1, 2010, compliant [with federal regulations]," said the NHTSA'
So, what is the meaning of comparable vehicle? ....a used one with the same mileage?
I think there are no new ones assembled prior to the mentioned date, since they no longer meet US regulations, I am pretty sure they have been returned to be sold in Mexico (VW does that sometimes)
mklrivowner says:
05:31 AM, 02/02/2011
I agree with Ziggerman. Completely ridiculous! At the very least they should be giving them a vehicle that complies with the NEW standards.
5010avanti says:
10:59 AM, 02/01/2011
Good old VW screws up again! LOLOLOLOLOL
ziggerman says:
05:30 AM, 02/01/2011
This is hilarious! The replacement car is IDENTICAL to the original one, except produced EARLIER. This is the first car replacement recall I have ever heard where there is no technical problem, just a legal one. Must be nice to get a new car, though, if you've beaten up your Beetle a bit already :)
cz_75 says:
04:07 AM, 02/01/2011
If you're a high mileage driver, odds are good you didn't choose a VW product that doesn't have a TDI to make up for your inevitable ownership issues.
nj2481 says:
07:17 PM, 01/31/2011
they should be giving them an EOS for their troubles.
hondalvr4life says:
07:00 PM, 01/31/2011
I guess they are the lucky ones and get a brand new car again. Hope they put a lot of miles on the 2010 model
xorbe says:
04:16 PM, 01/31/2011
I wonder how many people will do this ... high mileage drivers will be pleased!
dg0472 says:
03:27 PM, 01/31/2011
Let's be clear: VW's giving these folks cars made before Sept., when the new standard didn't apply. That's the only difference between the cars being replaced and their replacements.