Volkswagen Beetle Convertible Recalls

The Volkswagen Beetle Convertible has 6 recalls covering 2008–2019 model years, with the most serious being a driver's airbag inflator defect across 2012–2019 models where the inflator can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, causing serious injury or death.

The airbag inflator issue spans the full recent production run in three overlapping year groups: 2012–2014, 2015–2016, and 2017–2019 models are all affected. In each case, the driver's frontal airbag inflator can degrade over time when exposed to heat and humidity, and if the airbag deploys, the inflator can explode rather than inflate normally, scattering sharp metal fragments toward the driver and passengers.

The 2018 model year has a separate brake caliper issue where the piston coating inside the caliper may be insufficient, reducing braking force and raising the risk of a crash. Also affecting 2012–2019 models with an automatic transmission, manual handbrake, and keyless entry, the ignition system can allow the key to be removed while the transmission is not in Park, which removes the interlock that prevents rollaway.

Going back to earlier production, 2008–2013 models are subject to a compliance recall covering unspecified regulatory requirements, with a general noted risk of crash, fire, or injury.