Vehicle recallDVSA
Volkswagen Beetle recalled over a restraint defect
USA Recall for Imported vehicles NITSA 20V785. Volkswagen has detected that on some USA Imported Beetle models that the driver front airbag inflator can explode due to propellant degradation that occurs after exposure to high absolute humidity high temperatures and high temperature cycling. An inflator explosion in these circumstances can result in injury to the driver or other occupants due to the ejection of metal fragments during the airbag explosion.
Check your product
Only vehicles within the listed VIN ranges or build dates are covered. A franchised dealer can confirm from your VIN.
1 identifier listed for this notice.
Beetle
- Build datesThe build or first registration date is on the V5C.
- 19/04/2012 – 24/06/2013
- Manufacturer referenceThe manufacturer’s own campaign number. Quote it to the dealer.
- 69BC
What to do now
Airbags or seat belts on affected Volkswagen Beetle may not protect occupants as designed.
- Enter your registration number on the GOV.UK recall checker, or ask a franchised dealer to check the VIN.
- Book the recall work with a franchised dealer for the make. Recall repairs are carried out free of charge.
- Make sure the DVLA has your current address, as recall letters go to the registered keeper.
Why it matters. Airbags and seat belts only matter in a crash, so a defect can go unnoticed until the worst moment.
Repairs and costs
Safety recall work is carried out by franchised dealers free of charge, whether or not you are the first owner and whether or not the vehicle is still under warranty.
If a dealer will not carry out the recall work, contact the manufacturer’s customer services and, if that does not resolve it, the DVSA.
From the official notice
Published by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (R/2026/104). Quoted as issued.
Summary
USA Recall for Imported vehicles NITSA 20V785. Volkswagen has detected that on some USA Imported Beetle models that the driver front airbag inflator can explode due to propellant degradation that occurs after exposure to high absolute humidity high temperatures and high temperature cycling. An inflator explosion in these circumstances can result in injury to the driver or other occupants due to the ejection of metal fragments during the airbag explosion.
Defect
USA Recall for Imported vehicles NITSA 20V785. Volkswagen has detected that on some USA Imported Beetle models that the driver front airbag inflator can explode due to propellant degradation that occurs after exposure to high absolute humidity high temperatures and high temperature cycling. An inflator explosion in these circumstances can result in injury to the driver or other occupants due to the ejection of metal fragments during the airbag explosion.
Remedy
For safety reasons the driver airbag unit must be replaced. The work required will take approximately 1.5 hours and will of course be performed free of charge.
Models
Beetle
Open the DVSA notice
Questions
Why are Volkswagen Beetle being recalled?
Airbags or seat belts on affected Volkswagen Beetle may not protect occupants as designed. Airbags and seat belts only matter in a crash, so a defect can go unnoticed until the worst moment.
How do I know if my vehicle is affected?
Enter your registration number on the GOV.UK vehicle recall checker or ask a franchised dealer, who can check your VIN against the manufacturer’s campaign. The VIN ranges and build dates published by the DVSA are listed on this page.
What should I do now?
Enter your registration number on the GOV.UK recall checker, or ask a franchised dealer to check the VIN. Book the recall work with a franchised dealer for the make. Recall repairs are carried out free of charge.
Will the repair cost anything?
Safety recall work is carried out by franchised dealers free of charge, whether or not you are the first owner and whether or not the vehicle is still under warranty. If a dealer will not carry out the recall work, contact the manufacturer’s customer services and, if that does not resolve it, the DVSA.