The German-built Beetle was particularly successful in the United States. The original and subsequent updates sold almost five million units between 1949 and 1981.
Volkswagen is recalling model year 2012-2013 Beetles equipped with leather seats because the airbags may not deploy properly in an accident. In a required filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, VW of America said that if the right front passenger seat gets wet, the occupant control module might not properly detect the presence of a child restraint installed in the seat.
This means the airbag will not turn off, with potentially fatal consequences for a child. It’s the latest example of improper computer programming and the lack of sufficient testing in an auto industry where electronic applications – and recalls – continue to expand.
Volkswagen will notify owners, and replace the control modules, free of charge as is required by U.S. safety regulations. VW does not know when replacement parts will be available. Owners may contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987 about recall 69i9/W6. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or go to www.safercar.gov.
