More Volkswagen Beetles Recalled to Replace Faulty Takata Airbags

It’s the second round of recalls involving an agreement between VW and safety regulators

By Keith Barry

December 30, 2022

2015 Volkswagen Beetle driving — 2015 Volkswagen Beetle

Volkswagen is recalling an additional 37,558 Beetle coupes and convertibles from the 2015 through 2016 model years to replace their potentially dangerous Takata driver-side airbags. Due to a defect, these airbags could rupture in a crash and spray metal fragments that could injure or kill vehicle occupants.

The campaign is the latest chapter in the massive Takata airbag recall, and part of an agreement between Volkswagen and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in which the automaker plans to replace Takata airbags in phases through 2025. The first batch of Beetles was recalled in December 2020.

According to documents provided by NHTSA, testing showed that the inflators of specific driver-side airbags installed in the recalled Beetles—known as Takata SDI-D frontal inflators—may become more dangerous as they age. As a result, Volkswagen is replacing the airbags now with newer versions before they become a more serious safety concern. So far, there have not been any crashes or injuries related to these specific airbags.

The airbags in these and other vehicles have a slightly different design than the earlier Takata airbags that are part of the ongoing recall campaign that NHTSA has called “the largest and most complex safety recall in U.S. history.” Takata airbags installed in over 42 million vehicles from 19 different automakers have caused at least 23 deaths and 400 injuries in the U.S. so far.

Models flagged as being at an extreme risk are certain 2001 to 2003 Honda and Acura models containing so-called alpha airbags, and the 2006 Ford Ranger and Mazda B-Series pickup trucks. Also included are the 1999 BMW 323i and 328i and the 2005-2010 Chrysler 300 sedan, Dodge Charger sedan, and Dodge Magnum station wagon. NHTSA advises that owners not drive these recalled Acura, BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Honda, and Mazda vehicles and seek immediate repairs.

The Details

Vehicles Recalled
• Volkswagen Beetle convertibles manufactured between June 30, 2014, and July 28, 2016
• Volkswagen Beetle coupes manufactured between June 20, 2014, and July 29, 2016

The problem: Over time, the propellant in the driver-side airbag inflator could degrade due to exposure to high humidity and temperatures. If this occurs, the inflator could explode if the airbag deploys.

The fix: Dealerships will replace the airbags with new units that feature a different design, free of charge.

How to contact the manufacturer: Volkswagen will contact owners via first class mail in February. Owners may also contact VW at 800-822-8987.

NHTSA campaign number: 22V945. Volkswagen’s own number for this recall is 69EM.

Check to see whether your vehicle has an open recall: NHTSA’s website will tell you whether your vehicle has any open recalls that need to be addressed.

If you plug your car’s 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) into NHTSA’s website and a recall doesn’t appear, it means your vehicle doesn’t currently have any open recalls. Because automakers issue recalls often, and for many older vehicles, we recommend checking back regularly to see whether your vehicle has had a recall issued.

Stay informed about recalls that might affect your vehicle using our Car Recall Tracker. Create a free account now to become a CR member.

Keith Barry

Despite my love for quirky, old European sedans like the Renault Medallion, it's my passion to help others find a safe, reliable car that still puts a smile on their face—even if they're stuck in traffic. When I'm not behind the wheel or the keyboard, you can find me exploring a new city on foot or planning my next trip.