Recall 79V-120: 1975–1979 Volkswagen Rabbit, 1975–1979 Volkswagen Scirocco

VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC recall for electrical system, reported to NHTSA on May 17, 1979, covering about 540,000 vehicles.

NHTSA number
79V-120
Report date
May 17, 1979
Vehicles affected
540,000
Owners notified
Aug 20, 1979

The problem

Due to an improperly sealed antenna mounting hole, water could seap into the fuse relay board. The water entering the fuse relay board acts as a conductor of current, thereby charging the starter.

The fix

The dealer will seal all radio antenna cable holes. In addition, electrical parts of the relay/fuse board will be checked and replaced in the case of corrosion.

Notes

Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with standard transmissions.system: electrical; starter relay.consequences of defect: the starter could be activated and the vehicle couldmove if the transmission is in gear and the emergency brake is not applied.this could cause injury to persons standing in the path of the moving vehicle.

Recall details

ManufacturerVOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
ComponentElectrical System › Starter Assembly › Relay
Recall started byNHTSA (Office of Defects Investigation)
NHTSA campaign number79V120000

Vehicles in this recall

VehicleModel years
Volkswagen Rabbit1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979All years
Volkswagen Scirocco1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979All years

Not every vehicle of these model years is included. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls ↗ or ask a dealer.

Frequently asked questions

What is recall 79V-120?

Due to an improperly sealed antenna mounting hole, water could seap into the fuse relay board. The water entering the fuse relay board acts as a conductor of current, thereby charging the starter.

How is recall 79V-120 fixed?

The dealer will seal all radio antenna cable holes. In addition, electrical parts of the relay/fuse board will be checked and replaced in the case of corrosion.

Is the recall repair free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized dealers. Check whether your vehicle is included with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.