1997 Volkswagen Cabrio
Only 14 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 14 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 14
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1997: 14 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1989 | 1 |
| 1991 | 7 |
| 1992 | 9 |
| 1993 | 8 |
| 1995 | 15 |
| 1996 | 6 |
| 1997 | 14 |
| 1998 | 21 |
| 1999 | 29 |
| 2000 | 16 |
| 2001 | 38 |
| 2002 | 23 |
Known problem areas
Only 14 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Electrical system
5 of 14 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing alternator/generator/regulator and switch.
Show complaint excerpts
Ignition switch fails to return from starter position -- burning out starter. This is a know problem with 1997 A4 but was never reported/carried over to the 1997 Cabriolet.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-05-15
Also filed under Electronic stability control (esc)
Electrical fire in engine - apparent short in starter wiring
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-04-29
I'm not sure if this falls within your area or responsibility. I am reporting this because I don't believe a two year old vehicle purchased brand-new, should have both the alternator and radiator fan motor fail so soon.
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-09-01
Engine and engine cooling
3 of 14 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing exhaust system and radiator assembly.
Vehicle speed control
2 of 14 total reports mention: vehicle speed control, most commonly citing accelerator pedal.
Tires
1 of 14 total reports mentions: tires.
Show complaint excerpts
Right rear tire wall blew out. Driver did not hit an object. Tire cut gash in gasoline tank and cut brake line. Fire department responded to scene. No fire resulted.
NHTSA ODI report, 1998-08-20
Structure
1 of 14 total reports mentions: structure, most commonly citing roof and pillars.
Show complaint excerpts
The convertible top ripped open on the seam while driving on the highway.
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-11-13
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
I
2000-08-10Preliminary evaluationClosed 2000-12-28 Fuel tank puncture
Buy-smart checklist
1997 Volkswagen Cabrio — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Electrical system: 5 reports on file for this year.
- Engine and engine cooling: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Vehicle speed control: 2 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1997 Volkswagen Cabrio reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1997 Volkswagen Cabrio?
- The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 36% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1997 Volkswagen Cabrio have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.