1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet
Only 6 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 6 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1984 | 1 |
| 1985 | 6 |
| 1986 | 3 |
| 1987 | 11 |
| 1988 | 6 |
| 1989 | 9 |
| 1990 | 8 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 6 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 6 total reports mentions: suspension.
Show complaint excerpts
PREMATURE METAL FATIGUE OF FRONT END. *SKD
NHTSA ODI report, 19951116
1 of 6 total reports mentions: structure.
Show complaint excerpts
FRONT END METAL FATIGUE. *SD
NHTSA ODI report, 19960125
1 of 6 total reports mentions: steering.
1 of 6 total reports mentions: electrical system.
1 of 6 total reports mentions: electrical system.
SAFETY TIMELINE
FUEL PUMP, LOCATED INSIDE FUEL TANK, COULD SEIZE DURING HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES BECAUSE OF AN EXTREME FINE MESH FUEL FILTER RESTRICTING THE FUEL FLOW.
Remedy: INSTALL A MODIFIED FUEL PUMP AND FILTER.
Campaign 87V053000 — check if this car was fixed
HEATER CORE FAILURE
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for structure issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 87V053000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet 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 1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet?
The most-reported component is suspension:front, accounting for 17% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1985 Volkswagen Cabriolet have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.