1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
Only 2 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 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 2
- Recalls
- 4
- Investigations
- 5
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1980
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1980: 2 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 2 |
| 1981 | 1 |
| 1982 | 5 |
| 1983 | 1 |
| 1984 | 1 |
| 1985 | 1 |
| 2006 | 13 |
| 2007 | 54 |
| 2008 | 23 |
| 2009 | 62 |
Known problem areas
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Vehicle speed control
2 of 2 total reports mention: vehicle speed control.
Show complaint excerpts
The vehicle suddenly accelearted when onedid not apply force to the gas pedal.
NHTSA ODI report, 1996-04-12
The vehicle suddenly accelerated when no force was applied to the gas pedal.
NHTSA ODI report, 1996-04-12
Safety timeline
4 recalls · 5 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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I
1981-03-03Defect petitionClosed 1981-11-02 Fuel pump
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R
1981-05-13Vehicle speed control81V012000 The accelerator cable which leads from the transmission lever to the throttle housing may malfunction. Accelerator cable may have been bent during installation or during servicing of engine…
Remedy: The accelerator cable will be replaced with a newly designed one. In addition, other components of the acceleration system will be checked, lubricated, and if necessary, replaced. This will be done…
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1981-07-13Fuel system, gasoline81V058000 On some vehicles, the pressure could increase inside the fuel tank from high surrounding temperatures when the fuel tank is more than half full.
Remedy: Dealer will install a restrictor valve into the fuel filler pipe, without charge to owner.
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I
1981-11-17Defect petitionClosed 1982-02-02 Rear view mirror
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I
1982-01-19Defect petitionClosed 1982-03-10 Fuel pump circuit
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I
1982-04-26Defect petitionClosed 1982-10-29 Throttle sticking case - C81-02
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1984-01-18Fuel system, gasoline83V117000 The fuel pump may stop functioning without warning. This can occur because an electrical connector in the fuse panel may overheat and interrupt the electrical circuit.
Remedy: Dealer will inspect the fuse box and its connectors for corrosion, and correct where necessary. A bypass adapter to the fuel pump electrical circuit will be installed.
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I
1986-05-07Defect petitionClosed 1986-06-19 Uncontrolled acceleration
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R
2006-03-30Service brakes, hydraulic06E018000 Certain hydraulic brake hoses, p/n 171.611.107B, sold as replacement equipment for 1975-1985 Volkswagen (Vw) Rabbit; 1985-1992 vw golf; and 1980-1992 vw jetta passenger vehicles. Possible brake…
Remedy: Foreign parts distributors will notify owners and replace the brake hoses with compliant brake hoses. The recall began on March 30, 2006. Owners may contact foreign parts distributors at…
Buy-smart checklist
1980 Volkswagen Rabbit — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Vehicle speed control: 2 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 81V012000 · Vehicle speed control
- Recall 81V058000 · Fuel system, gasoline
- Recall 83V117000 · Fuel system, gasoline
- Recall 06E018000 · Service brakes, hydraulic
FAQ
- Is the 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit?
- The most-reported component is vehicle speed control, accounting for 100% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit have?
- 4 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.