1991 Volkswagen Cabrio problems

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1991 Volkswagen Cabrio

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Common 1991 Volkswagen Cabrio problems

The Volkswagen Cabrio, produced between 1980 and 2002, is a popular convertible that has been praised for its design and performance. However, like any car, it has faced its share of issues and complaints from owners. This article will explore common problems with the Volkswagen Cabrio, specifically focusing on the 1991 model, based on complaints from owners of this car.

One of the most common problems reported by Volkswagen Cabrio owners is related to the convertible top. The convertible top on the 1991 Cabrio is prone to coming apart at the seams, causing leaks and other issues. This problem can be addressed in several ways, including gluing the seam, sewing the seam, or replacing the top entirely. While replacing the top can be a costly solution, it may be necessary if the top is severely damaged.

Another common issue with the Volkswagen Cabrio is related to the clutch cable. This problem is more prevalent in older models, such as the 1988 Cabrio, but it can also affect the 1991 model. The clutch cable can become worn out or damaged over time, leading to clutch problems and difficulty shifting gears. This issue can be addressed by replacing the clutch cable, which is a relatively simple and inexpensive repair.

The Volkswagen Cabrio is also known to have issues with the engine. Owners have reported problems such as the engine cutting off after a few minutes of driving, trouble starting, and engine stalls. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty sensors, worn-out parts, or electrical problems. Addressing these issues may require more extensive repairs, such as replacing sensors or repairing the electrical system.

In addition to these specific issues, the Volkswagen Cabrio has also been criticized for its overall reliability. While the Cabrio ranks 5th in reliability out of 28 Volkswagen models, owners have reported a total of 4 complaints over 4 model years, mostly about engine issues. This suggests that the Cabrio may not be as reliable as some other Volkswagen models, and that owners may need to be prepared for potential repairs and maintenance.

In conclusion, the Volkswagen Cabrio, including the 1991 model, has faced several common problems related to the convertible top, clutch cable, and engine. While these issues can be frustrating for owners, many of them can be addressed with relatively simple repairs or replacements. However, the Cabrio's overall reliability may be a concern for some owners, and potential buyers should be aware of these issues before making a purchase.

1991 Volkswagen Cabrio engine

What is the difference between a cabriolet and a cabrio?

There is no functional difference between a cabriolet and convertible in modern automobiles. Which word you use generally depends on where you're from. Cabriolet—often shortened to cabrio—is the common name for a convertible in many European countries.

What year did VW stop making Cabrio?

The second generation were introduced in 1994, the third in 1998. The engines for the Cabriolet are almost the same as for the regular Golf. The Golf Cabriolet was discontinued in 2002, and succeeded by the Volkswagen New Beetle Cabriolet and the Volkswagen Eos.

What was the last year for VW Cabrio?

2002

Cabriolet versions of the fourth-generation Golf and sixth-generation Golf were produced between 1998 and 2002 and 2011 and 2016, respectively. Overall, more than 770,000 Golf cabriolets were produced over a 37-year period – all at the Karmann plant in Osnabrück, which recently ceased production of the Porsche Boxster.

How big is the gas tank on a VW Cabrio?

14.5 gal

Fuel & MPG

304.5/406.0 mi. 14.5 gal.

What is the difference between a cabriolet and a cabrio?

There is no functional difference between a cabriolet and convertible in modern automobiles. Which word you use generally depends on where you're from. Cabriolet—often shortened to cabrio—is the common name for a convertible in many European countries.

What year did VW stop making Cabrio?

The second generation were introduced in 1994, the third in 1998. The engines for the Cabriolet are almost the same as for the regular Golf. The Golf Cabriolet was discontinued in 2002, and succeeded by the Volkswagen New Beetle Cabriolet and the Volkswagen Eos.

What was the last year for VW Cabrio?

2002

Cabriolet versions of the fourth-generation Golf and sixth-generation Golf were produced between 1998 and 2002 and 2011 and 2016, respectively. Overall, more than 770,000 Golf cabriolets were produced over a 37-year period – all at the Karmann plant in Osnabrück, which recently ceased production of the Porsche Boxster.

How big is the gas tank on a VW Cabrio?

14.5 gal

Fuel & MPG

304.5/406.0 mi. 14.5 gal.

1991 Volkswagen Cabrio car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Cabrio problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems
  • Equipment problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Volkswagen Cabrio vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1991 Volkswagen Cabrio complaints

The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Volkswagen Cabrio.

2016-06-03

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-06-01
  • VIN: WVWCA0151KK
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1989 (NA) VOLKSWAGEN CABRIO. WHILE FILLING THE VEHICLE WITH FUEL, THE CONTACT NOTICED LEAKS FROM THE FUEL TANK. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 91V201000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE), BUT THE REMEDY FAILED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 87,000.
2016-01-29

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-07-07
  • VIN: WVWCB5156LK
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1990 VOLKSWAGEN CABRIOLET (NA). THE CONTACT NOTICED FUEL LEAKING FROM THE SEAM OF THE FUEL TANK. THE FAILURE WAS PERSISTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 91V201000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
2008-08-12

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2008-08-10
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: WVWCB5157MK
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: HORRIBLE GAS SMELL COMING FROM REAR DRIVERS SIDE, CONFIRMED GAS TANK IS LEAKING AT THE SEAM. HAVE GOTTEN TERRIBLY SICK WITH STOMACH PAIN AND TERRIBLE HEADACHES FROM THE SMELL AND AFRAID VEHICLE IS GOING TO BLOW UP. *TR
2003-06-10

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-08-08
  • VIN: WVWEB5158MK
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: 1991 VOLKSWAGEN CABRIOLET FUEL TANK LEAKING FROM SPOT-WELDED SEAM. VW AGREED TO REPLACE TANK FOR FREE, BUT ONLY AFTER MANY CALLS TO THEIR PRODUCT COMPLIANCE DEPT OVER SEVERAL WEEKS. VW MECHANICS CLAIM THIS IS A COMMON DEFECT, BUT NO RECALL EXISTS.*AK
2000-05-18

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-04-15
  • VIN: WVWCB5151MK
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: GAS STARTING LEAKING AT THE SEAM OF THE TANK. THIS CAN CAUSE THE AUTOMOBILE TO EXPLODE. *AK
1999-08-30

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-08-01
  • VIN: WVWCB5154MK
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: SEAM SPLIT ON FUEL TANK ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK OUT. REFERENCE NHTSA CAMPAIGN 91V16200 IDENTICAL FAILURE. MFG REFUSES TO HONOR THIS VEHICLE FOR THE REFERENCED CAMPAIGN.
1996-07-23

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-06-24
  • VIN: WVWCB5150MK
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: GAS TANK IS LEAKING AT SEAM, CAN SMELL GASOLINE COMING INTO ENGINE, FIRE HAZARD. *AK
1994-09-22

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-09-22
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: AIR CONDITIONING FAILURE, CAUSING HOT AIR TO BLOW OUT OF THE SIDE VENTS INSTEAD OF COOL AIR. *SKD

1991 Volkswagen Cabrio recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1991 Volkswagen Cabrio.

1992-05-01
  • Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
  • Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM
  • Summary: THE TRACK CONTROL ARMS USED TO SUPPORT THE FRONT WHEELS WERE IMPROPERLY WELDED IN THE AREA OF THE FLEXIBLE BUSHING MOUNTING HOLE. THIS CAUSES A GRADUAL OPENING OF THE MOUNTING HOLE AND LOOSENING OF THE BUSHING.
  • Consequence: THE ENLARGED OPENING OF THE MOUNTING HOLE RESULTS INFRONT WHEEL MISALIGNMENT CAUSING STEERING PULL WITH THE POTENTIAL FOR ANACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE FRONT SUSPENSION CONTROL ARMS WHERE NECESSARY.
1992-04-14
  • Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: THE FUEL HOSE ATTACHED TO THE FUEL DISTRIBUTION RAIL ON THE ENGINE MAY SHRINK BEYOND THE CLAMP FORCE OF THE FUEL HOSE CLAMPS, ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK.
  • Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAN CAUSE AN UNDERHOOD FIRE IF THE FUEL COMES IN CONTACT WITH A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
  • Remedy: REPLACE THE FUEL HOSE ATTACHED TO THE FUEL RAIL AND INSTALL A NEW SPRING TYPE SELF-TIGHTENING CLAMP.
1991-09-11
  • Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THE CENTER OF THE WATER SEPARATOR PANEL LOCATED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT BETWEEN ENGINE AND FIREWALL COULD BEND IN THE EVENT SOMEONE LEANS ON IT DURING ENGINE MAINTENANCE, REPAIRS OR CHECKING OF FLUID LEVELS. A BENT PANEL COULD INTERFERE WITH THE FREE MOVEMENT OF THE ACCELERATOR LINKAGE.
  • Consequence: INTERFERENCE WITH THE FREE MOVEMENT OF THE ACCELERATORLINKAGE COULD RESULT IN UNWANTED ACCELERATION WHICH MAY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: INSTALL REINFORCEMENT BRACKET TO SECURE SEPARATOR PANEL.
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Cabrio 1992
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volkswagen cabrio 1993 photo
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volkswagen cabrio 1995 photo
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volkswagen cabrio 1996 photo
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volkswagen cabrio 1997 photo
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volkswagen cabrio 1998 photo
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1991 Volkswagen Cabrio photo