1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet problems
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Common 1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet problems
The Volkswagen Cabriolet, produced between 1979 and 1994, has been known for several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the 1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet:
- Reverse Gear Failures and Noise in Manual Transmission Models: Several owners have reported reverse gear failures and noise in manual transmission models. This issue can be caused by worn out synchronizers, gears, or bearings in the transmission system.
- Coolant and Oil Leaks: Coolant and oil leaks are common problems with the 1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet, particularly in the engine and transmission areas. These leaks can result from worn out gaskets, seals, or hoses, and may lead to more serious problems if not addressed promptly.
- Engine Issues: According to VW Problems, engine issues are the most common complaints made by Cabriolet owners, with 4 complaints over 4 model years, mostly about engine issues. These problems include the engine cutting off after a few minutes of driving, trouble starting, and engine stalls.
- Corrosion and Rust: Corrosion and rust are significant issues with the Golf 1 Cabrio, especially in the axle mounts, front suspension strut domes, and window frames. This can lead to structural weaknesses and compromise the safety of the vehicle.
- Convertible Top Issues: As with any convertible, the hood is a particular weak point that must be inspected thoroughly. Over time, the hood may develop leaks, tears, or other damage that can compromise the vehicle's functionality and appearance.
It is important to note that these issues may not be present in all 1990 Volkswagen Cabriolets, and some may have been addressed through recalls or repairs. However, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and consider having the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase.
When did VW stop making the cabriolet?
Volkswagen will cease production of the T-Roc cabriolet in 2025, ending a 75-year tradition of internal-combustion-engine-powered convertible models at the German automaker.
Is a VW cabriolet a rabbit?
Rabbit Convertible is what the Golf Cabriolet was called in North America from 1980-1984. This model had two trim levels: Rabbit Convertible and Rabbit Convertible L. The L was supposed to receive upgraded options such as cloth sports seats and alloy wheels.
What is the top speed of the VW cabriolet?
Performance
| 0 - 40 kph | 2.3 s |
|---|---|
| 60 - 100 kph (5) | 10.6 s |
| 80 - 120 kph (6) | 14.9 s |
| Est. 100 - 140 kph | 10.1 s |
| Top speed | 197 kph (122 mph) |
Is the Volkswagen Cabriolet a Golf?
The Volkswagen Golf Cabriolet is the cabriolet version of the Volkswagen Golf, introduced in 1979. 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.
What is a 1990 VW cabriolet worth?
The value of a used 1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet ranges from $1,831 to $7,900, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
What engine is in a 1990 VW cabriolet?
Used 1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 1.8 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 94 hp @ 5,400 rpm |
When did they stop making VW cabriolet?
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.
Is a VW cabriolet a rabbit?
Rabbit Convertible is what the Golf Cabriolet was called in North America from 1980-1984. This model had two trim levels: Rabbit Convertible and Rabbit Convertible L. The L was supposed to receive upgraded options such as cloth sports seats and alloy wheels.
1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Cabriolet problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Air bags problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Equipment problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet complaints
The NHTSA has received 10 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWCB5151LK
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: CONSUMER NEVER RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER 91V215000 CONCERNING THE AIR BAGS. THE MANUFACTURER REFUSED TO SEND ANOTHER LETTER TO HAVE THE RECALL REPAIRS PERFORMED. THE AIR BAG DEFECT HAS OCCURRED. *AK THE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED WHICH MEANT THE AIR BAG MAY NOT DEPLOY IN CASE OF A COLLISION. *PH *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-01
- VIN: WVWVB517LK0
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CONSUMER RECEIVED RECALL 91V201000 FOR FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY. THE VEHICLE IS LEAKING GASOLINE. DEALERSHIP INSPECTED VEHICLE, AND PROBLEM WASN'T SOLVED. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-02
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AFTER A TURN, ARIBARG WARNINGS LIGHTS TURNED ON AND WONT TURN OFF. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-28
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: VAPORS APPEAR WHEN CONSUMER FILLS UP VEHICLE. ALSO, CONSUMER CAN ONLY GET A HALF TANK OF GAS WHEN FILLING UP VEHICLE DUE TO A SHORTAGE WITHIN THE TANK.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-29
- VIN: WVWCB5151LK
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: GAS TANK FAILED PRIOR TO RECALL NOTICE, RESULTING IN LEAKAGE. (92V-058). MJS
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-05-01
- VIN: WVWCB5151LK
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: RADIO LOCKED UP. MJS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-19
- VIN: WCWCB5153LK
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DEFECTIVE AIR BAG.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWCB5156LK
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, AIRBAG INDICATOR LIGHT STAYS ON CONTINUOUSLY, DUE TO AIRBAG CONTROL UNIT MALFUNCTIONED, DLR/MFR WON'T ASSIST. TT
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWCB5156LK
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, AIRBAG INDICATOR LIGHT STAYS ON CONTINUOUSLY, DUE TO AIRBAG CONTROL UNIT MALFUNCTIONED, DLR/MFR WON'T ASSIST. TT
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-09-01
- VIN: WVWCV5152LK
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON, AIRBAG CENTRAL CONTROL UNIT IS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. TT
1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG HARNESS WIRE MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY ROUTED THROUGH AN OPENING IN THE DASHBOARD CROSSMEMBER AND COULD BE PINCHED AND CHAFED BETWEEN TWO PANELS EVENTUALLY RESULTING IN DAMAGE TO THE WIRE.
- Consequence: IF THE AIRBAG HARNESS WIRE IS DAMAGED, THE PASSIVERESTRAINT SYSTEM WILL BECOME INOPERATIVE. THE DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHT WILLILLUMINATE, BUT THE PASSIVE RESTRAINT WILL NOT FUNCTION UNTIL THE WIRE ISREPAIRED.
- Remedy: SECURE WIRE TO THE CROSSMEMBER WITH A CLIP.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: A CRACK CAN DEVELOP IN THE FUEL TANK ADJACENT TO A SEAM WELD IN THE REAR OF THE TANK.
- Consequence: FUEL CAN LEAK FROM THE CRACKED FUEL TANK WHICH COULDCATCH FIRE IN THE PRESENCE OF A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
- Remedy: CHECK VEHICLE WITH A SPECIALLY DESIGNED TOOL FOR THE PRESENCE OF A FUEL TANK CRACK, AND REPLACE FUEL TANK IF DEFECT IS FOUND.
- 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.
Negative 1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet car reviews
Positive 1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet car reviews
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Always been fun. Very reliable overall. Simple and quick to repair yourself.
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I absolutely adore this car! It has never let me down and I even gave it a name. However, it's important to know how to work on these cars before getting one, or at least have a really good friend who knows how to. Luckily, my dad and brother are both knowledgeable about these cars. We've only had to deal with a bunch of minor repairs, which cost around $800 a year in parts. The car has great handling for its age, excellent mpg, and is quite reliable. It's also very responsive. The only downsides are that the front seats are a bit uncomfortable and the car can get cramped, but it's not too bad. We've driven almost 30,000 miles in 3 years and haven't had to replace the clutch or anything like that. Overall, it's a fantastic car!
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my Cabriolet. I bought it back in 2006 and, although it wasn't in the best shape, I was able to fix it up pretty easily. I've had a wonderful time with this car! It's been very reliable, which is a testament to the durability of VWs from the early 1990s. Even now, many of them are still on the road. Of course, if you live in the north where there's salt, you might have to deal with some rust. But as long as you do the routine maintenance, this car will last you a long time. And let me tell you, driving with the top down is an absolute blast! The car handles like a dream, just like a VW should. The 1.8 engine isn't the most powerful, but it's definitely reliable and gets over 35 mpg. Thanks for listening to my story!
Other years of Volkswagen Cabriolet
Are you having problems with your 1990 Volkswagen Cabriolet?
Eduardo Deckow 2024-04-03
My car was a lemon. Despite taking great care of it, almost everything broke, including the radiator, hoses, clutch cable (3), pedal assembly, throttle cable, fuel pump relay (2), and engine mounts (4).