1979 Volkswagen Scirocco problems

General information about Volkswagen-Scirocco
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Volkswagen Scirocco is a three-door, front-engine, front-wheel-drive, sport compact hatchback manufactured and marketed by Volkswagen in two generations from 1974 to 1992 and a third generation from 2008 until 2017. Production ended without a successor.

The Scirocco derives its name from the Mediterranean wind.

First generation (1974)

Volkswagen began work on the car during the early 1970s as the replacement for the aging Karmann Ghia coupe, and designated it the Typ 53 internally. Although the platform of the Golf was used to underpin the new Scirocco, almost every part of the car was re-engineered in favour of a new styling (penned by Giorgetto Giugiaro) which was sleeker and sportier than that of the Golf. The Scirocco debuted at the 1973 Geneva Motor Show.

Launched six months before the Golf, in order to resolve any teething troubles before production of the high volume hatchback started, the Scirocco went on sale in Europe in 1974 and in North America in 1975. Type 1 models featured a range of four-cylinder engines with displacements from 1.1 to 1.6 litres, with a 1.7 also offered in North America, all featuring a single-overhead camshaft and two valves per cylinder.

The design of the vehicle combined with the lack of D.O.T.-approved rectangular headlights, made it necessary to have four round headlights, two for low beam use and two for high beam use for all the cars imported to the US. Many European owners of Scirocco with smaller engines replaced the two rectangular headlights with four round headlights as to eliminate the differentiation between smaller and less powerful engines and larger and more powerful ones. However, the European "TS" version, for which maximum power was listed as 85 PS (84 hp; 63 kW), was easily distinguishable from the less powerful "L" and "S" (50 and 70 PS) versions which came with just two rectangular headlights. An automatic transmission option was added in January 1975. Automatic transmission-equipped Sciroccos were generally rare outside of North America.

The Scirocco GTi entered production in the summer of 1976, while the later cult Golf GTI wasn't unveiled until the autumn of the same year. Its high-revving, 81 kW / 110 horsepower 1.6-litre engine featured mechanical fuel injection, 175/70HR13 tires on 5.5Jx13 wheels, a larger duckbill style front spoiler, a red frame for the grille, and the standard car's solid front brake discs were replaced with 9.4 in (239 mm) ventilated discs. Anti-roll bars were also fitted front and rear.

During the production of the "Type 53", there were subtle changes to the body and trim. On cars produced after the summer break in August 1975 (for the 1976 model year), the conventional two wiper system changed to a single wiper which parks on the passenger side of the windscreen, while the driver also benefited from improved, lighter, steering linkage. However, air conditioning became available as an option on the domestic market in August 1975. The possibility to retrofit the installation, together with a larger battery, was offered to existing owners. In August 1977 (for model year 1978) the separate front side marker and turn signal, changed to a combination wrap-around orange lens. At the same time, behind the doors the B-pillar colour changed from body colour to black, which was thought to give the car a more pleasing profile. Other mid-life changes include the move from chrome bumpers with rubberised end caps to a plastic-coated one-piece wrap around bumper. In 1979, the one-piece "flag" style outside mirrors transitioned to a two-piece shrouded mirror. The car changed little before being replaced by the second generation in March 1981 (Europe).

There were also special variants throughout the Type 1 production. Most distinguishable by paint schemes and trim, there were special versions called "Sidewinder", "Sidewinder II", "Champagne Edition", "Champagne Edition II" and the "S". The Champagne Edition II only came in white with black accents and a Zender front spoiler. On the NA models the 1980 "S" versions came in only three colours, Alpine White, Black and Mars Red with unique colour accents. This "S" model differed from the base model by having blacked out chrome trim, day glow additions to the exterior trim, Recaro designed sports seats, white letter tires, sport strips and a standard five-speed transmission. This was followed by the 1981 "S" versions which only came in Cosmos Silver Metallic, Cirrus Gray Metallic and Mars Red without the colour accents. Steel sunroofs were an available option on both the "S" non-"S" vehicles. Unlike the sunroofs on the second-generation Sciroccos introduced in 1982, these earlier versions only tilted open. They did not slide back but could be removed and stored in a special fabric folder and placed in the trunk hatch. Not forgetting the addition of the "Storm" models, available in two colours with a run of 250 cars in each colour.

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Common 1979 Volkswagen Scirocco problems

The Volkswagen Scirocco, introduced in 1974, was a popular sports coupe that shared many components with the Golf. The 1979 model, in particular, was known for its stylish design and performance capabilities. However, like any vehicle, it had its fair share of common problems that owners frequently reported.

Brakes: The 1979 Scirocco had nine recalls related to brakes, indicating that this was a significant problem for many owners. Brake problems can lead to reduced stopping power, increased stopping distances, and even brake failure. Common causes of brake problems include worn-out brake pads, damaged brake rotors, and leaking brake lines.

Structure Issues: The 1979 Scirocco had nine recalls related to the vehicle's structure, indicating that this was a significant problem for many owners. Structural issues can lead to reduced vehicle rigidity, poor handling, and even vehicle failure. Common causes of structural issues include corrosion, damaged welds, and weak structural components.

Equipment Issues: The 1979 Scirocco had seven recalls related to equipment, indicating that this was a significant problem for many owners. Equipment issues can lead to reduced vehicle functionality, poor performance, and even safety concerns. Common causes of equipment issues include faulty electrical components, damaged wiring, and malfunctioning sensors.

Electrical Issues: The 1979 Scirocco had five recalls related to electrical issues, indicating that this was a significant problem for many owners. Electrical issues can lead to reduced vehicle functionality, poor performance, and even safety concerns. Common causes of electrical issues include faulty wiring, damaged sensors, and malfunctioning electrical components.

Air Bags: The 1979 Scirocco had two recalls related to airbags, indicating that this was a significant problem for many owners. Airbag issues can lead to reduced safety in the event of a collision. Common causes of airbag issues include faulty sensors, damaged wiring, and malfunctioning airbags.

Wheels: The 1979 Scirocco had one recall related to wheels, indicating that this was a significant problem for many owners. Wheel issues can lead to reduced vehicle stability, poor handling, and even vehicle failure. Common causes of wheel issues include damaged wheels, worn-out tires, and malfunctioning wheel bearings.

Steering: The 1979 Scirocco had one recall related to steering, indicating that this was a significant problem for many owners. Steering issues can lead to reduced vehicle control, poor handling, and even vehicle failure. Common causes of steering issues include faulty steering components, damaged wiring, and malfunctioning sensors.

These common problems with the 1979 Volkswagen Scirocco can lead to reduced vehicle performance, safety concerns, and increased maintenance costs. Owners of these vehicles should be aware of these issues and take appropriate measures to address them. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and prevent these problems before they become more serious.

Does VW Scirocco have problems?

Being based on Golf parts, the VW Scirocco has always had a decent reliability record. Most reports concern rattles and squeaks from the boot and windows - the latter are the hardest to fix. There has also been an issue with the boot mechanism on early cars, because the gas-filled support struts can fail.

Are Volkswagens Scirocco reliable?

As with the Golf, the Scirocco has an excellent reputation for interior build quality that stands the test of time, and the engines are reliable. The DSG auto gearbox has an early version of dual-clutch technology though, and is expensive to fix if it goes wrong.

How long do Scirocco engines last?

Re: Engine lifespan TDI

It's only just run in, engine will be good for a few hundred thousand miles if looked after.

Are Sciroccos expensive to maintain?

Thanks to its primarily-Golf underpinnings, servicing and maintenance costs are low on a Scirocco - and they don't go wrong often. However, as with any established car model, it has a number of more commonly reported problems. We're listing them below so you know what to look out for.

Does VW Scirocco have problems?

Is the Volkswagen Scirocco a reliable car?

How long do Scirocco engines last?

Re: Engine lifespan TDI

It's only just run in, engine will be good for a few hundred thousand miles if looked after.

Are Sciroccos expensive to maintain?

1979 Volkswagen Scirocco car problems categorized by type of issue

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

Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1979 Volkswagen Scirocco vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1979 Volkswagen Scirocco complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1979 Volkswagen Scirocco.

1997-08-01

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: DRIVER'S SEA TBELTS COMPLETELY WORN OUT TO THE POINT THEY NEED REPLACEMENT. PART NO LONGER STICKED BY FACTORY. ALSO, NO SUITABLE AFTERMARKET AVAILABLE. *AK

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1979 Volkswagen Scirocco recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 1979 Volkswagen Scirocco.

1983-11-09

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
Summary: 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.

1983-11-09

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: BRAKE LINES INSTALLED UNDERNEATH THE CARPETING IN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT MAY RUST DUE TO THE ENTRY OF WATER AND ROAD SALT. IF RUSTING REMAINS UNCHECKED, IT PRODUCES LEAKS IN THE LINES AND BRAKE FLUID MAY BE LOST.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE INTERIOR BRAKE LINES AT NO COST TO OWNER. OWNERS ARE ALSO ADVISED THAT ALL BRAKE LINES SHOULD BE INSPECTED AT TWO-YEAR INTERVALS.

1981-09-24

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: STRUCTURE:BODY
Summary: CORROSIVE DAMAGE AND INCREASED ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE MAY CAUSE THE FUEL PUMP RELAY TO STOP FUNCTIONING. THE FUEL PUMP RELAY IS ONE OF SEVERAL RELAYS ON A RELAY BOARD LOCATED NEAR THE FIREWALL. CORROSION CAUSED BY RAIN ENTERING AN IMPROPERLY SEALED ANTENNA HOLE HAS BEEN THE SUBJECT OF PREVIOUS CAMPAIGNS, BUT ADDITIONAL MEASURES ARE REQUIRED TO ENSURE THAT THE PROBLEM IS CORRECTED.
Remedy: VEHICLES WILL BE INSPECTED TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE MODIFICATION HAS BEEN PERFORMED. IF NOT, A BYPASS WILL BE INSTALLED TO LOCATE THE FUEL PUMP RELAY AWAY FROM THE RELAY BOARD. ANY CORRODED RELAY BOARDS OR CONNECTORS WILL ALSO BE REPLACED.

1981-01-28

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CABLES
Summary: 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 COMPONENTS. THIS COULD CAUSE THE STEEL BAND CABLE TO BIND AND CAN RESULT IN DELAYED RESPONSE DURING DECELERATION, HIGH ENGINE IDLE AND HESITATION DURING ACCELERATION.
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 WITHOUT CHARGE.

1980-03-26

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: STRUCTURE:BODY
Summary: ON SOME VEHICLES, THE FENDER OPENING THROUGH WHICH THE ANTENNA CABLE IS ROUTED MAY NOT BE PROPERLY SEALED. AS A RESULT, SPLASHED WATER FROM THE TIRES COULD ENTER PASSENGER COMPARTMENT THROUGH THE OPENING, ENTER THE FUSE RELAY BOARD AND CAUSE CORROSION OF THE TERMINALS. ALSO, BECAUSE WATER IS A GOOD CONDUCTOR OF ELECTRICITY, THE STARTER CAN BE ACTIVATED ACCIDENTALLY; THE HIGH FLOW OF ELECTRICITY MAY EXHAUST THE BATTERY WITHIN A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME. THUS RESTARTING THE ENGINE WOULD BECOME IMPOSSIBLE AND PARKING LIGHTS AND EMERGENCY FLASHERS WOULD BECOME INOPERATIVE.
Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, SEAL THE RADIO ANTENNA HOLES AND REPLACE CORRODED COMPONENTS WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER..

1979-05-17

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY:RELAY
Summary: DUE TO AN IMPROPERLY SEALED ANTENNA MOUNTING HOLE, WATER COULD SEAP INTO THE FUSE RELAY BOARD. THE WATER ENTERING THE FUSE RELAY BOARD ACTS AS A CONDUCTOR OF CURRENT, THEREBY CHARGING THE STARTER.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL SEAL ALL RADIO ANTENNA CABLE HOLES. IN ADDITION, ELECTRICAL PARTS OF THE RELAY/FUSE BOARD WILL BE CHECKED AND REPLACED IN THE CASE OF CORROSION.

1978-12-11

Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: THE FRONT BRAKE LINE AND BRAKE HOSE ASSEMBLY MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY ROUTED. THE BRAKE HOSE COULD THEN RUB AGAINST THE WHEEL AT CERTAIN WHEEL POSITIONS DURING VEHICLE OPERATION. THIS WILL RESULT IN BRAKE HOSE WEAR AND BRAKE FLUID LOSS.
Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT AND IF NECESSARY, REROUTE THE BRAKE HOSE TO PRECLUDE CONTACT WITH THE WHEEL.