Volkswagen Type iii problems
The Volkswagen Type 3 is a compact car manufactured and marketed by Volkswagen from 1961 to 1973. Introduced at the 1961 Frankfurt International Motor Show, the IAA, the Type 3 was marketed as the Volkswagen 1500 and later as the Volkswagen 1600, in two-door Notchback, Fastback, and Variant body styles, the latter marketed as the 'Squareback' in the United States.
The Type 3 diversified Volkswagen's product range beyond the existing models—the Type 1 Beetles, Type 14 Karmann Ghia, Type 2 vans and pickups—while retaining Volkswagen's hallmark engineering features: the air-cooled rear-engine, rear-wheel drive train, body-on-chassis construction (with a backbone chassis integrated into the car's floorpan), as well as torsion bar front and rear suspension.
Despite using the Beetle's 2.40 m (94 in) wheelbase, the Type 3 was conceived as a larger car, offering a larger engine and increased cargo and passenger volume—the latter from its increased length and width as well as from its slab-sided, Ponton styling, maximizing the platform's footprint.
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Volkswagen Type iii model years
Common Volkswagen Type iii problems
Common Problems with Volkswagen Type III Cars:
- Fuel Injection Issues: Some Volkswagen Type III cars experienced problems with the fuel injection system, leading to a switch to dual-carbs in many 70s models. Fuel injection in post-67 models was known to be unreliable, requiring frequent repairs and diagnostics that were challenging for mechanics.
- Electrical System Failures: Owners have complained about the electrical systems in Volkswagen Type III cars being problematic, with issues ranging from non-functional dash components to the need for hot-wiring to start the car.
- Rust and Corrosion: Rust was a common issue in Volkswagen Type III cars, affecting various parts of the vehicle, including the body and wheels. This corrosion could lead to structural weaknesses and aesthetic deterioration.
- Steering and Brake Problems: Reports indicate that some Volkswagen Type III cars had steering issues, such as dead space in the center and worn steering boxes, affecting handling and safety. Brake performance was also a concern for some owners, with complaints of barely functional brakes.
- Engine Performance: Engine-related problems like running on fewer cylinders, oil leaks causing smoke in the engine bay, and difficulties with shifting gears, such as rarely shifting into 3rd gear, have been highlighted by owners.
- Parts Availability and Cost: Finding parts for Volkswagen Type III cars can be challenging, with some components being expensive and hard to come by. This can add to the overall maintenance costs and repair challenges for owners.
These common problems reported by Volkswagen Type III owners highlight a range of issues affecting different aspects of the vehicle, from mechanical performance to electrical reliability and structural integrity. Addressing these issues promptly and ensuring regular maintenance can help mitigate potential problems and enhance the overall ownership experience of these classic cars.
Are VW Type 3 rare?
Much of the mechanicals and some interior and trim bits are shared across the VW air-cooled family, making restoration easier, though body and glass parts are getting trickier to get. The Type IIIs are pretty rare nowadays, with the Squareback wagons the most common, followed by the Fastbacks, then the Notchbacks.
What is a VW Type 3 worth?
A: The average price of a Volkswagen Type 3 is $16,821.
What engine is in a VW Type 3?
| Volkswagen Type 3 | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5 or 1.6L H4 |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual 3-speed semi-automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm (94.5 in) |
What is the strongest VW engine?
With a total power output of 456 BHP, the Volkswagen Touareg R takes joint first place. It's a 5 door AWD SUV with 5 seats and was sold from 2021 to 2023.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Type iii years
We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Type iii cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Volkswagen Type iii model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Type iii model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Type iii years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volkswagen Type iii car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Type iii , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Type iii vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Type iii . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Type iii vehicles.
List of Volkswagen Type iii complaints
Volkswagen Type iii 1972
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1998-06-15
- VIN: 31222023810
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: RECALLS 72V204000/71V203000,71V163000; MR. BRUCE CALLED THE MANUFACTURER ABOUT THE RECALLS AND THE MANUFACTURER SAIDS THAT THE RECALLS ARE NO LONGER OPEN AND THEY WILL NOT SEND THE PARTS TO HIM SO THAT HE CAN REPAIR THE VEHICLE BY HIMSELF.
Recalls Volkswagen Type iii
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Type iii.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volkswagen Type iii 1972
- Report Received Date: 1972-08-15
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: SEATS
- Model: Volkswagen Type iii 1972
- Report Received Date: 1971-11-10
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Model: Volkswagen Type iii 1972
- Report Received Date: 1971-09-21
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:BRAKE FLUID LOW WARNING: LAMP
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Type iii?
