1972 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.
Social links
Common 1972 Volkswagen Type iii problems
Based on the complaints and reviews from owners of the 1972 Volkswagen Type 3, several common problems have been highlighted:
- Electrical System Failures: Owners experienced significant issues with the car's electrical system, including non-functional components in the dashboard, radios, and lights. Some had to resort to hot-wiring the car to start it due to electrical failures.
- Braking Problems: Complaints included brakes barely working, which poses a serious safety concern for drivers. This issue could lead to difficulties in stopping the vehicle effectively.
- Rust: Rust was a prevalent problem among Type 3 owners, with reports of rust appearing in various parts of the car, affecting its structural integrity and aesthetics.
- Steering Issues: Some owners mentioned problems with the steering wheel, including dead spots in the center and difficulties with steering, impacting the overall driving experience and safety of the vehicle.
- Mechanical Failures: Engine bay leaks, oil leaks, and smoking due to engine issues were also reported, indicating potential mechanical failures that could affect the car's performance and longevity.
- Parts Availability and Cost: Finding parts for the Type 3, especially for specific model years like 1972, might be challenging and more expensive compared to common Beetle parts. This can impact maintenance and repair costs for owners.
- Complexity of Working on the Car: Due to the unique design and rear-engine setup of the Type 3, working on the engine bay can be challenging for some mechanics. Understanding the intricacies of the air-cooled system and the layout of components might require specialized knowledge.
These common problems reported by owners of the 1972 Volkswagen Type 3 highlight various challenges faced by individuals who own or consider purchasing this classic car model.
What is the gas mileage on a VW Type 3?
About thirty-one miles to the gallon.
What is the top speed of the VW Type 3?
84 mph
Performance Maximum and cruising speed: 84 mph./Climbing ability: (with half payload! 1st gear-41.5%, 2nd gear-21.5%, 3rd gear-12.5%, 4th gear-7.5%./ Fuel consumption: 28 mpg. Acceleration: from 0 to 50 mph.
What is a Type 3 VW engine?
The Type 3 was initially equipped with a 1.5 L (1493 cc) engine based on the air-cooled 1192 cc flat-4 found in the Type 1, but given a 69 mm stroke it became the basis for the 1300 cc, 1500 cc and 1600 cc engines that followed in the later Beetle (Type 1) and Volkswagen Type 2 T1 and T2.
How many VW Type 3 were made?
of front luggage space. Volkswagen built more than 2.5 million Type 3 variants before ending production in 1973 to focus on the radically new 1974 Golf.
What engine is in a VW Type 3?
| Volkswagen Type 3 | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5 or 1.6L H4 |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual 3-speed automatic |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm (94.5 in) |
What is the gas mileage on a VW Type 3?
About thirty-one miles to the gallon.
How many VW Type 3 were made?
of front luggage space. Volkswagen built more than 2.5 million Type 3 variants before ending production in 1973 to focus on the radically new 1974 Golf.
How much is a VW Variant Type 3?
Q: What was the lowest recorded sale price for a Volkswagen Type 3? A: The lowest recorded sale price was $4,333 for a 1969 Volkswagen Type 3 Squareback Project on Sep 27 2023. Q: What is the average sale price of a Volkswagen Type 3? A: The average price of a Volkswagen Type 3 is $16,319.
1972 Volkswagen Type iii car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Type iii problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1972 Volkswagen Type iii vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1972 Volkswagen Type iii complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1972 Volkswagen Type iii.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- 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.
1972 Volkswagen Type iii recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1972 Volkswagen Type iii.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: SEATS
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:BRAKE FLUID LOW WARNING: LAMP
Other years of Volkswagen Type iii
Are you having problems with your 1972 Volkswagen Type iii?
Leave your review of 1972 Volkswagen Type iii