Occupant detection system may fail when wet
Defect Summary
Volkswagen is recalling certain model year 2012-2013 beetle vehicles, manufactured from february 2012, through august 2012, and equipped with leather sport seats. if the right front passenger seat gets wet, the occupant control module may not properly detect the presence of a child restraint installed in the seat.
Safety Consequence
If the control module does not detect a child seat installed, the airbag will not turn off. if the airbag does not turn off, in the event of a crash necessitating front airbag deployment, a child secured in the child seat may be at an increased risk for serious injury.
Corrective Action
Volkswagen will notify owners, and replace the control modules, free of charge. the recall is expected to begin during january 2013. owners may contact volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987.
Similar Recalls
Other recalls from Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. or involving Air Bags.
FAQ: Recall 12V540000
Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.
What is recall 12V540000?
NHTSA recall 12V540000 was issued by Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. on November 15, 2012. It addresses: Occupant detection system may fail when wet. The recall affects approximately 2,471 vehicles, with the defect involving the Air Bags component.
How do I get this recall repaired?
Contact any authorized Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 12V540000 or the manufacturer campaign number 69i9/W6. Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.
Is my vehicle included in this recall?
The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.
How long do I have to get a recall repair done?
There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.
Where does the data on this page come from?
All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.