NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2019 Volkswagen Beetle
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The 2019 Volkswagen Beetle is a two-door coupe aimed at buyers who want a compact, personality-driven car with a distinctive retro-inspired silhouette. It targets style-conscious shoppers who prioritize character over utility. The 2019 model year holds special significance as the final production year of the modern Beetle, making it the last chapter of an iconic nameplate in the American market.
The 2019 Volkswagen Beetle earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 75 out of 100, an average result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- shoppers who want the full federal safety picture in one place
Reviewers generally praise the 2019 Beetle for its expressive styling, enjoyable driving feel, and emotional appeal as a final-edition model. Most acknowledge it is not a practical choice for buyers prioritizing cargo space or family utility, but they tend to regard it warmly as a niche, character-rich compact that delivers a distinct ownership experience above all else.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 13676
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE24V834000
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's side front air bag module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 4, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 69EG, 69GQ, and 69E6.
Reported 2024-10-30
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE19V615000
Risk: Removing the key while the shift lever is in a position other than "Park" increases the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional switch and circuit board, free of charge. The recall began November 19, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 37M2.
Reported 2019-08-22
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL19V094000
Risk: If the driver is not alerted when there is a problem with brakes, the driver may lose control of the vehicle while attempting to brake, increasing the risk of crash.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will update the instrument cluster software, free of charge. The recall began March 7, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 90L8.
Reported 2019-02-13
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
14 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.