Problems with 2001 Volkswagen Golf EQUIPMENT

Second time the front driver's side air bag has malfunctioned -- warning light comes on that airbag is not properly functioning. november 2005 and september 2006. dealer would not repair then as now. vw ordered repairs and replaced bag and harness in november 2005. all airbags will not function if a problem with harness. this will be the second harness, igniter, etc to be installed. parts will be available upon repair this time ( a quite costly venture). vw will not admit a serious problem, but non-vw repair centers know of this problem. *nm

I own a 2001 vw golf. since i purchased this car, the brake light switch has failed once per year. thus, i have had to replace this faulty brake light switch four times in four years. the faulty switch has caused my epc light to come on while i am driving, and to stall the vehicle and prevent it from shifting gears. vw issued a recall for faulty brake switches in the 1999-2002 jetta and 1998-2002 beetles, so i don't know why a comparable fix has not been made available to 2000-2002 golf owners. this problem is rampant. a search of any vw chat board will reveal numerous owners who have experienced this problem. vw should recall the brake light switches on the older golfs as it has done with other models, or it may pose a safety hazard to the many golf owners out there (who are not likely to purchase any type of vw again). there are no signs to indicate that the brake light switch will fail before it fails. each time it fails, the car must be brought to a dealer or service shop for switch replacement. i have records of my brake light switch replacements over the past four years i have owned my golf, and can send you copies if you need them. thank you. *jb

Switch used to verify brake is engaged before vehicle is able to go into reverse or drive has failed twice. first time 10-08-02 at 13,691 miles and 03-02-04 at 36,695 miles. does not allow vehicle to be driven, moved or go into opposite direction if needed while driving.*ak