Cabrio (1st)
Engine Reliability Ratings
Volkswagen Cabrio Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.0-I4-Gas
2.0L 4-cyl / 115 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Volkswagen Cabrio regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (1)
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS." CHILD SEAT ANCHORAGES INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE'S REAR SEATS MUST BE IDENTIFIED BY MARKINGS, AND THEIR LOCATION AND USE BE DESCRIBED IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL.
Alternatives in Compact
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2000-2002 Volkswagen Cabrio problems?
The 2000-2002 Volkswagen Cabrio has accumulated 80 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Electrical System, Engine, Transmission. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Volkswagen Cabrio engine is most reliable?
The 2000-2002 Volkswagen Cabrio was offered with 2 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2.0L 4-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2000-2002 Volkswagen Cabrio a good used car?
The 2000-2002 Volkswagen Cabrio can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 80 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2000-2002 Volkswagen Cabrio have?
The 2000-2002 Volkswagen Cabrio has 80 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2000-2002 Volkswagen Cabrio?
There is 1 NHTSA recall affecting some 2000-2002 Volkswagen Cabrio vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Volkswagen Cabrio?
Before buying a used Volkswagen Cabrio, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Electrical System, Engine, Transmission, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
Does the Cabrio have NHTSA crash test ratings?
NHTSA has not published crash test ratings for the 2000-2002 Volkswagen Cabrio. Not all vehicles are tested each year. For the latest NHTSA safety information, visit nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 80 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: moderate. Last updated: 2026-05-23.