NHTSA Recall 79V120000: Relay (electrical system)
VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 540,000 vehicles. It affects 2 models including the Volkswagen Rabbit.
| NHTSA campaign | 79V120000 |
|---|---|
| Component | ELECTRICAL SYSTEM › STARTER ASSEMBLY › RELAY |
| Report received | May 17, 1979 |
| Owner notification | August 20, 1979 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation |
Defect
Due to an improperly sealed antenna mounting hole, water could seap into the fuse relay board. The water entering the fuse relay board acts as a conductor of current, thereby charging the starter.
Safety risk
Not provided.
Remedy
The dealer will seal all radio antenna cable holes. In addition, electrical parts of the relay/fuse board will be checked and replaced in the case of corrosion.
Notes
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with standard transmissions.system: electrical; starter relay.consequences of defect: the starter could be activated and the vehicle couldmove if the transmission is in gear and the emergency brake is not applied.this could cause injury to persons standing in the path of the moving vehicle.
Vehicles covered by recall 79V120000
| Make and model | Model years |
|---|---|
| Volkswagen Rabbit | 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979 |
| Volkswagen Scirocco | 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979 |
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.