NHTSA Recall 81V012000: Cables (vehicle speed control)
VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 110,000 vehicles. It affects 2 models including the Volkswagen Rabbit.
| NHTSA campaign | 81V012000 |
|---|---|
| Component | VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL › CABLES |
| Report received | January 28, 1981 |
| Owner notification | May 13, 1981 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation |
Defect
The accelerator cable which leads from the transmission lever to the throttle housing may malfunction. Accelerator cable may have been bent during installation or during servicing of engine components. This could cause the steel band cable to bind and can result in delayed response during deceleration, high engine idle and hesitation during acceleration.
Safety risk
Not provided.
Remedy
The accelerator cable will be replaced with a newly designed one. In addition, other components of the acceleration system will be checked, lubricated, and if necessary, replaced. This will be done without charge.
Notes
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with fuel-injected gasolineengines and automatic transmissions.system: fuel system; accelerator cable.consequences of defect: the ability to control engine speed could becomeimpaired with little or no warning. Loss of vehicle control and an accident mayresult.note: any abnormal throttle control operation or irregular pedal operationshould be reported to dealer.
Vehicles covered by recall 81V012000
| Make and model | Model years |
|---|---|
| Volkswagen Rabbit | 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980 |
| Volkswagen Scirocco | 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980 |
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.