The contact owns a 2004 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact stated that after activating the turning signal, there was an abnormal noise coming from the steering column. Additionally, the instrument panel shorted and smoke came from the steering column. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the technician was unable to determine the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 105,000. The VIN was unavailable.

- Checotah, OK, USA

Bought new 2004 VW Beetle in 9/04, 2 weeks later, airbag light came on, took to dealer. They had the car over 8 weeks trying to fix. Finally agreed to replace with identical new one. Less than 2500 miles later, airbag light comes on again. They reset but did not do any repairs. Don't know if that fixed the problem as shortly after, steering went out causing the vehicle to run off road and hit guard rail. VW has now, waiting to see if they take responsibility, it doesn't appear as they will from what I am hearing from service manager. Final verdict not in yet.

- Louisville, KY, USA