Defect
SPRING, WHICH HOLDS THE LATCH ON THE FRONT DOOR LOCKS, MAY BREAK AND DOOR MAY OPEN UNEXPECTEDLY.
Remedy
SPRINGS WILL BE REPLACED ON ALL AFFECTED LOCKS WITHOUT CHARGE.
1982 Volkswagen Vanagon problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1982 Volkswagen Vanagon — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
1
Recalls
1
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
How does 1982 compare to other Vanagon years?
Does the 1982 Volkswagen Vanagon have recalls?
1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
1982 Volkswagen Vanagon — common questions
Is the 1982 Volkswagen Vanagon reliable?
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.
Does the 1982 Volkswagen Vanagon have recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 1982 Volkswagen Vanagon. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
Is the 1982 Volkswagen Vanagon under NHTSA investigation?
NHTSA opened one investigation into this model year; all are now closed.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.