The Recall Desk
Our severity:SevereNHTSA·20E064000·Announced 2020-09-23

Volkswagen Master Cylinders Recalled for Brake Fluid Leak Risk

Tenneco is recalling aftermarket master cylinders for 2004-2018 Jetta and 2012-2019 Beetle vehicles due to a seal defect that may cause brake fluid leaks and reduced braking ability.

What this means for you

Our assessment, not the agency’s: severity 4/5 (Severe).

The hazard poses a serious risk of illness, injury, or structural failure. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural vehicle defect in the braking system that can lead to reduced braking ability and an increased risk of a crash, meeting the criteria for a Severe rating.

Plain-English summary

Tenneco Automotive is recalling certain Beck/Arnley Master Cylinders, part number 072-9831, sold as aftermarket or replacement parts. These parts were sold for 2004-2018 Volkswagen Jetta and 2012-2019 Volkswagen Beetle vehicles.

The fluid seal crimp on the master cylinder may be insufficient, which can cause brake fluid to leak or the cylinder to come apart. If a brake fluid leak occurs, it can reduce braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.

Beck/Arnley will notify distributors, who will work to notify end users. Affected master cylinders will be exchanged for a new master cylinder (part number 072-9990) free of charge. The recall began on October 30, 2020. Owners may contact Tenneco customer service at 1-800-625-9319 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.

The recalled product

Product
VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE, JETTA
Brand
VOLKSWAGEN
Manufacturer
Tenneco Automotive
Category
Vehicle — Brake System
Hazard
Affected units
38

Is your product affected?

Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.

Model numbers (2)

  • BEETLE
  • JETTA

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.

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