Hello everyone! I am new to all of this. I recently got a phone call from my Fiance's uncle telling me that he saw some news report about the VW Cabrio convertible tops and a lawsuit that was going on. It had to do with, I believe, 98 and 99 VW Cabrios. The white and beige vinyl tops are disinegrating. Mine is doing this and it has been getting worse. Of course, I can't enjoy this wonderful weather we are having here in Washington State because my top rips at the back window everytime that I take it up or down. When this first happened I called VW and they told me that I didn't know what I was talking about. Little did I know that there was a lawsuit pending as I spoke with a representative. I have been doing my research and tonight I found all the information that I need. There was a settlement in March 2004. Volkswagen will provide a free replacement of the tops if the problem was reported within 5 years of the when the car was first sold or 50% of the cost of the new top if the problem was reported within 5 to 10 years after the car was first sold. VW will also reimburse Cabrio owners and former owners 100% of the cost they incurred in replacing the tops in they reported the problem within the first 5 years or 50% of the cost if they reported the problem within 5 to 10 years after the date of original purchase. I sure hope that this helps some of you out there that may have this problem. I encourage you to call VW and let them know ASAP if you want the problem fixed without having to pay for it. The website that I found this information on is www.kabolaw.com GOOD LUCK TO ALL!

Thanks,

Our new (to me) 97' Cabrio with beige top has no rips and still in great condition. Considering the car didn't seem to be babied by the last owner I don't think the problem is with the 97 (or maybe I'm lucky).

i am finding out alot about people having top problems. my 96 cabrio started splitting about 2 years ago. it has sat inside for most of the 4 years i have owned it. so i was starting to wonder if i was the only one have this problem. i think the white top looks good with the white paint and was going to replace it with the same color. but now i don't know. i have read a few things that have said that vw will pay 50% of the cost to replace the top. any more details would be great.