Large Recall NHTSA · 72V256000 Reported October 26, 1972

Visual systems:windshield wiper arm

Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. · Visibility · 3,700,000 vehicles potentially affected

NHTSA ID
72V256000
Manufacturer Campaign
NR (Not Reported)
Component
Visibility
Vehicles Affected
3,700,000
Recall Type
Vehicle
Report Received
October 26, 1972

Defect Summary

The set screw locking the windshield wiper arm to the driving shaft may work loose. If this happens, it would cause erratic wiper operation and the could cause wiper operation to cease entirely.

Safety Consequence

Loss of wiper operation would impair road visibilityduring inclement weather conditions, which may result in an accident.

Corrective Action

Inspect and replace with new type wiper arms where necessary.

What you should do

  1. Look up your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm this recall applies to your vehicle.
  2. Contact an authorized Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. dealer and reference recall ID 72V256000 or campaign NR (Not Reported).
  3. Schedule the free repair. By federal law, the manufacturer must remedy the defect at no cost.
View Official NHTSA Notice →
Related

Similar Recalls

Other recalls from Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. or involving Visibility.

FAQ: Recall 72V256000

Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.

What is recall 72V256000?

NHTSA recall 72V256000 was issued by Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. on October 26, 1972. It addresses: Visual systems:windshield wiper arm. The recall affects approximately 3,700,000 vehicles, with the defect involving the Visibility component.

How do I get this recall repaired?

Contact any authorized Volkswagen Group Of America, Inc. dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 72V256000 or the manufacturer campaign number NR (Not Reported). Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.

Is my vehicle included in this recall?

The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.

How long do I have to get a recall repair done?

There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.

Where does the data on this page come from?

All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.