Right rear seat belt is jammed in the retracted position. Car was parked on level ground at home driveway. Cannot pull out seat belt as the locking mechanism will not let it be pulled out. This was a problem that started a few months ago. After several tugs on the belt, or if the car moved out of the driveway, the mechanism would eventually release the belt so it can be used (as required by law). The problem got progressively worse over the past several months until the seat belt is now unusable. Reported to dealer during regular service visit. Dealer inspected and noted that the seat belt needed to be replaced. $233 special order part and $423 labor to install. I believe a seat belt, particularly on a vehicle that is only 4 to 5 years old, should function properly all the time. It is a required safety device that needs to function properly every time. This is a safety issue and a legal liability. I contacted Volkswagen of America customer care to see if they would pay for the parts and/or repair. They declined as the vehicle is out of warranty. I reported to voa that I would file this complaint with NHTSA. I don't believe I should have to pay $656 to replace a seat belt that should never have failed.

- Long Beach, CA, USA