Volkswagen Beetle convertible problems
The Volkswagen New Beetle is a compact car, introduced by Volkswagen in 1997, drawing heavy inspiration from the exterior design of the original Beetle. Unlike the original Beetle, the New Beetle has its engine in the front, driving the front wheels, with luggage storage in the rear. It was revised in 2005 and was in production until 2011, almost fourteen years since introduction.
In 2011 for the 2012 model year, a new Beetle model, the Beetle (A5), replaced the New Beetle. It is often referred to as the New Beetle as well. Various versions of this model continued to be made in Puebla, Mexico, until the final car left the assembly line on 10 July 2019.
History
At the 1994 North American International Auto Show, Volkswagen unveiled the Concept One, a "retro"-themed concept car with a resemblance to the original Volkswagen Beetle. Designed by J Mays and Freeman Thomas at the company's California design studio, the concept car was based on the platform of the Volkswagen Polo. A red cabriolet concept was featured at the Geneva Motor Show, also in 1994.
Production design approval was reached in mid-1995, with a design freeze resulting in 22 months of development time for production. In October 1995, the Volkswagen Concept Two was shown at the Tokyo Motor Show, essentially an early preview of the production model due in early 1998.
Strong public reaction to the Concept One convinced the company that it should develop a production version which was launched as the New Beetle in 1997 for the 1998 model-year, based on the Golf IV's larger PQ34 platform. The New Beetle is related to the original only in name and appearance (including the absence of a car emblem script with the exception of the VW logo). For the 1998 model year, only the TDI compression-ignition engine was turbocharged; the spark-ignition engines were only naturally aspirated. In June 1999, Volkswagen introduced the 1.8T, which was the first turbocharged spark-ignition engine offered for the New Beetle. Volkswagen created a web site dedicated specifically to the 1.8T. A convertible was added for the 2003 model-year to replace the Volkswagen Cabrio. However, the New Beetle Convertible was never offered with a compression-ignition engine in North America. The third-generation Beetle Convertible, the successor to the New Beetle Convertible, was offered with the TDI compression-ignition engine in the USA but not in Canada, though, making it possibly the only diesel convertible car offered in North America.
The New Beetle carries many design similarities with the original VW Beetle: separate fenders, vestigial running boards, sloping headlamps, and large round taillights, as well as a high rounded roofline. It was assembled in VW's Puebla factory in Mexico.
In June 2005, Volkswagen announced a facelift of the New Beetle featuring revised bumpers, wheels, lamps, VW emblems, sharper lines and a different interior. In the USA it went on sale for the 2006 model year.
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Volkswagen Beetle convertible model years
Common Volkswagen Beetle convertible problems
The Volkswagen Beetle, known for its iconic design, has been a popular choice among car enthusiasts. However, like any other vehicle, it is not without its problems. Here are some of the most common issues reported by owners of Volkswagen Beetle convertibles:
- Headlight bulb burnout: This issue affects 13 VW Beetle model years between 1998 and 2010, with the average mileage for it to show up being 72,000.
- Check engine light due to ignition/sensor failure: This problem is seen in 14 model years between 1998 and 2013, with the average mileage for it to show up being 94,000.
- Transmission and engine issues: These problems are common in various VW Beetle models, including the 2001, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012, and 2013 editions. Transmission and engine issues can lead to expensive repairs, and older models may have limited safety features and fuel efficiency.
- Rattling engine sound: Some Volkswagen Beetle owners have reported hearing a rattling sound coming from the engine while driving or idling, accompanied by occasional misfires and trouble starting the car.
- Recall issues: The Volkswagen Beetle Cabriolet has had three recalls and one action for diesel emissions, affecting models built between 2011 and 2014. These recalls address issues such as starter motor overheating, potential loss of steering stability, and fuel leaks, which can pose safety risks.
In conclusion, while the Volkswagen Beetle convertible is a beloved car, it is essential to be aware of these common problems to ensure proper maintenance and address potential issues promptly.
Is a Volkswagen Beetle convertible reliable?
According to repairpal.com, the VW Beetle has a reliability rating of ⅘. This number puts it above similar competitors. Of course, there are still some troubles to consider that appear in most VW Beetle models.
Are Volkswagen beetles expensive to fix?
The average annual repair cost is $612 which means it has average ownership costs.
What is the life expectancy of a VW Beetle?
Most Volkswagen vehicles will last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles, although well-kept models can last even longer than that. All VWs are remarkably reliable vehicles. When it comes to longevity, the Golf, Passat, Jetta, and Beetle are known to be particularly long-lasting.
What year is the most desirable VW Beetle?
The 1967 Vw Beetle is regarded as the best Vw Beetle ever made by many.
Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Beetle convertible
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Beetle convertible.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volkswagen Beetle convertible 2015
- Report Received Date: 2022-12-21
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Beetle and Beetle Convertibles vehicles. The driver's side air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's side air bag, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed February 16, 2023. Owners will receive a second notice once remedy parts become available; anticipated September 2023. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69EM.
- Model: Volkswagen Beetle convertible 2016
- Report Received Date: 2022-12-21
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Beetle and Beetle Convertibles vehicles. The driver's side air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's side air bag, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed February 16, 2023. Owners will receive a second notice once remedy parts become available; anticipated September 2023. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69EM.
- Model: Volkswagen Beetle convertible 2013
- Report Received Date: 2020-12-16
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Volkswagen Beetle and Beetle Convertible vehicles. The driver's side air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag, free of charge. The recall began March 19, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69BC.
- Model: Volkswagen Beetle convertible 2014
- Report Received Date: 2020-12-16
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2014 Volkswagen Beetle and Beetle Convertible vehicles. The driver's side air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver frontal air bag, free of charge. The recall began March 19, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69BC.
- Model: Volkswagen Beetle convertible 2013
- Report Received Date: 2019-09-25
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Volkswagen Passat, 2018 Tiguan LWB, 2007-2009 Jetta Sedan, 2011-2013, 2015 and 2019 Jetta, 2013 Jetta Hybrid, 2008-2009 Jetta Sportwagen, 2015 Golf Sportwagen, 2013 Golf, 2008-2010 and 2012-2013 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2008-2010 Beetle, and Beetle Convertible vehicles. Modifications made while the vehicles were in an internal evaluation period may cause the affected vehicles to not comply with all of the applicable regulatory requirements.
- Consequence: If the vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements, there could be an increased risk of a crash, fire, or injury.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners and repurchase the affected vehicles. The recall began November 6, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01D7. Note: This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 18V-329.
Latest negative Volkswagen Beetle convertible car reviews
Latest positive Volkswagen Beetle convertible car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2014
Hey there! When you're looking to check the value or price of a car, I recommend using Edmunds online. It's always a good idea to do your homework before making any big purchases. Let me know if you have any questions!
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Vehicle year: 2013
The convertible was my wife's dream car and we made the perfect choice with the tdi. I recommended it to her and she absolutely loves it. We use it for a variety of driving scenarios, from idling in line to pick up the kids to cruising on the highway at 75mph. I keep track of the fuel mileage on fuelly and after 6 months and just under 5500 miles, the average is an impressive 31.3. When I take trips at 55mph with the cruise set, it gets over 50mpg. The car has a lot of low-end torque and can move quickly. The only issue we've encountered is squeaky brakes. VW claims it's normal and won't fix it, but we disagree. We're currently working to resolve the issue.
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Vehicle year: 2014
I usually prefer to buy used cars, but only from a dealer and with a warranty. That's why I decided to purchase a 2013 fully loaded Beetle Convertible 2.0 Turbo in January 2018. It was five years old with only 16,000 miles and I paid $16k for it, which was a great deal considering the original sticker price was $35k. I have to say, driving this car in manual mode is the best way to experience it. Even though I have an automatic DSG, it feels a bit bogged down in drive mode. But in manual mode, you can really feel the turbo and it puts a grin on your face. It's not the same grin as you'd get with a Miata, but it's still a very satisfying car to drive. I was even impressed with how well it handled in the snow this winter. It plowed through my local snow-filled streets with no issues whatsoever. And the Fender stereo sound is hands down the best stock radio sound I've ever heard. I did have an error message when opening the convertible top, but it always opened on the second attempt. Since I have a 2-year warranty, VW Kelly of Danvers MA took care of the issue free of charge. Overall, I'm extremely happy with my purchase and plan to keep the car for at least the next five years. Even though VWs don't have the best reliability reputation, I've had nothing but positive experiences. I previously owned a 2009 CC that ran flawlessly until I sold it with 100k miles. It never had any issues and always started up. The CC is also a great highway cruiser, especially with the V6 engine.
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Vehicle year: 2013
I sold my car in September 2018 with 80,000 miles on it. It was one of my favourite cars that I've owned. Even at 80k miles, it never gave me any trouble. It's a great little car with an awesome engine. I definitely recommend it. As of July 6th, 2018, the car had 75,000 miles and still no problems. I just had an oil change done. It's a great little car. As of January 5th, 2018, the car had 65,000 miles and still no problems. All I have done is an oil change and new tires. The car is still trouble-free. Would I buy the car again? Absolutely. As of July 4th, 2017, the car had 60,000 miles and still no problems. It's an awesome little car. If I had to do it again, I would buy a VW Beetle convertible. I'm averaging 28mpg. The gas is premium, but it gets 28 city and 34 highway. The road noise is as good as a hard top. It can get pricey once you start adding options. Now at 50,000 miles, the car still runs great. No problems so far and I'm still very happy with my choice. It's still a great little car.
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Vehicle year: 2014
The convertible was my wife's dream car and we made the perfect choice with the tdi. I recommended it to her and she absolutely loves it. We use it for a variety of driving scenarios, from idling in line to pick up the kids to cruising on the highway at 75mph. I keep track of the fuel mileage on fuelly and after 6 months and just under 5500 miles, the average is an impressive 31.3. When I take trips at 55mph with the cruise set, it gets over 50mpg. The car has a lot of low-end torque and can move quickly. The only issue we've encountered is squeaky brakes. Although VW claims it's normal, we disagree and are currently working to resolve the issue.
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Beetle convertible?
Jeremie Rolfson 2025-07-02
Vehicle year: 2013
Although my 2013 TDI ragtop is a joy to drive, I have unfortunately experienced several issues with it. These include wind noise from the top, a door dent caused by the dealer, an interior lighting issue, a passenger window regulator issue, and a driver's door pinch point issue that required an external body shop to remove and reinstall the door. Despite having to make 5 or 6 trips to the service department, totaling over 30 days, my car is still not functioning as it should. As a result, I have decided to contact a lemon law attorney, as my car is only 6 months old with 7K miles. While Volkswagen has not been helpful, the dealer has done their best to assist me. I would advise anyone considering purchasing this car to thoroughly research and read reviews before making a decision.
Torey Hagenes 2025-06-27
Vehicle year: 2014
My engine has died three times in the past three months, which has been quite frustrating. The first time was due to a timing chain at 68,000 miles, but thankfully Volkswagen agreed to cover the cost due to a class action lawsuit. However, just to take the engine apart cost $900. Unfortunately, three weeks later, it died again while I was driving, this time due to a fuel injector, which cost me $1,000. It has been less than a month since the last repair and tonight it died again, requiring another tow to the dealer. While I love driving this car, I cannot keep it if it continues to die on me. It's a shame because I take good care of it and it only has 69,000 miles. I would advise potential buyers to be cautious.
Buford Bechtelar 2025-06-09
Vehicle year: 2014
Although my 2013 TDI ragtop is a joy to drive, I have unfortunately experienced several issues with it. These include wind noise from the top, a door dent caused by the dealer, an interior lighting issue, a passenger window regulator issue, and a driver's door pinch point issue that required an external body shop to remove and reinstall the door. Despite having to make 5 or 6 trips to the service department, totaling over 30 days, my car is still not functioning as it should. As a result, I have decided to contact a lemon law attorney, as my car is only 6 months old with 7K miles. While Volkswagen has not been helpful, the dealer has done their best to assist me. I would advise anyone considering purchasing this car to thoroughly research and read reviews before making a decision.
Carter VonRueden 2025-06-02
Vehicle year: 2014
I purchased my VW Convertible brand new and have now owned it for a year. Unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with the windows (motors and seals) and one of the tires. While it has been frustrating to deal with these issues and go back and forth with the dealer, I have found a solution that works for me. I decided to invest in Michelin tires, which have greatly improved my driving experience. Now, after multiple balancing and alignments, my car drives much better. I hope that VW can continue to improve the quality of their parts to avoid these types of issues in the future.
Darrel Block 2025-05-29
Vehicle year: 2013
I purchased my VW Convertible brand new and have now owned it for a year. Unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with the windows (motors and seals) and one of the tires. While it has been frustrating to deal with these issues and go back and forth with the dealer, I have found a solution that works for me. I decided to invest in Michelin tires, which have greatly improved my driving experience. Now, after multiple balancing and alignments, my car drives much better. I hope that VW can continue to improve the quality of their parts to avoid these types of issues in the future.