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: 2015
I'm so glad to hear that you got everything you expected from your Beetle! It sounds like you had a great 6 years with your cute little car. :)
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Vehicle year: 2016
Last summer, I decided to live out one of my dreams. My mom had just retired and shared a similar dream of driving up the PCH from LA to San Francisco in a convertible. After researching rental car companies, we chose one that we felt would work for our needs. However, upon arrival, we were disappointed to learn that there were only three cars available, none of which were on my list of preferred cars to rent or had a big American V8. Our choices were a baby blue Beetle convertible or a purple Miata. Knowing that we would be spending the next two weeks on the road with friends in the car, we chose the Beetle. I was familiar with VW as I had a TDI Jetta at the time, so the interior was very familiar. We easily fit both suitcases in the trunk. I put the top down with ease and programmed the Bluetooth for directions, which took only three minutes. With our destination plugged in, we headed off to Oceanside, CA, which is about 90 miles south of LA. Getting on the highway, I heard the distinct sound of a turbo whistling and thought to myself that this may not be as bad as I thought. We drove the 90 miles with the top down and the heated seats on and had no problems. We stopped twice on the way down to get some food, water, and a bathroom break, and each time we stopped, there was a comment on the car. My disappointment started to turn around. With the top down, the ocean breeze filling the cabin, and the stereo cranked, I was really starting to enjoy the car. We had no problems hearing the radio with the top down, and I was even able to make a phone call using the Bluetooth, and the person on the other end could hear me just fine. After spending several days in Oceanside with some friends and a few dinner runs with four people in the car, I was very surprised at how much this convertible could do. The next stop was San Pedro, and again we had no issues with the car.Hey there! Sitting in the terrible LA traffic, everything seemed perfect. After two nights in San Pedro, it was finally time for the main event - two days on the PCH with the top down and an overnight stay in Morrow Bay. We hit the road first thing in the morning, but unfortunately, we sat in traffic for 2 hours before we made it up to the PCH. After several days in the car already, the seats became a little uncomfortable. Both my mom and I had the heated seats cranked hoping to keep the pain at bay. Finally, we made it to the PCH and started getting into the curvy bits. I started pushing the little bug hard into the corners and was not disappointed. The German engineering was really starting to show, with very little body roll even with the top down, and it did everything I asked it to without hesitation. We finally made it to Morrow Bay and filled up the car after driving aggressively, and I was very happy with the gas mileage. It got 27 MPG, which by the way was the worst tank I saw on this 2200 mile trip. During our stop in Morrow Bay, I had several comments like 'cool car' and even had a conversation with a VW hippie. The next day, we headed to San Fran, and Mom and I had come to the conclusion that the seats are pretty bad on long trips. It got to the point that we didn't really enjoy sitting in the car anymore. Granted, this was a brand new car. I think once the car had more miles on it, they would become more comfortable. On the 2nd key, I got behind a new Mustang convertible with a man and his wife driving, and I don't know if he was not confident with the car or what, but even at moments when he was driving like me, I was able to keep up with him and felt like I could pretty much tear that Mustang a new one on a curvy road with this Beetle. Anyways, in conclusion, the things I liked about the car are the power, the handling, and the looks. I had a couple of people comment on how it looks like an old 356 Porsche, which gave me the confidence that this car is no longer just for women.The gas mileage was amazing even though I abused the car for 4 days. I was able to get up to 33mpg, which was impressive. Although there were a few things I didn't like, such as the uncomfortable seats, I hope they will break in over time. Additionally, when the top was up, it was difficult to see over my shoulders, which made me a bit nervous on the highway and in parking lots. However, overall I was very impressed with the car. I would definitely rent one again and even consider buying one if I was in the market for a convertible.
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Vehicle year: 2015
So glad to hear you're enjoying your beetle convertible! It sounds like you've had some amazing adventures in it. I completely understand why you wouldn't want any other car for the rest of your life. It's great to hear that it's not only stylish but also practical with plenty of space for luggage and gear. Thank you for the recommendation, it's always helpful to hear from someone who loves their car!
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Vehicle year: 2015
No issues at all...the car has been a dream and totally fun. The Rline package makes it look awesome, and it's a great beach and summer car!!
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Vehicle year: 2016
I haven't had the car for very long, but so far I absolutely love it! It's really fun to drive and has a lot of spunk. However, there are a couple of cons that I've noticed. Firstly, the climate control can be a bit tricky to get right - it's either too much or not enough, and there doesn't seem to be much of a middle ground. Secondly, there's a major issue with visibility. The headrests in the back create a big blind spot when backing out, which can be a bit of a pain. Of course, the camera helps, but it can't give you a visual past the limits of each side. Unfortunately, I don't see any way around this without reducing the size of the headrests. Despite these issues, I still really like the car - the convertible top operation is very smooth and easy to operate.
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Beetle convertible?
Kristoffer Reilly 2025-01-29
Vehicle year: 2015
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.
Josue Hodkiewicz 2024-11-11
Vehicle year: 2015
The car hesitates significantly when starting from a standstill. According to a service technician, this may be due to the chain-driven transmission. It's not ideal and could potentially be a safety issue if you needed to get out of the way quickly. Additionally, the car has crummy mileage on high test and a very noisy interior. The tires are also very noisy after rotation. Lastly, the rear seat is non-existent. We understand that these issues can be frustrating, but we are here to help you find a solution.
Jean Dooley 2024-10-05
Vehicle year: 2013
You'll receive plenty of compliments, such as 'your car is adorable' or 'my first car was a beetle', and the yellow color is simply amazing! Although it can be a bit difficult to get into the car, I believe it has to do with the height of the door panel. Driving with the top down is an absolute blast! Unfortunately, my dealer hasn't been the most enjoyable experience due to their terrible service follow-ups. At the moment, we're weighing our options between purchasing this car or looking for better deals elsewhere.
Easter Klein 2024-08-16
Vehicle year: 2014
Although I loved my convertible, it became a money pit due to the frequent need to replace the motors in every window. Despite my efforts to maintain it, the interior color would come off with just a simple wipe down. As much as it breaks my heart, it is time to let it go. Unfortunately, I am now without a car.
Wilbert Ernser 2024-08-12
Vehicle year: 2016
The car hesitates significantly when starting from a standstill. According to a service technician, this may be due to the chain-driven transmission. It's not ideal and could potentially be a safety issue if you needed to get out of the way quickly. Additionally, the car has crummy mileage on high test and a very noisy interior. The tires are also very noisy after rotation. Lastly, the rear seat is non-existent. We understand that these issues can be frustrating, but we are here to help you find a solution.