2014 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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Common 2014 Volkswagen Beetle convertible problems
The Volkswagen Beetle Convertible 2014 has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the engine, windows, and check engine light.
- Engine Oil Leaks: Engine oil leaks are another common problem with the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. These leaks can be caused by various factors, including worn gaskets, seals, or oil pan leaks. Oil leaks can result in decreased engine performance, increased oil consumption, and even engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Window Failure: The 2014 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible has been reported to have issues with the power windows, which can fail to operate correctly or become stuck in one position. This problem can be caused by various factors, including worn window regulators, broken window motors, or faulty window switches.
- Check Engine Light: The check engine light is a common issue with the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible, which can be caused by various problems, including faulty oxygen sensors, catalytic converter issues, or loose gas caps. These problems can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, decreased engine performance, and even engine failure if not addressed promptly.
- Overheating Engine: Some owners have reported that the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible's engine can overheat, which can be caused by various factors, including low coolant levels, faulty thermostats, or damaged radiators. Overheating can lead to engine damage, decreased performance, and even engine failure if not addressed promptly.
- Convertible Top Problems: The 2014 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible has been reported to have issues with the convertible top, including problems with the motor, locking mechanism, and display center. These problems can lead to a convertible top that does not close or lock properly, which can be a safety hazard.
In summary, the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible has several common problems, primarily related to the engine, windows, and check engine light. These problems can lead to decreased performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and even engine failure if not addressed promptly. Additionally, the convertible top has been reported to have issues with the motor, locking mechanism, and display center. These problems can lead to a convertible top that does not close or lock properly, which can be a safety hazard.
How reliable are 2014 VW Beetles?
How Reliable Is the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle? The Volkswagen Beetle has average reliability, earning a score of three out of five from J.D. Power.
How reliable is the VW Beetle convertible?
For The Car Owner
With proper care and maintenance, you can expect this model to last 150,000 miles or 10 years, but some owners have shared that their Beetles have lasted even longer. The Volkswagen Beetle is a reliable compact car that's also known for its iconic, signature look.
Do VW Beetles have engine problems?
Common VW Beetle Problems
Here are a few of the prominent troubles with a VW Beetle: Engine failure - The engine may fail without warning, warranting pricey repairs. Faulty power windows - The windows may not roll up and down effectively. Faulty power locks - The locks may not work.
Is a VW Beetle expensive to maintain?
Volkswagen maintenance costs are around $676 per year according to RepairPal, which is just a bit higher than the industry average of $652 per year.
2014 Volkswagen Beetle convertible complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle convertible.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2014 Volkswagen Beetle convertible recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2014 Volkswagen Beetle convertible.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2019 GTI, 2015-2016 and 2018-2019 Golf, 2012-2019 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2017-2019 Golf SportWagen and 2011-2018 Jetta vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, manual handbrake and keyless entry. A build-up of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition when the transmission shift lever is not in "Park."
- Consequence: Removing the key while the shift lever is in a position other than "Park" increases the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional switch and circuit board, free of charge. The recall began November 19, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 37M2.
Negative 2014 Volkswagen Beetle convertible car reviews
Positive 2014 Volkswagen Beetle convertible car reviews
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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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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.
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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. Driving 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 making 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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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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Solid, handles great, head turner! :)
Other years of Volkswagen Beetle convertible
Are you having problems with your 2014 Volkswagen Beetle convertible?
Buford Bechtelar 2025-06-09
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
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.
Glennie Gaylord 2025-05-20
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my 2014 VW Beetle Convertible. While it is a cute car, unfortunately, I had some issues with it. It was quite noisy and inconsistent, and I found myself spending more time in the Service Department than on the road. Even after the VW Engineers claimed to have fixed it, I had a scary incident where the convertible control panel fell out of the roof while I was driving, almost causing an accident. The VW corporation did replace the car with the same model, but unfortunately, it had the same issues as the previous one. When I reached out to the VW corporation again, I didn't receive the response I was hoping for. I just wanted to share my experience and warn others about these potential safety concerns. Thank you for listening!
Easter Klein 2024-08-16
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.
Adonis Stiedemann 2024-06-09
Although my car has over 79,000 miles on it, I am confident in its reliability. While some minor repairs have been necessary, such as the battery and certain parts, I have always been able to get it fixed quickly and efficiently. In colder weather, the car may require a bit more attention, but overall it still performs well. I did have to replace the rubber rim for the trunk due to a leak, but this was a simple fix. (For the purposes of this review, I selected a 2014 yellow convertible VW Beetle model at random.)