2016 Volkswagen Beetle problems

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The Volkswagen Beetle, officially the Volkswagen Type 1, is a small car produced by the German company Volkswagen from 1938 to 2003. It is one of the most iconic cars in automotive history, recognised for its distinctive shape. Its production period of 65 years is the longest of any single generation of automobile, and its total production of over 21.5 million is the most of any car of a single platform.

The Beetle was conceived in the early 1930s. The leader of Nazi Germany, Adolf Hitler, decided there was a need for a people's car to serve Germany's new road network, the Reichsautobahn. The German engineer Ferdinand Porsche and his design team began developing and designing the car in the early 1930s. But the fundamental design concept can be attributed to Béla Barényi in 1925, predating Porsche's claims by over five years. The result was the Volkswagen Type 1 and the introduction of the Volkswagen brand. Volkswagen initially slated production for the late 1930s, but the outbreak of war in 1939 meant that production was delayed until the war had ended. The car was originally called the Volkswagen Type 1 and marketed simply as the Volkswagen, but it was not until 1968 that it was officially named the "Beetle".

Volkswagen implemented designations for the Beetle in the 1960s, including 1200, 1300, 1500, 1600, 1302 and 1303. Volkswagen introduced a series of large luxury models throughout the 1960 and 70s—comprising the Type 3, Type 4 and the K70—to supplement the Beetle, but none of these models achieved the level of success that it did. Rapidly changing consumer preferences toward front-wheel drive compact hatchbacks in Europe prompted Volkswagen's gradual shift away from rear-wheel drive, starting with the Golf in 1974. In the late 1970s and 80s, Japanese automakers began to dominate the market, which contributed to the Beetle's declining popularity.

Over its lifespan, the Beetle's design remained consistent, yet Volkswagen implemented over 78,000 incremental updates. These modifications were often subtle, involving minor alterations to its exterior, interior, colours, and lighting. Some more noteworthy changes included the introduction of new engines, models and systems, such as improved technology or comfort.

2016 Volkswagen Beetle

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Common 2016 Volkswagen Beetle problems

The Volkswagen Beetle, an iconic car with a distinctive design, has been a favorite among car enthusiasts for generations. However, like any vehicle, the Beetle is not without its issues. Here are three of the most common Volkswagen Beetle problems based on complaints from owners of this car:

  • Power Window Failure: Power window failure is a common problem in Volkswagen Beetle coupes and convertibles, particularly in models from 1998 to 2013. The issue is primarily caused by a faulty window regulator, which can lead to windows becoming stuck or not moving at all. The average cost to replace a window regulator in a VW Beetle is between $532 and $719.
  • Headlight Bulb Burnout: The headlight bulb burnout issue affects 13 VW Beetle model years between 1998 and 2010. The problem can occur anywhere from 11,650 to 230,000 miles, with the average mileage for it to show up being 72,000. The cost of repairing headlight bulb burnout in Volkswagen Beetles varies depending on the severity of the problem, but the average repair cost is $143 to $158 per bulb.
  • Check Engine Light Due to Ignition/Sensor Failure: The check engine light can come on due to ignition component and/or engine coolant temperature sensor failure. This issue has been reported in 14 model years between 1998 and 2013, with an average mileage of 94,000. The average cost for a Beetle check engine light diagnosis and testing is $132 to $166. Once the problem is determined, the vehicle can be repaired at an additional cost.

These common Volkswagen Beetle problems can be costly to fix, but regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent them from occurring. By staying on top of routine maintenance, such as inspecting the headlight bulbs and replacing them when they dim or show wear, Beetle owners can ensure optimal visibility on the road and avoid potential safety risks.

In summary, while the Volkswagen Beetle is a beloved classic car, it is not without its issues. Power window failure, headlight bulb burnout, and check engine light due to ignition/sensor failure are three of the most common Volkswagen Beetle problems that owners have reported. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues from occurring and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.

2016 Volkswagen Beetle engine

What years of VW beetles to avoid?

There are tons of years of the VW Beetle, which provides plenty of opportunities to pick out the worst ones for drivers. Some are more ideal than others. We recommend staying away from the 2000, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012, and 2013 models. These require expensive fixes that can cause trouble as you drive.

Are Volkswagen beetles expensive to fix?

The average annual repair cost is $612 which means it has average ownership costs.

How long do VW Beetle engines last?

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.

Do Volkswagen Beetles have transmission problems?

According to one owner, they knew that transmission issues were a widely reported problem in 2003 Beetles, but their 2004 Beetle had all the same symptoms. The reports were all the same—the transmission was either hard shifting, jolting into gear, or slipping intermittently.

Do VW Beetles have issues?

Beetle owners have made 287 complaints over 23 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 17th in overall reliability out of 25 VW models , with real windows and transmission concerns.

Are Volkswagen beetles high maintenance?

The average annual repair cost is $612 which means it has average ownership costs.

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.

How long do VW Beetle engines last?

The Volkswagen Beetle is well-known for its durability. According to The Driver Adviser, a well-maintained Beetle can, on average, last between 180,000 to 200,000 miles​​. Motor Ask asserts that this impressive longevity can extend to at least 10 years, assuming an annual mileage of around 15,000 miles​​.

2016 Volkswagen Beetle car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Beetle problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Air bags problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Suspension problems
  • Wheels problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2016 Volkswagen Beetle vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2016 Volkswagen Beetle

The NHTSA has received 55 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2016 Volkswagen Beetle vehicles.

2024-02-29

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-23
  • VIN: 3VW517AT2GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: See attached document for complaint
2023-10-23

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-23
  • VIN: 3VWF17AT9GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-10-19

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-10-19
  • VIN: 3VWF17AT1GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: We have been attempting to have the car in for this recall - however both the dealership and regional office have said the 'repair is not available' How long does a mfg have to start making repairs under a recall (69EM) We have been patiently waiting over a year. Please advise.
2023-10-09

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-02-01
  • VIN: 3VWF17AT7GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Have not heard anything since February 2023 regarding repair of driver's side air bag inflator. 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 resulting in serious injury or death.
2023-10-02

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-10-01
  • VIN: 3VWJ07AT8GM
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE THAT HAS YET TO BE FIXED DUE TO LACK OF PARTS SENT TO DEALERS. Manufacturer Recall Number69EM NHTSA Recall Number22V945 Recall StatusRecall Incomplete, remedy not yet available Summary The driver's side airbag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death. Safety Risk An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
2023-09-26

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-26
  • VIN: 3VWJ17ATXGM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that the parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-09-15

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-15
  • VIN: 3VW517AT8GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-09-15

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-02-01
  • VIN: 3VW517AT4GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-09-08

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-08
  • VIN: 3VWS17ATXGM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-08-25

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-25
  • VIN: 3VW517AT9GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An unknown local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-08-25

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-15
  • VIN: 3VWJ07AT8GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The failure mileage was 10,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-08-23

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-02-13
  • VIN: 3VWF17AT1GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-08-15

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-01-05
  • VIN: 3VWF17AT7GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-08-15

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-02-01
  • VIN: 3VWF17AT3GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-07-28

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-01
  • VIN: 3VWS17AT4GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The manufacturer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-07-27

SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-13
  • VIN: 3VWS17AT8GM
  • Components: SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,TIRES
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, parts to do the recall repair were not yet available. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. Additionally, the contact stated that the TPMS warning light and the air bag warning light were intermittently illuminated. The contact then stated that on two separate occasions while driving at approximately 35-40 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently jerked and veered to the left or right side of the road. The contact also stated that on multiple occasions while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle drove over a bump in the roadway and started shuddering. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the front passenger’s side lower ball joint failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-07-17

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-17
  • VIN: 3VWF17AT3GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: airbag recall still not having a solution
2023-07-13

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-13
  • VIN: 3VWF17AT6GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available
2023-07-13

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-11
  • VIN: 3VWJ17AT4GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Subject: Urgent Request for Immediate Assistance: Inoperable Car due to Airbag Recall Dear National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), I am writing to urgently seek your assistance regarding a critical issue with my 2016 VW Beetle. As a result of the airbag recall, my car is currently inoperable, preventing me from starting it and hindering my ability to commute and carry out essential daily activities. Given the circumstances, I am in immediate need of a replacement vehicle to ensure my mobility and minimize any further disruption to my routine. I kindly request your prompt intervention to facilitate the provision of another car as soon as possible. I understand the importance of prioritizing safety and appreciate your efforts in overseeing recalls. I trust that you will understand the urgency of my situation and take swift action to address my request for an expedited solution. Please contact me at your earliest convenience to discuss this matter further and provide guidance on the next steps to obtain the necessary assistance. Thank you for your prompt attention to this urgent matter.
2023-07-11

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-01-05
  • VIN: 3VW517AT9GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Airbag recall program instituted January 2023. Vehicle is still not repaired by Volkswagen; awaiting go ahead and scheduling. Vehicle is dangerous to drive until repair is made.
2023-07-10

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-10
  • VIN: 3VW517AT2GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-07-03

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-03
  • VIN: 3VW507ATXGM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-06-27

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-02-20
  • VIN: 3VWF17AT7GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-06-14

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-12-21
  • VIN: 3VWJ17AT1GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2023-06-05

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-01-01
  • VIN: 3VWF17AT0GM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

2016 Volkswagen Beetle recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle.

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.
2020-09-23
  • Manufacturer: Tenneco Automotive
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
  • Summary: Tenneco Automotive (Tenneco) is recalling certain Beck/Arnley Master Cylinders, part number 072-9831, sold as aftermarket or replacement parts for 2004-2018 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2012-2019 Volkswagen Beetle vehicles. The fluid seal crimp on the master cylinder may be insufficient, causing brake fluid to leak or the cylinder to come apart.
  • Consequence: If there is a brake fluid leak, it can reduce braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Beck/Arnley will notify the distributors that sold the master cylinders and will work with the distributors to notify the end users. Affected master cylinders will be exchanged for a new master cylinder (part number 072-9990), free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2020. Owners may contact Tenneco customer service at 1-800-625-9319.
2019-08-22
  • 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.
2015-10-26
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Jetta, Beetle, Beetle Convertible, Passat, Golf and Golf SportWagen vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the camshaft lobe that drives the brake vacuum pump may shear off, resulting in a loss of brake assist.
  • Consequence: If the camshaft lobe shears off there would be a loss of brake assist, lengthening the distance needed to stop the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Volkswagen dealer will update the engine control module (ECM) software. The recall began March 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 23R1.

Negative 2016 Volkswagen Beetle car reviews

  1. Fabian Cronin 2024-09-01

    When your battery dies, your car will give you every warning in the book such as 'Key not in range', 'Key defective', 'Brake error', and 'Parking brake'. However, when your battery finally fails (with no indication other than the key), it basically does what a normal car does - it doesn't start. I had a similar experience where I replaced the battery in my car, only to find out that it was just a dead battery. I didn't want to pay the reprogramming fee of $99 to discover this, and I'm glad I didn't. All I needed was a jump and a new battery. The car didn't indicate that at all, but it runs great now!

  2. Samson Bednar 2024-06-16

    My 2008 beetle died, so I asked the dealership to give me any other beetle they had. They kindly gave me a red 2014 basic trim beetle. I really like the car, even though it doesn't have all the features I would like such as navigation, turbo and sunroof. At 5'2, it fits me perfectly! I always receive compliments on it and people often ask me what year it is. I enjoy decorating the car for the holidays, and it seems to make people smile. I find the car classy and a little exotic, and I don't see many other 2014 beetles driving around my city. It stands out, especially in red. It gets decent gas mileage, but I don't drive much, so I'm not the best judge. My only issue is that people always seem to feel the need to pass me while driving, even if I'm going over the speed limit. The basic beetle doesn't have a turbo, but it has an S mode that seems to make it faster. However, it does have slow acceleration and struggles going uphill. Once it starts, though, it goes pretty fast. When I turn on the ignition, I'm pleased to hear a strong engine. The only mechanical issue I've found is that the windshield wiper fluid needs constant refilling. It's good in snow, but one issue in winter is that sometimes the windows freeze shut. The frameless windows drop down to open the door, and sometimes ice or debris gets in, causing the battery to short out and requiring the windows to be reprogrammed. It's a little annoying, but I've learned to cover the car with a tarp to prevent ice from getting on it since it parks outside. I would recommend a turbo beetle, but I would not recommend the diesel beetle as it drives like a little truck and is not sporty at all. I also wish the basic model came with automatic power seats.

  3. Jake Muller 2024-05-13

    In my opinion, the VW Beetle engineers should be offered other jobs somewhere else. The car is quite noisy and has a rough ride. The road noise is very loud, and it seems like the car has no insulation to buffer outside sound, especially tire noise. It would have been great if VW had a garage door controller. The Vehicle does not come with license plate holders, but the dealer provided them. Unfortunately, the dealer we went through used very cheap and ugly holders and wanted to drill 1/2 holes in both bumpers to attach them. We declined and had to find our own solution. However, the car looks nice, and the interior is nice too. The electronics seem to be pretty good, and the backup camera and sensors work well. Our 2006 VW Bug was a diesel, and it was twice as quiet and had a garage door opener that worked great. I was disappointed when we traded up to this vehicle, and I think my wife is also, but she won't admit it since she just had to have one.

  4. Jackson Schuppe 2024-01-18

    It's a terrific car to drive, especially for those who love to drive. I'm 6'4

Positive 2016 Volkswagen Beetle car reviews

  1. Parker Hyatt 2024-11-22

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  2. Vincent Sauer 2024-11-06

    The VW Beetle R-Line Coupe is an amazing car that I absolutely love! It's so much fun to drive and has great handling, a powerful turbo motor, and gets better gas mileage than advertised. Plus, it looks like the old bugs again, which is a great nod to the classic design. The new Beetle also has a great heater and is really safe, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and stylish car. I highly recommend taking one for a test drive, as the R-Line Beetle sells itself. With the new Civic having engine troubles in 2016, it's definitely worth considering a Beetle instead. My R-Line has even inspired me to start building a 1965 VW Beetle as a hobby! Overall, I think the VW Beetle R-Line Coupe is the best Beetle ever made and I couldn't be happier with my purchase. #savethevwbeetleThat's a shame. It would be a mistake for VW management to kill the Beetle. Instead, they should consider building an Electric Bug. If you can find a used R Line in good condition, I highly recommend buying it! The R Line is its own beast and the best Bug ever. I drove mine from Elizabeth, Colorado to Roswell, New Mexico and loved every minute of it. With my APR stage one, I have all the power I could want. My added traction control delete button makes the car launch like a beast. Killing the Beetle this year would be the biggest mistake in the history of the company. The current 2019 model is less car than my R Line, which is a huge mistake. It's a retro car that deserves to be saved. I even bought another Bug to protect my R Line from weather and idiots. It's too special to be a daily driver, but it's the best car I have ever owned. It has been extremely reliable! If you can find a nice R Line Beetle, it will make you happy! The car is worth as much as I paid for it, which speaks for itself. #savethevwbeetle #foreverbeetle #ARX #Rallycross

  3. Johann Barrows 2024-10-17

    What's not to like about this car? It's perfect for empty nesters. With the back seats folded down, there's lots of room to haul a bunch. The car has great looks and fantastic acceleration with the 210 hp turbo. It can easily get you in trouble, so be careful! You can rock out with the Fender Audio System and enjoy the sunroof open. The sharp 19

  4. Olin Breitenberg 2024-09-22

    I really like my Volkswagen, but I've been having trouble finding some accessories that I want for it. Unfortunately, even VW hasn't been able to help me with this. It would be great if they made more accessories available for their models. I hope they can focus on taking care of their customers and their needs, rather than just worrying about fuel mileage tests.

  5. Deontae Ward 2024-09-19

    It's great to hear that you find it fun to drive!

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