2017 Volkswagen Beetle problems
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.
Social links
Common 2017 Volkswagen Beetle problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle, several common problems have been reported:
- Premature Headlight Bulb Burnout and Bulb Harness Failure: Another common problem reported is the premature burnout of headlight bulbs and failure of the bulb harness. This issue can affect visibility while driving, posing a safety concern for the driver and other road users.
- Electrical System Issues: Complaints have been raised regarding various electrical system problems, including ignition switch issues and other unidentified electrical system malfunctions. Electrical system issues can lead to starting problems, lighting failures, and other electrical component failures, affecting the overall performance and safety of the vehicle.
- Tire Information Label Error: Some 2017 Volkswagen Beetle vehicles were recalled due to incorrect information on the tire information label, potentially causing the operator to overload the vehicle. This safety concern can impact the vehicle's handling and safety on the road.
- Other Unspecified Problems: The complaints and investigations related to the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle also include unspecified issues under categories like "UNKNOWN OR OTHER". These unspecified problems could encompass a range of issues affecting different aspects of the vehicle's performance and safety.
Addressing these common problems is crucial to ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle. Owners experiencing these issues should consider seeking professional assistance to diagnose and resolve the reported problems promptly.
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.
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.
Are Volkswagen beetles expensive to fix?
The average annual repair cost is $612 which means it has average ownership costs.
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.
What is the most common problems with the Volkswagen Beetle?
Volkswagen Beetle Common Problems and Solutions
- Excessive tyre wear - New Beetle. ...
- Problem with the mass airflow sensor. ...
- Window problem on New Beetle. ...
- Convertible roof problems on New Beetle. ...
- Window and Windscreen Damage. ...
- Window and Windscreen Damage. ...
- Overheating Starter Motor. Problem: ...
- Overheating Starter Motor. Problem:
Are Volkswagen beetles expensive to fix?
The average annual repair cost is $612 which means it has average ownership costs.
How long do 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.
What year was the best Volkswagen Beetle?
The 1967 Vw Beetle is regarded as the best Vw Beetle ever made by many.
2017 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:
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2017 Volkswagen Beetle vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2017 Volkswagen Beetle complaints
The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle.
STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 3VWJ17AT3HM
- Components: STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Hi, one time the car wheel turned extra and the gas went extra fast. I also had several devices on my car through blue tooth that were not mine and mirror link kept checking and AUX. This is conjunction with 3 years of hacking (that I think is technically-assisted abuse) with smart home hub, surveillance, spyware on phone and hacked emails. Tried filling out IC3.gov form to no avail. Took car twice to Volkswagan dealer in Springfield, Pa and paid $100 twice to clear the dashboard but it kept happening with ROAV-FR3 and something FM-FORMAN (cant recall names) and Keyless car detective. Then I paid to remove the car radio. Then I found a Navaro device on passenger side under seat but dealer refused to remove it and when I called Volkswagen from there they said only the dealer knows where the vehicle embedded sim is. They do not know how to check software and say 'it is uncharted territory.' I do not feel safe. There are no laws regarding car hacking and smart home abuse and I am now writing a book for women about it so they are not gas lighted and can get help. This can be a deadly mistake and there needs to be an easy inexpensive place for someone to have their car checked for malware, sim or SD card. Please help. There was a police report but I do not have it. It was on 10/20/24 with colonial Chris McWilliams State police Middletown, PA 19063. He said Navaro device was factory installed but Volkswagan said it was not. Mechanic said it was a satellite radio device
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-17
- VIN: 3VW517AT6HM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I started to hear clanking noise on left front side (drivers side) while driving. I removed the left front tire. Upon looking inside the wheel housing I observed that spring on the suspension strut was broken and lower part of spring the was no longer inside the lower spring seat. The spring is sliding off the strut and a piece of the metal spring fell off. I have many years of experience working on cars and have owned many vehicles and this is the first time one of my vehicles experienced a spring failure which such low mileage. The vehicle only has a little over 13,000 miles so this spring failure is not from wear and tear from driving. The left front the car and wheel housing of the car is now sagging and this make it unsafe to drive. If I was driving and the piece of the metal spring sprung out it could have caused a safety concern to other motorist. I did contact Volkswagen customer support but was told that this spring failure was not part of any recall or warranty extension. Any repairs would have to be done at my own expense.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-01
- VIN: 3VW517AT3HM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO REMOVE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION. THE CONTACT HAD TO TURN THE STEERING WHEEL SEVERAL TIMES IN ORDER TO REMOVE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO SCHUMACHER VOLKSWAGEN OF WEST PALM BEACH (3001 OKEECHOBEE BLVD, WEST PALM BEACH, FL 33409) HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE SERVICE MANAGER STATED THAT THE IGNITION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 26,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-02-21
- VIN: 3VW517AT1HM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: PASSENGER WINDOW REGULATOR WENT BAD. NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY NOW. HAD DRIVER SIDE REPLACED LAST YEAR AND WARRANTY COVERED IT. 1500 MILES OVER WARRANTY NOW
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-11
- VIN: 3VWF17AT9HM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: NHTSA: 19V615 NOVEMBER 11, 2019, I MADE AN APPOINTMENT TO GET THIS RECALL 37M2-MICRO SWITCH ON MY 2017 VW BEETLE, WHEN I ARRIVED, I WAS TOLD THEY DID NOT HAVE THE PARTS TO FIX THIS RECALL. I AM TRYING TO SELL MY CAR AND IT IS NOT PRUDENT TO TRY TO SELL A VEHICLE WITH AN OPEN RECALL ON IT. I WAS FIRST NOTIFIED OF THIS RECALL IN AUGUST 2019 AND WE ARE NOW IN NOVEMBER 2019 AND ACCORDING TO WHAT I AM TOLD THERE IS STILL NO FIX FOR THIS RECALL. MY QUESTION IS 'WHAT IS THE HOLD UP'? ARE YOU WAITING FOR SOMEONE TO HAVE A SERIOUS ACCIDENT BECAUSE IF YOU ARE, THERE WILL CERTAINLY BE LAWSUITS AGAINST VW FOR NEGLIGENCE? I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW YOU CAN SEND OUT A RECALL AND 3 MONTHS LATER STILL NOT HAVE THE DEALERSHIPS HAVE WHAT THEY NEED TO GET THIS REPAIRED. YOU ARE DEFINITELY LEAVING YOURSELVES OPEN FOR SOME SERIOUS PROBLEMS, SO MAY I SUGGEST THAT YOU GET THIS SITUATION TAKEN CARE OF ASAP. THANK YOU FOR YOUR PROMPT ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER!
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-01
- VIN: 3VWF17AT1HM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: ELECTRICAL MOTOR RUNNING NOISE IN REAR AREA OF VEHICLE AFTER ENGINE SHUTDOWN AND KEY REMOVAL. OCCURS EVERY TIME VEHICLE IS DRIVEN IN RAIN CONDITIONS--REGARDLESS OF SEVERITY OF RAIN. THE NOISE REMAINS FOR UP TP 15 MINUTES AFTER SHUTDOWN AND KEY REMOVAL AND OCCURS ONLY IN WET CONDITIONS. FIRST TIME THERE WAS AN ACRID ODOR AT THE TIME OF THE NOISE -- APPEARS TO HAVE CEASED SUBSEQUENTLY BUT THE "RUNNING" NOISE REMAINS. ONLY WHEN DRIVEN IN THE RAIN. VEHICLE APPEARS TO BE NORMAL IN ALL ASPECTS WHEN DRIVING IN DRY CONDITIONS. HAVE HAD AUTHORIZED VW DEALER INSPECT WITH NO RESULTS. IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE, REGARDLESS, THAT THIS OCCURS EVERY TIME IT RAINS. THE ONLY MOTOR I CAN THINK OF IN THE REAR AREA IS THE FUEL PUMP AND HAVE NO IDEA WHY THIS OCCURS. SITUATION HAS BEEN WITH THE CAR SINCE ORIGINAL PURCHASE IN OCTOBER 2017.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-01
- VIN: 3VWS17AT0HM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED SEVERAL TIMES BUT WAS OFF WHEN A PASSENGER WAS IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN INSPECTED AND DIAGNOSED BY A DEALER YET TO DETERMINE IF THEY MAY BE ABLE TO CHECK THE DTC TO DETERMINE A REMEDY TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED, HAD NOT ISSUED ANY TSB AND NO RECALL CAMPAIGNS FOR THE AIR BAG SYSTEM AND THE CONTACT WAS UNCERTAIN IF THE VEHICLE MAY BE REPAIRED WITH A PERMANENT REMEDY. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-03
- VIN: 3VWF17AT1HM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WEATHER CONDITIONS: RAIN. AFTER RELATIVELY SHORT DRIVE GARAGED VEHICLE AND TURNED ENGINE OFF. VERY NOTICEABLE BURNING ODOR APPEARS TO COME FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT. LOUD MOTOR NOISE COMING FROM REAR AREA (ELECTRICAL MOTOR NOISE NOT ENGINE/FAN NOISE) WHICH CONTINUED FOR APPROXIMATELY THIRTY MINUTES. I AM AWARE OF THE FUEL PUMP RUNNING FOR A SECOND OR TWO WHEN I FIRST OPEN THE DRIVERS DOOR UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS. THIS IS A QUIET HUM, HARDLY NOTICEABLE, AND NOT AN ISSUE. THE NOISE ADDRESSED ABOVE IS QUITE LOUD AND ABNORMAL ( ALMOST LIKE A BEARING RUNNING DRY). WEEK LATER ' SAME WEATHER CONDITIONS ' RAIN. RAN VEHICLE ON SHORT SHOPPING TRIP AND, AGAIN, UPON GARAGING: SAME SYMPTOMS. TOOK VEHICLE TO AUTHORIZED VW DEALERSHIP. THEIR ANALYSIS: UNABLE TO FIND ANYTHING WRONG. VEHICLE WAS DRY AT THE TIME AND UNDERSTAND THEY COULD NOT FIX ANYTHING THAT DOES NOT OCCUR WHILE THEY ARE CHECKING. VERY NERVOUS BECAUSE THIS PROBLEM APPEARS LIMITED TO RAIN/WATER ENCROACHMENT SOMEWHERE IN/ON THE VEHICLE DURING INCLEMENT OPERATIONS. VEHICLE APPEARS TO FUNCTION NORMALLY DURING OPERATIONS IN RAINY WEATHER'PROBLEM NOTICEABLE ONLY WHEN GARAGED AND TURNED OFF.
2017 Volkswagen Beetle recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle.
- 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.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Beetle and Jetta GLI vehicles. The affected vehicles have incorrect information on the tire information label, possibly causing the operator to overload the vehicle. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
- Consequence: Overloading the vehicle may affect vehicle handling or result in tire damage, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install a corrected tire information label, free of charge. The recall began March 30, 2017. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for the recall is 01B9.
Negative 2017 Volkswagen Beetle car reviews
Positive 2017 Volkswagen Beetle car reviews
-
I recently leased a new 2016 Beetle Wolfsburg Edition. If you're looking for a car to zip around town, the Beetle won't disappoint you. However, the back seats are too upright and not very comfortable, and the cargo space is limited. When backing out of parking spaces, be careful as the view is obstructed by the large pillars and back seat headrests. That being said, the Beetle has plenty of power and maneuvers quite well. The unique look of the Beetle, as always, makes it stand out. Overall, it's been a fun and reliable car to drive. After my lease, I decided to buy my Beetle and it still runs great. I've had it for almost 5 years and have driven it for 50,000 miles. I removed the back seat headrests, which made a big difference in my rear-view vision. It's been 8 years and 67,000 miles, and my Beetle is still running strong. It's great to have a reliable car, especially during a time of inflated auto prices (new and used).
-
I'm so glad to hear that you decided to test drive a 2015 Volkswagen Beetle! Even though you're 6ft 7, it's great to hear that you fit perfectly. How did the test drive go?
-
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.
-
The 'New Beetle' successor is even better than its predecessor in almost every way, although some may miss the iconic flower vase. The car boasts much better acceleration and handling, while also achieving significantly higher gas mileage - over 30 mpg on high-speed highways and averaging over 25 mpg on country roads. Despite its small size, the car offers plenty of shoulder and headroom for larger individuals, which is quite surprising. However, there are a couple of things to be aware of. Firstly, the ride is not as cushy, and you will feel the road, so long trips may not be as comfortable as in a larger car. Secondly, the tires that come with the car wear well but have poor grip in wet and snowy conditions. Lastly, aggressive drivers may experience some difficulty with smooth shifting. Nevertheless, the car is fun to drive, and people still comment on it, even though the model is about to be discontinued. It is a great value for under $20K. The tires were replaced with a different brand in 2021, which has significantly improved the driving experience. After 5 years, the car is still reliable with no issues other than standard maintenance. The windshield and front grill are getting pitted from so many rocks, but this is not a defect.
-
1
Other years of Volkswagen Beetle
Are you having problems with your 2017 Volkswagen Beetle?
Gregg Stamm 2024-11-10
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. Overall, 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.
Stanley Hayes 2024-10-03
The looks of the Beetle are great! However, the driving experience could be improved. There is quite a bit of road noise and the rear view is not the easiest to see out of. While the car handles and accelerates okay, the interior fabric and armrests feel rather cheap. There are much nicer feeling small cars on the market like the Nissan Sentra and Honda Civic, but they just don't have the Beetle look.
Maximilian Strosin 2024-08-10
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'm glad I didn't pay the $99 reprogramming fee to discover this. All I needed was a jump and a new battery. The car didn't indicate that at all, but it runs great now!
Devonte Tromp 2024-06-08
It's a terrific car to drive, especially for those who love to drive. I'm 6'4
Russell Berge 2024-05-12
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.