2019 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.
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Common 2019 Volkswagen Beetle problems
The 2019 Volkswagen Beetle has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues span across various components of the vehicle, including the engine, infotainment system, and climate control.
- Infotainment System Problems:
The infotainment system in the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle has been reported to have issues, particularly with the display being unreadable. This can affect the audio, GPS, phone, rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, and head-up display. This issue can make it difficult for drivers to access important vehicle functions and information, such as navigation and audio controls, which can impact the overall driving experience.
- Climate Control Issues:
The climate control system in the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle has also been reported to have problems. Some owners have experienced issues with the AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, and refrigerant leakage. This can result in the air conditioning not getting cold or working properly, which can be particularly problematic in hot weather conditions.
- Power Windows Failure:
The power windows in the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle have been reported to fail more often than manually operated window cranks. This can be a significant inconvenience for drivers, particularly in situations where they need to quickly open or close a window.
- Premature Head Light Bulb Burnout and Bulb Harness Failure:
The headlights in the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle have been reported to have issues with premature bulb burnout and bulb harness failure. This can affect the vehicle's visibility, particularly during nighttime driving, and can be a safety concern for drivers and other road users.
- Radio Issues:
Some owners of the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle have reported issues with the radio, including the radio cutting in and out, making it difficult to use features such as music, bluetooth, back-up camera, or Apple car play. This can impact the overall driving experience, particularly for those who rely on their vehicle's entertainment system for business or personal use.
- Front End Issues:
Some owners have reported front end issues, including a constant creaking noise when going over bumps or around corners. This can impact the overall driving experience and can be a sign of underlying issues with the vehicle's suspension or steering system.
- Brake System Warning Issues:
The 2019 Volkswagen Beetle has been recalled due to an issue with the instrument cluster not providing a visual warning when a brake system problem is detected. This can impact the vehicle's safety and can be a significant concern for drivers.
- Electrical, Engine, and Exterior Lighting Problems:
The 2019 Volkswagen Beetle has been reported to have electrical, engine, and exterior lighting problems. These issues can impact the overall functionality and safety of the vehicle, and can be a significant concern for owners.
In conclusion, the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues span across various components of the vehicle, including the engine, infotainment system, and climate control. It is important for owners to be aware of these issues and to address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of their vehicle.
Is 2019 VW Beetle a reliable car?
How Reliable Is the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle? The 2019 VW Beetle has a slightly above-average predicted reliability rating of 3.5 out of five.
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.
What is the problem with the 2019 VW Beetle convertible?
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Beetle and Beetle Convertible vehicles. The instrument cluster may not provide a visual warning when a brake system failure is detected.
Is a Volkswagen Beetle expensive to fix?
The average annual repair cost is $612 which means it has average ownership costs.
2019 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:
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2019 Volkswagen Beetle vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2019 Volkswagen Beetle complaints
The NHTSA has received 12 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2019 Volkswagen Beetle.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-02
- VIN: 3VWJD7AT8KM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: A message is continually (every few seconds) displayed on the dashboard stating that the "coolant temperature is 195 degrees" as if it is a warning. It does not seem plausible that the coolant would have reached 195 degrees when the vehicle was just started.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-21
- VIN: 3VW5DAAT8KM
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: On Sept. 21, 2023, I was in my 2019 Beetle and pulled into a parking place at a store. When parked, I pressed the electric start button to shut off the vehicle. When the vehicle was shut off, I got out of the car to go into the store. Luckily, I turned my head in the direction of my vehicle and saw it rolling backwards out of the parking space. In a panic, I raced back to the vehicle and jumped into the car. At that point, I had realized that I had not placed the vehicle in Park when I parked the car and it was still in Drive. At that point, I reparked the car, this time placing it in Park before I shut off the vehicle. When I came home, I told my husband what happened. He said it should be impossible to shut off a vehicle when it is in Drive. We went outside and recreated the scenario. In summary, we were able to shut off the vehicle while it was in Drive - and - when the car was placed on a slight incline, it rolled backwards all by itself. There is no alarm warning the driver that the vehicle was left in Drive. The only warning is a small message that shows up on the dash that reads " Move selector lever to position p1". It is very easy not to notice this mesage. As I had an appointment scheduled at the dealer on Oct. 4, 2023 for my NYS inspection, I expressed my concern to Basil Volkswagen in Lockport, NY. They investigated my concern and concluded that the car can be shut off when in Drive and, if parked on an incline, it will roll backwards. They stated it was my fault as I left the car in Drive. On Oct. 5, 2023, I called Volkswagen Customer Care. Candace stated I would receive an email responding to my complaint in 24 hrs. No email was received. I think this is a serious safety issue as when the car was rolling backward, it could have hit someone or another vehicle. In my eyes, there should be a mechanism in place to prevent the driver from shutting off the vehicle if it is in Drive. At a minimum, there should be an audible alarm.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-08
- VIN: 3VW5DAAT2KM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The key in the key cylinder or tear lock would not remove. The automobile would not shut down. I looked in YouTube tube and found out that since 2010 this incident has been occurring in Volkswagen beetles I had to extract the fuel pump fuse to stop the engine. And then disconnect the battery. It appears that this problem is pandemic to this automobile if I had been in a remote area it would’ve been a serious problem. AutoNation Volkswagen in Columbus has estimated the cost to be $1500 to replace the tear lock the cylinder and the bolt.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-26
- VIN: 3VW5DAAT4KM
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: My VW Beetle has pushbutton start. The ignition can turn off when not in park. This was called a rollaway problem in keyed ignition models, but not pushbutton. I took it to dealer and they said not covered by warranty and no recall. This is as dangerous as in the keyed ignition model. I saw a report of a similar rollaway that VW refused to cover. Also, apparently pushed button while underway. Engine stopped while in traffic. Rolled to side of road and restarted without incident.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-18
- VIN: 3VWFD7AT1KM
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: 2019 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DEFECTIVE BRAKES. THE CONSUMER STATED WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE, ON 3 DIFFERENT OCCASIONS, THE BRAKES WENT OUT. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED THAT THE VEHICLE BE BOUGHT BACK OR REPLACED. *JS
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-07
- VIN: 3VW5DAAT0KM
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: Wheel Hubs and Wheel Bolts. All four wheels and almost all the bolts affected. Replaced rear Hubs & all Bolts, after a three bolts were unable to be removed without extra effort by a mechanic. I have one bolt that indicates the bolt threads were deformed. The issue could impact the ability of the bolts to hold the wheels on safely.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-15
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3VWJD7AT5KM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: My 2019 VW Beetle, AT, keyless entry was parked in a store parking lot. When I left the vehicle it wouldn't lock. I thought my fob battery died. I came out of the store about 30 minutes later and my car had rolled away. It came to rest about 50 feet away, up against a fixed object light pole. I was shocked! My rear bumper sustained damage. I got in my car and saw it was in D. I guess I left it in D, turned off the push button start/stop and it rolled away after I left it. I then did some checking and found that when push button start/stop tech is installed in many cars with the added safety features of audible sounds or transmissions ratcheting into park when stopped with transmission in Drive, which are standard safety features on most newer cars, but were not standard on my car. The car did not alert me to anything being wrong. This is a safety hazard. I noted that VW recalled their keyed entry Beetles for Rollaway Risks, but did not include key-less entry vehicles. A call to VW ensued and a case number was assigned, #04874410. Regional personnel Cathy was coordinating the case which she said caused an internal report to be filed. On Sept 3 at approximately noon, she called me to say that the accident was my fault, for parking incorrectly, VW would not pay to have my rear bumper fixed, nor would they take any responsibility. This Rollaway Risk could have been deadly, it could have been worse. I would hate to see someone killed for being in similar circumstances. VW is negligent in their response, these cars should be recalled for being a safety hazard to the general public. I am deeply concerned with the nonchalant attitude of VW. My husband's Lincoln ratchets into Park when he stops the car using the button if left in Drive. Ford does the same thing. Nissan makes an audible noise alerting the driver to something being amiss. VW is not even on the ballpark on this, what a shame!
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-17
- VIN: 3VWFD7AT4KM
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: WITH THE DEFROSTER ON WHILE DRIVING IN TOWN, THE WINDSHIELD CRACKED FROM THE UPPER CORNER PASSENGER SIDE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-14
- VIN: 3VWFD7AT2KM
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: CAR STALLS WHILE DRIVING. THIS HAS HAPPEN A TOTAL OF 4 TIMES OVER A 10 DAYS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-05
- VIN: 3VWJD7AT8KM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: FUSE THAT CONTROLS READING OR MAP LIGHT IN CABIN AND EXTERNAL LIGHTING OUTSIDE FOR NIGHT DRIVING CONTINUALLY FAILS (3). SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE REAR LIGHTS AT NIGHT ONLY COME ON WHEN BRAKES APPLIED.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-27
- VIN: 3VWFD7AT1KM
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY NEW 2019 VOLKSWAGEN S COUPE HAS A SIGNIFICANT TURBO LAG. SO MUCH SO, THAT I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THE CAR. I WAS MAKING A TURN AT AN INTERSECTION AND IT WAS AS THOUGH THE CAR LOST ALL POWER WHEN I EXCELLERATED. IT GOES FROM NO EXCEATION WHEN MOVING FROM STOPPED POSITION TO SURGING VERY FAST UPON THE CAR AHEAD OF ME. I FEEL THAT THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS ISSUE AND THAT MY LIFE MAY BE AT RISK. IT SEEMS THE ACCRETION CANNOT BE CONTROLLED!! THIS IS A CONTINUING PROBLEM WHEN I AM STOPPED AND HIT THE EXCELLERATOR TO GO FORWARD . I DON'T KNOW HOW MUCH LONGER I CAN DRIVE THE CAR WITHOUT A SERIOUS CRASH!!
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-30
- VIN: 3VW5DAAT9KM
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE FRONT HEADLIGHT BEAM HAS A DISTINCTIVE BLIND SPOT ON THE LEFT SIDE AND A DOUBLE NOTCH ON THE RIGHT SIDE. VOLKSWAGEN REFUSES TO ADDRESS THIS AS THEY SAY IT'S BY DESIGN THOUGH I HAVE SEEN ANOTHER BEETLE, SAME MODEL YEAR WITH THE SAME HIDS, HAVE A COMPLETELY NORMAL HEADLIGHT BEAM. WITH THE BEAM LIKE IT IS, IT MAKES DRIVING THE CAR AT NIGHT UNSAFE, ESPECIALLY ON BLACK ASPHALT ROADS. I'VE ESCALATED THIS TO VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA AND THEY INSIST THIS IS BY DESIGN AND IS DUE TO THE SHUTTER THAT COMES DOWN WHEN USING THE NORMAL HEADLIGHT BEAM. OUR OTHER VEHICLE IS A GMC ACADIA WITH THE SAME SYSTEM AND IT DOES NOT DO THIS. ON THE BEETLE THE IF I SWITCH IT TO HIGH BEAMS THE BLIND SPOT AND NOTCH GO AWAY. ALSO VOLKSWAGEN CLAIMS THAT THE LEFT HEADLIGHT IS AIMED LOWER ON PURPOSE AS TO NOT BLIND ONCOMING TRAFFIC. THE CAR SITS SO LOW I DON'T SEE HOW THAT'S NEEDED, ESPECIALLY WHEN OUR ACADIA WHICH SITS UP HIGHER DOESN'T DO THIS. I DID TAKE A LOOK AT A COUPLE OF OTHER 2019 BEETLES AT ANOTHER DEALERSHIP AND THE HEADLIGHT BEAMS WERE ALL DIFFERENT; STILL A BLIND SPOT AND NOTCHES BUT IN DIFFERENT SPOTS. THE BLIND SPOT AND NOTCHES ARE SEEN BOTH STATIONARY AND IN MOTION. I HAVE PICTURES AND VIDEO OF BOTH. I FEEL THIS IS A DESIGN DEFECT THAT WILL LEAD TO AN ACCIDENT AT NIGHT AS IT HINDERS THE DRIVERS VIEW ON THE LEFT SIDE. VOLKSWAGEN HAS IGNORED MY CONCERNS AND REFUSES TO ADDRESS THIS. I'M VERY CONCERNED FOR OUR SAFETY AND MY WIFE AND I REFUSE TO DRIVE THE CAR AT NIGHT BECAUSE OF THIS. VOLKSWAGEN'S 'REMEDY' IS TO TRADE IT IN. WE LOVE THE CAR, JUST NOT THE HEADLIGHTS AT NIGHT. PLEASE INVESTIGATE. I HAVE ATTACHED TWO PHOTOS; ONE LOW BEAM AND ONE HIGH BEAM SO THAT YOU CAN SEE THE DIFFERENCE.
2019 Volkswagen Beetle recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2019 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: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Beetle and Beetle Convertible vehicles. The instrument cluster may not provide a visual warning when a brake system failure is detected. As a result, the vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 135, "Light vehicle brake systems" and number 101, "Controls and displays."
- Consequence: If the driver is not alerted when there is a problem with brakes, the driver may lose control of the vehicle while attempting to brake, increasing the risk of crash.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will update the instrument cluster software, free of charge. The recall began March 7, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 90L8.
Negative 2019 Volkswagen Beetle car reviews
Positive 2019 Volkswagen Beetle car reviews
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I noticed that you mentioned you're a big, tall person who bought a Beetle because it's a 2-door. I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying the fantastic gas mileage and that it runs great at 75 mph. While it may not have all the luxury items like remote start, I'm happy to hear that the radio is decent. I understand that the seat quality could use another inch of foam and that the tires weren't great, but I'm glad to hear that Hankook was able to help you out with better tires. It sounds like you had a bit of a scare hydroplaning in heavy rain, but I'm glad to hear that you're okay. On the bright side, it's great to hear that you're having a blast driving it and that it likes to go fast. The cruise control sounds like a great feature too! Although it's unfortunate that your King Ranch is lonely from sitting, I hope that you're able to enjoy your Beetle even more. If you ever need any help with dealer support, please don't hesitate to reach out. Have a great day!
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Congratulations on your new cars! It's great to hear that you're enjoying the quiet ride and the retro features. The Fender stereo system sounds amazing, and it's wonderful that you're able to hear new sounds on the radio. It's never too late to fulfill a lifelong dream, and it's fantastic that you were able to purchase not one, but two Beetles. Thank you for sharing your experience!
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Good on gas. Looks good to.
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Volkswagen prioritized the style of this car and it certainly shows. In 2018, there is only one engine/transmission option available - the 174HP boosted 2.0 with a reliable 6-speed automatic transmission. It performs well and boasts impressive fuel economy. The Beetle is a fantastic car and I personally love it. I own the “Beetle S with Style and Comfort” which is a great value for the price. It's a shame to see them disappearing in a world dominated by SUVs.
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I bought my cute and zippy Beetle hatchback in late April 2018 and have driven 3800 miles so far. Unfortunately, the EPC light keeps coming on and my car has been at the dealer service for the third time in a month. Although the service department has been unable to solve the problem, they have been in touch with Volkswagen engineering to find a solution. While I can't help but think about the Honda dealer across the street, where I've had great experiences with my previous cars, I'm still enjoying driving my Beetle. It's a small car, so I can't haul a huge load of kids or packages, but it's still zippy and fun to drive!
Other years of Volkswagen Beetle
Are you having problems with your 2019 Volkswagen Beetle?
Hollis Balistreri 2024-06-01
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.
Emiliano Kertzmann 2024-01-05
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.