Volkswagen New beetle 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.
Social links
Volkswagen New beetle model years
Common Volkswagen New beetle problems
The Volkswagen New Beetle, produced from 1998 to 2010, has been a popular choice for those seeking a compact, reliable car with a unique style. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its common problems. Here are some issues that owners have reported:
- Engine Rattle: Engine rattle is another common problem in the Volkswagen Beetle. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as worn engine mounts, loose timing chains, or faulty piston rings.
- Engine Oil Leaks: Engine oil leaks are a common problem in the Volkswagen Beetle. These leaks can be caused by worn gaskets, seals, or oil pans. In some cases, the leaks can be minor and may not require immediate attention. However, if left unattended, they can lead to more severe issues, such as engine damage or failure.
- Window Failure: Window failure is a common problem in the Volkswagen Beetle, particularly in the power window system. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as worn window regulators, faulty window motors, or damaged window tracks.
- Check Engine Light: The check engine light is a common issue in the Volkswagen Beetle. This light can be triggered by various factors, such as faulty oxygen sensors, loose gas caps, or malfunctioning catalytic converters.
- Overheating Engine: Overheating engine is a common problem in the Volkswagen Beetle. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as low coolant levels, faulty thermostats, or damaged radiators.
- Faulty Power Locks and Windows: Faulty power locks and windows are common problems in the Volkswagen Beetle. These issues can be caused by various factors, such as worn out motors, faulty switches, or damaged wiring.
- Airbag Light On: The airbag light can be a common problem in the Volkswagen Beetle. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as faulty sensors, damaged wiring, or malfunctioning airbag modules.
In conclusion, while the Volkswagen New Beetle is a reliable car, it is not without its common problems. These issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs. Therefore, it is essential to perform regular maintenance and inspections to ensure that the vehicle remains in good condition and to catch any potential issues before they become more severe.
Are the new VW beetles reliable?
Checking with still another popular ratings group, The JD Power reliability scorecard gave the 2019 VW Beetle a 3.5 out of 5 stars. The average annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance on a VW Bug is estimated at $612.
What are the most common problems with the Volkswagen Beetle?
Common VW Beetle Problems
- 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.
How many miles will a VW Beetle last?
between 100,000 and 200,000 miles
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 high maintenance?
The average annual repair cost is $612 which means it has average ownership costs.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen New beetle years
We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen New beetle cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen New beetle model years:
- Volkswagen New beetle 2004
- Volkswagen New beetle 2000
- Volkswagen New beetle 2003
- Volkswagen New beetle 2001
- Volkswagen New beetle 1999
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen New beetle model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen New beetle years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volkswagen New beetle car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen New beetle , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen New beetle vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by New beetle model years
A total of 86 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by New beetle model years
There were a total of 82 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by New beetle model years
There were a total of 89 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by New beetle model years
There were a total of 5 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1887 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen New beetle . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen New beetle vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volkswagen New beetle 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 3VWCD21C32M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Unknown
Volkswagen New beetle 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-31
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3VWFE21C23M
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: This car was extremely modified by a company caledl Hestermann Motorwwerks. The specific problem is the installation of LED Tail/Brake lights. The lights are not compatable with the cars electrical system and as a result they have a problem that is called Hyper Flashing. That means the turn signal, when engaged, flashes erratically and wehn the brake pedal is applied the light flalso ashes erratically causing the following vehicle to be confused and resulting in an unsafe condition. I feel that the installer needs to be notified of the wrong doing as many cars have been modified by this business. HESTERMANN MOTORWERKS Jessie Lee Ct, Green Cove Springs, Fl 32043
Volkswagen New beetle 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-26
- VIN: 3VWCD21Y73M
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The airbag sensors were issued a recall. The dealer confirmed this. The car dealership is refusing to replace the airbag sensors until other issues with the car are fixed. I paid to have them do a diagnostic on the car to address the other problems. They are refusing to give me the codes to check what other problems exists with the car.
Volkswagen New beetle 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-08
- VIN: 3VWRG31C96M
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I took my vehicle into the mechanic due to my airbag light being on. Mechanic stated that it is a problem between my seat belt buckle and airbags. He stated that my airbags will not deploy in the event of an accident due to the seat belt buckle malfunctioning. When he callez Dublin Volkswagen to get the part to fix this issue, they stated that Volkswagen does not make the part anymore. This is a major safety concern because myself and anyone else needs this part to drive safely.
Volkswagen New beetle 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-02
- Date Complaint: 2023-04-09
- VIN: 3VWCB21C52M
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I was driving down the road an the car started accelerating all by it's self so I pulled over but every time I let off the break it acted like I had the gas to the floor. The O2 sensor wire's shorted and burnt up the ECM making the CPU light to come on.
Volkswagen New beetle 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3VWCT21C01M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Car caught on fire 2 times it was electrical and fuel problem the fire department was present. I reported this once already and the company acted like they didnt care
Volkswagen New beetle 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-29
- Date Complaint: 2021-08-29
- VIN: 3VWCK21C33M
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Vehicle does not shift properly, vehicle does not shift to drive correctly and either shifts down or stays in neutral
Volkswagen New beetle 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-11
- Date Complaint: 2021-05-04
- VIN: 3VWCD21Y44M
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: DRIVING MY 2004 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE IS DANGEROUS. THE TIPTRONIC TRANSMISSION IN THE 2004 VW BEETLE IS KNOWN BY VOLKSWAGEN TO BE DEFECTIVE. AT ANY POINT THE VALVE BODY CAN FAIL, WHICH CAUSES DELAYED SHIFTING, AND HARD JERKING BETWEEN GEARS. MY 2004 BEETLE FAILS TO SHIFT WHEN ACCELERATING BETWEEN 2ND AND 3RD GEAR. THIS CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO COAST FOR SEVERAL SECONDS, SOMETIMES REQUIRING PULLING OFF THE ROAD BECAUSE OF TRAFFIC. WHEN DOWNSHIFTING IT JERKS EXTREMELY HARD. YOU GET IN, START THE ENGINE, AND RECEIVE NO WARNINGS THAT ANYTHING IS WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. NO CHECK-ENGINE LIGHT PROVIDES ANY INDICATION THAT THE VEHICLE IS DANGEROUS. YOU DRIVE DOWN SOME CITY STREETS AND HOP ONTO THE FREEWAY TO GO TO YOUR FAVORITE GROCERY STORE. AFTER GETTING OFF THE FREEWAY THE CAR IS FULLY WARMED UP, AND AS IT DOWNSHIFTS FROM 4TH TO 3RD GEAR IT LURCHES. IT FEELS LIKE THE ENGINE IS TRYING TO JUMP OUT OF THE CAR! NO ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON. THEN YOU STOP AT THE END OF THE OFF-RAMP, AND WAIT FOR A TRAFFIC LIGHT TO TURN. AFTER TURNING THE CAR SHIFTS FROM 1ST TO 2ND GEAR. THEN IT FAILS TO SHIFT FROM 2ND TO 3RD GEAR. THE GEAR DOESN'T ENGAGE, AND THE CAR COASTS DOWN THE ROAD WITHOUT ANY POWER. DRIVERS PASSING BY ARE STARING. THE SUV BEHIND YOU IS RIGHT ON YOUR BUTT; THEY BEGIN HONKING. THERE'S NOTHING YOU CAN DO. FINALLY, AFTER 20 SECONDS OF COASTING THE CAR ENTERS 3RD GEAR WITH A GIANT LURCH. IT FEELS LIKE IT'S GOING TO EXPLODE! YOU PULL INTO THE GROCERY STORE PARKING LOT, HEART RACING, KNOWING THAT THE CAR YOU'RE DRIVING ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT THAT COULD KILL A HALF A DOZEN PEOPLE. AND YOU KNOW TO GET HOME IT'S GOING TO HAPPEN ALL OVER AGAIN. THIS PROBLEM IS REPORTED BY HUNDREDS OF OWNERS. THIS IS AN EXTREME SAFETY HAZARD. VOLKSWAGEN NEEDS TO RECALL THE AFFECTED VEHICLES AND PAY DAMAGES FOR THOSE WHOSE TRANSMISSIONS WERE DESTROYED BY THIS DEFECTIVE VALVE BODY AND TRANSMISSION.
Volkswagen New beetle 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-19
- Date Complaint: 2021-04-30
- VIN: 3VWRW31C06M
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHEN IN MOTION, THE TRANSMISSION FAILS TO ENGAGE GEARS AT APPROPRIATE ENGINE SPEEDS. SOMETIMES THE ENGINE REVS WAY TOO HIGH AND SLAMS INTO THE NEXT GEAR, PRODUCING DANGEROUS JOLTS. OTHER TIMES THE GEAR FAILS TO ENGAGE AT ALL, RESULTING IN COMPLETE LOSS OF VEHICLE POWER. MY VEHICLE WAS STRANDED IN CITY TRAFFIC DUE TO THIS TEMPORARY FAILURE OF THE TRANSMISSION TO ENGAGE PROPERLY. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN EXAMINED BY QUALIFIED TECHNICIANS AND CERTAIN CONTROL PARTS HAVE BEEN REPLACED BUT THE VEHICLE CONTINUES TO DISPLAY THIS DEFECTIVE BEHAVIOR SEEMINGLY AT RANDOM. I AND OTHERS COULD HAVE BEEN VERY SERIOUSLY INJURED BECAUSE OF THIS DEFECT IN THE VEHICLE'S DRIVETRAIN.
Volkswagen New beetle 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-02
- Date Complaint: 2021-04-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3VWCK21C92M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY WITH MY DAUGHTER AND GIRLFRIEND WHEN SUDDENLY THE CAR CAUGHT AN ELECTRICAL FIRE OUT OF NOWHERE. I PULLED OVER AND CLOUDY SMOKE WAS ARISING LUCKILY THE STATE TROOPER HAD A FIRE EXTINGUISHER TO PUT IT OUT BEFORE THE CAR CAUGHT ON HEAVY FLAMES.
Volkswagen New beetle 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-02
- Date Complaint: 2020-10-12
- VIN: 3VWPF31YX6M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FUSE BOX ON TOP OF BATTERY MELTDOWN GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY
Volkswagen New beetle 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-24
- Date Complaint: 2020-08-31
- VIN: 3VWGK31C64M
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT NEVER GOES OFF, STARTED AT 33650 MILES, RIGHT AFTER MY MOM SIGNED OVER THE CAR TO ME.
Volkswagen New beetle 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-15
- Date Complaint: 2020-05-18
- VIN: 3VWCC21C9YM
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: BRAKE LIGHT. *TR
Volkswagen New beetle 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-08
- Date Complaint: 2020-01-08
- VIN: 3VWCM21Y94M
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND REMAINED ILLUMINATED FOR TWO MONTHS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE AIR BAG SENSOR WHICH WAS A PART OF THE DRIVER'S FRONTAL SEAT BELT SYSTEM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. A LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS ON BACK ORDER. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 94,000.
Volkswagen New beetle 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-14
- Date Complaint: 2019-12-15
- VIN: 3VWRF31Y06M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE CAR WAS STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT. WHEN THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN AND WE TRIED TO ACCELERATE, THE CAR ENGINE STOPPED RUNNING. IT LOOKS LIKE THE CAUSE WAS THE WIRING GOING INTO THE FUSE BOX ON TOP OF THE BATTERY OVERHEATED AND MELTED. THE ALTERNATOR HARNESS AND FUSE BOX NEED TO BE REPLACED. WE ARE THE SECOND OWNER OF THIS VEHICLE SO DON'T KNOW IF THIS HAS HAPPENED BEFORE.
Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen New beetle
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen New beetle.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volkswagen New beetle 2004
- Report Received Date: 2003-12-04
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE TIRE INFORMATION LABEL IS INCORRECT IDENTIFYING THE VEHICLE AS A FIVE-PASSENGER VEHICLE, INSTEAD OF A FOUR-PASSENGER VEHICLE.
- Consequence: EXCEEDING THE CORRECT SEATING CAPACITY IN A VEHICLE PUTS OCCUPANTS AT RISK FOR INJURY IN A CRASH, AND CAN RESULT IN VEHICLE OVERLOADING, WHICH CAN AFFECT VEHICLE HANDLING AND PUT YOU AT RISK FOR A CRASH.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE SENT A NEW LABEL AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 9, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VWOA AT 1-800-822-8987.
- Model: Volkswagen New beetle 2004
- Report Received Date: 2003-09-29
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE PASSENGER DETECTION FUNCTION OF THE PASSIVE OCCUPANT DETECTION SYSTEM (PODS) MAY BECOME DISABLED.
- Consequence: SHOULD THE PODS CONTROL UNIT MALFUNCTION, THE AIR BAG SYSTEM IN THE VEHICLE WILL NOT WORK AS DESIGNED AND MAY NOT BE ABLE TO PROPERLY PROTECT OCCUPANTS IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE PODS. OWNER NOTIFICATION ORIGINALLY BEGAN OCTOBER 3, 2003. VW HAS DETERMINED THAT ADDITIONAL VEHICLES NEED TO BE REPAIRED. THE RECALL FOR THE ADDITIONAL VEHICLES IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON DECEMBER 17, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VWOA AT 1-800-822-8987.
- Model: Volkswagen New beetle 1998
- Report Received Date: 2003-07-25
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE BRAKE LAMP SWITCH MAY MALFUNCTION.
- Consequence: IF THIS HAPPENS, THE BRAKE LAMPS COULD BECOME INOPERATIVE; OR THE LAMPS COULD COME ON AND STAY ON, EVEN THOUGH THE VEHICLE IS PARKED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE BRAKE LAMP SWITCHES. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 26, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VWOA AT 1-800-822-8987.
- Model: Volkswagen New beetle 1999
- Report Received Date: 2003-07-25
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE BRAKE LAMP SWITCH MAY MALFUNCTION.
- Consequence: IF THIS HAPPENS, THE BRAKE LAMPS COULD BECOME INOPERATIVE; OR THE LAMPS COULD COME ON AND STAY ON, EVEN THOUGH THE VEHICLE IS PARKED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE BRAKE LAMP SWITCHES. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 26, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VWOA AT 1-800-822-8987.
- Model: Volkswagen New beetle 2000
- Report Received Date: 2003-07-25
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE BRAKE LAMP SWITCH MAY MALFUNCTION.
- Consequence: IF THIS HAPPENS, THE BRAKE LAMPS COULD BECOME INOPERATIVE; OR THE LAMPS COULD COME ON AND STAY ON, EVEN THOUGH THE VEHICLE IS PARKED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE BRAKE LAMP SWITCHES. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 26, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VWOA AT 1-800-822-8987.
Latest negative Volkswagen New beetle car reviews
Latest positive Volkswagen New beetle car reviews
-
Vehicle year: 1999
Hi there! I have a 1999 (2/24/99) GLS bug with 200,000 miles on it, and I absolutely love it! I drive it fast, hard, and occasionally off-road (get the sport springs). I'm pretty tough on my cars, but my Bug has held up incredibly well thanks to its initial design and early warranty recalls (window switches and a couple of sensors back around year 2). For those of you worried about all the 'bells and whistles', forget about it for your next car and just get auto door locks and windows already! The only issues I've had have been from things thrown at my car on the freeway (rocks, ladders, etc.), but as long as you keep up with maintenance, shocks, and a failed engine sensor every year, you're good to go!
-
Vehicle year: 2003
I've owned my Turbo S for almost 6 years and I have loved every minute of it! I love the power the little 1.8t makes and how smoothly the power comes on. I left mine stock up until last year and then started modifying it. It's always fun to see the look on Mustang drivers' faces when a little beetle pulls ahead of them. The handling is great, it feels like it's on rails, and the fuel economy is good. Before modifying the engine, I got my best mpg of 32 mpg by driving no faster than 65mph and not doing any jack rabbit starts. Even with the mods, I am still getting 29mpg. I plan on keeping the beetle and seeing exactly what type of performance the 1.8t has in it. I have seen a few putting out over 350hp and still being very drivable!
-
Vehicle year: 2001
Hey there! I wanted to share my experience with my '01 1.8T New Beetle (Auto), GLS trim with 17
-
Vehicle year: 1998
Hello there! I noticed some complaints about New Beetles in this thread, but I wanted to share my positive experience. I have a 1998 Beetle with 104K miles on it, and it's been a great car overall. Despite being 11 years old, it starts up every time, even in sub-zero weather, and gets great gas mileage. Of course, like any car, it needs a little maintenance here and there, but that's to be expected. I truly believe that if you take care of your vehicle, it will take care of you. Thanks for reading!
-
Vehicle year: 2006
My wife bought this car for summer use and we garage it from November through April. We only had one issue with a stuck spring on the passenger seat, which was probably caused by my nephew slamming the seat back too hard. Fortunately, it was covered by warranty without any questions asked. Overall, we have enjoyed owning this car very much. The oil changes are a bit more expensive at 20.00, but it's not a big deal. We liked it so much that we also purchased a Passat, which has been equally great. I was surprised to read all the negative comments about this car as we have not experienced any problems with it.
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen New beetle?
Bobby Kihn 2025-11-28
Vehicle year: 2004
I bought this cute bug for my daughter 6 years ago. Unfortunately, it has been in the shop more times than I can count. Despite having it serviced regularly by a dealer or VW specialist, we still have tons of problems. The main ones are the sunroof leaks, which have ruined the interior. We have taken it to a VW dealer 4 times and an independent specialist once, but it still leaks. It's really a bad design! The power window motor had to be replaced, and the misc buttons pop off. Additionally, the design is really only suitable for 2 people, as the rear seats are virtually useless for anyone over 5 feet tall. My daughter was initially drawn to this car based on looks alone, but at least it has been a great lesson for her. Next time, she'll prioritize quality in addition to looks. I would advise avoiding the bug!
Terry Pagac 2025-11-28
Vehicle year: 2004
I recently purchased this car second-hand with only 6,700 miles on it and a clean Carfax report. Unfortunately, I have had to take it in for repairs four times in just a month and a half. The window stopped functioning properly and the convertible top would jam. Additionally, it has started to squeak and rattle quite a bit, which can be frustrating. I have found the service at VW to be lacking, as it takes a long time to get the car back and the issues are not always resolved. I am feeling quite frustrated and am considering other options. I had a 99 Isuzu Amigo that ran much better and never had any issues. Perhaps I should have been more cautious with German cars after our experience with a nightmare BMW 740i.
Keaton Crist 2025-11-24
Vehicle year: 1999
It's a fun car, but unfortunately, there are a lot of small parts that tend to fall apart easily such as cables, hoses, and plastic bits. During disassembly or reassembly, the plastic parts tend to break easily. It's not built to last very long, but after 100k miles, nothing major has needed to be done. However, it does burn oil and has some hesitation while accelerating.
Ramon Dickinson 2025-11-24
Vehicle year: 2003
As a first-time car buyer, I was excited to find a vehicle that offered great fuel economy and reliability. While I enjoy driving my car when it's working properly, I have experienced some issues. Unfortunately, after just two months of ownership, my car lost all power during rush hour traffic, which was a stressful experience. Additionally, the car sometimes slams into gear unexpectedly, which can be dangerous. On hot days, the turbo lag can be frustrating. I have also noticed that some of the plastic finishes in the interior have broken. Despite these issues, I still appreciate the car's overall value. It's worth noting that the car is manufactured in Mexico, which may explain some of the reliability concerns.
Keagan Pouros 2025-11-18
Vehicle year: 2006
You may think it's cute, but don't let that exterior fool you. Unfortunately, this thing is an engineering nightmare. The headlights burn out quickly in under 2 years, the rear brake light in 1 year, and all four windows get stuck or the regulator breaks. Additionally, there have been 5 visits to fix the convertible stop getting stuck, and there are lots of issues with convertible cords breaking and snapping.