1999 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.
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Common 1999 Volkswagen New beetle problems
The Volkswagen New Beetle, introduced in 1999, has garnered a reputation for specific issues that have been reported by owners. Here are some of the common problems with the 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle:
- Engine problems: Some owners of the 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle have reported engine issues, including the need for engine replacements. In some cases, two new engines and a battery were required, indicating potential reliability concerns with the powertrain.
- Specific parts and maintenance: Certain parts of the 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle, such as the hood latch and window regulator, are known to cause problems. These issues can lead to inconvenience and additional costs for repairs. Additionally, the car's low ground clearance can result in damage to the plastic piece at the bottom of the engine, which may need to be replaced multiple times.
- Unique parts and maintenance challenges: Due to the car's German heritage, some owners have reported difficulty in finding parts for repairs, necessitating visits to specific VW mechanics. This can add to the overall cost and inconvenience of maintaining the vehicle.
- Recall issues: The 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle has had recalls related to engine and engine cooling systems, such as issues with water pumps and coolant reservoirs. These recalls can affect the reliability and safety of the vehicle, requiring owners to take action to address the issues.
In summary, the 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle has been associated with a range of problems, including transmission issues, cheap interior quality, harsh ride comfort, engine problems, specific parts and maintenance challenges, and recall issues. While some owners have reported positive experiences with the car, these common problems highlight the importance of careful consideration before purchasing a 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle.
How reliable is the 1999 Volkswagen Beetle?
The average rating is a 3.7 out of 5 stars. The 1999 Volkswagen Beetle Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5. It ranks 12th out of 32 for all car brands.
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.
Why did the New Beetle fail?
Simply put, the New Beetle failed to capture the spirit of the original Beetle, as it was a Mark IV Golf with a vaguely Beetle shaped tin can put on top of it. The original Beetle was a rear engined, rear drive, air cooled car that was truly ahead of its time when introduced in 1939.
Are VW New Beetles reliable?
The Volkswagen Beetle is a well-received vehicle with a reliability rating of 4 out of 5 from RepairPal. The Beetle is praised for its longevity, lasting up to 10 years and possibly even longer with proper maintenance.
1999 Volkswagen New beetle car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen New beetle problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Visibility problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Volkswagen New beetle vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1999 Volkswagen New beetle
The NHTSA has received 236 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Volkswagen New beetle. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1999 Volkswagen New beetle vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-12
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3VWCC21C7XM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, WHITE SMOKE WAS COMING FROM THE CENTER CONSOLE. THE CONTACT NOTICED THE CONSOLE WAS MELTING. THE CONTACT EXTINGUISHED THE SMOKE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE THE FAILURE WAS UNDETERMINED. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 73,500.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-06
- VIN: 3VWCA21C6XM
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE
- Summary: MY CAR- 1999 VW BEETLE WAS NOT FULLY INSPECTED BEFORE I GOT THE CAR FROM DEALER. I JUST FOUND OUT THAT MY CAR HAS LONG LIST OF PARTS NEED REPLACEMENT TO REPAIR AND I FELT THAT IT WASN'T REAL SAFE BECAUSE OF STRUT SHOCK AND POWER STEERING ALSO CV JOINTS ARE GETTING BAD IN THE UNDER OF HOOD. I FOUND OUT THAT MY CAR HAS NO PANEL SKID FOR PREVENT FROM WETTING ON MOTOR PARTS AND GOT BAD ACID ON IT. I HAS TO ORDER THE PARTS FOR MY CAR AND HASN'T DRIVEN FOR ALMOST 6 MONTHS BY SO FAR. BY RIGHT I DON'T HAVE MUCH MONEY TO PAY FOR REPAIRS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-19
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3VWCC21C2XM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1999 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE WHILE DRIVING IN THE MIDDLE LANE OF THE ROAD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SMOKE EMITTED NEAR THE LEFT PART OF THE DASHBOARD CLOSE TO THE STEERING WHEEL. IN ADDITION, DUE TO THE EXTENSIVE NATURE OF THE SMOKE, THE CONTACT HAD TO ENGAGE THE HAZARD LIGHTS AND EXITED THE VEHICLE WHILE IN THE LANE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. A POLICE OFFICER WAS PRESENT TO DIRECT TRAFFIC AND A REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A YARD. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14E007000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 07V063000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING) AND 06V183000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING).THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE MONTHS AGO AND WAS TO PROVIDE FURTHER TESTING TO DETERMINE THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT KEPT CALLING, BUT RECEIVED NO RESPONSE FROM THE MANUFACTURER. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-22
- VIN: 3VWCC21C9XM
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT AND COOLANT TEMPERATURE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIMING BELT WAS DEFECTIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14E007000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 235,403.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3VWCC21C9XM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1999 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH AND SWITCHING LANES ON THE HIGHWAY, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE RETENTION WALL. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A BROKEN NOSE AND A LARGE CUT FROM THE LOWER LIP ALL THE WAY DOWN TO HER CHIN. THE CONTACT WAS TRANSPORTED TO THE LOCAL HOSPITAL BY AMBULANCE FOR MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DOCTOR STATED THAT A PIECE OF METAL FROM THE AIR BAG CRACKED SOME OF HER FRONTAL TEETH. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 123,000. ...UPDATED 06-12-15 *BF
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3VWCC21C9XM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1999 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WHEN THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE BARS ON THE FREEWAY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A FRACTURED NOSE AND A CUT TO THE FACE THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 123,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-15
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: HAD TO HAVE FUSE PANEL ON BATTERY REPLACED FOR 2ND TIME IN 2-3 YRS AND ALSO A FUSE BOX UNDER DASH. COST WAS VERY EXPENSIVE. CAR WOULD NOT START ALL OF A SUDDEN AFTER SHOPPING AT A STORE. HAD TO PUSH START THE CAR TO A INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. STILL DON'T KNOW WHY IT WENT BAD/APPEARED MELTED. IN FIRST EPISODE THE ALTERNATOR HAD TO BE REPLACED ALSO AS THERE WERE BATTERY DRAIN PROBLEMS. THIS AN INDIRECT SAFETY ISSUE AS MY DAUGHTER DRIVES CAR AND SHE COULD HAVE BE STRANDED AT ANY PLACE WHEN THIS HAPPENED. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-28
- VIN: 3VWCF21C6XM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THE SPEEDOMETER STOPPED WORKING. SHORTLY AFTER THIS THE DRIVE BY WIRE THROTTLE ALSO STOPPED WORKING RETURNING THE VEHICLE TO AN IDLE (APPROX. 1100 RPM). THIS CAN OCCUR AT ANY TIME. YOU HAVE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE TO GET THE THROTTLE TO WORK AGAIN. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS WHEN IT HAPPENS IN HEAVY TRAFFIC. THE MANUFACTURER (VW) CAN OFFER NO SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM. I HAVE DISCOVERED THIS ISSUE, AT SOME POINT IN TIME, COULD AFFECT ALL OF THE 1999 -2009 NEW BEETLES ALONG WITH THE AUDI TT. AGAIN VW AND THE SPEEDOMETER CLUSTER MANUFACTURER MAGNETI MORELLI CAN OFFER NO FIX FOR THE PROBLEM. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-01
- VIN: 3VWCC21C9M4
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: SENDING MY DAUGHTER TO COLLEGE IN THIS CUTE LITTLE RED BUG. EVERY VW DEALERSHIP AND THEIR BROTHER, IS AWARE OF A DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG DEFECT IN THESE CUTE LITTLE THINGS. MY DEALER WILL REPAIR THE FAULTY WIRING AND BELT BUCKLE, AS THEY DID FOR THE SCHOOL TEACHER I BOUGHT THIS CUTE LITTLE THING FROM. WHAT SCHOOL TEACHERS WON'T DO IS REPLACE THE FAULTY AIRBAG IN THE SIDE FOR SIX YEARS BECAUSE THEY THINK, "OH I AM SAFE ENOUGH WITH A FRONT AIRBAG ONLY!" AND NOBODY WANTS TO SPEND $700 FOR A LITTLE SIDE AIRBAG. BUT I THINK VW SHOULD RECALL THE SIDE AIRBAG FOR PUTTING IN SO MANY FAULTY SIDE AIRBAGS AS A WHOLE BUNCH OF CUTE SCHOOL TEACHERS AND CUTE LITTLE FRESHMAN STUDENTS LIKE MY LITTLE PRECIOUS GIRL DRIVE AROUND THESE BUGS WITH A SMILE ON THERE FACE. AND THE CUTE LIGHT WITH A LITTLE MAN HOLDING A BEACH BALL IN HIS LAP! *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-17
- VIN: 3VWCA21C2XM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS WHERE IT WAS STATED TO THE CONTACT THAT THE CLUTCH, PRESSURE PLATE, AND BEARINGS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE PROBLEM PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 65,000. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-19
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3VWCC21C5XM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT SHE SMELLED SOMETHING BURNING THEN NOTICED SMOKE EMITTING FROM THE DASHBOARD. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE DRIVEN TO THE CONTACT HOME WHERE THE VEHICLE COMPLETELY ENGOLF INTO FLAMES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 166,500.
AIR BAGS,CHILD SEAT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-27
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS,CHILD SEAT
- Summary: MY GRANDMOTHER HAD PURCHASED A EDDIE BAUER BROOKE STROLLER AND CAR SEAT SET ONLINE FOR MY BABY SHOWER END OF SEPTEMBER THROUGH BEGINNING OF AUGUST 2011. PURCHASE WAS AROUND $300+ WHICH I DON'T FIND CHEAP BY ANY MEANS. LONG STORY SHORT- MY 5 MONTH OLD DAUGHTER AND I WERE IN A HEAD ON COLLISION WHERE I'VE LEARNED HER CAR SEAT BASE WAS DEFECTED DURING THE CRASH AND HAD ACTUALLY LIFTED OUT OF THE BASE AND BACK DOWN. COULD HAVE EASILY WENT THROUGH THE WINDSHIELD. SHE SUFFERED A BROKEN RIGHT FEMUR AND A FRACTURED LEFT FEMUR LEAVING HER IN A ALMOST FULL BODY CAST FOR 4 WEEKS. I HAD HIT A FULL SIZED TRUCK HEAD ON LEADING UP TO THE EVEN THE BASE AND CAR SEAT DETACHED. THE CAR SEAT WAS THROWN AWAY SOMETIME WHILE I WAS IN THE HOSPITAL. I WAS IN A MEDICALLY INDUCED COMA FOR THREE DAYS BEFORE STATING TO ANYONE AT THE HOSPITAL. ONE OF THE FIRST RESPONDERS FROM THE FIRE DEPARTMENT HAD GOTTEN THE BABY OUT FROM THE DRIVERS SIDE DOOR FROM REACHING AROUND ME. I HAVE THE STROLLER AND THE BOX THE SET CAME IN BUT THEY THREW THE CAR SEAT AWAY. MY GRANDMOTHER SHOULD BE ABLE TO LOCATE PURCHASING INFO THROUGH HER PAST CREDIT CARD USE IF NEEDED. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-14
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3VWCA21C8XM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, HE TURNED OFF THE AIR CONDITIONER AND NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO PARK AND EXIT THE VEHICLE, WHEN THE VEHICLE BURST INTO FLAMES. THE FIRE WAS ABLE TO BE EXTINGUISHED AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED FROM THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 107,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-05-15
- VIN: 3VWCC21CXXM
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DEFECTIVE PLASTIC SPEEDOMETER DRIVE GEAR IN TRANSMISSION. AFTER DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEED FOR APPROXIMATELY 5 MINUTES THE SPEEDOMETER GRADUALLY DROPS CAUSING YOU TO THINK THAT YOUR DRIVING SLOWER THAN YOU ACTUALLY ARE. AT 65MPH THE SPEEDOMETER FLOATS BETWEEN 45 - 55 MPH. AT 80MPH IT READS 60. THIS PROBLEM CAUSES THE CRUISE CONTROL TO CONSTANTLY TRY TO SPEED THE CAR UP. I'M AFRAID TO LET MY TEEN DRIVER USE THE CAR. COST OF REPAIR AT PRIVATE SHOP IS OVER $1000. DUE TO INTENSE LABOR TO REPLACE BROKEN GEAR. TRANSMISSION MUST BE TAKEN APART TO FIX. DEALER WANTS TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE TRANSMISSION FOR $4000. THESE BEETLES ARE POPULAR WITH NEW TEEN DRIVERS AND THIS IS A DANGEROUS DEFECT. AN INTERNET SEARCH ALSO SHOWS THE SAME PROBLEM OCCURRING IN THE JETTA.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-04
- VIN: 3VWCA21C7XM
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: DEFECT IN DRIVER SIDE POWER WINDOW. WINDOW NOT USED FOR SEVERAL YEARS. AS OF MAY 28, 2011 WINDOW OPENED & WILL NOT CLOSE. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-22
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 1999 VW BEETLE. AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON RANDOMLY AND WON'T TURN OFF. VW REPAIR SHOP TOLD ME IT WOULD BE $99 TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM AND A FEW HUNDRED DOLLARS TO REPLACE/FIX THE ISSUE. THE CAR HAS NOT BEEN INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT. NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE TO FIX THE ISSUE. IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE I'M ESSENTIALLY DRIVING AROUND WITH NO AIRBAGS. I REFUSE TO PAY THAT MUCH MONEY FOR SOMETHING THAT MULTIPLE PEOPLE HAVE REPORTED THE ISSUE ABOUT. SHOULD BE A RECALL. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-02-18
- VIN: 3VWCC21C0XM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM ON THE 1999 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE: DURING THE LAST (4) WEEKS, DAUGHTERS BEETLE STOPPED RUNNING ON (2) MAJOR HIGHWAYS, AND ONE-TIME A SIDE STREET NEAR MY HOME. THE 1ST AUTO SHOP STATED THAT I HAD A BAD ALTERNATOR & A BAD BATTERY. THAN, 1 WEEK LATER, THE NEW ALTERNATOR BLEW AND THE SAME MECHANIC HAD THE ORIGINAL ALTERNATOR RE-BUILT STATING IT WAS THE HARNESS! THAN, IT STOPPED RUNNING ON MY ROAD NEAR MY HOME. A 2ND AUTO SHOP TOLD ME TO TAKE IT TOE VW DEALER AND THAT IS WHERE IT IS NOW! I HAVE PAID $640 SO-FAR & HAVE USED MY AAA FOR TOWING 3X'S! *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-12
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WE TEST DROVE CARS AT ROD & TYS ALL STAR AUTO IN PUYALLUP, WE NOTICED THAT THE TIRES WERE BALD AND ONE CAR HAD A BULGE AND TEAR IN THE OUTSIDE OF THE TIRE. I BROUGHT THIS TO THEIR ATTENTION AND THEY SAID THEY AREN'T REQUIRED TO MAKE THESE CARS SAFE. THAT IS THE BUYERS RESPONSIBILITY. I WAS VERY UPSET. THESE TIRES ARE SO BALD THEY AREN'T EVEN LEGAL. I WOULD LIKE THIS PLACE INVESTIGATE TO SHUT DOWN BEFORE SOME IS HURT OR KILLED FROM THE DANGEROUS CARS. *TR
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-04
- VIN: 3VWCC21C3XM
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: K I RECENTLY BOUGHT A 99 VW BEETLE AND NOW ALL OF A SUDDEN MY CAR JERKS WHEN IT HITS LIKE 3000RPM AND IT IDLES HIGHER THEN IT SHOULD. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-10
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3VWCA21C7XM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, A FIRE ERUPTED UNDER THE DASHBOARD. THE CONTACT MOVED THE VEHICLE OFF THE HIGHWAY. THE FIRE AND POLICE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED ON THE SCENE TO ASSIST. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT LOT AND THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN EXAMINED FOR THE CAUSE OF FAILURE. A POLICE REPORT WAS AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE UNKNOWN.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-17
- VIN: 3VWCC21C4XM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE WHICH WAS PURCHASED ON FEBRUARY 13, 2010. WHILE DRIVING AT SPEEDS OF 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL WHILE IN DRIVE MODE. THE INSTRUMENT PANEL INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS IN NEUTRAL GEAR; HOWEVER, THE GEAR SHIFT SELECTOR WAS IN THE DRIVE POSITION. SHE THEN ATTEMPTED TO SHIFT BACK INTO DRIVE AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO JERK AND LUNGE VIOLENTLY. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY ATTEMPTED TO CORRECT THE FAILURE BY REPLACING PARTS UNKNOWN TO THE CONTACT. WHILE DRIVING HOME FROM THE DEALER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHERE THEY REPROGRAMMED THE COMPUTER, WHICH ALSO DID NOT CORRECT THE FAILURE AND THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO SHIFT OUT OF GEAR. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE UNDER 121,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-01
- VIN: 3VWCA21C7XM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: V.W. BEETLE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILURE - HARD SHIFT OR WILL NOT SHIFT. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-22
- VIN: 3VWCC21C5XM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DRIVING DOWN NJ PARKWAY,65 MPH. TRANSMISSION WENT OUT,THUMPING,LOSING SPEED IN HEAVY TRAFFIC. NOTHING DONE TO CORRECT AFTER READING BLOG ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. I CAN'T AFFORD TO HAVE IT FIXED BASED ON THIS INFO. CAR IS NOW UNDRIVABLE. SHIFTING ERRATICALLY IF AT ALL. JERKING BETWEEN GEARS. *TR
TIRES,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-10
- VIN: 3VWCC21C1XM
- Components: TIRES,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: FAULTY VALVE STEMS -- SUSPECT -- MADE IN CHINA, PURCHASED AT LOCAL AAA REPAIR FACILITY THAT PURCHAES SUPPLIES FROM TECH INT'L. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-28
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3VWCA21C3XM
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: DAUGHTER WAS TRAVELING DOWN ROAD AT 45 MPH (SPEED LIMIT) AND THE RIGHT FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE TIRE CAUGHT ON FIRE DUE TO TREAD SEPARATED FROM TIRE. SHE SAW SMOKE AND IMMEDIATELY STOPPED THE CAR. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME AND PUT OUT THE FIRE. THE CAR HAD TO BE TOWED TO CAR DEALERSHIP. THE RESULT WAS THE TREAD SEPARATED, DAMAGED OIL PAN, WRAPPED AROUND CV AXLE, MELTED THE TRANSMISSION MOUNT. THE CAR IS BEYOND REPAIR. *TR
1999 Volkswagen New beetle recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1999 Volkswagen New beetle.
- 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.
Negative 1999 Volkswagen New beetle car reviews
Positive 1999 Volkswagen New beetle car reviews
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Okay, you've only owned it for 2 months, but what a joy to drive! It's so responsive in traffic- a big plus. Shifting is a breeze with the 5-speed. And let's be honest, it's cuter than cute! It's safe, fun, and performs when asked-- what more could you ask for?
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I've been enjoying it since I bought it new in '99. Luckily, any issues I had with door rattles and window switches were all fixed under warranty. I did have to get a repair done for $650 at 41K miles to replace a gas tank breather tube (the engine check light was on), but overall, it's been a really fun car!
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I understand your frustration with the car. It seems like you've had a lot of issues with it, from the fluids to the lights and the gas pump. It can be really frustrating when things don't work as they should. Thank you for sharing your experience and warning others to reconsider before purchasing.
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Get it, you'll like it!
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This car may not look like much from the outside, but once you take it for a spin, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the amount of headroom it offers compared to other cars. What's even more impressive is how quiet and deceptively fast it feels. You might think you're cruising at 70mph, but in reality, you could be going 90mph or more! The ride is smooth and responsive, making it feel like a little sports car. I personally enjoy driving it that way. I highly recommend taking it for a test drive - you won't be disappointed!
Other years of Volkswagen New beetle
Are you having problems with your 1999 Volkswagen New beetle?
Nick Littel 2024-11-16
This is my first VW and I purchased it used with 55K miles. While it was not bad in the beginning, I have experienced some escalating repairs. I had to replace three water pumps, the mass air flow sensor failed, and there was an intake leak which caused the check engine light to come on and failed emissions. I also had to replace the radiator. However, I have not experienced any of the electrical glitches or broken plastic that others have complained about. Although the alarm system never seemed to work as advertised, and the trunk latch doesn't always catch, I only got stranded with the valet key once. Overall, it is still fun to drive, I love the stick, and it still turns heads after all these years. I am glad I tried it, but with approaching 110K miles and $4,000 in repairs, I have mixed feelings.
Edgar Stiedemann 2024-10-26
The quality of the car is subpar despite the millions or billions spent on quirky, MTV-like commercials. As someone who has owned three Saab 900s, I can confidently say that this is the worst car I have ever owned. The side mirrors, shift knob, gas door, window switches, fuses, and radio are all prone to falling apart or malfunctioning. These issues are unacceptable and require immediate attention from the manufacturer.
Monserrate Rosenbaum 2024-10-03
Hey there! I remember you wrote a review for your bug last week. I just wanted to check in and see how everything is going. I noticed in your review that you mentioned some weird noises coming from the transmission a couple of days ago. Is everything okay? Let me know if there's anything I can do to help!
Nolan Mohr 2024-09-25
I've been driving my 1999 Volkswagen Beetle for six years now and I've had to replace a little bit of everything. It's definitely been an adventure! While it's fun to drive a Bug, I have noticed that it has quite a few blind spots.
Jack Baumbach 2024-08-18
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my car. I've had it for two years now and it's been quite a journey. When I first bought it, it had 33k miles on it and now it has 86k. Unfortunately, I did have a bit of trouble with the plastic grill. A plastic highway cone hit the front grill and broke it, which caused $3600 worth of damage. Then, a week after I got the car back, the compressor failed. The VW dealership who did the work claimed that one didn't affect the other, but since they had to take the entire front of the car apart, it seems rather suspect. They want $1700 for a new compressor. Despite these issues, I still appreciate my car. However, I'm not sure if I'll be buying another VW product. Thanks for listening!