2004 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 2004 Volkswagen New beetle problems
The 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is known to have several common problems, primarily related to the transmission, windows, and windshield.
- Windows and Windshield: The 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle has experienced numerous problems with windows and the windshield. These issues include windows that roll down too far, causing them to become stuck, and windshields that crack easily. These problems can be costly to repair, and many owners have reported spending significant amounts of money on repairs.
- Headliner Falling Down: Although this is a relatively minor issue, it has been a common complaint among 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle owners. The headliner may fall down, particularly around the 50,000-mile mark. While some owners have been able to temporarily fix the issue with construction adhesive, others have had to pay for more expensive repairs.
- Rattling and Vibrating Windows: Some Cabriolet models of the 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle suffer from rattling and vibrating windows, particularly on uneven roads. This issue can be annoying and may require costly repairs.
- Difficulty Closing Boot: The boot of the 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle can be difficult to close, causing a dent to appear in the center of the boot lid. This issue can lead to costly repairs, particularly if the boot lid needs to be replaced.
- Ignition Coil Failure: The 1.8T engine in the 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is prone to ignition coil failure, which can cause the engine to misfire. This issue can be costly to repair, particularly if the ignition coils need to be replaced.
- Fuel Pump Recall: The 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle was subject to a recall concerning the fuel pump. This issue can lead to stalling and difficulty starting the car, and it is essential to ensure that the recall has been completed.
- Anti-lock Braking System Recall: The 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle was also subject to a recall concerning the anti-lock braking system. This issue can lead to fire damage, and it is essential to ensure that the recall has been completed.
In conclusion, the 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle has several common problems, primarily related to the transmission, windows, and windshield. These issues can be costly to repair, and many owners have reported spending significant amounts of money on repairs. It is essential to ensure that any recalls have been completed and to address any issues as soon as they arise to prevent further damage and costly repairs.
Is 2004 Volkswagen Beetle a good car?
This car looks good, corners and brakes very well and is very comfortable. Wheel bearings need to be checked often, pretty typical in all VW's and Audi's. The Turbo engine has plenty of pep while being pretty efficient! Paint fit and finish is excellent for a 14 year old car.
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.
What is the life expectancy of a 2004 VW Beetle?
With proper care and maintenance, you can expect this model to last 150,000 miles or 10 years, but some owners have shared that their Beetles have lasted even longer. The Volkswagen Beetle is a reliable compact car that's also known for its iconic, signature look.
Are there any recalls on a 2004 Volkswagen Beetle?
There are 3 recalls that may affect your 2004 Volkswagen Beetle. Check your 2004 Volkswagen Beetle for safety recalls and get them fixed for free at a Volkswagen dealership near you.
Is 2004 Volkswagen Beetle a good car?
This car looks good, corners and brakes very well and is very comfortable. Wheel bearings need to be checked often, pretty typical in all VW's and Audi's. The Turbo engine has plenty of pep while being pretty efficient! Paint fit and finish is excellent for a 14 year old car.
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.
What was wrong with the Volkswagen Beetle?
The Beetle is praised for its longevity, lasting up to 10 years and possibly even longer with proper maintenance. Despite its reliability, the Beetle's most common problems include engine failure, faulty power locks, and faulty power windows.
Are there any recalls on a 2004 Volkswagen Beetle?
There are 3 recalls that may affect your 2004 Volkswagen Beetle. Check your 2004 Volkswagen Beetle for safety recalls and get them fixed for free at a Volkswagen dealership near you.
2004 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:
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Visibility problems
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Volkswagen New beetle vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Volkswagen New beetle
The NHTSA has received 361 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Volkswagen New beetle. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Volkswagen New beetle vehicles.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-11
- 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.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-24
- 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.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-10
- VIN: 3VWCD21Y84M
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG LIGHTS ON AND SEEMS THE DEALER CANNOT GET PARTS TO FIX ??
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-26
- VIN: 3VWCK31C94M
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE BATTERY AND ABS INDICATORS ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE DOWNSHIFTED INTO FIRST GEAR. THE VEHICLE SEIZED AND WAS MOVED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE, BUT WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE WIRE HARNESS FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE FUSE BOX WAS REPLACED THREE TIMES, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. LEITH VOLKSWAGEN OF CARY (2300 AUTOPARK BLVD, CARY, NC 27511, (919) 842-5624) AND THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN A RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 157,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-13
- VIN: 3VWCD31YX4M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING AT A SLOW RATE OF SPEED, THE CONTACT SMELLED BURNING RUBBER AND THE VEHICLE'S RADIO STOPPED WORKING. AS THE CONTACT PROCEEDED DRIVING, SEVERAL UNKNOWN WARNING INDICATORS BEGAN FLASHING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE SHUT COMPLETELY OFF. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AND TOOK IT TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE MECHANIC WAS ABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE VEHICLE AND HAD THE FUSE BOX REPLACED, YET THE FAILURE STILL PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-09
- VIN: 3VWCM31Y345
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING THE CAR SHUTS OFF IN TRAFFIC IN TOWN AND ON THE HIGHWAY. 2 TIMES NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. ONE TIME LIGHT CAME ON. MECHANIC IS NOT SURE WHY. I HAVE READ SEVERAL SIMILAR OCCURANCES ONLINE BY OTHER OWNERS. SOUNDS LIKE A RISK FOR FATALITY TO ME. MY DAUGHTER JUST BOUGHT THIS CAR FROM ANOTHER PARTY.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-06
- VIN: 3VWCM31Y84M
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 2004 BEETLE WITH 85,000 MILES HARD SHIFTING DOWN - IT JERKS FROM GEAR TO GEAR UNTIL IT COMES TO FULL STOP. . NOW WHILE UPSHIFTING IT COULDN'T MAKE IT OUT OF 3RD GEAR AND HAVE ALMOST BEEN REAR ENDED 3 TIMES. CAR JERKS ,SHUDDERS, LURCHES . TRANSMISSION PROBLEM IS CONSISTENT WITH LOW MILEAGE VW BEETLES
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-01
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3VWBK31C94M
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I BOUGHT MY VW BEETLE 2004 USED 3 MONTHS AGO. (EPC LIGHT ON, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON) SINCE THEN IVE HAD TO FIX THE TIMING BELT, COOLING, AND HOSES BECAUSE OF BACKFIRE. I GOT NOTIFIED THAT THERE IS A RECALL IN MY CAR, YET WENT TYPING THE VIN # IT SAYS IT NO RECALLS HAVE BEEN FOUND FOR MY CAR. I HAVE DOCUMENTATION TO SHOW THE REPAIRS AND COSTS. I'M WONDERING WHO DO I CONTACT TO DETERMINATE IF MY CAR DOES HAVE A REAL OR NOT.
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-13
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3VWCD31Y14M
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE PASSENGER FRONT SEAT HEATER WAS LEFT ON POWER LEVEL 3 WITH A BAG OF CLOTHES IN THE SEAT. AN ODOR WAS DETECTED AND UPON MOVING THE BAG, AN APPROXIMATELY 6' X 10' BURN WAS DISCOVERED ON LOWER PORTION OF THE SEAT BACK.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-25
- VIN: 3VWCM21Y94M
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I BOUGHT THE NEW BEETLE NOT EVEN A MONTH AND I NOTICED A JERKING IN THE TRANSMISSION. I FOUND OUT USING SPECIALIZED WEBSITES FOR ENTHUSIASTS THAT VOLKSWAGEN ISSUE LETTERS TO OWNERS OF NEW BEETLES IN 2010 INFORMING THAT TONS OF OWNERS COMPLAINED ABOUT THE HARD SHIFT THEY WERE EXPERIENCING IN THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION OFTHEIR NEW BEETLE. VOKSWAGEN OFFERED TO EXTEND THE WARRANTY ON THE TRANSMISSION VALVE BODY. THE MODELS AFFECTED SPANS FROM 2003 TO 2008. IN OTHER WORDS, VOLKS SOLD FAULTY CARS WITHING THIS TIME RANGE AND ONLY RECOGNIZED LATER IN 2010 ABOUT THE ISSUE. HOWEVER, THE VALVE BODY FAILURE IN THE TRANSMISSION IS ACROSS THE BOARD AND A RECALL SHOULD HAVE BEEN ISSUED FOR THE RANGE OF 2003-2008. THE COMPONENT WAS DESIGNED TO FAIL BY DESIGN. NOT EVEN THE REPLACEMENT WOULD FIX IT BECAUSE IT WOULD HAPPEN AGAIN. IMAGINE THE DANGER WHEN THERE IS A HARD-SHIFT AND THE CAR STARTS TO JERK AND CHANGING GEARS ERRATICALLY ? IMAGINE THIS HAPPENING ON I95 OR ANY OTHER HIGHWAY. VW JUST EXTENDED THE WARRANTY BUT A RECALL IS NEEDED HERE. I CALLED VW AND THEY ARE REFUSING TO FIX IT SAYING IT IS AN OLD CAR AND WARRANTY IS EXPIRED, BUT THE TRUTH IS SINCE 2003 THE HARD SHIFT CONDITION EXISTED. IT TAKES TIME FOR THE VALVE BODY TO FAIL BUT IT WILL FAIL. I HAVE OTHER CARS, BUT WHEN I NOTICED THE JERK I INVESTIGATED. I ATTACHED THE LETTER THAT I OBTAINED FROM THE NEW BEETLE.ORG SITE AND THERE THERE IS A DETAIL EXPLANATION HOW THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION WILL FAIL DUE TO THE DESIGN
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-07
- VIN: 3VWCK31C04M
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FEUL LEAK, REAR PASSANGER SIDE RIGHT. SAME SIDE THAT THE FUEL FILL IS ON.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-08
- VIN: 3VWCD31C84M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE FUSE BOX IS BURNING BECAUSE SOME CABLES ARE TOO SMALL AND ACCORDING TO THE MECHANICS, IT IS SOMETHING EXTREMELY COMMON BUT ACCORDING TO ME, IT IS NOT SUPPOSED TO HAPPEN.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-03
- VIN: 3VWCR31C4M4
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CONTINUED HEADLAMP FAILURE RE: HEADLAMP COVER GLASS / LEXAN COMES OFF AND FLYS OFF OF CAR. SEVERAL OWNERS REPORT SAME PROBLEM. CREATES HAZERDOUS DEBRIS WHEN IT HAPPENS ON HIGHWAY AND ALSO EXPOSES HEADLAMP LIGHTS DIRECTLY TO WEATHER AND CAUSES FAILURE.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-02
- VIN: 3VWBK21C54M
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE FELT AS IF IT WERE IN NEUTRAL. THE CONTACT COASTED THE VEHICLE TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD, PLACED THE GEAR SHIFTER IN PARK AND THEN BACK INTO DRIVE, AND WAS ABLE TO RESUME DRIVING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE HAD TO REPEAT THE SAME PROCEDURE FIVE TIMES UNTIL SHE REACHED HER DESTINATION. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PERRYSBURG AUTO MALL (26875 N DIXIE HWY, PERRYSBURG, OH 43551, PHONE NUMBER: (419) 874-4331) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 63,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-11
- VIN: 3VWCM31Y04M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: VW CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON, OBD SENSOR PORT NOT READING, BATTERY LIGHT CAME ON, AND ABS LIGHT CAME ON, NOW RADIO IS GOING ON AND OFF. STARTED YESTERDAY MORNING,WHILE DRIVING TO WORK THE ABS STARTED AFTER WORK ON THE WAY HOME.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-22
- VIN: 3VWCR31CX4M
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE GEARBOX SLIPS, STUTTERS AND JERKS . AND WILL SLIP OUT OF GEAR AND NOT GO BACK IN GEAR UNTIL ENGINE IS RESTARTED. THIS HAPPENS WHEN STARTING TO MOVE FROM A STOP.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-13
- VIN: 3VWCM21Y84M
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WINDOW REGULATORS ARE EASY TO BREAK.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-12
- VIN: 3VWCM31Y34M
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION LOCKS UP, NOISY UPSHIFT AND DOWNSHIFTS. WHILE DRIVING UNPREDICTABLE GEAR SHIFTS.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-01
- VIN: 3VWCM31Y64M
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON LAST YEAR, RESOLVED. BACK ON, I SEE OLD RECALL? WHAT TO DO?
POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-27
- VIN: 3VWCM21Y24M
- Components: POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MY TRANSMISSION WENT OUT ALL AT ONCE MY AIRBAG/SEATBEILT LIGHT ON ALL THE TIME
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-19
- VIN: 3VWCD31Y94M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE FIRST TIME I ROLLED WINDOWS DOWN IN MY DRIVEWAY SO THAT I COULD TAKE TOP DOWN. THEY WOULD NOT ROLL UP PROPERLY TO MAKE A CONNECTION TO THE TOP CONVERTIBLE OF THE CAR. SO THE CAR WAS NOT WEATHER SAFE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-15
- VIN: 3VWCM31Y24M
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TRANSMISSION SLIPS, JERKS , DOWNSHIFTS , VEHICLE BECOMES DISABLED ON ROADWAY, DANGER TO DRIVER, PEDESTRIANS AND OTHER VEHICLES ON THE ROADWAYS. THERE IS A CLASS ACTION SUIT IN LOUISIANA REGARDING THIS PROBLEM . THIS PROBLEM HAPPENS WHILE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION 10-15 MINUTES AFTER IT IS IN MOTION .
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-15
- VIN: 3VWCM31Y24M
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, WHEN THE VEHICLE SLOWED DOWN TO APPROACH A STOP SIGN OR TRAFFIC LIGHT, IT WOULD DOWNSHIFT INDEPENDENTLY. THE VEHICLE BECAME INOPERABLE AND HAD TO BE PULLED OVER, TURNED OFF, AND RESTARTED. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000.
AIR BAGS,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-04
- VIN: 3VWCK31C24M
- Components: AIR BAGS,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: 1. AIR BAG: THE AIR BAG INDICATOR LIGHT IS ILLUMINATING. 2. SUNROOF DRAIN SYSTEM CLOGGED: THERE IS LEAKAGE THROUGH THE SUNROOF OF THE PASSENGER SIDE. ALL RAIN WATER IS COMING IN FROM THE PASSENGER DOOR. AFTER ABOUT 2 WEEKS OF THUNDER STORMS THE CAR HAS WATER ALL OVER THE INSIDE AND THE CEILING AND SMELLS BAD. (AS SOON AS I FOUND OUT THE SUNROOF LEAKAGE PROBLEM OF THIS CAR, I FOUND THAT HE U.S. COURT OF APPEALS FOR THE THIRD CIRCUIT HAS APPROVED A $69 MILLION SETTLEMENT STEMMING FROM A CLASS-ACTION LAWSUIT THAT STARTED IN 2007 OVER LEAKING SUNROOFS. HTTP://WWW.CARCOMPLAINTS.COM/NEWS/2014/VOLKSWAGEN-SETTLES-LAWSUIT-LEAKING-SUNROOFS.SHTML)
2004 Volkswagen New beetle recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2004 Volkswagen New beetle.
- 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.
- 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.
Negative 2004 Volkswagen New beetle car reviews
Positive 2004 Volkswagen New beetle car reviews
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Love my bug! My husband purchased this used vehicle for my college graduation eight years ago and we have put very little money into her. She runs great and has okay gas mileage, considering it's Turbo not diesel. As she's starting to age, she's not as quiet as a new ride, but I don't plan on replacing her. In fact, I'm looking to change her paint job from red to hot pink!
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This car is used for work purposes and is covered in advertising. Although I was initially hesitant to purchase it based on reviews, it has turned out to be a decent car. I have experienced some issues with the airbag and check engine lights, but fortunately, there is a wealth of information available online to help with those problems. The car is both fast and fun to drive, and it boasts a lot of great features for its cost. So far, my issues have been minor, and I am hoping for a few more years of reliable use.
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Everyone told me that it had limited cargo space... but I was able to transport a new Toro Snowblower 2450 GTS for a friend 80 miles for a Christmas present! I couldn't have done that in any other compact car!
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I previously owned a 1960 Beetle and had it when I first met my wife in 1962. I loved it and had it for 5 years. Recently, I felt nostalgic and wanted to be re-connected to this wonderful memory of her. I am so glad I purchased the 2004 Beetle. It not only looks great, but I am utterly impressed by this quality machine. It offers me everything I was looking for and more.
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Great car for the money! I totally get you, I was driving a suburban for the last 6 years and decided I wanted a car. Nothing tickled my fancy quite like the convertible bug! Although, I must say, I wasn't quite impressed with the stereo either.
Other years of Volkswagen New beetle
Are you having problems with your 2004 Volkswagen New beetle?
Gussie Crist 2025-01-05
I purchased this car from a family member who had only driven it for 16K miles and kept it in a garage. It's a 2.0 convertible with an automatic transmission. While I have had some challenges with this car, I have been able to address them with some DIY repairs and the help of a friend. Although the car has some flaws, such as creaking and moaning over smooth roads, it has good brakes and gets 30MPG on the highway. The paint is in good condition and the engine and transmission are still working well. While the car may not be perfect, it has served me well and I am grateful for the opportunity to own it. So nothing here to see-keep looking.
Trevor Hill 2024-11-27
My bug had to go due to a leak in the roof of the car. Apparently, the drains in the roof clog easily and with nowhere to go, the water leaks into the car. The dealer and the regional manager confirmed that cleaning the drains is common knowledge. Despite the numerous problems from the beginning and careless service, I made the decision to let go of my bug.
Leonardo Denesik 2024-11-20
I enjoyed driving my car until the engine failed. The manufacturer suggested that normal oil would be sufficient for a turbo engine, but I later discovered that synthetic oil is the only recommended option. Normal oil thickens and causes blockages, leading to engine failure and damage to the pistons and valves. Unfortunately, I know of four people who have experienced this issue as well.
Vince Rowe 2024-10-22
I have experienced several issues with this car, including the front bumper and inside door panel falling off, a snapped window pulley, and the power steering pump failing twice. Unfortunately, no dealership is willing to accept it as a trade. Additionally, the cost of replacement parts is quite high. Overall, this car has been a disappointment.
Elton Donnelly 2024-10-19
I purchased this car in June 2011 with less than 90,000 miles on it. Unfortunately, a few months after the purchase, the flap panels broke, the headliner started falling apart, and the interior began to deteriorate. When the car hit 100,000 miles, the transmission started acting up and the valve body needed to be replaced. Additionally, the headlights and other electrical components have been problematic. I bought the car from a VW dealership, thinking it was a good deal, but less than two years later, I have already spent thousands of dollars on repairs. As a nursing student, I need a reliable car, and unfortunately, this one has not been reliable. I filed a complaint with the BBB, but have not yet received a response.