2004 Volkswagen New Beetle - Consumer Discussions

Volkswagen Beetle Transmission Problems

• Re: Beetle auto transmission issue when warm [bubbakat]

  Written by: jmargaret on Mar 31, 2013 11:29:50 AM

  I have a 2004 turbo covertible transmission that went out at 70,000 miles Paid a lot to get new one and still doesn't sound or feel the way it should. I had a headlite out that VW wanted 80.00 to fix. No one can get to it w/o Tearing off the bumper. Passenger door rattles. Water gets in when I go thru carwash. It goes on and on. Too bad cuz ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Body Work Problems

• 2004 Beetle Convertible

  Written by: barb63 on Oct 15, 2012 7:39:12 AM

  My 2004 Beetle has 54,337 miles and the dealer has made all repairs to date. Now I am informed the value body needs replacing at a cost of $1900. We've already spent close to $3,000 on repairs on this car, window rotors, brakes, transmission plug, etc..I could go on and on. This was an emotional buy and I loved the car but all the money spent in repairs on a car ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Transmission Problems

• Re: 2005 VW New Beetle Problems [snosingle]

  Written by: largoslade on Oct 13, 2012 9:33:05 AM

  Hello! I have the same car I bought for my daughter and the transmission failed at 60,000 miles and I wrote about the experience I had getting it repaired through an extended warranty I purchased when I bought the car. Here is your only hope at getting VW to help you. The transmission has an extended warranty of 7 years / 100,000 miles. If your car falls within 7 years as ... Read More

• dumped the 2004 Beetle Convertible

  Written by: bad04beetle on Oct 12, 2012 11:24:38 AM

  We had no choice.....have put approximately 3500.00 in repairs the past 3 years. The transmission is gone at 68,000 miles. Lost 1000.00 on the trade in. I did email Jonathan Brown with all of my concerns. Did receive a phone call from a very nice customer service rep, had no offers to "do the right thing" just listened to all of my concerns. I told her I would NEVER purchase another ... Read More

• Re: 2004 Beetle Convertible Transmission Problem [javidiaz]

  Written by: bamboozeled on May 23, 2012 2:32:42 PM

  My wife has a 2005 VW new Beetle with 53k miles. It is currently sitting in the service center at my local dealership. About a month ago the transmission was shifting hard from 1-2, 2-3 gears. I recalled in 2010 I received a letter from VW stating Beetles in years 2003-2008 "VW had received customer complaints of affected vehicles that may experience a hard shift from 1-2 gear and 2-3 gear" ... Read More

• tranny sometimes 'bangs' when it shifts

  Written by: sep15 on Apr 30, 2012 5:06:24 PM

  My 2004 Beetle with 59K sometimes shifts very hard between 1st and 2nd (so hard you think someone slammed into the back of the car). It has the 2.0 engine and automatic transmission. Does anyone know if a new throttle body will fix that? I called the VW national number, they asked for my VIN, then asked a bunch of other questions: Do I own any other VW's? Do I bring ... Read More

• 2004 VW New Beetle issue

  Written by: aquabluebeetle on Mar 23, 2012 11:23:53 AM

  Anyone ever had the car shimmy while accelerating at around 40 mph? It's shifting gears ok and only does it when your accerlerating....I love this car I hope it's nothing to major.

• 2004 Beetle Convertible Transmission Problem

  Written by: jubug on Mar 23, 2012 10:19:48 AM

  I bought a 2004 Beetle Convertible brand new off the lot. Around 75,000 miles started with transmission problems. Was told minimum 5000.00 to fix whether I go with new or rebuilt. Why bother with used, there aren't any and besides they are all bad!!!! When I was calling around looking in to having it fixed transmission places were telling me so many stories about how VW put bad transmissions in these ... Read More

• Re: Bad tranny on VW new Beetle [classycoley]

  Written by: cutepiececrap on Jan 31, 2012 12:03:25 PM

  Hi! Yes, I too have the same problem with my cute piece of crap 2004 VW Convertible. Was it you "bugn2go" or "classycoley" that had good luck just recently with the repair ?? Would appreciate any advice ! Thanks !

• Re: Bad tranny on VW new Beetle [classycoley]

  Written by: doc21hansen on Nov 21, 2011 4:26:26 PM

  I have a 2004 Beetle turbo convertible. The transmission gears 4-6 won't work. I've been quoted $5900 for a factory rebuilt tranny. I have a neighbor who has had the same problems. The rear window mechanisms have also gone out. $680. each. The hydrolics on the convert. top also went out. $4500. This car is a piece of junk. I'd NEVER buy anothe VW. Oh, 2 airbag modules went out about ... Read More

• Bad tranny on VW new Beetle

  Written by: smsgreeneyes on Aug 28, 2011 4:34:00 PM

  My 2004 Beetle was shifting OK but occasionally making awful noise. When we got it to mechanic, he said the 2 piece fly wheel had separated and made a hole in the side of the housing. As it was out of warranty the only thing VW would do was inspect the transmission to see if the hole was indeed caused by fly wheel failure. It turned out that it was and ... Read More

• Re: Bad tranny on VW new Beetle [smsgreeneyes]

  Written by: classycoley on Nov 19, 2011 11:03:13 PM

  I, too, have a transmission issue on my 2004 Beetle. I'm at 63K. Is VW taking responsibility for these transmissions failing with such low mileage? Are you kidding that the cost is $6-7K to replace a transmission? ClassyColey

• Re: 2005 Beetle Convertible [mattfree]

  Written by: orangebug on Aug 23, 2011 4:04:24 PM

  I have a 2004 New Beetle convertible, which I also bought used with 50,000 miles on it. It is a beautiful little car. After the first month I started to notice that it had problems with shifting, lurching, as everyone else. Finally, it would not shift at all and we limped into the VW Dealer, who said it was likely the transmission, at cost of $7,000. But, they did say it ... Read More

• Re: Another bad transmission [drsteve66]

  Written by: orangebug on May 21, 2011 11:32:21 AM

  Good luck, we too have a 2004 convertible Beetle. We had the shifting problems and our dealer said it was most likely the transmission. They offered to take it apart, if it was just the valve body ($2000) they would fix it but if it was the transmission they would replace it for $7000. I hope you have a really good dealer mechanic that you trust, because the valve body should ... Read More

• Buyer Beware! Scary dangerous VW transmissions!

  Written by: vwisajoke on Apr 12, 2011 7:32:10 AM

  Hey guys...so glad I found this forum. I am seriously concerned with the safety of people driving Beetles. I have a 2004 Beetle AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION bought in 2006. I bought it when it was around 30K miles and still under warranty. Around 2008 (at this point it was maybe 40K miles because I worked from home!). Anyway...around 08 I would be on a CA Freeway (scary!) just driving along at a ... Read More

• Transmission Valve body

  Written by: daraqu2 on Feb 11, 2011 8:03:02 AM

  I do not know who to turn to now. I have been experiencing problems with my 2004 Volkswagen New beetle. I purchased the car March, 2010 and a few weeks ago it started acting up. The gears have been shifting very violently from first to second. I received a letter from Volkswagen in November, 2010 for an extended warranty on the transmission valve body because they have noticed that a lot ... Read More

• Re: I too, pledge my sword for battle... [mybeetlesucks]

  Written by: dslasers on Jan 1, 2011 5:23:56 PM

  Hi mybeetlesucks - Not sure what you were trying to say - I see no text on your reply, just fyi... Anyhoo, here's what I said to the NHTSA ODI: 2004 Volkswagen 'New Beetle' has serious design / OEM-component flaws in the transmission and/or transmission control module, creating very-dangerous and unpredictable 'stalls' (step on gas, motor revs, but transm. does not engage - immediately) in traffic. VW is aware of this, ... Read More

• Re: Lets speek out friends. [tpadelford]

  Written by: dmcunard on Oct 26, 2010 7:35:41 AM

  I bought a 2004 vw new beetle convertible in 2006. It had 67000 miles on it and when we took it for a test drive the salesperson told us the jumping was from the dual transmission. SHE SAID THIS WAS NOT A PROBLEM. IT WAS SUPPOSED TO SHIFT THIS WAY. The car was supposed to be a certified used car. The car got worse in the bucking. My husband said the ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Body Work Problems

• Re: Convertible Top Will not completely close [vwdriver62]

  Written by: hotskins2000 on Nov 6, 2010 8:47:26 AM

  We also have a problem with our window on 2004 Bug. The top part of the window looks like it is going to fall out. I glued the bottom part and duct taped the top part. The dealer is no help they say you need a new top. We only have 40,000 miles on this car. We have not put the top down because we are afraid the window will fall ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Electrical & Lighting Problems

• Has anyone ever had this problem?

  Written by: kansaskarin on May 26, 2009 2:21:35 PM

  HELP!!!!!! Ok, for starters, I have a 2004 VW Beetle GLS 1.8 turbo... It all appeared to start out as my a/c going out. It was still blowing, just not cold. So my dear husband figures he'd add some freon to see if that fixed the problem. Needless to say, that didn't fix the problem. So of course, being that he's a man and loves to dismantle things to see how ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Transmission Problems

• Re: 2004 beetle transmisson problems [donnasbug]

  Written by: orangebug on Sep 21, 2010 3:49:35 PM

  Not sure what the codes mean, but why do they want to charge you so much to tell you what is wrong? My 2004 has 54,000 miles on it, same problems with jerking, and not shifting. The dealer mechanic said probably valve body ($2100) but maybe transmission ($6800). I complained to VW on their website under "warranty question" (I even mentioned NHTSA complaint) and said $6800 was unreasonable repair for a ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Engine Problems

• Re: 2004 New Beetle Turbo Engine Overheats and is shot within seconds [kmcclas]

  Written by: paulmf on Sep 14, 2010 11:12:50 AM

  I just had a similar problem with a 2003 New Beetle Turbo with only 42,000 miles on it. I haven't gotten in back yet but it's going to cost about $7000. Did you have any luck with VW on you issue?

Volkswagen Beetle Transmission Problems

• VW Beetle Transmission

  Written by: rayal on Aug 26, 2010 3:35:36 PM

  I have a 2004 VW Beetle Convertible that I have been told needs a new transmission for $6000. I've owned it 2 years and already have replaced an 0-2 sensor, water-pump, as well as, took it to the dealer to fix an airbag recall, that stayed fixed for a whole 5 days. Now my rear windows are sticking and my driver window falls into the door. It is parked in my ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Engine Problems

• 2004 New Beetle Turbo Engine Overheats and is shot within seconds

  Written by: kmcclas on Apr 22, 2010 8:11:09 AM

  My car was running fine with no problems in the morning; fast forward to the afternoon; it's dead on the side of the freeway with a fried engine. We were driving along, the coolant light blinked red. Within seconds we heard a distinct noise, like a knock followed by a continuous sound like paper flapping in the fan shroud. We were in the left lane on the freeway searching for a ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Transmission Problems

• Re: 2004 New Beetle convertible needs a new transmission [nataliemac]

  Written by: orangebug on Aug 25, 2010 11:34:12 AM

  Thanks. The part of your story about VW warranty is pretty sad, but thanks for the advice on going to another shop, I will try that next and keep posting on my journey to get my peppy little car back!

• Re: 2004 New Beetle convertible needs a new transmission [vwbugssuck]

  Written by: orangebug on Aug 25, 2010 7:16:33 AM

  My car hasn't been fixed yet, it is out of warranty (5 years) and VW was not receptive on the first call. My husband called, the woman listened politely and offered nothing. I am going to send VW of America a book with 56 pages of posts from this forum, 14 pages of complaints on NHTSA website, and repair estimate from the VW mechanic. There was a post sometime last year ... Read More

• Re: 2004 New Beetle convertible needs a new transmission [buggedout1]

  Written by: orangebug on Aug 25, 2010 7:06:21 AM

  Thanks, I will let my car limp to Aamco and get an estimate. I will continue to post as I make progress in my fight with VW. I am going to send them a book with 56 pages of printouts from this forum, 14 pages of NHTSA complaints on 2004 convertible, and copies of what the mechanics tell me. Wall Street Journal is a great idea. Also, what about somebody calling ... Read More

• Re: 2004 New Beetle convertible needs a new transmission [orangebug]

  Written by: vwbugssuck on Aug 25, 2010 6:49:42 AM

  My car still sits in my driveway as I cannot bring myself to spend between 5500 and 7500 for a transmission when the car is bluebook at 7500. The re-built by volkswagen is only guaranteed up to 12,000. I would check your warranty re the transmission, I thought it was up to 65,000. Even if it is only 50,000 I would contact VW of America to discuss, only 3,000 outside of ... Read More

• Re: 2004 New Beetle convertible needs a new transmission [orangebug]

  Written by: buggedout1 on Aug 25, 2010 6:43:41 AM

  Yes, I also have the 04 convertible bettle..I brought it to Aamco about 15,000 miles ago..and they worked wonders! It is amazing how other mechanics see design problems that VW didnt'! VW said they never heard of the problem - very insulting! They needed to rebuild a few things...works great now. I also registered a complaint with NHTSA and also the consumer website that someone earlier in the week suggested. I ... Read More

• 2004 New Beetle convertible needs a new transmission

  Written by: orangebug on Aug 25, 2010 6:32:06 AM

  My 2004 VW New Beetle Convertible with Triptonic transmission, with only 53,800 miles, lurches in the lower gears after the car warms up in about 10 minutes. The car will not shift smoothly between the lower gears and often revs up to 5000 rpm before it "clunks" into higher gear. The VW Dealer mechanic would like to replace the transmission, at a cost to me of $6800. An alternative would be ... Read More

• Re: Please publish us!!!! [elenewlife]

  Written by: meinbug on May 5, 2010 5:28:34 PM

  I have a 2004 VW Beetle Convertible and just hit 75,000 miles. Around 52,000 miles the CEL came on. The code was for the coolent system 2180. I replaced the coolent sensor, thermostat and eventually the water pump as my mechanic could not figure out why the code wouldn't clear (I had always taken it to the dealer for servicing before the warrenty was up at 50K). VW make such crappy ... Read More

• Re: 2004 Transmission Nightmare [blackdog20]

  Written by: elenewlife on May 3, 2010 8:12:08 AM

  Boy do I feel for you. When I heard you say "hard shifting" I knew exactly what you meant. I bought a 2006 NEW Beetle Convertible. At around 10,000 miles if the car became hot - say I had to sit in traffic which is constant in NJ, the car would not shift AT ALL, became disabled because you had to force it into gear, it would smell, then I would ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Prices Paid and Buying Experience

• Re: 2006 Beetle Convertible 2.5 [jeep53]

  Written by: belaircarguy on Mar 27, 2010 3:59:00 AM

  I purchased a 2008 Beetle Convertible new in June 2008. I looked at the reviews and complaints of Beetle Convertibles prior to purchase, and it appears most complaints were from the first / second model year (2003-2004). There were problems with the rear window getting loose, as well as various engine problems (not the 2.5 engine). Our Beetle is almost 2 years old, and we have not had any problems, plus ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Transmission Problems

• 2004 VW Beetle Wants something done!

  Written by: twiliwish85 on Mar 16, 2010 9:08:09 PM

  Hi all! I purchased a brand new 2004 beetle in july of 04. Since I got the car I have problems, first the Windows would go down automatically or the power window feature would not work, the air bag light would go on, the dealership would tell me that it was my fault for not buckling up and waiting a few seconds before driving off, air bag light has been an ... Read More

• vw transmission

  Written by: buggedout1 on Mar 14, 2010 4:45:07 PM

  same thing happened to my 2004 vw beetle...on route 95 in NH and the car gears were all in brackets, and the car slowed to about 30...needed to get to the right lane and get off highway! I truly cannot believe that VW NorthAmerica has customer service personnel just telling us that it is our problem not theirs. Cars should not need new transmissions under 100K miles! It is surely a ... Read More

• 2004 vw beetle

  Written by: buggedout1 on Jan 19, 2010 4:17:36 PM

  About 4 or 5 months ago a person sent out a message about filing a class action suit. I know at one time I sent a note saying I was interested in placing my name on that list, but I have yet to see anything. Has anything started? I have been driving my 2004 vw, with the new transmission, for a couple of months now, and it has been great.....when people ... Read More

• Re: New Beetle transmission problems/PLEASE READ [bubbaandrita]

  Written by: blackdog20 on Dec 4, 2009 4:49:48 PM

  Hello Everyone.. I have a 2004 Beetle with 97K on it, auto transmission. The transmission is junk. The dealership is blowing smoke and I spoke to VW CS which is useless. I wrote VW a letter and told them that they not only have a coil problem, but they should do the right thing and fix all the transmissions. I am not spending 7K on a transmission. Luckily it is a ... Read More

• I know what farpheneugen stands for!!!!!

  Written by: upsetvwowner on Nov 21, 2009 12:51:16 AM

  Thanks for everyone's post on this issue. I too have fallen victim of the latest transmission problems I am reading in the blogs. I have a 2004 VW Beetle with 70,000 miles in immaculate condition and experoencing jerkiness in the transmission as well. I was quoted $450 and $495 dollars by two different VW dealers to change the transmission fluid. I finally called a third VW dealer and the sales rep ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Body Work Problems

• Re: VW window motors/regulators [momin87]

  Written by: trixhilda on Nov 12, 2009 2:50:31 PM

  You can contact me about the class actions we have had 11 window problems most requiring a new regulator we have also had the airbag light come on because of bad sensor in the seat belt clip we also had the check engine light come on and it was the temp sensor and a turbo valve cover that were bad that time we have also had other multiple problems with the ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Transmission Problems

• Re: New Beetle transmission problems/PLEASE READ [trannybugsme]

  Written by: rio1958 on Oct 13, 2009 9:43:07 AM

  I am so with you on this. I just took my 2004 VW Beetle into the shop and they informed me that I would need a new transmission as well and they tried to find me a new one but no one has any. I do have over 128K on my car but I don't think that I should have to replace the transmission my transmission was going to cost 7600.00 ... Read More

• Re: New Beetle transmission problems/PLEASE READ [trannybugsme]

  Written by: vett77 on Oct 13, 2009 7:44:08 AM

  Good morning john I was reading up on what you wrote in regards to your daughters VW beetle , I purchased a new 2005 Beetle for my wife back in 2004 . And for a year now the car is really bad with the transition ( jerking , shifting etc ) I have taken it to the dealer and they told me the transition may need to be replaced the car ... Read More

• Re: New Beetle transmission problems/PLEASE READ [trannybugsme]

  Written by: buggedout1 on Oct 10, 2009 2:56:44 PM

  I thought I was the only one with these problems. I have all the same problems that many of the 2004 beetle owners have, from the hard drive in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, "gear"; the brackets around the gears; the hesitation after stopping(a scary feeling). I have had the car at a vw dealership, one I really trust, and they also are not sure, but after diagnosis(which was wrong - sensors) ... Read More

• New Beetle transmission problems/PLEASE READ

  Written by: trannybugsme on Sep 18, 2009 3:25:37 PM

  My daughter has a 2004 New Beetle with 60,000 miles on it. Same problem as most, with jerking, shuddering, lurching, etc. Brought into dealer last week, and I was told it needed the non-servicable transmission replaced. To the tune of $6,500.00 plus! Of course, my service person told me "off the record", that there is an "issue" with the transmissions. I have done lengthy research, and there are no recalls, etc., ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Body Work Problems

• Re: bug window falling out [bugdude]

  Written by: smcclarty on Aug 11, 2008 9:31:48 AM

  How do you reset? I am encouraged that this is not a big problem. I thought I was going to need to replace the top AND the mechanism at a quote of $8,000. I have had many beetles. The diesel 2002 was a true LEMON!! I spend as much on repairs as the car cost new! Now this problem with the 2004 convertible is very disheartening. I don't think I can ... Read More

• Buy a new one?

  Written by: moto7 on Apr 25, 2008 4:00:37 PM

  My wife really wants a new beetle conv. but after reviewing some of the problems mentioned here, I'm a little cautious. Most of the serious and common problems seem to be with the 2004's. Does anyone know if Volks has corrected any of the consistent engineering/mfg issues like the windows, etc. on the newer models (2007, 2008)??. Is there a blog or website that informs of VW problem addressing?

Volkswagen Beetle Maintenance and Repair

• Volkswagen recalls nearly 800,000 cars!

  Written by: orbit9090 on Aug 21, 2007 7:40:22 PM

  NEWS: Volkswagen recalls nearly 800,000 cars Defective brake lights on Golf, GTI, Jetta, New Beetle and R32 are a potential safety hazard and should be replaced. February 26, 2007 - Around 800,000 Volkswagen vehicles have been recalled Monday because of faulty brake lights, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said. The 790,000 vehicles include Jettas, New Beetles, Golfs, GTIs and R32s...all in the United States. The specific years and models affected ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Body Work Problems

• Re: VW [inspired4]

  Written by: tessofnapa on Sep 5, 2007 8:53:14 PM

  I too own a 2004 VW Beetle Convertible with window issues. From the day I brought my car home I had problems with the front window, I was told it was a known design defect. Three years later they finally fixed the problem. Six weeks ago my rear driver side window broke, stuck in the down position. I took my car to the dealership where it still remains. Unfortunately I was ... Read More

• Re: VW [mgossett]

  Written by: inspired4 on Sep 5, 2007 7:10:51 PM

  I am interested in your class action suit! I am fed up with my 2004 VW Beetle Convertible to the point where I am planning to look for a new car. I have had numerous incidents with my windows-I have lost count. Usually one of the front windows hits the roof when you put them up and then go immediately back down. This has happened under warranty and I regret not ... Read More

• New Beetle 2004 - Shattering driver's window

  Written by: mkeeler on Sep 5, 2007 2:37:53 PM

  Well today has left me frustrated. Frustrated that my New Convertible Beetle has been in the shop more than my driveway - and always with overnight stays without a loaner car. The usual issue is usually a check engine light on, but this one is different. I pulled in my driveway last week, with my driver's side window down just to expose about 1-2 inches of glass. I shut the door ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Electrical & Lighting Problems

• Re: Headlamp replacement New Beetle [ourfirst]

  Written by: alanjack on Jul 17, 2007 6:32:28 AM

  aaronr21 has the same response but if it's your left headlight IE drivers side it's a real tight fit. there's a "plastic" slider mechanism that looks like the trigger on a rifle. just to the left of this is a waffled button about 3/8" by 3/8" ...you have to push this in and pull up on the trigger.....mind you on the passengers side you can drive another VW in the space ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Maintenance and Repair

• Re: Help!! VW 2003 beetle convertable [dtan]

  Written by: cabriopimpin01 on May 13, 2007 7:37:42 AM

  my family has been buying VWs for over 25 years now, and we've ever model basically except the new beetles-anywhere between 1998-2007- They are the worst cars VW makes. Beetles and the 2000-2004 jettas are crazy massed produce so alot of stuff just over looked. i would suggest the Passats or golfs. I drive a 01Cabrio and love it. but the dont make those anymore. if your looking for a good ... Read More

• Re: Any Advice? [curtisloew]

  Written by: cuervogold on Jun 20, 2006 11:42:18 AM

  If you haven't bought the VW yet, don't! I have recently gone through a major run around from VW US in getting repair work on our 2004 VW new beetle convertable covered by the warranty. Seems they don't cover OUTSIDE INFLUENCES under the 4 year/50,000 mile "bumper to bumper" warranty. OUTSIDE INFLUENCE is the term they can use to exclude just about anything that "happens to" the car once it leaves ... Read More

• Re: 04 Beetle Convert. Airbag Sensor Light Problem [bamakrys]

  Written by: jpuncmom on Jun 8, 2006 4:12:13 PM

  This is exactly the kind of comment I've been looking for about the new VW Airbag sensor light staying on. We purchased a used 2004 VW from a dealer in Durham, NC and this problem showed up about 3 months later. They are telling us that they will need to remove the driver's seat, take it apart to fix the faulty switch, put new fabric on the seat and then reinstall ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Body Work Problems

• Beetle Cab 2005

  Written by: islay on May 9, 2006 8:59:22 AM

  Hi, I bought a 2004 beetle cab in 2005 from a deler here in the UK. they had previously owned the car as a demo. when i bought it the roof was clunking when going down so they fixed it before i picked it up. since then ihave had nothing but problems with the roof going up and down and have had more than one moter for the roof and replaced ... Read More

VW New Beetle (GL, GLS & GLX)

• Hard Plastic Tool or Part

  Written by: barneylou on Apr 3, 2006 6:02:11 AM

  I heard some rattling in the front of my 2004 New Beetle a week or so ago - nothing bad, just thought it was wind in the grill which had been cracked. Then yesterday, a white, hard plastic thing worked its way out from under the hood and got caught in my windshield wiper. I pulled it out, and it has a VW logo. It is about half an inch wide, ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Maintenance and Repair

• Why I'm trading my 2000 Beetle in for a Honda this weekend...

  Written by: jaimemichele on Jan 20, 2006 9:48:34 AM

  Hi all! I've been reading posts in the New Beetle forum since September of this year, when my 2000 New Beetle with then only 52k miles on it started experiencing major problems. I bought the Beetle used in 2004 from an owner who hadn't used the car much and bought the car brand new in 2000. At precisely a year to the date I bought the Beetle, the "check engine" light ... Read More

• Re: 2006 New Beetle TDI Problems Already [beetleblues]

  Written by: catlady44 on Dec 14, 2005 5:28:52 PM

  Wow, that is pretty crappy. I have a 2004 VW Beetle Convertible Turbo and if I had to do it all over again, I would never buy one. After reading the horrible stories on this forum, I do not have a lot of confidence in the car. I would continue to bug VW customer care and do not stop until you get the satisfaction you desrve. You should not have that ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Body Work Problems

• 05 vs 06 vw beetle convertible

  Written by: dezy on Dec 3, 2005 7:32:49 AM

  After the new Year we will be purchasing one... I would like to know what is the difference, and why are the 2006 cheaper than the 2005 ???? Should I get auto, or manual... What is the best engine... Our dealer has so many 2005, My boss said I should get a 2004 (always buy a 2 year old car-low miles, so all the bugs are out of it) any ideas???? ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Maintenance and Repair

• Re: vw new beetle tdi reliability [mixuone]

  Written by: empi on Oct 25, 2005 7:39:48 PM

  Hi. I wish I had known about this forum before I bought my 2004 Beetle Convertible GLS Turbo 0 Automatic Tiptronic. I bought it through a friend of my boss who had bought it for his wife for Mother's Day in 2004. 6 Months later she was tired of it and bought a Mercedes CLK convertible. I happened to be in the market for another car as my 95 Mercedes E320 ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Body Work Problems

• Re: 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle Conv. [alfonso_h]

  Written by: catlady44 on Oct 4, 2005 2:36:47 PM

  I am so curious how you like your VW Beetle Convertible. I just recently bought one with 6600 miles (a friend of my boss was selling it - he had bought it for his wife for Mother's day 2004 and 6 months later she wanted a Mercedes CLK convertible). In any event, I have the Turbo model and I am very unhappy with the gas mileage. I am flabberghasted that it ... Read More

Volkswagen TDI Models

• A/C Damaged, Normal Driving

  Written by: hotgolf on Aug 15, 2005 6:18:32 PM

  I am the owner of a 2004 Golf TDI. I would like to get the opinion of your members. I love the car but something caused a pin hole in the A/C condenser the other day while driving on US 281, in San Antonio. My thinking is if something very small can cause this problem during normal driving, then there is a design issue. I was told I would have to ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Body Work Problems

• 2004 New Beetle Convertible a big mistake

  Written by: peacechick on Jun 9, 2005 4:41:55 AM

  I bought a brand new 2004 Beetle Convertible and was so excited, drove it 10 miles and the check engine light came on. Took it back immediately and was told it would take a few days to service it. Mind you I had just given them a check for $24,000. They gave me a used MAZDA mini van to drive. Had to replace the fuel pump as the gas gage would ... Read More

VW New Beetle (GL, GLS & GLX)

• 2006 New, New Beetle with 2.5, 5 cylinder Engine Looks Interesting

  Written by: micweb on May 27, 2005 8:32:01 AM

  I actually owned a 1967 original Beetle, new to me in '67. I looked at the New Beetle when it first came out but decided the Golf was more practical. Now, however, VW is updating the New Beetle for 2006 and adding the new 5 cylinder, much more powerful engine. I am thinking this is a very attractive combination; the new Golf and new Jetta have gotten "corpulent" gaining about 500 ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Body Work Problems

• Re: My 2003 New Beetle 1.8T Convertible [whatacar]

  Written by: beesie on Apr 6, 2005 11:44:14 AM

  That's a bummer. My 2004 New Beetle 2.0 Convertible is a really nice little car. I enjoy driving it. I did test a new Turbo before buying the 2.0 and my husband and I decided the 2.0 GLS was a better deal. It is his understanding that the Turbos have more problems and wear out sooner than the 2.0. We have owned several VWs, including a Cabriolet and 2 Jettas. The ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Maintenance and Repair

• 2004 VW Beetle jerky when cold

  Written by: drdbrown on Apr 1, 2005 8:39:21 AM

  The service rep told me that my new automatic Beetle needs to be "warmed up" before putting it in drive. I thought that went out with the horse and buggy. My symptom is an occasional jerky start if it is put in drive directly after a cold start (Cold? I live in San Diego so we are talking about 60 degrees being cold!) The Rep said something about a "Cold Safety ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Body Work Problems

• 2004 Beetle Convertible

  Written by: mv4damunchkin on Feb 19, 2005 3:41:10 PM

  I love my car. However, all cars have problems. I have had minor stuff like the paint rubbing off on that trunk which will be resolved momentarily. I have had Chrysler products for the past 10 years. I have had less problems with my VW in the past six months than my whole time owning Chrysler products. The main problems for mine was the dealership I purchased the car from. It ... Read More

• Re: How lovely... [colorado1974]

  Written by: p100 on Oct 9, 2004 7:01:23 PM

  I have read several complaints about 1.8 l turbo engine clutches going out at 10k or 20k miles. How many miles did this loaner 2004 Jetta have on it? The most absurd thing is that in some cases, VW will not cover the clutch replacement under warranty, as it is considered a normal wear item, and to make this insult even worse, they charge about $ 2000 to install a new ... Read More

VW New Beetle (GL, GLS & GLX)

• Re: Another letter to VW, cont [bluelemon]

  Written by: bluelemon on Aug 17, 2004 6:53:55 AM

  Dear VW USA President, As the President of Volkswagen, I thought you might like to hear of my recent experience in purchasing a product from your company. It is a story from which not only you, but many others, can learn, and one which I am anxious to share. I spent many years admiring Volkswagen cars for both their styling and espoused reliability, before I could finally afford to purchase one ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Maintenance and Repair

• VW : Buy it, you'll regret it. A letter to VW

  Written by: bluelemon on Aug 15, 2004 1:10:05 PM

  Gerd Klauss, President Volkswagen of America, Inc. 3499 West Hamlin Road Rochester Hills, Michigan 48309 Dear Mr Klauss, As the President of Volkswagen, I thought you might like to hear of my recent experience in purchasing a product from your company. It is a story from which not only you, but many others, can learn, and one which I am anxious to share. I spent many years admiring Volkswagen cars for ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Body Work Problems

• 2.0L OIL CONSUMPTION QUESTIONS

  Written by: spqr on Jul 28, 2004 11:34:33 AM

  Hi. I just bought a 2004 GL New Beetle Convertible with the 2.0L engine and a manual transmission. (As an aside, we go the GL because I distrust the semi-automatic roof on the GLS). So far my wife and I love it. Looking through the manual, we were surpised to read the part about oil consumption. I was wondering if anyone knew the answers to my following questions: (1) Does anyone ... Read More

• 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle Conv.

  Written by: alfonso_h on Nov 19, 2003 2:31:47 PM

  I'm so excited on saturday i'm trading in my 2001 VW Beetle Coupe for the convertible.

• Discontinued New Beetle convertible?

  Written by: ddoss on May 22, 2004 9:06:59 PM

  I'm in a panic! I have my heart set on the new Beetle convertible and a manager from a Nissan dealership told me today he just heard that 2004 is the last year they will be built because of consumer problems and I should consider getting a Nissan 350Z. Has anyone else heard this? I only want the VW! If this is true then I'm very depressed. I've been holding out ... Read More

VW New Beetle (GL, GLS & GLX)

• 98 NB GL & 99 NB GLX problems

  Written by: dmbrining on Mar 2, 2004 7:59:36 PM

  February 16, 2004 Volkswagen Customer Relations 3800 Hamlin Road Auburn Hills, MI 48326 To Whom It May Concern: Let me tell you that you are dealing with a very upset customer. I have officially decided not to purchase another Volkswagen or foreign vehicle of any kind for the rest of my life. I have experienced nothing positive with your NEW VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. The best way for me to explain my unhappiness ... Read More

Volkswagen Beetle Maintenance and Repair

• 04 Beetle Convert. Airbag Sensor Light Problem

  Written by: bamakrys on Jan 15, 2004 9:29:24 AM

  I bought my 16 year old an 04 Convert. Beetle. Brand new car, less than 1400 miles on it. Air bag sensor light comes on. Leave it at local dealership to be fixed on Dec. 29, 2003. Today is Jan. 15, 2004. They still have not fixed the car....Part is not available. Just a few minutes ago I get a call from the dealer...all that needed to be done was a ... Read More