Skip to main content

Used 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle Consumer Reviews

3.7 out of 5 stars
93 reviews

See Edmunds pricing data

Has Your Car's Value Changed?

Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.

Price history graph example

Trending topics in reviews

Pros
Cons
4.75 out of 5 stars

No Major Complaints

Derek71, 09/21/2004
1998 Volkswagen New Beetle 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Considering my experience with VW as well as that of friends who own one, I'm not so sure I'd buy another. I say this because it depends heavily on the individual car you get. I have had almost no trouble with my Beetle which is rapidly approaching the 6 year mark. My complaints are limited to minor frustrations. The lightbulbs burn out rather frequently and cost $75 to replace. You try getting at them yourself. Also, the tapedeck is junk. Even when you use CD or AM/FM the tapedeck decides to engage and tell you "No Tape". Yeah, thanks for the update. I replaced the automatic window switches myself ($40 part + a screwdriver to pop it off).

Report Abuse

1.38 out of 5 stars

4 years of HELL

gallagherx, 06/22/2003
1998 Volkswagen New Beetle 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car has subjected me to numerous problems over the past four years (excluding the horrendous problems posed by the dealership!). The passenger side window falling into the door driving across Canada! The headlights have burnt out numerous times and the cost of repair is outrageous.

Report Abuse
1998 Volkswagen New Beetle for sale near you
Showing 3 of 5 listings
See all 5 listings

4.75 out of 5 stars

Moose's VW 411

Knoxville Moose, 06/05/2003
1998 Volkswagen New Beetle 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had an amazing experience in the 98 Beetle. It's my first car and is an excellent option for the teenage driver. It's incredibly safe! After being rear ended in a nasty collision that left a Stanza totalled, both passengers in my car walked away without a scratch. The car took quite a hit and was driveable; however, it is especially hard to repair because of the build of the car and it's low level. The Beetle has rarely failed me or even let me down in the least. It's fun, it's safe, it's reliable, and it gets the attention of the opposite sex;)

Report Abuse

3.88 out of 5 stars

Own for 5 years

garner61, 01/19/2005
1998 Volkswagen New Beetle TDi 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this car Feb.1st of 1999 after waiting almost a year to get one. Great gas mileage - I have 106000 miles on it still get 44 mpg. The A.C. compressor has gone out twice. Left door window broke and have had lots of trouble with lights. But all told I have saved more on fuel than repairs. About 2100.00 so far on total repairs. Have changed belt out at 60k. Hope to run till 200k.

Report Abuse

5 out of 5 stars

Perfect

Bug Lover, 07/30/2005
1998 Volkswagen New Beetle 2dr Hatchback
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love my Volkswagen! Sure I have had a few problems with it, you have problems with every car. I highly recommend VW and I am currently searching for my newest addition, a Bug Conv.

Report Abuse
Items per page:
5