Used 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle Consumer Reviews
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great car...horrible electric system
I've had this car since it came out in 1998. Overall the car is alot of fun to drive, powerful and handles great. The only problems have been electrical.The front headlights are defective and the power window regulators were disigned poorly. I would definitely buy this car again but would get manual windows and a 1999-2001 since I think they have less electrical problems.
Runs great...BUT
I haven't had any of the electical problems mentioned in the other reviews. My complaints are about mostly cosmetic problems. The interior door handles are peeling...I'm told it's from the lotion I use (?), the antennae is getting corroded, the gas cover has broken 3 times, I've had to replace the pegs on the hatchback twice. Also the doors are causing nicks in the paint on the front fender. Irritating little things, but overall I like the car.
- Base 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $3,750755 mi away
- Base 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $2,4951,002 mi away
- Base 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $3,9001,124 mi away
Bug of my dreams?
I've always wanted a bug, found the one i was looking for but as soon as i took it home everything went wrong. electrical problems, engine problems, right window wont roll up. to think this car is cute your totally wrong. major regret
A typical experience
I love this car, it's so fun. Use it as a 3rd car -about to sell it since it's hard to get a car seat into the back. Window switch problem, peeling door handles (no lotion here!), badly designed cup holders, had MANY headlights and harnesses, plus electrical problem I had to go to war over...defective killed the battery within 48 hours. They told me I should "drive it more!" (how, since it was always dead?) After calling VW and causing a scene at the dealer they finally diagnosed the problem. It is cute, fun, very good pickup. I still love it after all that. Good design, German-style steering. And it fits my 6'4" spouse.
Distinctive but problematic
Yes, like the others, I have loved driving my Bug and the comments I get from others. I have experienced similiar electrical problems with the car as well as some others so be on the lookout! So far, at 36,000, I have had to fix the following - both power window switches, both O2 sensors replaced, replace 1 headlight, have 1 foglight that needs to be replaced, a seal crack that caused all the power steering fluid to drain out. Still waiting to hear from VW to see if they will cover any of repairs for O2 sensors as all other model years except 1998 were covered for this under a recall. Not sure if I will get another one or not.