[jhicken]

The stock '99 New Beetle had a Stereo/tape player with CD changer capabilities. If the current radio in there is a Stereo/CD player it may not be stock.

If it is stock, read on...

The radio code was on a sticker originally provided when the car was new. Most folks put it in the owner’s manual. If you do not have the code, there is only one way to get it and that is to remove the radio. There are two little slots on the front of the stock radio. Two small "keys" fit into these slots. You push them in and they unlatch the radio and allow you to pull it out. The "keys" are a specialized tool that you can get either at a stereo instalation supply store or a VW dealer. Check on-line, they’re readily available and will cost you between $10-15.

After you pull the radio out, there is a serial number stamped into the side of the deck. You need that number and your registration and ID to get it from the dealer. Most dealers won't charge you to give you the code. It will only take them a minute or so to look it up.

After you turn the radio on, it'll read "SAFE" on the dial, and then it will change to 1000. The code is four digits long. To change it from 1000, push the radio preset buttons to change the numbers to match the code. After the correct numbers are there, press and hold the DIN> button for a few seconds and the radio should start playing.

If you aren't getting any power to the radio, their is also a fuse on teh back of the radio. Follow the above proceedure to remove the radio to get to the fuse.

Seeing how your daughter is so far away, I'd just have her take it to a local dealer and have them manage it. Trying to diagnose this long distance and having her take it to an unqualified mechanic [probably not even a mechanic] at AutoZone is not worth the trouble. It's possible that the guy at Autozone touched something or hooked soemthing up wrong and damage the fuses.

Good luck

-jeffrey