New Beetle or not

[sammypoodle]

My 16 year daughter would like to get a 2000 ish New Beetle. The reviews on this car are horrendous. Problems,and more problems. Is this really true? How can this car be as bad as they say? Can owners of this car please let me know if the car is prone to issues, do they like it etc. I would hate to have to keep putting money into a car and would like a semi reliable car. All ideas good and bad are welcome. Thank you.

[JLasvegas]

Take most reviews with a grain of salt, most car owners thing all they need to do is add fuel and go, they never maintain vehicles. I have owned Hondas and Toyotas and the VW is just as reliable

[D2Beetle]

I have never had reliability issues with either of mine. Just be sure that you get a good one and not one that was abused or someone selling theirs to avoid the next maintenance cycle.

[digitalputty]

I would take any car (the New Beetle included) to a reliable mechanic before purchase. That way, they can look at the car and see if there might be major issues with it!

My New Beetle, a 2003 Blue Lagoon Color Concept, has treated me well over the last 6.5 years. I wouldn't trade it for the world. Yes, there have recently been a few issues but, they are wear items. Normal crap that you have to deal with.

Just make sure that the car was loved before you buy it.

Good luck!

[dnyed]

Be that good Dad, and get your daughter the New Beetle that she wants.

NB owners who maintain their cars, and have no problems, will not publish complaints. Maybe this is why you only see the complainers. I think here at the Org, you will get a good cross section of good and not so good. Our New Beetles, as with other Volkswagens, need to be maintained.

The New Beetle is a perfect first car for your daughter. It's a fun car. She will love and pamper it. It's easy to drive and park. And it's a very safe car.


Welcome to the Org! Good luck to you in finding the right one!

[2004NBTURBOS]

I had a 2000 NB with only a few minor issues. Most of the kinks were worked out by 2003, so if you can find or afford a 03 or later it might be in your best interest to go that route. Most of the problems on the 99 to 02 were electrical issues. Make sure timing belt and water pump have been changed as this is a costly service but vital to the cars longevity. These cars have interference motors meaning if the belt brakes the pistons are going to start slapping the valves and do major damage to the head. Anything you want to know about the NB can found here so ask away.

[sammypoodle]

Thank you for thoughts. Please keep them coming in. We drove one today and I must say they handle great and has great acceleration.