2004 Beetle Convertible

[larubia54]

I love the Beetle and now have the opportunity to have one. I am looking at a 2004 Beetle Convertible Automatic with approximately 20,000 miles. My question is that that year and model has received bad reviews because of faulty valve which causes the transmission to slip, is this true or the problem is only seen in turbo? I would appreciate advice as to purchase or not?

[Smileybug]

Its true. VW offered an extended warranty on the unit but it is only for 7 years, so an '04 is likely out of the warranty period.

If you can drive a manual, I'd stick with that. The VW autos can be a pain at times.


Only 20k on it? Hope they kept up with maintenance. Even though mileage is low, oil hopefully was changed once a year or so, not every 5-10k. Timing belt should be changed soon, if its not done already. If you do look at this car more seriously, it should be inspected very well. Low miles does not always mean in good shape all the way around.

[larubia54]

Thank you very much for your insight. Is there any year Beetle Convertible that is worry free. I would rather drive an automatic than manual.

[Smileybug]

I love VWs but I will say that none are "worry free". I don't know much about the 'verts, but with those you do have the top to worry about. I would think the '06+ cars would be your best bet if you really have to have an auto, but no VW auto is as good as the manuals.