2003 Beetle Covertble

[larubia54]

Going to see a 2003 Beetle Convertible with 90,000 miles. What should I look and ask about? Would a transmission problem have already appeared having so many miles? Also is $5900 as an asking price within reality?

[Duffy]

I owned a new 03 for about two years and it was fine. Now own a 09.

Timing belt and water pump are always a concern. If not changed they will be needed at 90k. Thoroughly check top operation especially the flaps or wings. Fuel door opening properly. Trunk operation with key, remote and door switch. Perhaps others will give their thoughts. Enjoy,

[Smileybug]

Manual? Auto?

[IndyTom]

Originally Posted by larubia54

Going to see a 2003 Beetle Convertible with 90,000 miles. What should I look and ask about? Would a transmission problem have already appeared having so many miles? Also is $5900 as an asking price within reality?

Too High. In excellent condition the car might be worth about $5000 but the trade in is only about $3500-4000 max!
I would negotiate the price down to about $4500 no more.

You can argue that the timing belt service is going to cost you between 1100-1200 dollars and if it is an automatic it needs a fluid change. Actually, if it is an Automatic I would stay away from it at any price. Those early VW Automatics even the tiptronic transmissions just don't last much past 100k miles. Even if they do last longer it isn't if they fail but when.

I would pay a bit more and get a 2006+ VW Beetle with 2.5 liter engine. Less maintenance (No timing belt to worry about).