With regret, I post the following information. I bought a 99 GLS in May. I love the design of the car, the way it drives, etc. But I am at my wit's end regarding quality and the ability to get it serviced adequately by VW. Most recently, it took me 2 weeks to get an appointment, they kept the car for a week, and it is now worse than when I brought it in for service. Most disturbing has been trying to deal with VWofA. All they will do at the customer service number is take information. While I eventually found out the name of the VW regional representative, no one will give me telephone number to call him. And no one calls me back.
Yes, I will try another dealer, but I did expect more from VWofA. I will certainly not buy another VW. As much as I love the car, it is simply not worth this ongoing headache.
Wow where are you guys at? My local VW dealer has been selling New Bugs for MSRP for the past 2 months. Even the 2000. I almost bought a 2000 Bug, the price MSRP. But I spotted an Arrest Me Red 99 Golf GLS with all options for $400 over invoice. The family jumped in and the fit was much better then the bug. So even though I really wanted the 2000 GLS black Bug I got the Golf and am very happy with it. The Bug is a great car but paying over MSRP I won’t do for any car. My local dealer has so many they are parking them on the side street and trying hard to get ride of evey 99 they have. They offered me a 99 Bug for under MSRP.
Don't ever, ever, ever, pay more than MSRP. Period, end of story, ba-da-bing, ba-da-boom! Me, personally, I would never, ever, go near a dealer again who wanted more than MSRP. MSRP should be regarded as an upper limit, not a basis for negotiation.
rel- I find your experience very interesting. I've owned one type of VW or another continuously since I started driving 18 years ago. I've seen some crappy dealers (who hasn't?), but I've also seen some very good ones. And I've had nothing but excellent experiences with VW of America. My Corrado's air conditioner routinely broke every six months or so, and I never paid a penny to repair it, ever. Long after the warranty expired, VW kept paying to repair it.
One thing I have discovered about dealerships. Don't go to Ima Crook's GM, Honda, and (way down in the fine print) VW dealership. Any dealer who lists VW as an "oh, by the way," in his advertising or title isn't really interested in VW owners (we don't make up enough of his customer base). He probably only has one mechanic who's VW-trained, and he's probably either the service manager or the guy who's up to his elbows in that Caddy. Either way, odds are he won't be the one --or at least the only one -- working on your car.
See if you can find a dedicated VW/Audi dealer, or go to one of those independents who specializes in VW's or German cars (if he's licensed by VW, he can probably do warranty work, so ask).
I'm the proud owner of a yellow 2000 NB GL. I paid MSRP peroid. No dealer extras. I agree with the previous posts. Do not EVER EVER pay above MSRP. It's the fools who do pay extra that gives dealers license to add thousands to the sticker price. Be patient...you will get your bug.
VW is building the turbo auto, or so I've been told. It seems like they have been shipping a lot of them recently (I guess "a lot" is relative). Call around, especially on the East coast--I bet you can find one fairly quickly, unless you're fussy about colors.
I was ready to buy a NB when I read very negative comments in a forum on a Beetle web site. New owners were complaining about seat fabric unraveling, bad paint, and exterior accessories, like the VW symbol, continuously falling off the car. The comments really discouraged me because I'm used to Hondas and Toyotas with very few maintenance problems. But I can take boring no longer! Has anyone had these kind of problems?
I've owned 3 Honda Accords in the last 15 years, and my wife and I bought a NB last December. 8000 miles later, the only problem is the O2 sensor needed replacing. No big deal. Otherwise, the car has been just about perfect ... no rattles, squeaks or other bad things. Nothing's fallen off, cracked, unravelled.
Remember, on a specific makes' website, you'll get a list of every problem, large or small. VW has sold 50 or 60 thousand NB's since spring '98, and I'm pretty sure that most of them have been running with little or no problems.
Also most of the problems that you stated were from the '98 models. They seem to be fixed for '99 and if you get the '00 I am sure you'll have no problems at all. There seems to be some disputes on how reliable the turbo is (see zderf's posts) but that is also a very new model with a trickier engine. If you are going for your standard NB you should be fine.
This is in response to Need Advice. I bought a 99 GLS in May and have only 2000 miles on it because it has spent so much time at the dealership. In fact, it is there right now. I have been plagued by small things like numerous rattles, pieces falling off, etc., but also larger problems like very difficult starting that they have not been able to repair. Dealing with VW has been a nightmare. My first dealer (Boardwalk), where I bought the car, has been both incompetent and non-communicative. My second dealer (Sonnen in San Rafael) has been very helpful and wonderful to deal with, so I am hopeful that they will solve the problems. While I love the car itself, I am really fed up with these problems. Do not expect Honda reliability and service !
Pick any make, any model, and I'll find you a lemon.
Happy people don't [non-permissible content removed]. That's why you see people complaining about their cars. I'd be willing to bet that, for every New Beetle owner who's having problems, there are 20 who aren't. In a piece of machinery as complex as a car, it's unreasonable to expect zero defects. There are also bound to be (by the law of averages) numerous problems in a new model, because a prototype is always put together with more care than a straight production model. Consequently, small problems usually don't show up until you build a bunch of them.
Something else to keep in mind. VW and the American manufacturers (being #'s one thru four in production volume) are at a disadvantage for two reasons. 1) The more cars you build, the more defects will creep into your production cycle. 2) While the percentage chance of a given defect showing up might not be that big, a higher volume will create a higher number (absolute value, not percentage) of defects.
Yes, VW has had some problems with the NB mostly on 1st year models. And remember, the Turbo is new this year. While any given NB MIGHT be a lemon (and it's no more likely, percentage wise, than with most other models), it is ridiculous to assume that they all are simply because you've heard from a few people who have problems.
Dealers, on the other hand, are a different story. Vote with your wallet. If you don't like the service, go elsewhere. Eventually, the dirtbags will figure it out.
The '99 GLX is still at the dealership on its 3rd visit. Two VW tech's were brought in to figure out whats up. The fault code has, and continues, to point to the throttle control system. At VW Germany's recommendation, the engine control system computer was replaced at visit 2. The problem returned (EPC light & safety mode operation @ 10% power).
They spent one day check all grounds in the electrical system. Ops checked good.
Plans now call for addressing the original and continuing fault code. They are replacing the throttle body assembly and controls (fly-by-wire throttle).
This dealership is one of 40 nationwide that is part of the VW tech feedback panel. They meet weekly via conference call with Germany and Mexico. This GLX has everyones attention (huge warranty bills are mounting). Dealership plans to seek compensation from VW on our behalf for the major inconvenience. If this fix does not work, we are going for a 2000 GLX replacement.
In response to bwummer's comments regarding 1 problem per 20 happy campers... probably right on the mark. As for the the problems complaining about their cars... again, right on the mark. I am testament to that. So I must ask, what is the purpose of forums of this type? I must subsequently answer... to share information good and bad that might serve some benefit to people in similar situations, or, to provide additional information to people as needed to make informed decisions.
As such, I say complain away. That is the very foundation of this forum.
I'll keep this situation posted for those who are interested in the Turbo GLX, and for those who are interested in how VW eventually handles what could call for a replacement vehicle.
I bought my 99 2.0 GLS 5 speed in January. Close to 10,000 miles now and NO problems other than a broken floor mat clip. I just took it in for the 10,000 mile check up and all is fine. My engine used no oil between 5,000 mile change. Just got back from Driverfest in New York, we did the 1,100 mile drive back to Orlando in one 15 hour stint. It's a great road car, we averaged 80 to 90 mph most of the way. One aspect of the the New Beetle not mentioned very often here is it's stellar safety ratings. 5 star ratings for front impacts, 5 star front seat side impact. It's in the top three rated cars for head restraint design - as good as Saab and Volvo's active head restraints in a rear collision. I feel very safe in this car, wouldn't be able to say that about a Honda.
You're absolutely right! My problem isn't with you folks who DO have a legitimate problem with your car (or dealership). I'd be getting pretty pissed right now too if I were in your shoes.
My problem is with the people who log on to one of these boards and say, "Oh, my goodness! There are so many negative posts here, I'd better not buy this model." Most of them don't even check to see how many different people posted, they just count the number of posts. Provided you know how to interpret the data, you can find some useful information by looking at the various problems. Unfortunately, most people just see something negative and have a knee-jerk reaction.
I'd like to say that I have not had any problems with my own '99 GLS auto that I bought in May. Also, my dealership has just been very helpful to me in recommending a service that will prevent a small cracked area (stone damage) on my windshield from getting any bigger later on. This is, of course, infinitely preferable to having the whole windshield replaced, which the dealer never urged.
I have never heard of anyone having seat fabric unravel, however I have heard of the VW logo falling off during cold weather (see the long-term NB test here on Edmund's for an example) due to the rubber adhesive conking out in the cold, but only on '98s.
I have also heard of mismatched paint, but that was in two colors (silver and yellow) for the '98 and was fixed in that model year. That's the reason those colors have been hard to get in places. My NB is silver, has only been in a garage for a week since I got it in May and it still looks great after sitting in the sun all summer.
REL sounds like he picked up a lemon, as does zderf. As bwummer has mentioned, anybody can, no matter what make or model or year or what. (A VW owner on another topic in the town hall mentioned that his VW outlasted *three* Hondas.) Nobody should have to put up with having their brand-new, expensive little car in the shop half the time, and that is, of course, why there are lemon laws.
First-year models, as a rule, aren't as reliable as later years, and from what I've heard so far the '98 NBs have had dash rattles and hatch rattles and some wires in bad places, all of which was fixed in the '99s. I got a little paranoid myself and listened for suspicious noises, but I haven't found anything yet in my NB.
I would suggest to jm16 to read the long-term NB road test and don't worry so much about the car's reliability. Chances are greatly in your favor that you'll wind up with a super little car with lots of personality, like me!
I picked up my 2000 GLS three weeks ago in Detroit, and I love it. I've put about 1500 miles on it so far, and it's so much fun to drive. I go driving every evening just for fun! It's handled like a champ too.
The thing that amazes me most, though, is the reaction I get from people when I'm driving around. Even though this is the third model year of the NB, I still get constant looks from passerbys and pedestrians. I've had so many people ask just to sit in my car, much less ride around the block in it. It's a bit eerie, but kind of fun. People still seem to be amazed by these things...
And last week when I had to move, I was amazed at how much stuff I could toss in the back hatch when I folded the back seats down. And you know, that little flap above the trunk is the exact height of a paper grocery bag, which is kind of nice...makes it easy to load the groceries!
new beetle should be new roach...or new termite...i have had nothing but trouble with mine since day 1...leaking power steering...pan under the engine fell off...broken window switch...broken window motor...defective back seat and head rests...bad rear window...it goes on and on...i contact volkswagen of america, customer service...and after repeated calls to them...they said "take a hike"..."live with it"...not me, it's going up for sale fast! bummer, i really wanted this car...but i refuse to spend 20K for a dog..."buy a honda" is my new mantra....jm
We own a '99 NB GL with the gas 2.0L engine and 5 speed, and we love it! No, it's not the fastest car around, but it'll certainly get out of it's own way. The clutch and gearshift are much different than in the Hondas I've owned -- much more stiff and mechanical (I mean this in a good way). Not much reason to take the car above 5000 RPMs -- mostly noise, not much go. Mileage has been in the upper 20's; occasionally over 30 but only when doing a long road trip. Most of the mileage (about 9000 so far) has been with my wife's commute; about 20 miles one way in a semi-rural area ... two lane roads ... 50 to 60 MPH for the most part.
VW really told you to "take a hike"?? What were you asking for?
Our NB (with 9000 miles)has had a couple problems (it is a 98) - airbag light came on and the window switch "stuck"- both fixed to my satisfaction. Still a bummer to be without it when in the shop.
The handling on this car still amazes me - i think it is great. it accelerates fine too (5 spd) - 1st gear is a bit whimpy, but 2 and 3 seem to do well pulling into traffic.
Still waiting for my turbo to come in, ordered in April. I've noticed there are two tires coming on the beetles, a Michelin Energy or Goodyear RSA's. The dealer told me he'd switch to what ever I wanted. Any suggestions? I've Gl's and GLX's with either tires. Personal choice? Thanks Brian
How are interiors holding up? My wife works in a bank and the guy from the local detail shop came in. Through conversation he said that of the six regular NBs coming through that all the interiors look like they are 30 years old (worn spots, fraying, dirty, etc). What is everyone elses experience? I know Edmunds had some trouble several months ago, but they haven't mentioned anything about the interior quality for awhile. I have a new Civic, but am still working on getting a turbo NB (maybe I can get leather!). That purchase will be at least six months off though.
Hi! I've been waiting for a 2000 GLX in black with black interior. One has come in with the tan leather interior. Another have one out there ? How do you think it looks ? Is it wearing well ? The dealer wants $2000 over MSRP. Cars Direct offers $1400 over MSRP. Do you think I can work them down ?
Was hoping a bike would fit inside, no? I need about 4ft of length for my road bike, front wheel off, bars turned. If it won't fit, will have to look at bigger cars.
I am so excited about the New Bettle and specially the TDI for the MPG. However, I was told by my local dealer in smoggy Sacramento CA that Diesels are no longer allowed in California. Is this true?
It's a GLS with the leather/heat seats/sun roof and alloys, which unless someone knows something I don't, is exactly the same as the GLX I was searching for.
My car has the goodyears and they worked really well, haven't tried the Michelins though. Can't wait to drive it again.
there is one area in particular that we have a couple scuffs on, that is the top of the doors. The material is sort of soft and we have a couple scuffs. - this was in the 98 and don't know if it is the same- our passatt (97) also has a couple places where vw uses this material. I don't think it is such a good thing, even though it looks different and is also nice to touch as compared to hard plastic. That has been our only interior wear issue, the seats are fine, dash is fine, etc.
FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) -- Computers that monitor road conditions and respond more quickly than a human could will soon become a standard automotive feature, Volkswagen's chief executive said today.
Speaking at the Frankfurt International Motor Show, Ferdinand Piech said VW plans to introduce the company's ``Electronic Stability Program'' as a standard option on all vehicles.
``This system will become as widespread as anti-lock brakes did some years ago,'' he said.
The system helps drivers by activating brakes to help maintain the stability of the car. According to Piech, the system has been shown to reduce accidents or the severity of accidents.
The feature is already standard on the New Beetle, and will now be extended to the automaker's mass-market Golf, Bora and Passat models.
The Frankfurt show opens to the public Thursday, but automakers were holding media previews today and Wednesday.
VW also showed off a model made by one of its subsidiaries, the new Seat Arosa 3L model. The car's engine takes its name because it uses three liters of gas per 100 kilometers -- about three-quarters of a gallon per 60 miles. That's compared to between six and 12 liters for other European-made cars.
Also today, Audi unveiled its new A2 design, which has an all-aluminum body that weighs 40 percent less than if it were to be made of steel.
Mercedes-Benz held the European premiere of its SLR coupe, a convertible version of the automaker's super sports car whose body is made from high-tech composite materials.
Toyota jumped the gun on unveilings Monday, showing off their new Yaris Verso family car. The car has a system that allows the rear seats to fold all the way into the bottom of the floor for additional cargo room.
The Japanese automaker also announced it plans to sell its Prius hybrid-powered car in Europe in mid-2000. The family sedan uses two engines: a 1.5-liter gas engine and an electric motor. The combination gives it better gas mileage than conventional vehicles -- 28 kilometers per liter, or 66 miles to the gallon, in test drives. Other unveilings planned this week at the show include the BMW Z-8 super roadster and a new convertible version of the diminutive Smart car, produced by a DaimlerChrysler subsidiary.
An unexpected entry into the luxury market will come from Volkswagen. The carmaker will reportedly unveil a new D1 that will be powered by a 12-cylinder motor, to hit the market at the end of 2000. It's expected to cost less than the $77,000 for a comparable Mercedes S500.
VW is also unveiling a version of the New Beetle that will be about $2,700 cheaper than the current base price of $19,200. Although the new car has been a hit in the United States, it has yet to take off in Europe.
I've just spoke to a rep from 1-800-Drive-VW and it is true. Sales of 2000 diesels are no longer allowed in California. My only choice is he 1998 and 1999 diesels. This Sucks!
I just purchased an NB from Greenbriar VW in Chesapeake, VA. MSRP was $19,595, my final price was $19,000 plus as part of the deal they threw in the CD changer. All in all that's about $900 off MSRP. they do charge $299 for processing fee, which I think is a rip-off, but I guess all dealers charge that, whether VW or not.
Car is a 2000 GLS, auto trans, luxury package cloth interior. Dark Blue, beige interior.
Interesting that some dealers, perhaps many, still are charging over and above MSRP. On this list, I read where some are charging as much as $3 and 4,000!
I am sorry but you did get ripped off on that. Basically they found a way to charge you for that CD. There is no such thing as that... don't let them let you think that an extra fee like that is normal.
I just traded in my 99 Beetle GLS after having too many service problems with my dealer. After bringing the car in more than 10 times in 6 months to fix problems (see #462 in the previous forum for details), the car lost its charm with me. Don't take this as a bash against Beetles. I still think they're great, but I just couldn't take the service group any more (I also couldn't take it to another dealer because of previous warranty claims placed by my dealer).
Here's my advice for anyone having service problems. If you don't get the service you expect, or don't get the problem fixed after 2 or 3 times, ask to have the district service manager look at your car. This way the service manager for the dealership can't hide a complaint. By the way, my friend who bought a 99 Passat has had worse service problems than me (from the same dealer).
Also, for those who are having difficulty finding a New Beetle, try calling a dealer in the Northeast. I drive by VW dealers with rows of Beetles ready to go. If you're up for a flight, you might get your Beetle right away.
By the way, I bought my 99 GLS (Black with Beige interior) with allow wheels for $16,800 (MSRP was $17,875) in Feb. and just traded it in for $16,000.
I just got a birthday present from a friend in France - a European licence plate! I'd like to stick it on the front of my NB... Does anyone know where I can find a mounting kit for a European-sized plate? How on earth do you screw those mounting kits in, anyway? There's no holes in the bumper...(yet)
I loved my '98 Bug - until it was squished in a minor accident. Unfortunately, I now have to get a new car. But the good news is I paid $16,200 for it in 98 and I'm getting $15,800 for it now 16 months and 25,000 miles later! (and that doesn't include the sales tax they are also refunding). I guess I can't complain.
Dwight Harrison VW in Snellville, Ga (near Atlanta) has 30 NBs on his lot. They have many silver (one with turbo), many leather interiors, sunroofs, etc. Go to www.dwight-harrison.vwdealer.com. They have their inventory on-line, just no pictures.
Thanks for the info. Dwight Harrison VW has two gas turbos (one black, one silver), but both are automatic.
I'm not having much luck finding a silver a TDI, either.
I even tried Canada, but the dealer told me that VW won't let them sell new cars to be sent to the States. How used does a car have to be before it can be?
I'm looking to buy a yellow GLS... the dealer I've talked to didn't seem willing to go down on the sticker price (I came equipped with knowledge of the dealer invoice price)... Do you guys know if these cars are in such demand that I probably will have to pay the full price?
I need to install a wheelchair rack on the back of the Beetle (or else there is no point in me buying one). These usually install on a 'Class I Hitch'. I haven't yet been able to find out if I definitely can get one of these put on a Beetle. (It may be doable for any car... I just need to be sure.) Thanks.
I can't believe it! My wife and I stopped by to 'look' at Beetles on Saturday and ended up with a Dark Blue GLX automatic (she can't drive a stick and I'm getting lazy). It has the light tan interior and is fantastic! I did lose some $$ on my six month old Civic though. We are very happy with it and the time at the dealer was minimal.
I purchased it at Dwight Harrison VW in Snellville, Ga. They had just gotten these cars in the night before and the salesman (Dale Reynolds) had to take some of the 'packaging' off for us to test drive. It's nice having a car no one else abused before hand. We did test drive a GLS w/leather (no turbo), but I found it a bit noiser and, of course, less powerful.
I'm off to the maintenance lists to try to find out how to keep the interior clean now. My wife says I'll have this car the next 10 years, so I better be happy and keep it clean! I do and I'll try honey.
I just bought a 2000 NB, the owner's manual says that when the cruise control is engaged, a light comes on in the instrument cluster. My cruise works fine, but no light comes on. Is this normal? Also, there is no light for a few seconds when car is started. Anyone with cruise, please advise! Thanks, Bill
I've had my 2000 NB Turbo two weeks now, and the cruise light also does not come on, although it says it should in the owners manual. Last night, I had the cruise on, lifted the spoiler, and the light for the spoiler came on, and the spoiler would not go down. Stopped and started a few times but it stayed up. I flipped the switch a few times and it sounded like it was jammed! Finally it seemed to go back to normal operation. Maybe the cruise had something to do with it or just a jam! Brian
Comments
Yes, I will try another dealer, but I did expect more from VWofA. I will certainly not buy another VW. As much as I love the car, it is simply not worth this ongoing headache.
rel- I find your experience very interesting. I've owned one type of VW or another continuously since I started driving 18 years ago. I've seen some crappy dealers (who hasn't?), but I've also seen some very good ones. And I've had nothing but excellent experiences with VW of America. My Corrado's air conditioner routinely broke every six months or so, and I never paid a penny to repair it, ever. Long after the warranty expired, VW kept paying to repair it.
One thing I have discovered about dealerships. Don't go to Ima Crook's GM, Honda, and (way down in the fine print) VW dealership. Any dealer who lists VW as an "oh, by the way," in his advertising or title isn't really interested in VW owners (we don't make up enough of his customer base). He probably only has one mechanic who's VW-trained, and he's probably either the service manager or the guy who's up to his elbows in that Caddy. Either way, odds are he won't be the one --or at least the only one -- working on your car.
See if you can find a dedicated VW/Audi dealer, or go to one of those independents who specializes in VW's or German cars (if he's licensed by VW, he can probably do warranty work, so ask).
See Turbo Beetle Disaster and inputs earlier in this thread.
Try number 3. Who nose.
I wuld say avoid the turbo until they figure out how to make it run.
Remember, on a specific makes' website, you'll get a list of every problem, large or small. VW has sold 50 or 60 thousand NB's since spring '98, and I'm pretty sure that most of them have been running with little or no problems.
Just my .02
(BTW, we love our NB!)
Happy people don't [non-permissible content removed]. That's why you see people complaining about their cars. I'd be willing to bet that, for every New Beetle owner who's having problems, there are 20 who aren't. In a piece of machinery as complex as a car, it's unreasonable to expect zero defects. There are also bound to be (by the law of averages) numerous problems in a new model, because a prototype is always put together with more care than a straight production model. Consequently, small problems usually don't show up until you build a bunch of them.
Something else to keep in mind. VW and the American manufacturers (being #'s one thru four in production volume) are at a disadvantage for two reasons. 1) The more cars you build, the more defects will creep into your production cycle. 2) While the percentage chance of a given defect showing up might not be that big, a higher volume will create a higher number (absolute value, not percentage) of defects.
Yes, VW has had some problems with the NB mostly on 1st year models. And remember, the Turbo is new this year. While any given NB MIGHT be a lemon (and it's no more likely, percentage wise, than with most other models), it is ridiculous to assume that they all are simply because you've heard from a few people who have problems.
Dealers, on the other hand, are a different story. Vote with your wallet. If you don't like the service, go elsewhere. Eventually, the dirtbags will figure it out.
They spent one day check all grounds in the electrical system. Ops checked good.
Plans now call for addressing the original and continuing fault code. They are replacing the throttle body assembly and controls (fly-by-wire throttle).
This dealership is one of 40 nationwide that is part of the VW tech feedback panel. They meet weekly via conference call with Germany and Mexico. This GLX has everyones attention (huge warranty bills are mounting). Dealership plans to seek compensation from VW on our behalf for the major inconvenience. If this fix does not work, we are going for a 2000 GLX replacement.
In response to bwummer's comments regarding 1 problem per 20 happy campers... probably right on the mark. As for the the problems complaining about their cars... again, right on the mark. I am testament to that. So I must ask, what is the purpose of forums of this type? I must subsequently answer... to share information good and bad that might serve some benefit to people in similar situations, or, to provide additional information to people as needed to make informed decisions.
As such, I say complain away. That is the very foundation of this forum.
I'll keep this situation posted for those who are interested in the Turbo GLX, and for those who are interested in how VW eventually handles what could call for a replacement vehicle.
Thanks for listening.... Zderf
I bought my 99 2.0 GLS 5 speed in January. Close to 10,000 miles now and NO problems other than a broken floor mat clip. I just took it in for the 10,000 mile check up and all is fine. My engine used no oil between 5,000 mile change. Just got back from Driverfest in New York, we did the 1,100 mile drive back to Orlando in one 15 hour stint. It's a great road car, we averaged 80 to 90 mph most of the way.
One aspect of the the New Beetle not mentioned very often here is it's stellar safety ratings. 5 star ratings for front impacts, 5 star front seat side impact. It's in the top three rated cars for head restraint design - as good as Saab and Volvo's active head restraints in a rear collision. I feel very safe in this car, wouldn't be able to say that about a Honda.
My problem is with the people who log on to one of these boards and say, "Oh, my goodness! There are so many negative posts here, I'd better not buy this model." Most of them don't even check to see how many different people posted, they just count the number of posts. Provided you know how to interpret the data, you can find some useful information by looking at the various problems. Unfortunately, most people just see something negative and have a knee-jerk reaction.
I have never heard of anyone having seat fabric unravel, however I have heard of the VW logo falling off during cold weather (see the long-term NB test here on Edmund's for an example) due to the rubber adhesive conking out in the cold, but only on '98s.
I have also heard of mismatched paint, but that was in two colors (silver and yellow) for the '98 and was fixed in that model year. That's the reason those colors have been hard to get in places. My NB is silver, has only been in a garage for a week since I got it in May and it still looks great after sitting in the sun all summer.
REL sounds like he picked up a lemon, as does zderf. As bwummer has mentioned, anybody can, no matter what make or model or year or what. (A VW owner on another topic in the town hall mentioned that his VW outlasted *three* Hondas.) Nobody should have to put up with having their brand-new, expensive little car in the shop half the time, and that is, of course, why there are lemon laws.
First-year models, as a rule, aren't as reliable as later years, and from what I've heard so far the '98 NBs have had dash rattles and hatch rattles and some wires in bad places, all of which was fixed in the '99s. I got a little paranoid myself and listened for suspicious noises, but I haven't found anything yet in my NB.
I would suggest to jm16 to read the long-term NB road test and don't worry so much about the car's reliability. Chances are greatly in your favor that you'll wind up with a super little car with lots of personality, like me!
I picked up my 2000 GLS three weeks ago in Detroit, and I love it. I've put about 1500 miles on it so far, and it's so much fun to drive. I go driving every evening just for fun! It's handled like a champ too.
The thing that amazes me most, though, is the reaction I get from people when I'm driving around. Even though this is the third model year of the NB, I still get constant looks from passerbys and pedestrians. I've had so many people ask just to sit in my car, much less ride around the block in it. It's a bit eerie, but kind of fun. People still seem to be amazed by these things...
And last week when I had to move, I was amazed at how much stuff I could toss in the back hatch when I folded the back seats down. And you know, that little flap above the trunk is the exact height of a paper grocery bag, which is kind of nice...makes it easy to load the groceries!
So good, so good...
src
What were you asking for?
Our NB (with 9000 miles)has had a couple problems (it is a 98) - airbag light came on and the window switch "stuck"- both fixed to my satisfaction. Still a bummer to be without it when in the shop.
The handling on this car still amazes me - i think it is great. it accelerates fine too (5 spd) - 1st gear is a bit whimpy, but 2 and 3 seem to do well pulling into traffic.
Brian
Thanks !
It's a GLS with the leather/heat seats/sun roof and alloys, which unless someone knows something I don't, is exactly the same as the GLX I was searching for.
My car has the goodyears and they worked really well, haven't tried the Michelins though. Can't wait to drive it again.
That has been our only interior wear issue, the seats are fine, dash is fine, etc.
jl
FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) -- Computers that monitor road conditions and respond more quickly than a human could will soon become a standard automotive feature, Volkswagen's chief executive said today.
Speaking at the Frankfurt International Motor Show, Ferdinand Piech said VW plans to introduce the company's ``Electronic Stability Program'' as a standard option on all vehicles.
``This system will become as widespread as anti-lock brakes did some years ago,'' he said.
The system helps drivers by activating brakes to help maintain the stability of the car. According to Piech, the system has been shown to reduce accidents or the severity of accidents.
The feature is already standard on the New Beetle, and will now be extended to the automaker's mass-market Golf, Bora and Passat models.
The Frankfurt show opens to the public Thursday, but automakers were holding media previews today and Wednesday.
VW also showed off a model made by one of its subsidiaries, the new Seat Arosa 3L model. The car's engine takes its name because it uses three liters of gas per 100 kilometers -- about three-quarters of a gallon per 60 miles. That's compared to between six and 12 liters for other European-made cars.
Also today, Audi unveiled its new A2 design, which has an all-aluminum body that weighs 40 percent less than if it were to be made of steel.
Mercedes-Benz held the European premiere of its SLR coupe, a convertible version of the automaker's super sports car whose body is made from high-tech composite materials.
Toyota jumped the gun on unveilings Monday, showing off their new Yaris Verso family car. The car has a system that allows the rear seats to fold all the way into the bottom of the floor for additional cargo room.
The Japanese automaker also announced it plans to sell its Prius hybrid-powered car in Europe in mid-2000. The family sedan uses two engines: a 1.5-liter gas engine and an electric motor. The combination gives it better gas mileage than conventional vehicles -- 28 kilometers per liter, or 66 miles to the gallon, in test drives. Other unveilings planned this week at the show include the BMW Z-8 super roadster and a new convertible version of the diminutive Smart car, produced by a DaimlerChrysler subsidiary.
An unexpected entry into the luxury market will come from Volkswagen. The carmaker will reportedly unveil a new D1 that will be powered by a 12-cylinder motor, to hit the market at the end of 2000. It's expected to cost less than the $77,000 for a comparable Mercedes S500.
VW is also unveiling a version of the New Beetle that will be about $2,700 cheaper than the current base price of $19,200. Although the new car has been a hit in the United States, it has yet to take off in Europe.
the CD changer. All in all that's about $900 off MSRP. they do charge $299 for processing fee, which I think is a rip-off, but I guess all dealers charge that, whether VW or not.
Car is a 2000 GLS, auto trans, luxury package
cloth interior. Dark Blue, beige interior.
Interesting that some dealers, perhaps many, still are charging over and above MSRP. On this list, I read where some are charging as much as $3 and 4,000!
Here's my advice for anyone having service problems. If you don't get the service you expect, or don't get the problem fixed after 2 or 3 times, ask to have the district service manager look at your car. This way the service manager for the dealership can't hide a complaint. By the way, my friend who bought a 99 Passat has had worse service problems than me (from the same dealer).
Also, for those who are having difficulty finding a New Beetle, try calling a dealer in the Northeast. I drive by VW dealers with rows of Beetles ready to go. If you're up for a flight, you might get your Beetle right away.
By the way, I bought my 99 GLS (Black with Beige interior) with allow wheels for $16,800 (MSRP was $17,875) in Feb. and just traded it in for $16,000.
src
Beware of a bright blue GLX at the auto auction on the lot with "demo miles". It could be this car (I doubt VW is planning to scrap it).
Respectfully,
I'm not having much luck finding a silver a TDI, either.
I even tried Canada, but the dealer told me that VW won't let them sell new cars to be sent to the States. How used does a car have to be before it can be?
Thanks.
Susan B.
I purchased it at Dwight Harrison VW in Snellville, Ga. They had just gotten these cars in the night before and the salesman (Dale Reynolds) had to take some of the 'packaging' off for us to test drive. It's nice having a car no one else abused before hand. We did test drive a GLS w/leather (no turbo), but I found it a bit noiser and, of course, less powerful.
I'm off to the maintenance lists to try to find out how to keep the interior clean now. My wife says I'll have this car the next 10 years, so I better be happy and keep it clean! I do and I'll try honey.
Thanks,
Bill
I am anxiousily awaiting the arrival of my
black/black GTX. Three weeks and counting!
Does anyone have any comments about how the NB
handles in the snow? How about ice?
Thanks.