2001 Volkswagen Beetle GLS review from North America

Winter 2006 - coolant temperature sensor out. Car wouldn't start. Replaced.

Spring 2007 - passenger headlight out. Bought bulbs ($4), have Haynes so I went to replace myself. Light assembly wouldn't come out, but I could get the driver one to move. Had to take it to dealer where bought car, they did it for free. Only time a bulb went out on me.

August 2007 - no more dinging at all when the headlights are still on, and I go to get out of the car with the key in ignition or not. That warning sound doesn't come on at all.

Sept 2007 - If car is unlocked by fob and not started, the alarm resets. Even after both passenger and driver door opened and closed, and the key is in the ignition. Not worth paying a shop to fix.

Nov 2007 - Airbag notification light on. Only remedy is a VW shop. Reset computer, $120 later.

Cosmetics such as driver handle plastic/paint peeling off, side mirrors knob came off in my hand, arm rest side piece broke, headrests a pill to remove every time.

Quirks, but nothing severe to cause me to fear for my life or my pocketbook.

Sturdy thing, but having a low profile car with long splashguards gets old on speed bumps.

I was very lucky to have this car as my first "real" car since high school. One owner, low miles, manual and all the service records... As if she was brand new.

One thing, though, not great for road trips with adults in back. The side frame is centimeters from your head - unsettling for someone who's had whiplash from accidents in the past. A steel frame so close to your face is a nuisance, but not for kids.

Another thing... It's a Beetle. And she's a smile on my face.