2000 Volkswagen Beetle GLX review from North America

Grounding problems - causes the check engine light and the other lights on the dash to light for no apparent reason (10+ visits to the dealer for this problem).

Rear spoiler - sometimes works, sometimes doesn't (may be related to grounding problems).

Window wwitches - replaced twice.

Hub covers - VW emblem is peeling off after 1.5 years.

Paint - lots of small spots where the paint shows damage.

Gas filler door - cable broke.

Seats fading - black seats are quickly going grey, one seat bottom replaced.

Starter interlock - car totally freak-ed out twice and lost programming to the special keys and would not run (dealer provided me with a three page instruction sheet to start the car if this happens again).

This is our second "New Beetle". The dealer gave us this one to keep us from exercising the California lemon law. I thought the first was just a "bad" car, but after having a second and speaking with several dealers and other "New Beetle" owners, I have discovered my problems are not unique. Consumer Reports also bears this out.

I regret not purchasing an extended warranty (first time I have ever said this). The car is two years old and I can only imagine what the repair bills are.

Many people have told me of the grounding problems with VWs. This explains a lot of the electrical problems with the car.

On the fun side, the car is incredible. The car is quick, handles well and is very fun to drive (with the addition of suspension package, wings and spoilers and aftermarket engine parts). It is unfortunate VWOA has not paid more attention to detail and fixed the dozens of small (but annoying) problems most "New Beetle" owners suffer with.