1999 Volkswagen Beetle review from North America

The summer after I began leasing the vehicle, the air conditioning failed. I brought it in for service, which was covered at the time. It turned out to be a failed microchip, they said.

Shortly after that, one of the headlights burned out. Not a big deal.

The check engine light has come on for no reason four times. Each time I was told by the dealership that it was a faulty sensor.

The airbag light came on for no reason. When I tried contacting the dealership, there was no staff in that day (a Friday).

There was a recall due to faulty fuel sensors, which were replaced by the dealership at no cost.

The gas cap door sometimes does not lock into place.

Frost light on the temperature display stays lit, even in the summer at 90+ degrees.

The dealership changed ownership a year into my four-year lease. They have been less than helpful in providing alternate transportation (rides or loaners). My service from them has been bizarre- getting mailings telling me to come in for maintenance, and then being told to ignore these when I call for an appointment. The procedure for making an appointment seems to change every time I call, and it often takes weeks to get in and have them turn off a faulty light. They stopped doing little things like vacuuming when I brought the car in for an oil change.

The car handles very well, brakes sharply, and can turn with a flick of your fingers. Best car I've ever driven- when it works, and when it's warm out.

On ice or snow, the car has trouble braking. It skids, and the ABS kicks in, pumping very hard to manage the stop. It makes a very loud crunching sound, even when slowing to a stop from slow (10mph or less) speeds.