I'm considering buying a 2003 convertible beetle. Is this a wise choice?

Question

I test drove one today and loved it, but I need to know that it is going to be reliable.

This is the specific vehicle:
http://autos.yahoo.com/usedcars/detail/?cid=automobiles-230247265&dst=22.94&rsr=Yj0wJmFtcDtjZV9zbD0mYW1wO21ha2U9Vk9MS1MmYW1wO21vZGVsPUJFRVRMRSZhbXA7Y2xfeT0mYW1wO2NoX3k9JmFtcDtjbF9wcmljZT0mYW1wO2NoX3ByaWNlPSZhbXA7Y2xfbWk9JmFtcDtjaF9taT0mYW1wO2NrPWNvbnZlcnRpYmxlJmFtcDtwdXJsZj15JmFtcDtndXI9NTAmYW1wO2Nzej05ODQ5OCZhbXA7dnR5cGU9YXV0b3MmYW1wO21rPVZvbGtzd2FnZW4mYW1wO21vPU5ldytCZWV0bGUmYW1wOw--

Answer 1

I would consider a later convertible New Beetle; a number of running changes were done to the vehicle to improve the top and the reliability... as it was, the 2003 New Beetle convertible was over 2 years late to the market having a number of revisions done before they finally put the vehicle on the market.

The issue seems to be mainly with the convertible top adjustments and door fit issues; yes, there are other issues, however, those mainly deal with the issues that happen to VW's in general, not just the New Beetle.

The top fit and adjustments were improved after 2003 model year; a 2005 or newer would be a nice choice. There is a recall on some New Beetle convertibles for the window regulator issues, as well as the brake (stop) light switch.

The construction seems to have gotten better as the production got "practiced out," and the later the vehicle, the better and easier it was for the top to fit properly.

Some issues are related to the New Beetles in general; fairly short headlight bulb life; wiring issues with the headlights, people damaging the oil pan and frnt air intake (they both hang down low) as well as the air intake divertsion shield behind the frnt bumper and ahead of the motor.

In any case, don't purchase a used VW without a service history. These are cars that can be a reasonable choice, but they don't take kindly to missed or delayed service intervals.

Hope this helps, a car nut.

Answer 2

From my experience, no it will not be reliable. i owned a 2002 Snap Orange Color Concept and it proved to be very unreliable. It was in the shop a lot and it left me stranded a few times. I wanted it to work out because I loved the car, but I was afraid to drive it towards the end for fear it was going to act up in some way. Go to www.newbeetle.org You can get a TON of useful information from Beetle owners there and read both the positives and the negatives.

Answer 3

This car has been very, very UNreliable. My sister and sister in law both have New Beetles so I speak from experience. Primarily they have had electrical problems, problems with interior hardware, and items like starters and a/c units failing (after warranty expired). The engine and transmission have been fine, but most other areas have been problematic, and both cars have been costly to maintain.

Answer 4

Get it checked by a mechanic first and go for it.