Ad-free. Influence-free. Powered by consumers.

Your membership has expired

The payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.

Re-activate
Favorites
Donate

Save products you love, products you own and much more!

Save products icon
Become a Member Upgrade

Other Membership Benefits:

Savings icon Exclusive Deals for Members Best time to buy icon Best Time to Buy Products Recall tracker icon Recall & Safety Alerts TV screen optimizer icon TV Screen Optimizer and more
Become a Member Upgrade

Suggested Searches

All Products A-Z
Cars Home Appliances Electronics Babies Digital Security Holiday Deals Money Travel Health & Wellness Kids News Bill Negotiator All Products A-Z
 
Sign In
Become a Member
Explore categories
Cars

Cars

Car Ratings & Reviews

Car Ratings & Reviews

Ratings & Reviews
SUVs Hybrids/EVs Luxury Cars & SUVs Sedans & Hatchbacks Minivans & 3-Row SUVs Pickup Trucks Used Cars Electric Bikes Bike Racks
All Car Ratings & Reviews
All Car Ratings & Reviews
Buying Advice & Tools
10 Most Satisfying Cars 10 Most Reliable Cars Best Cars for Short or Tall Drivers Best Cars for Teen Drivers Best Used Cars Interactive Car Finder
2024 Top Picks

CARS

2024 Top Picks

Car Buying & Pricing

Car Buying & Pricing

Best Car Deals Now
Best SUVs Under $30K Best Deals on SUVs Best Deals on Fuel-Efficient Cars Leasing vs. Buying Car Loan Advice How to Buy a New Car Now
All Car Buying & Pricing
All Car Buying & Pricing
Member Savings & Tools
Car Buying Guide Build & Buy Car Buying Service Trade-in Estimator Used Car Marketplace
Which Car Brands Make the Best Vehicles?

Which Car Brands Make the Best Vehicles?

Tires, Maintenance & Repair

Tires, Maintenance & Repair

Ratings & Reviews
Tires Tire Retailers Car Batteries Car Repair Shops Car Seats
All Tires, Maintenance & Repair
All Tires, Maintenance & Repair
Ownership Advice
Find Car Recalls Make Your Car Run Longer Inspect Belts and Hoses Car Repair Assistant Find the Best Car Insurance
Car Reliability Guide

Car Reliability Guide

Key Topics & News

Key Topics & News

Car Safety
Car Recalls Car Seats Car Safety Guide Safety System Glossary
All Key Topics & News
All Key Topics & News
Fuel Efficiency
Should You Go Hybrid/EV? Save Money at the Pump Most Fuel-Efficient Cars EV Incentives Fuel Efficiency Guide
Listen to the Talking Cars Podcast

CAR NEWS

Listen to the Talking Cars Podcast

All Cars
All Cars
Home

Home

Bed & Bath

Bed & Bath

Ratings & Reviews
Mattresses Sheets Pillows Toilets Bidet Seats Curling Irons Hair Dryers
All Bed & Bath
All Bed & Bath
Ownership Advice
Cleaning Your Mattress Organize Your Linen Closet Under-the-Bed Storage
Top Picks From CR

Top Picks From CR

Best Mattresses

Lawn & Garden

Lawn & Garden

Ratings & Reviews
Lawn Mowers & Tractors Charcoal & Gas Grills Leaf Blowers Pressure Washers String Trimmers Floodlight Cameras Chainsaws Snow Blowers
All Lawn & Garden
All Lawn & Garden
Ownership Advice
Best Charcoal Grills Fix Hidden Dangers in Your Home 5 Expert Tips for Staining a Deck
Best Snow Blowers

TOP PICKS FROM CR

Best Snow Blowers

Home Improvement

Home Improvement

Ratings & Reviews
Decking Door Locks Flooring Generators Paints Security Cameras Security Systems Wood Stains Windows
All Home Improvement
All Home Improvement
Ownership Advice
Protect Your Biggest Investment Best Smart Lightbulbs How to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Best Wood Stains

Home Improvement Essential

Best Wood Stains

Home Safety & Security

Home Safety & Security

Ratings & Reviews
Door Locks & Smart Locks Home Security Cameras Home Security Systems Smoke & CO Detectors
All Home Safety & Security
All Home Safety & Security
Safety Advice
Storm & Emergency Guide Generator Safety Tips Protect Against Indoor Air Pollution
Best DIY Home Security Systems

HOME SAFETY

Best DIY Home Security Systems

All Home
All Home
Appliances

Appliances

Kitchen

Kitchen

Ratings & Reviews
Cooktops Countertops Dishwashers Freezers Microwave Ovens Wall Ovens Ranges Refrigerators
All Kitchen
All Kitchen
Ownership Advice
Tips for Doing Laundry Organizing Your Kitchen Make Your Dishwasher Last
Most and Least Reliable Refrigerators

SURVEY RESULTS

Most and Least Reliable Refrigerators

Small Appliances

Small Appliances

Ratings & Reviews
Air Fryers Blenders Breadmakers Coffee Makers Electric Kettles Food Steamers Food Processors Rice Cookers Knives
All Small Appliances
All Small Appliances
Cooking Advice
Small Kitchen Essentials Cleaning Cast Iron Kitchen Appliances for $100 or Less
Best Small Kitchen Appliances

TOP PICKS FROM CR

Best Small Kitchen Appliances

Laundry & Cleaning

Laundry & Cleaning

Ratings & Reviews
Air Purifiers Vacuums Robotic Vacuums Washing Machines Clothes Dryers Washer/Dryer Pairs Pressure Washers Steam Mops Laundry Detergents
All Laundry & Cleaning
All Laundry & Cleaning
Laundry & Cleaning Advice
Don't Use Vinegar Here Cleaning a Dirty Oven How to Reduce Indoor Allergens Repair or Replace: Washer
Best Washing Machines

Top Picks From CR

Best Washing Machines

Heating, Cooling & Air

Heating, Cooling & Air

Ratings & Reviews
Air Conditioners Air Filters Air Purifiers Central Air Conditioners Dehumidifiers Thermostats Water Heaters Space Heaters
All Heating, Cooling & Air
All Heating, Cooling & Air
Ownership Advice
Are Smart Thermostats Worth It? 4 Reasons to Consider a Heat Pump Protect Against Indoor Air Pollution
Best Space Heaters

TOP PICKS FROM CR

Best Space Heaters

All Appliances
All Appliances
Electronics

Electronics

Home Entertainment

Home Entertainment

Ratings & Reviews
TVs Wireless & Bluetooth Speakers Soundbars Streaming Media Players Headphones
All Home Entertainment
All Home Entertainment
Media Advice
Streaming Services Guide Best Streaming Music How to Clean Your Flat-Screen TV
Best TVs

FIND YOUR NEW TV

Best TVs

Home Office

Home Office

Ratings & Reviews
Laptops Desktop Computers Printers Computer Monitors Tablets Wireless Routers
All Home Office
All Home Office
Set Up Advice
Organize Your Home Office Choosing a Standing Desk Best Office Chairs
Cheapest Printers for Ink Costs

Save Money

Cheapest Printers for Ink Costs

Smartphones & Wearables

Smartphones & Wearables

Ratings & Reviews
Smartphones Smartwatches Headphones Cameras
All Smartphones & Wearables
All Smartphones & Wearables
Tech Advice
Choosing a Cell Phone Mount Filter Social Media Apps Pre-Owned Tech: Yes or No?
Find the Right Phone for You

BEST SMARTPHONES

Find the Right Phone for You

All Electronics
All Electronics
Babies
Digital Security

Digital Security

Digital Security & Privacy

Digital Security & Privacy

Ratings & Reviews
Antivirus Software Crypto Wallets Password Managers Wireless Routers Home Security Cameras Home Security Systems
All Digital Security & Privacy
All Digital Security & Privacy
Safety Advice
Google Privacy Settings 30-Second Privacy Fixes What Is Smishing? Identity Theft Advice Permission Slip App Security Planner
One app to take back control of your data

CR PERMISSION SLIP APP

One app to take back control of your data

All Digital Security
All Digital Security
Holiday Deals
More +

More

Money Travel Health & Wellness Kids News Bill Negotiator All Products A-Z
All Products A-Z
About Us
Our Mission

Take Action

Get involved
Volunteer With Us Add Your Voice Join a Research Project Attend an Event
Issues we work on
Food Safety Car Safety & Efficiency Data Privacy Financial Fairness
Donate
    2018
    Used 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000

    Volkswagen Beetle

    EPA MPG: 29 mpg
    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.
    Slide #1 Thumbnail Slide #2 Thumbnail
    Slide #1 Thumbnail Slide #2 Thumbnail
    Slide #1 Thumbnail Slide #2 Thumbnail
    Slide #1 Thumbnail Slide #2 Thumbnail

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how used vehicles are holding up in 17 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical system.

    The 2018 Volkswagen Beetle has been recalled 4 times by NHTSA. View Recalls

    2018 Reliability

    This Car
    NA
    vs. Similar Cars

    Volkswagen vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    See How Other Brands Stack up
    Reliability History
    * Redesign year
    00
    01
    02
    03
    04
    05
    06
    07
    08
    09
    10
    11
    12*
    13
    14
    15
    16
    17
    18
    19
    20
    21
    22
    23
    24
    Overall Reliability Verdict
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Major
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Minor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Cooling
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Electrical
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Transmission Major
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Transmission Minor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Drive System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Fuel System/Emissions
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Exhaust
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Steering and Suspension
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Brakes
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Climate System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Build Quality
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Electrical Accessories
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Body Hardware
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Paint/Trim
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Noises/Leaks
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    In-car Electronics
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for over 300,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2024 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical accessories. NA indicates that we did not receive a large enough sample size to provide data for a specific year. An X indicates that the vehicle was not manufactured for a specific year.

    Learn more about car Reliability.

    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    AIR BAGS
    Oct 30, 2024
    An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
    Read Recall Details
    Summary:
    Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Beetle, Beetle Convertible, 2012-2014 Passat, 2017 Passat Wagon, and 2006-2007 Passat Sedan vehicles. The driver's side frontal air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will replace the driver's side front air bag module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 4, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 69EG, 69GQ, and 69E6.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 24V834000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 248330
    Hide Recall Details
    SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
    Sep 23, 2020
    If there is a brake fluid leak, it can reduce braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Read Recall Details
    Summary:
    Tenneco Automotive (Tenneco) is recalling certain Beck/Arnley Master Cylinders, part number 072-9831, sold as aftermarket or replacement parts for 2004-2018 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2012-2019 Volkswagen Beetle vehicles. The fluid seal crimp on the master cylinder may be insufficient, causing brake fluid to leak or the cylinder to come apart.
    What should you do:
    Beck/Arnley will notify the distributors that sold the master cylinders and will work with the distributors to notify the end users. Affected master cylinders will be exchanged for a new master cylinder (part number 072-9990), free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2020. Owners may contact Tenneco customer service at 1-800-625-9319.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 20E064000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 38
    Hide Recall Details
    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, STEERING
    Aug 22, 2019
    Removing the key while the shift lever is in a position other than "Park" increases the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
    Read Recall Details
    Summary:
    Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2019 GTI, 2015-2016 and 2018-2019 Golf, 2012-2019 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2017-2019 Golf SportWagen and 2011-2018 Jetta vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, manual handbrake and keyless entry. A build-up of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition when the transmission shift lever is not in "Park."
    What should you do:
    Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional switch and circuit board, free of charge. The recall began November 19, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 37M2.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 19V615000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 679027
    Hide Recall Details
    SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
    Jun 01, 2018
    A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
    Read Recall Details
    Summary:
    Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, Passat, Beetle, Beetle Convertible, Golf, Golf SportWagen and GTI and Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles. The brake caliper pistons on these vehicles may have insufficient coating, potentially reducing the brake performance.
    What should you do:
    Volkswagen and Audi will notify their owners. Audi dealers will bleed the rear brakes. Volkswagen dealers will bleed the front and rear brake calipers. Note: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the brake system has been checked. The recall began June 29, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 47N8, 47N9, and 47N6.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 18V369000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 10225
    Hide Recall Details
    Check Vehicle for Unrepaired Recalls
    Enter a valid 17-character VIN
    Enter a valid 17-character VIN
    Change Vehicle