Volkswagen New Beetle: best and worst years

Every model year, ranked by owner complaints reported to NHTSA relative to time on the road. Click a year for its problems, recalls and trouble codes.

Held up best: 2002, 2004

The fewest complaints relative to years on the road - at most half the model's median rate.

2004solid year12 complaints · 2 recalls 2002solid year15 complaints · 1 recalls 200139 complaints · 3 recalls 200040 complaints · 2 recalls 199934 complaints · 1 recalls 199830 complaints · 1 recalls

Ranked by complaints per year on the road (age capped at 12 years), so older years do not lead just because they have been around longer. Years under 3 years old are not judged - they have not had time to show their problems. Rates are relative to this model only and are not adjusted for sales volume.