Question 1

Is the Volkswagen BEETLE reliable?

Accepted Answer

The Volkswagen BEETLE has 550 total NHTSA complaints across 9 model years. The most reliable years are 2019 (16 complaints), 2017 (19 complaints), 2018 (21 complaints). Years to avoid: 2013 (125 complaints), 2015 (108 complaints), 2012 (88 complaints).

Question 2

What years of the Volkswagen BEETLE should I avoid?

Accepted Answer

Avoid the 2013, 2015, 2012 Volkswagen BEETLE. The 2013 model has the most complaints (125) with the top issue being AIR BAGS.

Question 3

What is the best year for the Volkswagen BEETLE?

Accepted Answer

The best years for the Volkswagen BEETLE are 2019 (16 complaints), 2017 (19 complaints), 2018 (21 complaints). These years have the fewest reported issues to NHTSA.

Year	Complaints	Top Issue	Verdict
2019	16	FUSE THAT CONTROLS READING OR MAP LIGHT IN CABIN A...	Excellent Reliability
2018	21	The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Beetle. The con...	Above Average
2017	19	TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE...	Excellent Reliability
2016	60	STARTED THE CAR AND HAD WORMING LIGHTS ON. IT DID ...	Average
2015	108	TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHI...	Below Average
2014	71	CLOCKSPRING IN STEERING BROKE CAUSING FAILURE OF A...	Average
2013	125	TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHI...	Avoid This Year
2012	88	I NOTICED A SET OF CRACKS NEAR THE TOP OF MY WINDS...	Below Average
2010	42	NO ADAPTER FOR ANTI THEFT LUG NUTS IN SPARE TIRE K...	Above Average

Volkswagen BEETLE — All Years

Volkswagen BEETLE — NHTSA Complaints by Year

Best Years to Buy

Years to Avoid