What's Wrong with the 1st Generation (1998–2011) Beetle?

Beetle owners have made 245 complaints about the 1998–2011 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 35th out of 46 VW generations in overall reliability, with real windows and transmission concerns.

Compare With Other Beetle Generations

Common 1998-2011 Volkswagen Beetle Problems

Some of the worst issues 1st generation Beetle owners have to deal with.

  1. Defective Timing Chain

    Volkswagen’s EA888 2.0-liter engine has a history of tensioner problems that can lead to a loose timing chain and catastrophic engine failure. A series of lawsuits eventually led to a settlement that offers an extended warranty and potentia…

    Continue reading article "Defective Timing Chain" Gold timing chain in a VW engine

  2. What Are We Missing?

    We know there's more problems than this. Let us know which one you'd like to see us cover next.

    Continue Gold timing chain in a VW engine

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

1st Generation (1998–2011) Beetle Key Numbers

  1. 14 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 245 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 35th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 46 eligible generations.

Recent 1st Generation (1998–2011) Beetle News

There's a lot of news out there, but not all of it matters. We try to boil down it to the most important bits about things that actually help you with your car problem. Interested in getting these stories in an email? Signup for free email alerts over at CarComplaints.com.

  1. It appears Volkswagen is close to settling 7 lawsuits regarding defective timing chains and the threat of engine damage.

    The proposed settlement includes all consumers who purchased or leased certain 2008-2014 Audi and Volkswagen vehicles that will be determined by the vehicle identification numbers (VINs).

    According to the terms, reimbursement amounts will be determined based on the age of the vehicle, how many miles are on the odometer and if the timing chain tensioner, timing chain or engine was replaced."

    Reimbursement amounts are highly favoriable to owners who get work done at an authorized VW dealership. Our advice – if something goes wrong with your timing chain or tensioner and you're covered under this settlement, skip your local mechanic and go to an authorized dealer.

    keep reading article "VW Owners to Receive Reimbursements for Busted Timing Chains and Tensioners"