2014 VOLKSWAGEN Beetle Problems

Complaints Reported

Complaints by Component

AIR BAGS

11 complaints

On my dashboard, my passenger seat airbag started going off. I brought my VW Beetle in for its 100,000-mile maintenance check and asked about the airbag. My mechanic informed me that the passenger seat airbag was failing, and if I were driving with someone and crashed, their airbag would not deploy. They told me there was nothing I could've done to prevent this, it's just the piece itself has failed. Their advisory notes were: 'Airbag light on trouble code B12251B occupied recognition sensor mat. PART #5C5959337.' I researched if my car was eligible for a recall and it is not, however I saw that VW has a recall for Takata Driver Front Airbags.

Sep 09, 2023

Beginning in June 2021 and thereafter, my husband and I received notifications from Volkswagen of America of a life-threatening urgent airbag safety recall for our 2014 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible - our only vehicle. The recall is referenced on your websiteManufacturer Recall Number 69BC; NHTSA Recall Number 20V785. In response to the notifications, we have spent the past nearly 16 months seeking an appointment to have this airbag defect repaired. Initially, we were advised that a qualified technician from Honolulu would come to the Island of Hawaii (where we reside) to make the necessary repairs, as we were informed that there are no qualified dealers or technicians on our island, which has a population of more than 200,000 people, boasts many VW repair shops, and is home to a plethora of other VW drivers. Until last week, my husband’s numerous calls over the past 16 months seeking a repair appointment were met with repeated assurances that someone from VW would contact us for an appointment locally or return our call for scheduling. Having still not heard from WV about scheduling an appointment, we called yet again two weeks ago and they said they no longer send a technician from Honolulu to our island and that we would need to ship our car to Honolulu by boat at our expense to receive the necessary airbag replacement. Aside from being contrary to the numerous statements in the written notifications that the repair, the repair appointment, and alternative transportation would be “free” to us, it appears contrary to public safety protocol that we, the consumers/drivers, would need to come out of pocket an estimated $2,000 to ship and insure the car and obtain alternative transportation while our car is unavailable. While we are concerned about our own well-being as respects driving the car, we are also concerned that there may be many other VW drivers in Hawaii who are similarly situated. A detailed timeline documenting the above is attached.

Nov 18, 2022

Takata recall. The contact owns a 2014 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number 20V785000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced the failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Jul 09, 2021

Takata Recall. The contact owns a 2014 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V785000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted and informed the contact that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. Part distribution disconnect.

Jul 07, 2021

This is a complaint that my dealership has not replaced my airbag after two calls and waiting a month for status of parts ordered has not occurred. Injury may occur to driver and passenger if airbag is not remedied. Seeking assistance.

Jun 08, 2021

+ 6 more complaints for this component

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

7 complaints

The contact owns a 2014 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact stated that the horn worked intermittently before receiving notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V785000 (Air Bags). The contact took the vehicle to local dealer and the recall repair completed. The contact stated that the horn was still functioning intermittently after the recall repair. The dealer stated that the recall did not cover diagnostic testing or repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Mar 08, 2022

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEY WOULD NOT IMMEDIATELY RELEASE FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000.

Oct 17, 2019

WHILE STATIONARY, IGNITION SWITCH SOMETIMES DOES NOT TURN ON OR OFF. MANY TIMES I SPEND 20 TO 30 MINUTES TRYING TO START MY CAR. ON OCCASION , I CANNOT TURN THE CAR OFF OR REMOVE THE KEY AFTER TURNING THE CAR OFF.

Aug 08, 2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEY FAILED TO RELEASE FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH AND REMAINED IN THE ON POSITION. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO SOUTHERN VOLKSWAGEN GREENBRIER (1248 S MILITARY HWY, CHESAPEAKE, VA 23320, (757) 424-4689) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER AND HOUSING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND OPENED CASE NUMBER: 181253450. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 58,288.

Sep 18, 2018

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEY WAS DIFFICULT TO REMOVE FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN UNKNOWN DEALER WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THERE WERE NO OPEN RECALLS ON THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS OPEN FOR THE VIN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 36,000.

Aug 27, 2018

+ 2 more complaints for this component

ENGINE

5 complaints

The timing chain on my 2014 r-line Turbo Volkswagen Beetle with only 45,000 miles failed and subsequently destroyed the engine. Apparently this is a known issue with VW and Audi's manufactured between 2009 - 2014. There was a class action lawsuit against VW that does not apply to our situation as the claim has passed. Why has there not been a RECALL placed on this? Now we are stuck with a $16,000 piece of junk. Please put a recall on these vehicles to protect consumers like us who are at the mercy of this unscrupulous business.

Sep 07, 2023

WHEN I TRY TO ACCELERATE THE CAR RATTLES AND WILL NOT GO. I WAS TOLD MY 2014 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE'S ENGINE WAS BURNING OIL INTERNALLY SO THEY TOLD ME I NEEDED AN OIL SPLICER/SEPERATOR I DID THAT AND IT DID NOT HELP. I DONT UNDRESTAND BUT I HAVE TAKEN MY CAR IN TO BE SERVICED TWICE A YEAR SINCE I PURCHASED II IN 2015. I AM TOLD I NEED A NEW ENGINE.

Apr 25, 2022

YES ON MY 2014 BEETLE R ONE MORNING I WAS HEADING OUT TO LEAVE FROM WORK WHEN, I HEARD A NOISE FROM THE ENGINE , AND I THOUGHT IT WAS THE AIR CONDITION, BUT IT WAS THE ENGINE IT STARTED THEN AFTER THAT AND THEN I TURNED IT OFF, SO I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP TO TELL THEM WHAT HAPPENED AND I HAD IT TOILED TO VOLKSWAGEN , DEALERSHIP AND SOMEONE FROM THE SERVICE AND REPAIRS CALLED ME BACK AND TOLD ME THAT IT WAS THE TIMING CHAIN CAME OFF HAD LIKE 35,000 MILES OR 40,000 MILES THE CAR SO MY SERVICE GUYS TALKED TO THERE MANAGER ABOUT HELPING ME SENSE I HAD EVERYTHING SERVICED AND DONE THERE NO OTHER PLACE BUT THE DEALERSHIP I BUT IT FROM I GUESS THE MANAGER , HAD TALKED AND SAID THAT VOLKSWAGEN , CORPORATION , WOULD ONLY PAY 70% SO I HAD TO PAY 4100 .00 AND NOT PAY THE 100% PERCENT OF IT BUT I HEARD THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE ENGINE WITH LOW MILES I DON'T KNOW WHY THAT THEY CANT PAY THE 100% OF THE COAST SENSE THEY SAID IT WAS A LAW SUIT GOING ON, NOW THE MANAGER SAID IF IT WAS HIGHER MILEAGE THEN THEY WOULD PAY MORE.. TO ME THAT DOESN'T MAKE ANY SENSE TO ME SINCERELY [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

Aug 31, 2020

I BOUGHT A VW DIESEL DUE TO THE PERFORMANCE AND LACK OF IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT, ONLY TO DISCOVER THAT I WAS SOLD A VEHICLE THAT HARMS THE AIR. I'M A RETIRED FIREFIGHTER WITH 31 YEARS OF SERVICE WITH THE CITY OF STOCKTON AND I'LL BE TURNING 65 THIS YEAR BUT NOW I FIND OUT THAT MY " LAST " CAR ISN'T WHAT I THOUGHT THAT I WAS BUYING AND NOW I DON'T KNOW IF THE ISSUE WITH BE RESOLVED, I'M NOT SURE IF I SHOULD BE DRIVING MY VEHICLE WITHOUT KNOWING IF IT'S FIXABLE AND WHAT TO DO IF I DECIDE TO TRY AND TRADE IT IN FOR A DIFFERENT VEHICLE. I HAD SOME TRIPS PLANNED BUT I CANCELLED THEM, DUE TO THE DISTANCE, WHICH MAY AFFECT NOT ONLY THE AIR BUT THE VALUE OF THE CAR.

May 09, 2016

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2014 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE REAR ENDED THE PRECEDING VEHICLE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. AFTER APPROXIMATELY 25 MINUTES, THE VEHICLE BECAME ENGULFED IN FLAMES AND BURNED TO THE GROUND. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. THE AMBULANCE HAD TO TRANSPORT THE CONTACT AND A PASSENGER TO THE HOSPITAL DUE TO BRUISES FROM THE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 22,000. UPDATED 05/25/16*LJ UPDATED 6/6/18*JB

Feb 24, 2016

Crash: 1

Fire: 1

Injuries: 2

STRUCTURE

3 complaints

Roof has cracked from sunroof to the pillar in multiple locations it is avaliable for inspection. It’s a common issues with beetles with sun roofs My concern is if it cracks enough a large piece may come off and potentially strike another vehicle especially at freeway speeds Dealer has denied the repair

May 10, 2025

THE DOOR LATCH FUNCTION FAILS AND THE CAR DOOR FREELY OPENS TO ONCOMING TRAFFIC AND PEDESTRIANS. THE CABLE OR MODULE HAS FAILED AND A RIGHT TURN SWUNG THE DOOR OPEN AS I HELD THE WINDOW UNKNOWINGLY. *TR

Jul 01, 2020

ADULT MALE HAD HAND UNDER THE TRUNK LID GETTING READY TO LIFT IT OPEN WHEN THE PASSENGER DOOR WAS CLOSED (DRIVER SIDE DOOR WAS ALREADY CLOSED). THERE WAS A VACUUM EFFECT AND THE TRUNK LID SLAMMED DOWN ON THE HAND. THE HAND WAS SEVERELY CRUSHED BUT THE SKIN WASN'T BROKEN AND NO BONES WERE BROKEN. IF THIS HAD BEEN A CHILD OR ADOLESCENT IT PROBABLY WOULD HAVE BEEN MUCH MORE SEVERE. THIS WAS A RENTAL CAR. *TR

Sep 03, 2014

Injuries: 1

VISIBILITY/WIPER

3 complaints

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WERE BEING OPERATED, THE WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID SMEARED THE WINDSHIELD. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PAUL MILLER VOLKSWAGEN 118 MORRISTOWN ROAD, BERNARDSVILLE, NJ 07924, 855-896-3830 , DOUGLAS VOLKSWAGEN 491 MORRIS AVENUE, SUMMIT, NJ 07901, (908)341-1254, AND TREND MOTORS VOLKSWAGEN 221 US-46, ROCKAWAY, NJ 07866, (973)625-0100 BUT, WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS REFERRED TO NHTSA AND ALSO REFERRED TO CONTACT THE LOCAL DEALER FOR ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 59,000.

Jan 08, 2020

I WAS DRIVING IN THE MIDDLE OF VERY HEAVY RAIN AND MY WIPERS SUDDENLY STOPPED. I MANAGED TO GET OFF THE HIGHWAY AND TOOK THE VEHICLE TO VW. I WAS INFORMED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR HAD TO BE REPLACED WITH ONLY 50,000 MILES ON THE CAR. I HAVE OWNED 4 VW AND HAVE NEVER ENCOUNTERED THIS ISSUE. THERE WAS NO WARNING - THEY JUST STOPPED WHICH WAS VERY DANGEROUS.

Apr 14, 2017

WINDSHIELD CRACKED SPONTANEOUSLY OVERNIGHT. WAS FINE THE NIGHT BEFORE, NOTICED A LONG CRACK THAT STARTED HORIZONTALLY ON THE EDGE OF THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE WINDSHIELD AND THEN CURVED UP VERTICALLY THE NEXT MORNING WHEN I PULLED THE CAR OUT OF THE GARAGE. I DRIVE THIS CAR A COUPLE OF TIMES A WEEK, GENTLY, AND ALTHOUGH IT IS A 2014, IT HAD ONLY 4777 MILES WHEN THIS HAPPENED. I HAVE NOT GOTTEN HIT BY ANY STONES, HAVE NOT DRIVEN ANY BUMPY ROADS OR HIT ANY POTHOLES, AND I HAVE NOT HAD ANY ACCIDENTS WITH THE CAR. BROUGHT THIS TO THE ATTENTION OF MY DEALER AND VW CUSTOMER CARE, BUT THEY HAVE BEEN SLOW TO MAKE A DETERMINATION.

Jul 17, 2016

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaints

RECEIVED LETTER FOR RECALL, INSTRUCTED TO CALL FOR APPOINTMENT, LETTER .DID NOT STATE WHAT THE PROBLEM WAS. CHECKED YOUR WEBSITE, SHOWED NO RECALL FOR THIS VEHICLE. CONCERNED IF THIS IS A RIP OFF, SINCE THE LETTER STATED IT WAS A "MANUFACTURER'S RECALL"? LETTER WAS FROM: AUTONATION VOLKSWAGEN, LAS VEGAS, NV

Nov 12, 2018

THE HORN DOES NOT WORK, I HAVE HAD THE FUSES CHECKED AND ALL THE FUSES ARE GOOD. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE AS YOU NEED YOUR HORN TO ALERT OTHER BAD DRIVERS ON THE ROAD. I KNOW OTHERS THAT HAVE THE SAME CAR HAVE THE SAME ISSUE,

Jan 18, 2018

REAR-ENDED A CAR IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC ON FREEWAY - FENDER BENDER-NO AIR BAGS WENT OFF. BOTH CARS DROVE OFF THE FREEWAY TO THE SIDE STREETS TO EXCHANGE INFORMATION. ABOUT 10 TO 15 MINS LATER WHILST THE CAR WAS PARKED AND ENGINE TURNED OFF - THERE WERE TWO POP POP NOISES AND THEN CAR BURST INTO FLAMES.

Oct 05, 2015

Crash: 1

Fire: 1

AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

This complaint involves the failure of the ABS Control Module. Upon starting the car, audible warnings as well as dash warning lights indicate urgent brake failure, ABS failure, Airbag failure and stability control failure. In my particular case, the rear brake calipers do not activate fully when braking resulting in increased stopping distance. Vehicle was scanned at dealer on 11/16/24 indicating failure of ABS Control Module. Repair estimate, $5379. This is apparently a common issue when searching on-line VW forums. The ABS Module was the subject of a recall for 2009 and 2010 models but appears to still affect later model years. VW is forcing its customers to choose between an exorbitant repair bill or driving an unsafe vehicle knowing they have installed defective modules. Dealer states unable to predict future brake and other issues if not repaired. Evidence of how common this problem occurs is their own admission that the parts are back ordered.

Dec 06, 2024

AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2014 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact stated that after his wife had driven the vehicle, upon restarting the vehicle, the air bag warning light illuminated. Additionally, the traction control and ABS warning lights were illuminated. The contact called the local dealer and was informed that the warning lights were illuminated due to an unknown sensor failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was previously taken to the local dealer under NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V785000 (Air Bags); and routine maintenance and for a flush and fill, radiator, and coolant fan motor. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to another local dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 73,000.

Oct 29, 2024

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2014 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the contact became aware of a strong gasoline odor coming from the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the fuel lines failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 44,000. The VIN was not provided.

Apr 12, 2024

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,SEATS

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2014 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side seat would no longer slide backwards. The contact was concerned that the front passenger was too close to the air bag system due to the seat malfunction. Additionally, the trunk door handle had malfunctioned, and the trunk door could not be opened from outside the vehicle. The contact stated that trunk door would not shut securely, and the front driver’s side headlight bulb had overheated and experienced charring inside the lens. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 70,000.

Aug 08, 2023

VISIBILITY

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2014 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact stated that while attempting to activate the high-beam headlights, the lever failed to operate as designed. The contact stated who is an independent mechanic, diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the multifunction lever switch failed to operate in the forward position as designed, and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.

Feb 02, 2023

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1 complaint

The contact owns a 2014 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact stated the ignition failed to turn off and the gear shifter did not recognize the PARK gear. The contact stated the key would not unlatch and was eventually fractured. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V615000 (Electrical System, Steering). The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer and had the recall repairs completed. The contact stated shortly after the recall repairs, he continued to experience the failure. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 63,652.

Jun 06, 2022

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

DRIVER SIDE TAKEDA AIR BAG REPLACED UNDER 20V785000 RECALL NOTICE BY CLASSIC VOLKSWAGEN, GASTONIA, NC. VEHICLE RETURNED FROM REPAIR WITH BROKEN STEERING WHEEL CLOCK SPRING. HORN, CRUISE CONTROL, STEER WHEEL CONTROLS FOR ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM ARE ALL INOPERATIVE REGARDLESS OF STEERING WHEEL POSITION OR IF VEHICLE IS STATIONARY OR IN MOTION.

Apr 17, 2021

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 complaint

LOW BEAMS BOTH STOPPED WORKING, BULBS AND FUSES ARE FINE.

Jan 29, 2021

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

1 complaint

TSI SHOOTING OIL THROUGH MUFFLER. ONLY 93,000 MILES ON THE CAR. HARD SHIFTING, LOSS OF POWER. VEHICLE IN MOTION.

Jul 18, 2020

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

ENGINE LIGHT IS ON AND EVERY TIME I PUT GAS IN THE CAR IT DOES NOT TURN ON ON FIRST TRY I HAVE TO KEEP TURNING IGNITION KEY 3-4 TIME BEFORE IT START. THE CAR IS TURNED OFF.

Sep 28, 2019

POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

SUN ROOF AND NOISE WHEN I BACK UP

Aug 27, 2019

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

1 complaint

THE IGNITION LOCKS AND PRESENTS A MAJOR PROBLEM. IT BECOMES IMPOSSIBLE TO REMOVE THE KEY. ALSO THE LOCKS RANDOMLY GO ON AND OFF AS I AM DRIVING.

Mar 24, 2019

AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint

2014 VW 'CLOCK SPRING' FAILURE AFFECTING THE DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG, HORN, AND CRUISE CONTROL. I WOULD LIKE TO REQUEST THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OF THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION (NHTSA) TO OPEN AN INVESTIGATION OF THE VOLKSWAGON OF AMERICA (VWA) RECALL OF THE 2014 VW BEETLE CONCERNING THE FAILURE OF THE DRIVER AIR BAG, HORN, AND CRUISE CONTROL. THE CURRENT RECALL INVOLVES THE 'CLOCK SPRING' WHICH HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED IN VW MODELS INCLUDING: 2010-14 CC; 2010-13 EOS; 2011-2014 GOLF; 2011-14 GTI; 2012-14 JETTA SPORTWAGEN; 2011-14 JETTA SEDAN; 2010 PASSAT AND PASSAT WAGON; 2012-14 PASSAT SEDAN, AND 2011-14 TIGUAN. THERE IS NO RECALL FOR THE 2014 VW BEETLE, THE ONLY MODEL NOT INCLUDED IN THE VW MODELS RECALL. MY 2014 BETTLE TURBO EXPERIENCE FAILURE OF THE CLOCK SPRING AROUND 80,000 MILES. THERE WAS NO LIGHT ON THE DASH INDICATING A FAILURE OF THE AIR BAG, HORN, OR CRUISE CONTROL. AN ATTEMPT TO USE THE CRUISE CONTROL AND THE HORN WERE BOTH FOUND INOPERATIVE CAUSED IMMEDIATE CONCERN. A CHECK OF THE FUSES INDICATED AN ACCESSORY (12V ACCESSORY CHARGING/CIGARETTE LIGHTER) NEEDED REPLACED. THE REPLACED FUSE DID NOT REMEDY THE OTHER SAFETY ISSUES. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY A VW DEALER SERVICE DEPARTMENT AND FOUND TO HAVE A DEFECTIVE CLOCK SPRING AND ADVISED THAT REPLACEMENT FOR THE PART WOULD BE $450+. DUE TO THE AGE/MILEAGE THE PART WAS NOT COVERED BY THE WARRANTY. I WAS ADVISED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS ON THIS ITEM. MY CONCERN IS THAT THE DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG IS INOPERATIVE AND CONSTITUTES A NHTSA SAFETY RECALL. VOLKSWAGEN CLOCK SPRING RECALL INVESTIGATED BY FEDS HTTPS://WWW.CARCOMPLAINTS.COM/NEWS/2017/VOLKSWAGEN-CLOCK-SPRING-RECALL-INVESTIGATED.SHTML I WOULD APPRECIATE ADVICE FROM NHTSA IF THIS MODEL WILL BE COVERED, OR NOT, AND HOW TO PROCEED.

Jan 21, 2019

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE

1 complaint

SUNROOF CRACK AFTER 2 TIMES CHANGE, VERY UNSAFE CONDITION. WHEN RAIN FRONT LIGHT THE GET FULL OF WATER AND THEY STOP WORKING, VERY UNSAFE DRIVING AT NIGHT TIME

Jul 23, 2016

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE

1 complaint

EXTERIOR DOOR LOCKS FAILED TO OPEN WHEN PULLING ON THE EXTERIOR DOOR HANDLE. USING JUST THE PROXIMITY RF KEYFOB, PASSENGER DOORS, TRUNK, AND GAS FILLER DOOR WERE DISABLED. THEN PRESSED THE BUTTONS ON THE KEYFOB, NOTHING. AFTER 5 MINUTES OF PULLING, PRESSING, PANIC BUTTON, FINALLY THE TRUNK RELEASED. AFTER THAT, EVERYTHING WAS BACK TO NORMAL. THIS OCCURS WEEKLY, BUT USUALLY DOESN'T LAST SO LONG.

Sep 13, 2015

SERVICE BRAKES

1 complaint

STOPPED AT RED LIGHT LOSE BRAKE PRESSURE ON '14 BEETLE TDI. BRAKE PEDAL POPPING TO TOP AND CAN NOT DEPRESS, CAR STARTS ROLLING. HAPPENED 3 TIMES CALLED FOR SERVICE. WILL SEE WHAT OUTCOME BRINGS. *TR

Mar 03, 2015

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE

1 complaint

THE VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH MANUAL TRANSMISSION AND KEYLESS IGNITION. THIS IS AN UNSAFE COMBINATION SHOULD THE CAR BE STALLED. WHEN THE START BUTTON IS PUSHED AND I HAVE FAILED TO GET THE CLUTCH PEDAL ALL THE WAY TO THE BOTTOM THE CAR WON'T START. NOW THE BUTTON MUST BE PUSHED ONCE TO TURN THE IGNITION OFF, ONCE MORE TO TURN THE IGNITION ON AND YET A THIRD TIME TO ENGAGE THE STARTER AND HOPEFULLY THE CLUTCH PEDAL IS FULLY ENGAGED. ALL OF THIS HAPPENING WHILE IN PANIC MODE AS YOU OBSERVE AUTOS COMING AT YOU. A MANUAL TRANSMISSION VEHICLE SHOULD HAVE A STARTER BUTTON SEPARATE FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH. FOR BACKGROUND I AM 60 YEARS OLD AND HAVE DRIVEN STANDARD SHIFT CARS MY ENTIRE LIFE AND HAVE NEVER ENCOUNTERED SUCH A PROBLEM. I BELIEVE THE CLUTCH LOCKOUT FEATURE SHOULD BE DISABLED IN A VEHICLE WITH THIS COMBINATION OR A SEPARATE STARTER BUTTON BE PROVIDED. I AM CONVINCED I WILL DIE IN THIS CAR EITHER AS A RESULT OF A CRASH OR HEART ATTACK. *TR

Aug 26, 2014

FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL

1 complaint

EXITED THE INTERSTATE AND ONCE ON THE OFF RAMP, TRIED TO SPEED UP AND THE ENGINE SERVICE LIGHT STARTED TO FLASH, THEN THE VEHICLE SLOWED AND WOULD NOT ACCELERATE. I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE HOME AT ABOUT 35 MPH. STOPPED THE CAR, THEN RESTARTED AND THE LIGHT WENT OFF. CALLED THE CLOSEST VW DEALER . AT FIRST THEY SAID CALL THE VW ROADSIDE HELP SINCE WE HAD NOT BOUGHT THE CAR FROM THEM. AFTER I TOLD THEM THEY HAD ALWAYS SERVICED OUR PRIOR VW'S, ALL THREE OF THEM, THEN THEY CHANGED THEIR TONE AND THEY STATED THAT IF THE LIGHT WAS NO LONGER ON THEN THE SYSTEM MOST LIKELY RESET ITSELF AND IT SHOULD BE FINE. I MADE AN APPOINT TO HAVE IT CHECKED ANYWAY. THE NEXT DAY THE WIFE DROVE TO AND FROM WORK, 120 MILES TOTAL, AND IT SEEMED OK, BUT THE TURBO INDICATOR HAS ALWAYS SHOWN A HIGH READING, EVEN WHEN NOT APPLYING POWER. TOOK IT TO VW DEALER AND AFTER EXAMINATION DETERMINED THE FUEL SYSTEM WAS CONTAMINATED WITH METAL SHAVING. THEY ADVISED THAT VW HAS HAD AN ISSUE WITH THE TDI HIGH PRESSURE PUMP AND THEY WERE GOING TO HAVE TO CONTACT VW TO FIND OUT WHAT NEEDED TO BE DONE AT THIS POINT. THEY TOLD US THAT IT WOULD BE AT LEAST TWO DAYS TO FIX IT, SO NOW WE WAIT. THEY DID PROVIDE US WITH A VW BEETLE, TURBO, GAS MODEL AT NO COST. IT SEEMS THIS TURBO WORKS CORRECTLY ON THIS ONE. *TR

Aug 16, 2014

SERVICE BRAKES,VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED BUT THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO SLIDE. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT THE FAILURE HAD OCCURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. ALSO, THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT WHILE OPERATING THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS THE WIPER BLADES WOULD NOT CLEAR RAIN FROM THE WINDSHIELD. IN ADDITION A CHEMICAL TYPE ODOR WAS PRESENT INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100.

Aug 14, 2014

POWER TRAIN

1 complaint

PROBLEM WITH CLUTCH RELEASE. PULLING AWAY FROM A STOP, THE CLUTCH SOMETIMES DISENGAGES WITHOUT ANY SIGN OF SHUTTER. ALL OF A SUDDEN YOU FIND YOURSELF IN TRAFFIC AND THE ENGINE IS OFF AND THE STEERING WHEEL IS LOCKED. THIS OCCURS SEVERAL TIMES A WEEK AND CREATES A PANIC RESPONSE ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU ARE PULLING AWAY FROM A LIGHT OR MERGING INTO TRAFFIC. CARS FROM BEHIND HAVE TO HIT THEIR BRAKES WHEN YOU PULL OUT INTO A LANE OF TRAFFIC AND THE CAR STALLS. MY WIFE AND I HAVE DRIVEN SIX DIFFERENT VEHICLES OVER THE PAST 30 YEARS ALL WHICH HAD MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS. FOUR OF THESE VEHICLES WERE VW?S. WE KNOW WHAT IT FEELS LIKE WHEN YOU ACCIDENTLY ?POP THE CLUTCH?. THERE IS USUALLY A SHUTTER AND YOU FEEL THE VEHICLE COMES TO AN ABRUPT STOP. IN THE CASE ON MY 2014 VW BEETLE, YOU SOMETIME NEVER FEEL ANYTHING THROUGH THE CLUTCH PEDAL AND ALL OF A SUDDEN YOU SEE THE ALTERNATOR LIGHT AND YOU REALIZE THE ENGINE IS ?DEAD?. I TOOK THE CAR INTO THE VW DEALER AND THE SHOP SUPERVISOR DROVE THE CAR WITH ME AS A PASSENGER. AS IT WOULD BE, THE CAR NEVER STALLED EVER AFTER MAKING MAY STOPS AND PULLING UP HILLS, ETC. THE DEALERSHIP WAS VERY NICE AND DID TRY TO MAKE THE CAR BEHAVE AS I HAVE DESCRIBED ABOVE. UNFORTUNATELY IT DID NOT. I'M WRITING THIS TO GO ON RECORD AS HAVING WHAT I FEEL IS A POTENTIAL SAFETY RELATED PROBLEM WITH MY VW. *JS

Jul 29, 2014

STEERING,AIR BAGS

1 complaint

CLOCKSPRING IN STEERING BROKE CAUSING FAILURE OF ABS, AIRBAG, ESC AND TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM.CAR WAS BRAND NEW WITH 259 MILES. *TR

Jun 16, 2014

STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS,TIRES,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

1 complaint

CLOCKSPRING BROKE FOR THE SECOND TIME CAUSING FAILURE OF ABS, AIRBAG, ESC AND TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM. SECOND FAILURE OF THE SAME PART IN 3 WEEKS. VOLKSWAGEN IS UNRESPONSIVE. *TR

Jun 16, 2014

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4.6/5.0

49 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

How many problems does the 2014 VOLKSWAGEN Beetle have?

The 2014 VOLKSWAGEN Beetle currently has 54 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.

What are the most common problems with 2014 VOLKSWAGEN Beetle?

The most common problems reported for the 2014 VOLKSWAGEN Beetle are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.

Where does this 2014 VOLKSWAGEN Beetle problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2014 VOLKSWAGEN Beetle comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.