9.0
really awful- Typical Repair Cost:
- No data
- Average Mileage:
- 57,200 miles
- Total Complaints:
- 4 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (3 reports)
- replace radio amp (1 reports)
This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Volkswagen dealer.
I still have this car and this problem. But heads up everyone, It is NOT a battery issue! Occasionally our Bug will not start, just does a single click. At first I thought it was the battery and I either jumped it or push started it to get it going again. I replaced the battery and it happened again with a brand new battery.
I have discovered that if I disconnect the positive cable to the battery for about ten seconds and then reconnect it, the car starts right up. So the battery is actually fully charged and not the problem. I've taken it to two different mechanics for this issue and none of them could figure out what was causing it. I have replaced the battery, a melted fuse box, wiring and alternator all to no avail. And what's more, it is hit and miss. Sometimes the car goes months without an issue and then all of a sudden it won't start. Again, if I disconnect the battery, starts right up and runs for weeks or months and then happens again eventually.
I have seen tons of people online with this same problem who think it is a battery issue, but it is not. So frustrating. It's at the point now where we keep a socket wrench in the side door pocket just to disconnect and reconnect the battery for when it happens again. Cute car with LOTS of leg room, just VERY unreliable. Will never own another VW or Ford!
- David W., Burbank, CA, US
I had just bought my car new when this problem occurred. Wouldn't start, took to shop. They sent me back home. Same problem 2 days later, they had it towed from garage. Radio amp was drawing on the battery. 11 years later I still have this car and they problem has returned. Same exact problem. Same exact solution.
- Pam H., Lawrence, KS, US
already on the 5th battery, have had the fused all checked and changed the alter. and started have all been tested and come back fine. but the bug will not hold a charge and it can die out as often as every 3 days. it is so stressful never knowing if your car is going to start and did i mention theres only 50714 miles on the bug
- Nina C., North Myrtle Beach, SC, US
This piece of white car never holds a charge, thought it was the battery but new battery and same problem. It will start right up.for a few weeks or months then it won't start. I need to get a jump for as long as it acts up. Now it is winter and a pain in my ass. It constantly needs a jump. This morning it is 7 degrees out and started right up.
- Joseph M., Capemay, US