r/NewBeetle

This was my best lap.

I posted a while back looking for advice on purchasing a VW beetle as a first car and it was surprising positive. I recently visited a dealership and lo and behold, a 2001 Automatic. I have a test drive booked for tomorrow (along with another car) and plan to perform a PPI beforehand, however a trusted family mechanic has continuously stated to avoid ALL beetles and VW as a whole.

My concerns:

1. 2001 is older then most suggestions I received.
2. It doesn’t have a service book as far as I’m concerned.

Here’s what the listing says (copy pasted):

🚗 2001 Volkswagen Beetle Automatic Coupe 🚗

A true iconic classic with modern comfort, this Volkswagen Beetle is perfect for someone wanting style, reliability, and fun driving all in one package.

With LOW KMS and a timing belt already replaced, this Beetle is ready to drive and enjoy.

💥 DRIVE AWAY PRICE – NO MORE TO PAY 💥
✔ Includes Roadworthy Certificate (RWC)
✔ Includes Registration
✔ Includes Stamp Duty & Transfer Fees

⭐ Key Highlights:
LOW KMS
Automatic Transmission
Timing Belt Replaced
2.0L Reliable Engine
Iconic Beetle Design
🔧 Features Include:
Air Conditioning
Power Steering
CD Player
Power Windows
Power Mirrors
Keyless Entry
Central Locking
Airbags
Sunroof
Alloy Wheels
💥 Why Buy This Beetle?

✔ Stylish and iconic design
✔ Fun and easy to drive
✔ Great first car or city car
✔ Cheap to maintain
✔ Strong community following

First to inspect will buy!

Additionally the car comes with a 1 year warranty and 3 month road side assistance. Aesthetically it looks great in person, especially for its age but my concerns are reliability as everyone says it will bleed my dry. It’s $6k aud but hopefully can barter down with ~193,000kms. Is this something I should pass up and just go for a Toyota like everyone says or is it worth considering?

hello, I’m trying to refrigerant in my car, but when I go to locate the hose it’s not where it should be (bottom left)? I found a hose that looks similar to the a/c one (top left) but I don’t want to try something and mess up my whole car. It’s a 2007 with a 2.5 engine. Please help :(

hello! i have a 2009 volkswagen beetle 2.5l engine that is leaking coolant. it currently cannot hold any coolant in the reservoir whatsoever. i believe the leak is somewhere around here but we’re unsure what hose this is. (the one highlighted in the photo) we had to remove the air box in order to see and take the photo. you can see where the coolant is pooling; any help would be appreciated, thanks!