Model-year record

2016 Volkswagen Beetle
See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.
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The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.
Complaints filed
58
Reports to NHTSA, 2016
Safety recalls
4
NHTSA campaigns on record
NHTSA crash test
Overall NCAP rating
Combined MPG
27
EPA estimate
Known issues
Air Bags issues lead owner complaints (74% of 58 reports), followed by electrical system (10%).
Share of all 58 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11488404, ODI 11746396, ODI 11685158, ODI 11574691, ODI 11551351.
Individual complaint reports(58)
Showing the 50 most recent reportsAir BagsJun 2026 · ODI 11746396Details +Close −
ABS module is defective. This results in numerous warning lights, including abs, traction control, airbags, tire pressure warning, check engine light, epc light, and speed control usability. I have no working abs, seat belt, or traction control, which is a safety issue. There was a previous safety recall for VW with defective abs control modules, 45F2. The problem has been confirmed through an authorized VW repair shop. The part will be made available.
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- Jun 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainNov 2025 · ODI 11697790Details +Close −
On October 21st I had a recall performed at Evansville D- Patrick for a 37M2 shift lever micro switch. Today Nov 5th I was leaving work, pulling out of the drive onto highway and once I got on the road the car lost motion and just rolled. Barely made it across the highway. I got across the street into another lot. Turned car off and back on. You can hear the throttle but tires would not move. It would not go into any gear. It wouldn’t even go into park. It would roll no matter what the gear shifter was in. The work they did was in the gear shifter. So whatever work they performed was not done right. The sensor was bad they installed possibly or they didn’t connect the linkage or cables of some sort back I’m thinking. To have that recall done then have an issue with it that has to do with going into park is very odd. Especially to have an issue like that after having the appointment so close. I plan to have it towed to dealership but they are already trying to say it’s not something they did. Everything I’ve looked at with the recall correlates with the gear shifter which is what I had issues with today. The car can not move and I barely made it across the road before a semi came. They should definitely be held accountable for covering the cost of repairs or fixing the recall correctly.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Nov 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsSep 2025 · ODI 11685158Details +Close −
I purchased a 2016 VW Beetle, used, in March of 2025. Over the past few weeks, I have received multiple urgent messages from Volkswagon that I need to have the airbag fixed. The communications say there is a high risk of death or serious injury and urge me to my have the repair done ASAP. They have sent multiple mailings to me and made several phone calls to my home. I am doing everything in my power to get this fixed. I have called all the local dealerships within a 50 mile radius, but they do not have the appropriate parts in stock, and have no idea when parts will be available. I am told that the car is safe to drive (which is the exact opposite of what the mailings say) and they tell me to simply "call back in a month". I have also tried calling customer service at Volkswagon HQ, as well as the 800 numbers on my mailings. No luck. This is not acceptable. With such a dangerous issue, how can this be allowed? These cars need to be fixed.....many Volkswagon owners are TRYING to get them fixed....but Volkswagon is just shrugging their shoulders and saying there is nothing they can do. I'm attaching a copy of the message I received in the mail just this week. You can see how urgent they have indicated this is. They mailed it out KNOWING they do not have the parts available to do my repairs. They scare us that we'll be killed if we don't get the repair done immediately, yet when I call to schedule my repair, all I get is "sorry, we can't help you."
- Reported
- Sep 2025
- Incident date
- Sep 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsFeb 2024 · ODI 11574691Details +Close −
See attached document for complaint
- Reported
- Feb 2024
- Incident date
- Aug 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsOct 2023 · ODI 11551351Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were 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 and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Oct 2023
- Incident date
- Oct 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsOct 2023 · ODI 11550864Details +Close −
We have been attempting to have the car in for this recall - however both the dealership and regional office have said the 'repair is not available' How long does a mfg have to start making repairs under a recall (69EM) We have been patiently waiting over a year. Please advise.
- Reported
- Oct 2023
- Incident date
- Oct 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsOct 2023 · ODI 11548958Details +Close −
Have not heard anything since February 2023 regarding repair of driver's side air bag inflator. The driver's side air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling resulting in serious injury or death.
- Reported
- Oct 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemOct 2023 · ODI 11547827Details +Close −
I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE THAT HAS YET TO BE FIXED DUE TO LACK OF PARTS SENT TO DEALERS. Manufacturer Recall Number69EM NHTSA Recall Number22V945 Recall StatusRecall Incomplete, remedy not yet available Summary The driver's side airbag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death. Safety Risk An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Reported
- Oct 2023
- Incident date
- Oct 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsSep 2023 · ODI 11546576Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were 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 and confirmed that the parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Sep 2023
- Incident date
- Sep 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsSep 2023 · ODI 11544690Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The local dealer was contacted, and it was confirmed that parts were 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 a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Sep 2023
- Incident date
- Sep 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsSep 2023 · ODI 11544720Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. 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 a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Sep 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsSep 2023 · ODI 11543482Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. 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 a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Sep 2023
- Incident date
- Sep 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsAug 2023 · ODI 11540693Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An unknown local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Aug 2023
- Incident date
- Aug 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsAug 2023 · ODI 11540841Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (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 made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The failure mileage was 10,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Aug 2023
- Incident date
- Aug 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsAug 2023 · ODI 11540321Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (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 made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Aug 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsAug 2023 · ODI 11538624Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Aug 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsAug 2023 · ODI 11538626Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Aug 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJul 2023 · ODI 11534985Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The manufacturer was contacted, and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Jul 2023
- Incident date
- Jul 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionJul 2023 · ODI 11534770Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, parts to do the recall repair were not yet available. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. Additionally, the contact stated that the TPMS warning light and the air bag warning light were intermittently illuminated. The contact then stated that on two separate occasions while driving at approximately 35-40 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently jerked and veered to the left or right side of the road. The contact also stated that on multiple occasions while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle drove over a bump in the roadway and started shuddering. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the front passenger’s side lower ball joint failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Jul 2023
- Incident date
- Jul 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJul 2023 · ODI 11532666Details +Close −
airbag recall still not having a solution
- Reported
- Jul 2023
- Incident date
- Jul 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJul 2023 · ODI 11531992Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. 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 a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available
- Reported
- Jul 2023
- Incident date
- Jul 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJul 2023 · ODI 11532044Details +Close −
Subject: Urgent Request for Immediate Assistance: Inoperable Car due to Airbag Recall Dear National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), I am writing to urgently seek your assistance regarding a critical issue with my 2016 VW Beetle. As a result of the airbag recall, my car is currently inoperable, preventing me from starting it and hindering my ability to commute and carry out essential daily activities. Given the circumstances, I am in immediate need of a replacement vehicle to ensure my mobility and minimize any further disruption to my routine. I kindly request your prompt intervention to facilitate the provision of another car as soon as possible. I understand the importance of prioritizing safety and appreciate your efforts in overseeing recalls. I trust that you will understand the urgency of my situation and take swift action to address my request for an expedited solution. Please contact me at your earliest convenience to discuss this matter further and provide guidance on the next steps to obtain the necessary assistance. Thank you for your prompt attention to this urgent matter.
- Reported
- Jul 2023
- Incident date
- Jul 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJul 2023 · ODI 11531712Details +Close −
Airbag recall program instituted January 2023. Vehicle is still not repaired by Volkswagen; awaiting go ahead and scheduling. Vehicle is dangerous to drive until repair is made.
- Reported
- Jul 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJul 2023 · ODI 11531284Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Jul 2023
- Incident date
- Jul 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJul 2023 · ODI 11530113Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (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 made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Jul 2023
- Incident date
- Jul 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJun 2023 · ODI 11529087Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (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 made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Jun 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJun 2023 · ODI 11526978Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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 a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Jun 2023
- Incident date
- Dec 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsJun 2023 · ODI 11525363Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. 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 a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Jun 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMay 2023 · ODI 11524414Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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 a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- May 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMay 2023 · ODI 11522913Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- May 2023
- Incident date
- May 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMay 2023 · ODI 11521023Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (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 made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- May 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMay 2023 · ODI 11520397Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- May 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsApr 2023 · ODI 11519083Details +Close −
Takata Recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (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 made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Apr 2023
- Incident date
- Apr 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsApr 2023 · ODI 11516706Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. 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 a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Apr 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsApr 2023 · ODI 11515200Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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 a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Apr 2023
- Incident date
- Dec 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2023 · ODI 11514750Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceed a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact that had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Mar 2023
- Incident date
- Mar 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2023 · ODI 11514147Details +Close −
2016 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO DEFECTIVE AIR BAGS. THE CONSUMER STATED VW IS NOT GIVING ANY OPTIONS TO FIX OR REPAIR VEHICLES INVOLVED IN THIS RECALL.
- Reported
- Mar 2023
- Incident date
- Mar 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2023 · ODI 11513615Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle Convertible. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. 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 a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Mar 2023
- Incident date
- Mar 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2023 · ODI 11512156Details +Close −
Takata Recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was also made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Mar 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2023 · ODI 11511240Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (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 local dealer was notified of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the part was not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Mar 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2023 · ODI 11510786Details +Close −
2016 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO AIR BAG INFLATOR SAFETY RECALL.
- Reported
- Mar 2023
- Incident date
- Mar 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMar 2023 · ODI 11510299Details +Close −
Takata Recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Mar 2023
- Incident date
- Mar 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsFeb 2023 · ODI 11509550Details +Close −
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. 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 a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Reported
- Feb 2023
- Incident date
- Dec 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsFeb 2023 · ODI 11509299Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V945000 (Air Bags) however, parts to do the recall repair were not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
- Reported
- Feb 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsOct 2022 · ODI 11488404 · crashDetails +Close −
1.Air bags did not deploy in a three vehicle collision. 2.Passenger and myself could have hit our head on the dashboard or steering wheel. 3. unknown 4.yes, its been inspected by insurance company (the driver at fault). 5. no, no lights have ever come on. Car was always in great condition.
- Reported
- Oct 2022
- Incident date
- Sep 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
Electrical SystemDec 2021 · ODI 11444938Details +Close −
THE ENGINE WAS RUNNING AND KEPT RUNNING WITH KEY TURNED OFF, AND THE KEY COULD NOT BE REMOVED EITHER. WE HAD TO PAY VW TO REPAIR THE PROBLEM AND WE FOUND OUT THAT IS NOT AN ISOLATED PROBLEM.
- Reported
- Dec 2021
- Incident date
- Sep 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJun 2021 · ODI 11420831Details +Close −
I am having issues turning the key in the ignition and was informed, by Mattie Imports, that this is very common with the Beetles and it really should be a recall item, however, it's not (as of yet anyway). This could be a definite safety concern in that it could leave me stranded if not repaired. It is a malfunctioning part and should be covered under the recall provision. Thank you for your consideration.
- Reported
- Jun 2021
- Incident date
- Jun 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
WheelsNov 2020 · ODI 11374263Details +Close −
TIRES ARE CRACKING ON THE SIDEWALLS AS WELL AS ON THE TREAD AREA. THIS SEEMS TO BE AN ONGOING PROBLEM AS THEY HAVE BEEN REPLACED PREVIOUSLY AND THE SAME PROBLEM IS OCCURRING AGAIN. IT APPEARS THE RUBBER IS DRYING OUT, HARDENING, AND SPLITTING.*DT THE CONSUMER PROVIDED PHOTOS. *TR
- Reported
- Nov 2020
- Incident date
- Oct 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherSep 2020 · ODI 11360954Details +Close −
I RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE IN NOVEMBER OF 2019 ON MY 2016 VW BEETLE INVOLVING A BUILD UP OF SILICATE ON THE SHIFT LEVER MICRO SWITCH. I PURCHASED THE CAR FROM TONY VOLKSWAGEN ON OAHU ISLAND IN HAWAII. I LIVE ON THE ISLAND OF KAUAI IN HAWAII, WHERE THERE IS NO VOLKSWAGEN DEALER AND NO CERTIFIED VOLKSWAGEN REPAIR TECHNICIAN. FOR A PREVIOUS RECALL, THE DEALERSHIP HAD THE CAR SHIPPED BACK TO OAHU TO TAKE CARE OF THE RECALL ISSUE. I CONTACTEDTONY VOLKSWAGEN SERVICE MANAGER DAMEN DUPREE IN NOVEMBER 2019 REGARDING THIS CURRENT RECALL AND AT THE TIME HE SAID THAT BECAUSE THIS RECALL INVOLVED SUCH A SMALL REPLACEMENT PART, IT WOULD BE MORE COST EFFECTIVE FOR THEM TO SEND A TECHNICIAN OVER TO KAUAI INSTEAD OF PAYING TO HAVE THE VEHICLE SHIPPED TO OAHU. I UNDERSTAND THAT THE PANDEMIC HAS TURNED THE WORLD UPSIDE DOWN SINCE MARCH, BUT I BEGAN THIS PROCESS WAY BEFORE THAT WAS AN ISSUE. THERE IS CURRENTLY A 14 DAY QUARANTINE FRO TRAVELERS FROM OAHU TO THE OTHER HAWAIIAN ISLANDS, SO I UNDERSTAND THAT IT NO LONGER MAKES SENSE TO SEND SOMEONE OVER FROM OAHU TO TAKE CARE OF THIS RECALL ISSUE. IT SEEMS AS IF THEY SIMPLY ARE TRYING TO AVOID THE COST OF SHIPPING MY VEHICLE OVER TO OAHU TO CHECK OUT THE RECALL ISSUE. I HAVE CALLED MR. DUPREE AT LEAST 10 TIMES TRYING TO GET THIS ISSUE RESOLVED, AND HAVE NEVER RECEIVED A RETURN CALL FROM HIM SINCE OUR FIRST CONVERSATION BACK IN NOVEMBER, 10 MONTHS AGO. SO FAR, I HAVE NOT EXPERIENCED THE POSSIBLE PROBLEMS THAT THE RECALL IS CONCERNED ABOUT, BUT I WANT TO KNOW MY CAR IS SAFE AND COULD NOT RESULT IN A CRASH THAT COULD INJURE PEOPLE AND DAMAGE PROPERTY, AS STATED IN THE LETTER I RECEIVED. I NEED TO KNOW MY CAR IS COMPLIANT WITH REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS AND APPRECIATE ANY ASSISTANCE YOU CAN GIVE ME REGARDING GETTING THIS RECALL ISSUE RESOLVED.
- Reported
- Sep 2020
- Incident date
- Nov 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemMay 2020 · ODI 11325130Details +Close −
GAS FILL DOOR WILL NOT OPEN. GAS FILL DOOR SHOULD OPEN WHEN CAR IS UNLOCKED, BUT DOESN'T. *TR
- Reported
- May 2020
- Incident date
- May 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.
Recalls(4)
Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.
Engine And Engine Cooling · 15V705000Details +Close −
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Jetta, Beetle, Beetle Convertible, Passat, Golf and Golf SportWagen vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the camshaft lobe that drives the brake vacuum pump may shear off, resulting in a loss of brake assist.
Risk: If the camshaft lobe shears off there would be a loss of brake assist, lengthening the distance needed to stop the vehicle and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Volkswagen dealer will update the engine control module (ECM) software. The recall began March 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 23R1.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Electrical System · 19V615000Details +Close −
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2019 GTI, 2015-2016 and 2018-2019 Golf, 2012-2019 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2017-2019 Golf SportWagen and 2011-2018 Jetta vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, manual handbrake and keyless entry. A build-up of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition when the transmission shift lever is not in "Park."
Risk: Removing the key while the shift lever is in a position other than "Park" increases the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional switch and circuit board, free of charge. The recall began November 19, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 37M2.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Service Brakes · 20E064000Details +Close −
Tenneco Automotive (Tenneco) is recalling certain Beck/Arnley Master Cylinders, part number 072-9831, sold as aftermarket or replacement parts for 2004-2018 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2012-2019 Volkswagen Beetle vehicles. The fluid seal crimp on the master cylinder may be insufficient, causing brake fluid to leak or the cylinder to come apart.
Risk: If there is a brake fluid leak, it can reduce braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Beck/Arnley will notify the distributors that sold the master cylinders and will work with the distributors to notify the end users. Affected master cylinders will be exchanged for a new master cylinder (part number 072-9990), free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2020. Owners may contact Tenneco customer service at 1-800-625-9319.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Air Bags · 22V945000Details +Close −
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Beetle and Beetle Convertibles vehicles. The driver's side air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's side air bag, free of charge. Owners notification letters were mailed October 26, 2023. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69EM.
Open full NHTSA recall record →A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.
Investigations
0 NHTSA investigations on record
No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.
Crash-test ratings
2016 Volkswagen Beetle 2 DR FWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
2016 Volkswagen Beetle C FWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Not rated
- Frontal
- Not rated
- Side
- Not rated
- Rollover
- Not rated
Fuel economy by trim
| Trim | Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City | Hwy | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beetle | 1.8L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 5-spd | 25 | 33 | 28 |
| Beetle | 1.8L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 24 | 33 | 28 |
| Beetle | 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 23 | 31 | 26 |
| Beetle | 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM-S6) | 24 | 31 | 26 |
EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.
Before you buy
Useful next checks
Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.
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Compare the year-by-year record
Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.
2016 Volkswagen Beetle: frequently asked
What does the complaint record show for the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle?
Owners filed 58 NHTSA complaints about the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.
What are the most common problems on the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle?
The most-reported problem areas are Air Bags (74% of complaints) and electrical system (10%).
How many recalls does the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle have?
4 recalls have been issued that affect the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle, covering components such as engine and engine cooling. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.
What gas mileage does the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle get?
The EPA rates the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle between 26 and 28 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.