2017 Volkswagen Beetle Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Air Bag System: A significant safety concern due to recalls for potentially exploding driver-side frontal inflators. Verify recall completion.
- Electrical System: Persistent complaints suggest potential vulnerabilities, especially in wet conditions.
- Suspension: Reports of early-life failures indicate a potential weakness in suspension components.
- Braking System: A critical recall for the brake master cylinder requires verification of repair.
2017 Volkswagen Beetle
The 2017 Volkswagen Beetle offers distinctive retro styling and a comfortable ride, but its appeal is tempered by a "Below Average" reliability verdict. With 12 recalls and 16 complaints logged with the NHTSA, potential buyers should be aware of key areas of concern. The most frequent complaints revolve around the air bag system, followed by electrical system issues and suspension components. A notable recall involves the driver-side frontal air bag inflator, which may explode due to propellant degradation, posing a serious safety risk. Another critical recall addresses the brake master cylinder. Given the number of recalls and reported issues, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential.
Critical Failure Risk
Recalls and complaints related to driver-side frontal air bag inflator modules, with potential for degradation and explosion. Warning lights are also a common complaint.
Early detection can help you avoid a repair of about $0.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by limited door access, and limited seating.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers who prioritize distinctive retro styling and a comfortable driving experience over long-term, worry-free reliability.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Risk-averse buyers or those seeking a low-maintenance vehicle.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2017 Volkswagen Beetle Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 4
- Transmission
- Automatic (AM-S6)
- Drivetrain
- FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Coupe
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 6 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 1 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil (VW 502 00), Oil Filter)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle is 7.6/10. Reliability score is 7.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 12. Owner complaints: 16.
How practical is the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle for daily use?
Practicality score is 3.9/10. The score is mainly limited by limited door access, and limited seating. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 4. 2 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle is 6.6/10. Overall score is 6.6/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.6/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 3.9/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Volkswagen Beetle?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-40 Synthetic Oil (VW 502 00), Oil Filter) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag System (estimated cost Min: $0).
What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle?
Base MSRP is $19,995.
What engine is in the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle, transmission is Automatic (AM-S6). The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle?
EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle?
8 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2017 Volkswagen Beetle?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle, seating capacity is 4.
What body style is the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle, body style is coupe.
What drivetrain does the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (AM-S6).
Is the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2017 Volkswagen Beetle, while a stylish and characterful car, is not a platform typically associated with extreme performance tuning. Popular platforms: Volkswagen Beetle.
What are the most common air bags problems on the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle?
Top complaint category: air bags (6 reports, 37.5% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle?
This model year has 12 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Volkswagen Beetle?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 MINI Cooper and 2017 Honda Civic.