Window & Wiper complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | Share of year's complaints | Typical mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 1 | 7% | 11,000 miles |
| 2015 | 5 | 5% | 36,000 miles |
| 2014 | 5 | 9% | 50,000 miles |
| 2013 | 5 | 5% | 22,000 miles |
| 2012 | 21 | 32% | 4,000 miles |
| 2010 | 4 | 13% | 54,000 miles |
| 2009 | 5 | 15% | 49,000 miles |
| 2008 | 6 | 10% | 46,000 miles |
| 2007 | 4 | 7% | 40,000 miles |
| 2006 | 11 | 9% | 33,000 miles |
| 2005 | 62 | 24% | 55,000 miles |
| 2004 | 65 | 19% | 55,000 miles |
| 2003 | 56 | 18% | 52,000 miles |
| 2002 | 13 | 8% | 39,000 miles |
| 2001 | 6 | 3% | 87,000 miles |
| 2000 | 17 | 6% | 105,000 miles |
| 1999 | 22 | 13% | 35,000 miles |
| 1998 | 36 | 21% | 59,000 miles |
Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (power windows, windshield, wipers, mirrors, sunroof).
Mileage when the problem started
What owners report
The backup camera on my vw Beetle convertible is so dark that is is virtually useless. We have had it to the dealer multiple times and the manager agreed there was something wrong. He replaced the camera and the same thing happened. Then the manager left and another one came on board we reported the problem to vw and they spoke with the manager onsite. He told them that it was OK because all of the cameras were like that. We have owned cars previously with back up cameras and never had a problem. The cameras with GPS do not have the same issue. The dealer told me I could pay for a unit with GPS. I have a hand held GPS so have no desire to put more money into it. I paid extra for the backup camera and did not get my money's worth. This is a major safety issue since the back window in the convertible allows for only limited sight.
The backup camera on the Beetle does not work. The image on the screen is too dark to see anything. The only time you can actually see the backup camera is in full sun, and then it is still distorted and unable to use. I know that 2018 that all cars are suppose to have a back up camera, but if a car already has the safety feature should it not work properly? My theory is that they are trying to test the system to see how much they could get away with. To have the camera in place, but only meet the minimum qualifications of the law. But this is not usable. I have taken the Beetle into 2 different dealerships, all they have done is visible comparison with other beetles. They say that it meets all technical specifications, and there is no fix.
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.
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, [phone] , douglas Volkswagen 491 morris avenue, summit, nj 07901, [phone], and trend motors Volkswagen 221 us-46, rockaway, nj 07866, [phone] 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.
1. Vehicle was stationary in my drive way (and on several occasions, parked in a lot), convertible roof stalls upon opening. You have to stop pressing button and try again. Eventually it starts again and opens. Vw service unable to replicate. They grease the equipment involved hoping it corrects the problem. 2. When car was new, not windshield wiper problems were noted. After a year the drivers side squirts out in such a way that the wiper doesn't get wet enough to clean window, thus leaving blurry streaks that impedes driver's side vision. Passenger side OK. Took car in 2 times, they say they adjust spray. Problem still there even after replacing wipers with brand new (volkswagon brand) wipers. Just had the spray fixed again last week. Afraid to see if it is any better. Will write another report if problem persists. Had convertible top gears greased again last week. …
Windshield randomly cracked while parked in my driveway in 80 degree weather, in the shade. Crack goes from roof, down behind rear-view mirror, then toward the passenger side. It appears to be a stress fracture, as there is not visible sign of rock damage. The top line of the windshield is clearly unlevel now. Appears to be a stress fracture from improper design or installation. Other owners with similar make/model/year have reported the same, with comparable photos of the damage.
Tl* the contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. The contact stated that while driving at 5 MPH and attempting to roll the front driver side window upwards, the window independently rolled downwards. The vehicle was taken to a dealer. The technician diagnosed that the motor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 34,000. The VIN was unavailable.
Recurring issues with door power windows. Takes approximately 6-7 attempts to secure or roll them up after opening; unsure if they will completely fail and eventually not roll up at all. Safety issue concerns: unable to roll up windows against adverse weather conditions and freeway debris, (rain and debris can damage electrical circuitry located next to door and debris can injure driver; rain/wind/debris can impair drivers visibility if window cannot be rolled up properly); in addition, in an emergency situation that would require sheltering in place in this vehicle; such as an assault, robbery etc. The inability for the consumer to roll up their windows presents a real life-safety threat. …
Related recalls (1)
Visibility › Sun/moon roof assembly
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Beetle vehicles manufactured June 13, 2013, to July 3, 2014. The glass sunroofs in the affected vehicles may break when the vehicles are operated over a hard road surface or strike a pothole.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the sunroof, free of charge. The recall began on December 15, 2015. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987.
Frequently asked questions
Which Volkswagen Beetle years have window & wiper problems?
By NHTSA complaints, the 2004 (65), 2005 (62), 2003 (56), 1998 (36) and 1999 (22) model years. Window & Wiper complaints make up 19% of all complaints for the 2004.
Is there a recall for Volkswagen Beetle window & wiper problems?
Yes — 1 recall, including 14V-658 (sun/moon roof assembly, Oct 20, 2014). Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers; check a specific car with the VIN recall check.
At what mileage do Volkswagen Beetle window & wiper problems start?
Across all years, half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 48,000 miles; 52% happened before 50,000 miles.
What part fails most often?
Owners most often name the power window devices and controls (209 mentions), followed by the glass, side/rear (13).
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.