Used Volkswagen Beetle fun to drive, ton of trouble

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August 21, 2010

Auto Scanner Larry Rubenstein The Salem News Sat Aug 21, 2010, 05:45 AM EDT

Q: I purchased a used 2004 New Beetle from a non-VW dealer in spring 2007. The car had a clean Carfax report.

I have had a few repair issues with the vehicle, some to be expected, some not. I maintain the car according to the manufacturer's recommendations with a local independent service shop. Recently, the check engine light came on, was evaluated by code at our local shop and discovered to be a failure in the catalytic converter. We were advised to bring the car to a dealer, as the cat/emissions issue is covered by the federal emissions warranty.

Upon inspection by a VW dealer's service department, the car was discovered to have an aftermarket catalytic converter. The service adviser quoted me a price of $1,200 to replace the cat with a VW converter. He also told me that while the cat seemed to be in good shape and not the source of the problem, the problem was a result of the way the aftermarket converter connects to the engine — emissions back up in the system and trigger a fault code.

I love this car, but I'm concerned it's a problem car. I've done some research in Consumer Reports, and the repair record of the 2004 New Beetle is horrible. Can I sell the car without dealing with the cat problem if I give the buyer full disclosure? Can you shed any light on any of this?

A: I have shortened your letter for the sake of the page. It's too bad you are having all the issues with this fun-to-drive VW. You definitely should have checked before you bought. Historically, this car has been a money pit for repairs. Expect it will keep nickel-and-diming you for many years to come if you keep it. The service manager is wrong about one thing: The catalytic converters, including the original, are failing for a reason. In most circumstances, the cat fails due to an improper mixture of exhaust gases getting into the cat and melting it. Before another cat is installed, the primary source must be checked and repaired.

Car Care Tip: Never buy a used under-car spare tire carrier.

In most cases, they are no longer trustworthy, and the cable may break, sending the spare tire out into the middle of traffic.

• • •

Larry Rubenstein is a master technician who owns a North Shore service station. His column appears every Saturday. Write to Larry at The Salem News, c/o Auto Scanner, 32 Dunham Road, Beverly, MA 01915, or send e-mail to scan auto@aol.com.

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