One problem related to engine belts and pulleys has been reported for the 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
My car began to over heat in July and I took it to the mechanic. I had to replace the water pump, thermostat and timing belt. @ months pass and again its overheating again now I'm told the head gasket is bad. I fix the head gasket and its overheating. They do not know what is causing it to overheat. $1500 later I'm still in the same boat.