One problem related to tire tread/belt has been reported for the 1998 Volkswagen Beetle. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 1998 Volkswagen Beetle based on all problems reported for the 1998 Beetle.
Separation between belts near the sidewall cooper cs5 grand touring 205/65 r16. I have had 4 tires that this has happened to. Replaced both front tires twice. This seems to be a recurring problem with these tires.