One problem related to engine shut off without warning has been reported for the 2000 Volkswagen Beetle. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I have a 2000 vw Beetle. I bought the car used a little more than two years ago. Within a few months of buying the car I started having engine/electrical problems. I took it in. . . . . . . . Several times, same problem. As I am driving the car it just dies. I can be going 60 mph on the highway or 1 mph pulling to or away from a stop sign. With no warning the car cuts off. It always starts back up, but it will continually die. I lose all power to the car including steering. This is a serious concern and has been for two years and approximately ten times in the vw shop. The car definitely has a problem that no one can seem to fix. I have or my warranty company has repeatedly paid for the same and then some repairs to the vehicle. Some parts (the same part) were replaced within four months of each other. Mostly the shop determines it is the O2 sensors throughout the car (apparently you have several different O2 sensors) or something to do with the turbo (which has also been replaced once or twice now). Those things have been repaired. Some more than once. The car still dies. It gives no warning it just shuts off. Losing power at 70 mph on a crowded interstate can shake one up. I have contacted the dealer, the manufacturer, and everyone in between. No one seems to care or want to help me. Someone please help this car is a death trap!.