One problem related to brake drum has been reported for the 2001 Volkswagen Beetle. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
While applying the brakes the consumer heard a loud knocking noise from the rear. The consumer drove the vehicle to the dealer for an inspection and the mechanic determined that the rear brakes and rotors needed to be replaced due to corrosion. The rear brakes needed to be replaced along with the rotors. The front brake pads showed no sign of wear and the rear brake pads wore to the extent that the brake rotor was damaged beyond repair. The dash indicator light did not illuminate.