One problem related to manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe has been reported for the 2000 Volkswagen Cabriolet. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
My entire exhause system all the way up to the manifold was completely rusted out. I have had the main part of the system replaced but now am told that the pipe leading to the manifold and the heat shield are also bad and are vibrating badly. I was told by the vw dealer-where I have my warranty that this is not under warranty that this is routine maintenance. The muffler place that did the work told me that they have done more than 10 cabrio's with the same issue. I will have to have the remainder of the work done at vw as the engine will need to be dropped. . . This does not sound like routine maintenance.