Two problems related to visibility have been reported for the 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle based on all problems reported for the 2004 New Beetle.
Purchased brand new. Problems I have had with this car: 1. Rear power windows have both taken turns falling down into the body. Will not power up. One has been replaced. Dealer now won't fix second one because they 'don't see it as a known problem. ' 2. Headliner around rear window has come undone. 3. Headlights have to be replaced constantly. For example; a light bulb was installed on a Saturday, and had stopped working by the following Wednesday. 4. Rubber coating on glove box and on interior doors is peeling off. Dealer would not even condsider fixing or addressing. 5. Key assembly for arm console broke almost immediately. It took approximately 8 months, and several reminders, to get dealer to replace. 6. Sometimes radio stays on after key has been removed from ignition. 7. Air bag light stays on. Won't go off. 8. Hand release on front passenger seat often gets 'stuck' and will not work. 9. Cup holder has come off track. I only drive this car to-and-from work. No kids/passengers ride in it. It has not had any owner abuse. I will never buy another Volkswagen product.
When opening and closing the door window catches on the convertible top. As a result, driver has to close the door three to six times before it is completely closed. This problem caused wear to the soft top. The armrest would not secure and the window would intermittently roll down by itself.