One problem related to clutch broken has been reported for the 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle based on all problems reported for the 2006 New Beetle.
My wife was driving her 2006 vw New Beetle on highway, without warning the clutch had a sudden failure and she was unable to shift gears and almost resulted in a very serious accident on the expressway. Vehicle had 30,000 miles and no previous trouble noted on this 1,9l tdi manual transmission. Same engine and clutch as listed in a vw service bulletin for 2005/2006 jetta. Bulletin states that clutch friction material may have a defect causing premature wear,burning,shredding and breaking and warranty was extended to 4yr/50,000 miles on the jetta. Dealer would not honor the warranty and blamed the sudden failure on a wear and tear issue or driver abuse even though there is a bulletin out concerning the sachs clutch assembly. Repair was over $2200. 6 months remaining on original warranty. This clutch should be recalled.