VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE (2016)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 4,498 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
82%
Total Tests (2024)
4,498
Avg Mileage
52,150 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,572
Is the 2016 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 8 years old, 82% of VOLKSWAGEN BEETLEs from 2016 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 4,498 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 52,150 miles.
How does the 2016 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2016 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE has 52,150 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 59,200 miles for a 8-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE?
The most reliable year is the 2018 model with a 85% MOT pass rate, while the 1997 model has the lowest at 64%. The 2016 sits between the two at 82%.
How much does a 2016 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 85% | 1,642 | 36,156 mi |
| 2017 | 83% | 2,903 | 43,575 mi |
| 2016 | 82% | 4,498 | 52,150 mi |
| 2015 | 80% | 6,389 | 58,268 mi |
| 2014 | 79% | 7,334 | 65,889 mi |
| 2013 | 78% | 9,521 | 74,053 mi |
| 2012 | 79% | 4,871 | 75,723 mi |
| 2011 | 74% | 1,296 | 77,381 mi |
| 2010 | 72% | 4,069 | 82,153 mi |
| 2009 | 72% | 3,732 | 87,937 mi |
| 2008 | 68% | 5,007 | 93,584 mi |
| 2007 | 67% | 6,111 | 96,440 mi |
| 2006 | 67% | 6,520 | 102,252 mi |
| 2005 | 68% | 6,429 | 102,064 mi |
| 2004 | 67% | 7,230 | 107,318 mi |
| 2003 | 65% | 5,254 | 108,762 mi |
| 2002 | 67% | 2,479 | 106,749 mi |
| 2001 | 66% | 2,142 | 102,524 mi |
| 2000 | 66% | 1,513 | 103,321 mi |
| 1999 | 73% | 134 | 78,457 mi |
| 1998 | 79% | 70 | 66,190 mi |
| 1997 | 64% | 83 | 46,829 mi |
| 1991 | 47% | 38 | 34,927 mi |
| 1990 | 71% | 38 | 41,089 mi |
Checking a specific VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2016 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
The 2016 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE is a small family car with a 1395cc petrol engine. 4,498 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 79% of 2016 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 52,150 miles at 8 years old, VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2016 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE Fuel Costs
The 1395cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2016 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,572 (£131/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 82% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE Reliability Trend
Newer VOLKSWAGEN BEETLEs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2016 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
At 8 years old, this is a solid used buy if you find one with good service history. Depreciation has levelled off, so you won't lose much more value. Focus on condition over mileage. If you're flexible on year, the 2018 model has the highest pass rate at 85%.
Alternatives to the 2016 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2015) 81% pass rate (-1%) from 225,575 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2015) 78% pass rate (-4%) from 160,438 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2014) 80% pass rate (-2%) from 131,119 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2017) 86% pass rate (+4%) from 100,176 tests