VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE (2017)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,903 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
83%
Total Tests (2024)
2,903
Avg Mileage
43,575 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,732
Is the 2017 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 7 years old, 83% of VOLKSWAGEN BEETLEs from 2017 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,903 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 43,575 miles.
How does the 2017 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2017 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE has 43,575 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 51,800 miles for a 7-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 2017 sits between the two at 83%.
How much does a 2017 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 2017 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
The 2017 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE is a small family car with a 1395cc petrol engine. 2,903 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 82% of 2017 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 43,575 miles at 7 years old, VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2017 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 2017 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,732 (£144/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 83% 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 2017 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
At 7 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 2017 VOLKSWAGEN BEETLE
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2015) 81% pass rate (-2%) from 225,575 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2015) 78% pass rate (-5%) from 160,438 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2015) 85% pass rate (+2%) from 129,337 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2017) 86% pass rate (+3%) from 100,176 tests