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How to Manually Open and Close the Roof of a Volkswagen New Beetle

Model: Volkswagen New Beetle 9C, MK 2 - Years: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Part: Convertible top

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Video tutorial

If the electric motor of the roof is not working (due to a fault, a blown fuse, or a flat battery), you can close the roof of the New Beetle using just your hands; you may want to ask a friend for assistance. Open the boot, then on the left side (it could also be the right, depending on the version) there is a small plastic cover; gently remove it by hand or with a flat screwdriver.

Under the cover, you will see a knob: turn it counterclockwise for three full turns; this unlocks the electric mechanism and disengages the motor. Now you can pull the roof down by hand.

Be careful, it is heavy (between 20 and 30 kg: this is why help from a second person is recommended). To open, push the roof back towards the boot; to close, pull the roof forward towards the windscreen.

To restore electric operation after fixing the fault, turn the knob clockwise for three full turns and refit the plastic cover.


Posted on 13 May 2026 by ScegliAuto


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In this tutorial, you will see how to open the bonnet on a Volkswagen Golf MK4. This is a very simple operation that follows the standard procedure. First, open the driver's door, then locate the lever in the lower left area and pull it. Next, move to the front of the vehicle, lift the bonnet slightly, and find the second lever located just above the Volkswagen logo. At this point, simply pull it towards you, fully open the bonnet, and secure it with the prop rod. To close it, gently push it down.

Watch the video!


by ScegliAuto

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