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

Model: Volkswagen New Beetle MK 2, 9C - Years 1999-2012
Part: Convertible top

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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by ScegliAuto

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