A guy I work with has an '01 New Beetle. The entire instrument cluster went dead. Local indpendent VW shop says it's the cluster, and not something simple like a fuse or connector. Says he sees a lot of dead instrument panels in New Beetles.
Replacement will cost in the neighborhood of $600. VW guy also says that slightly older NBs use instrument panels that are much less expensive.
So, two questions for my fine VW brethren:
- Is instrument failure common in '01 Beetles? If so, is it one of those "We'll warrant it if you ask" things like the MAF sensors are? In other words, VW doesn't publicize it, but will extend warranty coverage if you raise the issue?
- Is it possible to use the older, less-expensive instruments in a newer Beetle, or is the difference between them too significant? Local VW guy though that the difference may be merely cosmetic.
Any input based on actual experience is welcome. Thanks.