 I should have learned - this is my 6th Beetle and I wanted a red convertible!  Above and beyond the normal service costs, something is always going wrong and rarely is the invoice under $1,000.   I average $2,500 per year in repairs!  Headlights failed last year and that was $1,300 as the entire assembly needs to be replaced.  I get many compliments on how nice it looks...appearance can be very expensive - make sure you have a thorough inspection before you decide to purchase.