1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake. Raise the front end the vehicle using a jack and jack stands. Make sure the vehicle is securely supported before proceeding.
2. Locate the transmission filter. In the 2002 VW New Beetle, the transmission filter is usually located in the transmission pan, which is attached to the bottom of the transmission.
3. Prepare a drain pan. Place a drain pan under the transmission pan to catch the transmission fluid that will drain when the transmission pan is removed.
4. Remove the transmission pan bolts. Use a wrench to loosen the bolts that hold the transmission pan in place. Be careful not to drop the bolts into the transmission pan.
5. Remove the transmission pan. Once the bolts have been loosened, remove the transmission pan. Be careful as there may still be some transmission fluid in the pan.
6. Locate the transmission filter. The transmission filter is usually located in the center of the transmission pan. It is a cylindrical-shaped object with a metal mesh screen.
7. Remove the transmission filter. Grasp the transmission filter and pull it out of the transmission pan. Be careful not to spill any transmission fluid.
8. Clean the transmission pan and filter. Use a clean rag to wipe away any dirt or debris from the transmission pan and the filter. Inspect the transmission pan gasket and replace it if necessary.
9. Reinstall the transmission filter. Place the new transmission filter in the transmission pan. Make sure that the filter is seated properly in the filter housing.
10. Reinstall the transmission pan. Place the transmission pan back on the transmission and align the holes. Install the transmission pan bolts and tighten them to the specified torque.
11. Refill the transmission fluid. Add the recommended amount of transmission fluid to the transmission. Use a funnel to pour the transmission fluid into the transmission dipstick tube.
12. Check the transmission fluid level. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Then turn off the engine and check the transmission fluid level on the dipstick. Add more transmission fluid if necessary.
13. Lower the vehicle. Jack the vehicle up and remove the jack stands. Lower the vehicle to the ground.
