Volkswagen Repair: 2000 New Beetle Water Pump, o rielly, vw dealership

Question
Hi, I just replaced the thermostat in my 2000 Beetle. The car is still overheating. The VW dealership says it is the water and that the water pump is internal and only they can fix it. For $450. First of all do you think it really is the water pump, and second is it internal as they say, and third does $450 sound about right to repair it? Thank you in advance for your help.

Answer
Sheila, thank you for your question.  on one engine configuration for the 2000 beetle the water pump could very well be internal for two other engine it appears to not be and the cost from O'Rielly's is: part no 57-1573, $57.99 with a core charge of $12.00  and another on is: part no CP9377 cost: $70.99 for engines 4-1781 1.8L DOHC and 4-1984 2.0L SOHC
Usually the high cost is the labor, which could take 3 to 6 hours and can require the engine to be pulled out to remove the water pump.  You should ask them how long it will take and the cost of labor per hour, then call a couple of other repair shops to see what they charge.  You will need to know what engine is installed.
Hope that helps