pops out of reverse

Start looking for a replacement transmission.

could one of two different problems, first thing I'd check is the linkage for the shifter they do wear out and the two plastic linkage rods are easily replaced and cheap from the dealer that is the best case, worse case is the reverse gear has a few teeth missing which is a common problem in 97 and older Vdubs, if your car makes a clicking noise only only in reverse then thats your problem, but it may not make the noise if more than one tooth is missing it will just pop out of gear like you mentioned. If this is the case the transmission has to be takin apart and the reverse gear replaced. good luck! btw I do not recommend replacing the whole trany like Scott mentioned if its the reverse gear you can have it repaired for a lot less than the price of even a used trany.

Actually, you can find decent 020 series transmissions on Craigslist and theSamba.com relatively cheaply. I actually have a spare one for sale right now in the Lancaster, CA area for $150. The thing that hurts is paying for installation. Additionally, while you got the thing apart, you really wanna replace the clutch, pressure plate and throw-out bearing...and maybe resurface the flywheel. But, do follow Jon's advice and check for the plastic linkage rods first...cheaper stuff first.

I appreciate your replies! We are going to pull the whole baby apart. My husband works as a mechanic. For some reason has really hesitated to repair what we have. But I found reverse gears online and think we will do the fix! Thanks for your help. Kristi

On my 97 Volkswagen Cabrio the linkage on the stick shaft keeps coming off.

I have a 1987 Volkswagen cabriolet and when I put it in reverse I want to go forward. Why does it keep wanting to go forward when it is in reverse?