My 2000 beetle won't come out of park when the engine is on

You do realize no one ever has to go to a dealer,ever,
even with a new car,you own it,& as you said the dealers
are expensive
What about the couple hundred thousand repair shops that
do the same as a dealer?

I also have a problem with my 2001 beetle my brakes jam on as soon as you touch the brake pedel and the only way to release then is to release the nipple on the caliper can any help its driving me mad

Did engine was over heated,temp. was high.

No the thermostat would not have any thing to do with it not shifting properly,

The only suggestion is to place the vehicle on
stands & remove the wheel to check out the issue

To speculate from the internet-- is just that.

To have something happen while you sleep
is odd,so I would be inclined to go with something
like an electronic parking brake issue,if that applies

I think this is a safety feature built in to the car. I've had several cars that won't shift unless the brake is pressed.

go to www.reliable-store.com you will get all info and
solutions there definitely

Sometimes the car has a lock on the steering wheel when the car is off, and it gets stuck. Try wiggling the wheel after you start the car.

Your shift interlock wont release,

Hi there? how's the engine oil level. park the car somewhere flat and take the deepstick out and wipe it, put in and take it out and check the oil level, it should be near the top of those little dot's on the end of the deepatick.