Way back when transformers was first starting out with the Sunbow G1 comics, Bumblebee wasn't the sunshine child character who was part of the main cast. In the character profiles Bumblebee function was put as Espionage, meaning Bumblebee was a part of either the Spec Ops or as an spy(agent), or both. However, when the T.V. series of transformers was created and aired Bumblebee was put in the main cast by him having a friendship with Spike, making him popular with kids.
And since, Hasbro focuses on toy sales, Bumblebee who was the more friendly and sunshine character in the G1 T.V. series led to them having that role be the basis for Bumblebee's character.
I admit, since the Sunbow comics came out a long time ago, I don't have the full on stories. However, forums discussing and going over the comic issues have helped. In fact, while yes Bumblebee does have some issues regarding whether the team needs him, he is actually really cunning, and as one forum put it manipulative.
There were several moments in which Bumblebee and then as Goldbug showed this. Using the "Cute little autobot" act to his advantage. Such as when he exploited Blaster who wanted to get even with Grimlock. Or that time in UK "Victory" when he had shamed a broken Ultra magnus to the point that Ultra was pushed to fight Galvatron again.
Really, Bumblebee character should be one that is always wearing a mask, putting on an act, and in the background. Still having that curiosity, Courage, and need to prove himself to his fellows. However, Bumblebee character acted like they were in their 30's which suits them, not a late teenager, or type of Hot Rod/Shot character.
Bumblebee character isn't a kid. Nor is he Optimus prime's child. The characters that fit that role would be Hot Rod or Hot Shot.
Also, Bumblebee is supposed to be one of the shortest and weakest characters. Seeing a lot of the more recent continuities give the character a bigger size and alt mode, seeing tfp Bumblebee be taller than Acree had me going "wait what!?" It makes more sense for Bumblebee to be the motorcycle and Acree as the car.
Honestly, bayverse could of had the spy role for Bumblebee work a whole lot more. Especially, in how Bumblebee was the one to keep all the other autobots hidden. Or the one to infiltrate KSI to find out what was happening to the Autobots corpses.