2003 Volkswagen Jetta GLS review from North America

You should ask what has *not* gone wrong with car! Engine starting stalling during the first week, brakes failed, automatic transmission slams, brake light went out, keyless entry stopped working after three weeks, dealer kept cargo net and seat pockets (Apparently this is common: they take them off new cars and put them on the used cars to entice customers. New car buyers fail to notice.), plastic dashboard parts cracking, engine light comes on periodically (service guys say they haven't seen it), been in the shop 37 out of 94 days of ownership.

First, don't buy a Volkswagen.

Second, if you feel you *must* buy a Volkswagen, do not use Charles Maund in Austin, Texas. My wife and I live half way between Dallas and Austin, and choosing to buy from Charles Maund was a huge mistake. Their service technicians don't have a clue and they *never* have parts. My wife's 2002 Passat sat in the shop for three weeks while they waited on parts. This happened during at ten days of ownership. Whenever I want to yell at them, some other angry customer steps up to yell about a bigger problem than I'm having, so I keep my mouth shut.

Volkswagen should shut down completely until they get their act together, learn how to make cars, and learn how to treat customers. It's simply not acceptable.

My wife and I are going to dump our VWs as soon as we can find some broker dense enough to buy them. After that, I'll go back to Acura. She wants a Saturn L300 because she knows she'll always get excellent service from Saturn.

Again, anyone considering buying a Volkswagen, please *do your research* and read what buyers are saying. I didn't, and it has become the most expensive nightmare I've ever owned.