1998 Volkswagen Jetta GL review from North America

Replaced Throttle Body at 47000 miles.

Replaced wiring harness in driver side door that controls door locks/alarm system.

Replaced many pipes related to the exhaust system.

Replaced electronic switch in ignition that controlled my wipers, headlights, AC/heater blower, rear defrost and cruise control.

Paint problems from the time it was new, now 5 years later the clear coat is peeling off.

I addressed the paint problem when I bought the car, took it to the dealer several times. It was covered under the original warranty. They buffed it and made it look pretty, but refused to repaint the hood. The problem kept coming back after a few washes. Now it is 5 years later and my clear coat is peeling off my pretty blue paint. This greatly depreciates the value of my car and it is costly to have repainted.

The problem with the ignition made it impossible to drive in the rain or at night. Thankfully it was not too expensive to replace. (Well it would have been if I took it to a dealer!)

I have enjoyed this car and I've been told that if the oil is changed and it is maintained properly this motor will last up to 300,000 miles. Other things may go wrong, but you'll have a hard time killing the motor! I like the simplicity of the interior, and the enormous trunk! This car has the best handling of any car I've ever driven. So I guess I have a love/hate relationship with my Jetta.