1997 Volkswagen Golf CL review from North America

Starter replaced at 90 000 km.

Constantly leaks coolant liquid, despite having been repaired recently. As it is now summer, I keep a close eye on it.

Door moldings keep falling off (I've given up on fixing them).

I've had the electrical components (fans, windshield wipers) fail on me on two separate occasions. I don't know why, but restarting the engine fixed the problem.

I've replaced three mufflers and am beginning to have serious rust problems, but this is due to tough Quebec winters (they go heavy on the salt).

I love my Golf, but I will not buy another Volkswagen product. I almost traded it in for a 2003 CL, but was turned off by the apparent lack of quality. I figured I was better off by keeping it.

It handles really well and is dependable and fun to drive. I love how I feel driving it. It is the perfect size for zipping in and out of city traffic.

Fuel consumption is very good (mine is gas-powered).

I gave up going to the dealer after being treated poorly. I now have it serviced at independent shops and have no complaints.

I've been wanting to change cars for awhile now, but I can't find anything that even comes close to making me want to trade in my Golf. All in all, it's a great little car.