2001 Volkswagen Jetta GLX review from North America

I have a 2002 Volkswagen Jetta GLX. I hate it with a passion. It has given me problems since the day I bought it and I am in the process of getting a new car and trading it in - poor soul who gets it next...

Check engine light is constantly on - so much so I want to take a sticker or piece of paper, and cover the darn thing! Every time it comes on, I get a knot in my stomach because I know I will have to take the car in for service and something else will be wrong with it.

I have had both windows fall into the door.

A new battery (YEAR TWO!).

A new cooling system.

My airbag malfunctioned and smoke came out of the steering wheel - scared the crap out of me!.

I had my premature wear on my brake pads.

O2 sensors out a few times.

Knock sensors issues.

Tail lights out.

The armrest friggin breaks all the time - not to mention the sides of the armrest have come apart, and well apparently that's an issue that can't be fixed.

My gear shift no longer lights up.

The computer display of mileage and MPG is slowly fading away.

Right now the EPC light was on and I could not get it out of park - needed a tow and more money to get it fixed... and that is all from memory ---- there is probably more I am forgetting!

The service department sucks, and when I get mad, they do nothing... so when I get postal, they tell me that I shouldn't be speaking to them that way... well screw them... I paid a lot for this thing and if I want to yell, scream and curse tough...

Oh, and I can't even begin to mention the awful smell that comes out of the ventilation system... it smells like a cat died in my engine - awful!

Don’t get a VW... they are terrible! Get on a first name basis with your mechanic and bring your checkbook.