Faults:

A few months after purchasing the car, I had the full muffler system including the catalytic converter replaced as the previous unit was botched to cover the emissions testing required in my region.

The start gave me some problems, but was rectified with a relay kit that was part of a recall back in the mid-90s.

After that I had virtually no problems for 10 months until one day it conked out in an intersection. This was the beginning of a close relationship with my mechanic. After replacing the fuel pump, ignition coil, a full tune-up, fuel flush, and some other electrical and fuel related parts, it problem was found in the distributor. By this time the mechanic did charge me on the last repair.

Finally, in December the ignition switch had to be replaced. A tedious $200 repair.

General Comments:

I wanted to sell this car at one point, but I can't bring myself to part with it. I waited a long time to get up the nerve to purchase a quirky car like this and I've enjoyed it since. I recommend 5-speed over automatic for fuel savings and performance.

I am a tall person and the only car I fit comfortably in, that is in the economy range is this VW.

Insurance has been much cheaper for this model year over if I bought a new car leased. In fact, I like this 1990 Jetta much more than my brand new Sunfire that I leased previous to purchasing this car. European makes are much more fun to drive than the North American boats.

I hope to keep it a couple more years. At that point I'll have my next VW picked out.

Faults:

The battery died after owning it for 2 weeks, but Wal-mart batteries are cheap ($40 for a new one with 2 year replacement warranty.

Dash was cracked when I bought it, but the person who owned it before me lived in southern Arizona, so I am just going to glue it or get a dash mat.

Just 4 days ago, I think my fuel pump went out, which is bad because its about a $300 part, and I know it wasn't the filter, and I'm checking the relay fuse.

The clutch needs some work done, I'm not sure whether or not if it needs replacing, but I'm afraid that it does.

From what I can tell, the person who traded it in didn't want to face all the repairs it needed, so they decided to get a new car instead, but it's fine with me, because I love the car anyways.

The only problems with Volkswagens, as anyone knows, is that it is super expensive to buy parts that are volkswagen made.

General Comments:

The engine rocks, it will beat any Japanese import out there, stock of course, but the 2.0 liter Duel Over Head Cam turn sharp and still make a turn like non other.

The car is sold stock with Racero racing seats that usually come in mustang cobra's, and it also came stock with 15 inch BBS rims.

The car has such a racy little stance too, because the nose of the car is short, and the car looks really boxy and in your face edgy.

Faults:

My alternator went as soon as I got the car.

My reverse lights worked periodically for a while and finally quit.

Diver's seat has a split in the vinyl.

Fan for heater only works on highest setting.

Battery has died once.

Exhaust has been replaced twice, cat converter only once.

Tires wore out.

Replaced alternator for a second time.

Minor oil leak.

Minor coolant leak from Radiator hose gasket.

Replaced front brake rotors and pads.

General Comments:

Considering the age and mileage of this car, it still handles very well and I have 100% faith in it's reliability. I have rarely had problems with it and when I have, they have they have either been wear and tear items or haven't kept the car from working.

I love driving it and although it certainly isn't a rocket, it does have decent power in most situations and has wonderful steering.

In the summer I get just over 29 mpg in my daily driving although much of it is on the highway and the large fuel tank gives me a long time between gas ups.

I love the car, it still looks pretty good and the paint has held up extremely well. Although the looks are a bit dated in design, it is easily identifiable as a Volkswagen and has character.

This has been the best car of the seven I have owned. It is easy to work on and I would gladly buy another.