Faults:

The clutch cable and the clutch disk were replaced within 5 months after buying this car.

I replaced all 4 spark plug wires along with the spark plugs.

I put 4 brand new tires on because the old tires had 5 percent tread left.

I replaced the alternator 2 times.

The power window switches were replaced.

I recently replaced the original 1.8L H.O. (High Output) engine with a 1986 Golf GTI 1.8L H.O.

General Comments:

This is a very fuel efficient, reliable vehicle. I obtained 6.1 Liters on the highway which is very impressive.

The seats are very uncomfortable for long period trips.

I am really pleased with the acceleration, it's very smooth and quite quick.

This car lacks power either when the air conditioning is turned on or when you try to pass another individual on the highway.

I'm impressed with the heating and cooling system of the Jetta. I've never seen another vehicle produce heat quicker than this car.

The 1985 Jetta Carat has the speed and agility of a humming bird.

Faults:

The alternator needed to be replaced at 100,000 miles. This is normal wear.

The struts also needed to be replaced at the same time.

Other than new tires those were the only two items needing replacement.

General Comments:

This car has been extremely dependable and economical. This is partly due to the fine craftsmanship and excellent engineering. The other factor involved is the rigorous and almost religious maintenance schedule. Weekly circle checks were done each Saturday morning. A detailed journal was kept of the items that might need work as well as the repairs that did take place. In this way follow up was acted on so that we didn't have "bumpers falling off" due to neglect.

The oil was changed religiously, often times at less than 2000 miles. After all the oil is the life blood of the engine. If you abuse this item the life and reliability of any vehicle will be seriously compromised.

The air conditioning was very reliable hereto because of yearly servicing.

Brakes were good when fitted with the more expensive pads. They last longer than the cheapies ie. you get what you pay for.

Faults:

The front and rear wheel bearings had to be changed.

The back struts.

The low beams didn't work.

Front brakes.

The drive axle had to be changed.

General Comments:

This car had excellent gas mileage. It had lots of power for being 16 years old.

The engine burned no oil, had no leaks, ran really good. The car started up first shot in -32 c weather, without being plugged in.

I absolutely loved driving this car, It took some time learning to shift gears at first.

The doors were a little rusty.

Faults:

Haven't had the car to long but it drives great. Only thing is that it doesn't do too well on hills. This car definitely does not have any power. Any suggestions on how I can give it a boost!!

Also, the radio stays on continuously even when the key is out of the ignition. So, it's definitely a pain to remember to turn off the radio every time I get out of the car.

Faults:

The only things wrong are not important, just the tachometer went out and the muffler.

Drivers' door handle is starting to go, and water leaks in through the rear door panels.

Had to replace the water pump and the alternator drive belt, that is all so far.. (one hopes)

General Comments:

Other than the annoying water leaks that make the interior smell bad, and the way people like to open their doors into the sides of the car (leaving a growing collection of little dings and chips), I find it to be rather nimble and fun to drive, very tight and solid feeling.

Fun to fling around corners and take on the freeway.

Economical and even stylish.