2000 Volkswagen Jetta GLS review from North America

Air bag warning light illuminated at 5332; dealer reset the system.

The center console latch broke after two years.

Car was leaking oil badly at 27k miles. Was leaking from the oil cooler mounted below the oil filter. Took several attempts to get the seals to fit properly. I assume that the dealer may have caused the problem when they were changing the oil at 20k miles.

Driver's seat makes a popping noise when hitting the brakes. Dealer was unable to figure it out.

Finish wore off the console surrounding the gear shift. I have no idea what caused it; nothing has ever been laid against it.

Because of the anti-pinch mechanism, windows go down when they sense something is blocking them. Apparently something is binding the rear windows; it takes 2-3 times to get them up sometimes.

BAD:

Rear seat is extremely small. Front seats have to be moved forward for 9 and 12 year-old boys.

Short-term warranty. Am afraid of the repair bill should the turbo give out.

A/C does not blow very cold on a hot day. My 1998 Ford Taurus will freeze you out.

Horrible location for the cup holder- cannot operate radio controls. Cup holder only holds very small cups. Cheaply made.

Very harsh on sudden bumps- bottoms-out in the front often.

Where do you get a battery for this car? And how much is it?

Vehicle requires synthetic oil ($4.25 per quart- requires five) and oil cartridge is $10.

Water separator on fuel filter very hard to get to.

GOOD:

Love the color of the dash lights.

Fuel mileage is 41-43 in town and 47-48 on the highway at 80 MPH. Can drive another 90 miles when the fuel light comes on.

Engine starts strong every time. Very peppy engine. Enjoy the sound of the turbo whistle.