1999 Volkswagen Jetta GLS TDI review from North America

At first I loved this car. It seemed to ride great, corner well, etc. But soon things started to go wrong (almost immediately after purchase). I was racing my brother in law (he has the same car 2 years newer) and suddenly the car seemed to jerk back and lose power. Ever since this has continued to happen infrequently. Usually in the colder weather, but the first time it happened it was summer.

The check engine light has come on more times than I can count. Dealer said that is was a sensor problem and I decided not to get it fixed because it was going to cost me a mint. (around $500) This is still a problem by the way.

The same fall the automatic sunroof decided to jam itself.

The cup holders are total crap. The rear one doesn't hold a cup at all and the front one was so flimsy it broke right off.

Two grates on the air dam on the front have fallen out and had to be replaced.

Impossible to keep clean. The interior is black and the fabric is velor and everything sticks to it.

Glove compartment broke. Actually came back from the dealer broken - They said that had no idea what I was talking about. Doesn't close properly now without being slammed shut.

Since I have owned the car the heated rear view mirrors have never worked.

Wax like substance leaks from left hand side rear door under door frame.

Left rear brake light has been replaced 3 times.

Floor mats made poorly. Fell apart long ago.

Light in trunk works when it feels like it.

Center rear seatbelt jammed. Doesn't work at all. Was never used.

Radio lowers volume itself once in awhile.

Oil pan cover falls off and drags under car driving under normal conditions.

Makes annoying squeaking noises when you go over bumps.

Back seats are too small for car seats.

Aesthetically I love this car. It is fun to drive, the interior is designed well, the blue/red lights are cool, good sized trunk for a small car, and the heated seats are very comfortable. Everything that sold me on it instantly I still like. Only thing is that I don't feel confident driving it anymore. Way too many little things have gone wrong. I purchased this car because I was going to be driving an hour to work everyday and the mileage is great, but not worth the price I have paid in repairs. The Dealer I have dealt with in London Ontario Canada has been horrid. The price to have anything repaired or replaced is much to high and the service has been awful.