2000 Volkswagen Jetta GLS review from North America

The front passenger seat was broken when purchased. $400 repair.

Front brakes went out less than a month after purchase. Cost $400 to repair because the brake sensor went off and when that happens you must pay $150 per brake pad for special pads with the sensor (which aren't under warranty).

Airbag light came on and stayed on because the clock spring in the steering column broke. Did not replace because the cost was $400.

Battery went bad had to replace. Only the dealer can replace the battery because otherwise the stereo won't work. Had to replace the serpentine belt at the same time. Cost $400.

Glove box door broke. Did not fix.

EPC, ASR and check engine light came on causing poor performance. Was due to the brake light switch recall--no problems since repair (but that was only a week ago).

Same day I picked up the car for the recall the door sensor broke. Caused the car to think the doors were open. Would not lock the doors. Cost $400 to fix. The dealer replaced the window clips for free and mysteriously the airbag light is no longer on.

For two weeks the car had trouble starting. It wouldn't turn over or make a peep until, oh, the fifth try or so. Mysteriously, we have not had that problem since.

Minor problem with the soft plastic coating over all the hard plastic in the interior peeling away. Makes the nice interior look shabby.

It's funny how everything that has gone wrong has cost right around $400 to fix.

I really love the Jetta. It's fun to drive, looks great and handles well. The problem is it costs so darn much to fix. VW really needs to work out these quality control issues and they need to make their dealers respect the customer. We found a good dealer, but it's the ONLY dealer in my area that isn't rude and doesn't treat you like a five year old with a learning disability.

Bottom line is if you get the Jetta you'll enjoy it, but be prepared to spend more money for repairs than you would other cars.