1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX review from North America

Some electrical problems. Vehicle speed sensor (it was a recall item, replaced free).

I have had to repair normal wear and tear items such as tires, brakes ect.

Routine tune-ups. Nothing that you would not have to repair with any other car.

Volkswagens are costly to repair, however, any nice car is. If you cannot afford to drive in style, a Volkswagen is not for you.

I have owned 1994 GL III, 1989 GL, 2004 GL and 1997 GLX Jetta, in that order. By far my favorite is my 1997; it is very stylish, and came with every available option (power everything, sunroof, leather, cruise, the list is exhaustive). Even with the V6, I have very good gas mileage, 35 MPG.

I agree with the reviews about finding a good mechanic. It has taken me 9 years to find one that knows about Volkswagens and is honest (he is not a dealer mechanic). Try your small "mom and pop" shop, they are usually the most knowledgeable, and honest. I have driven VW's for so long, that I pretty much do all my repairs.

It is a drag that most parts do take 3-4 days to arrive, but if you are a VW enthusiast, it is all part of owning a classy car. BMW and Audi have the same wait time for parts. If you want to have nice things in life, sometimes you have to wait.

Volkswagens that have major problems are the ones that were not taken care of properly to begin with. Just like any car, they will have problems if they are neglected. All cars have routine tune ups for a reason.

I can honestly say, that my Jetta is my anti depressant. I just have to get in it and drive!

If you are still anti VW, just check out ANY other manufacture review, they will ALL have negative ones. No manufacture is perfect, but hey, you might as well drive in style!