1999 Volkswagen Jetta GLS review from North America

My mom -- who works three jobs on a CNA's salary -- bought me this Jetta as a college graduation present. She'll be paying over $300 a month until 2008 and until that last check is sent, I'll feel like we've been taken advantage of month by month. Here's the catalog:

Occasionally does not start. When I turn the key, there is a click and a very soft buzz under the hood. Jumping the battery sometimes gets the car to start, but repeated tests have shown there is no problem with the battery or the alternator.

Coil was badly burned.

Sunroof does not close all the way.

Left side of windshield leaks and drips onto dimmer switch.

When the car wouldn't start one night, I left it parked on a Chicago side street. When I picked the car up the next day, I rolled down the front driver's side window and heard a loud, grinding sound throughout the entire door. Of course, the window then stuck in the door and, as an added bonus, the skies opened up.

Cup holder sticks.

Fuel pump relay replaced.

AM radio is useless, as the alternator sends a very, very loud buzz through that gets louder as you press the gas pedal.

Program 6 button on the radio sticks.

Glove box hinges are broken in half.

Cabin cigarette lighters do not work.

Lights for the gas door switch and trunk switch do not illuminate.

Brake dust is unbelievable.

I can't believe how difficult Volkswagen makes it to service your own car. If you've decided to make one of the biggest financial mistakes of your life and purchase a Volkswagen, you'd better buy an Allen wrench to go along with it. The entire engine us shelled in plastic. In order to get to the engine, you need to disconnect all of the spark plug wires and then remove the screwed-down plastic cover.

I wish I never would have shaken that salesman's hand on the sale of this car. With all of the negative equity built up, I'll have it for another three years. As a master's student, the last thing I need is another mechanic's bills. I should have done more research before purchasing.