1999 Volkswagen Jetta GL review from Mexico

When I got this car, it had 85k original miles, but its engine and all pumps and all belts seemed worse than those on my previous car, a TOYOTA Corolla with more than 120k miles.

In the first week, trying to get the humming noise away, I changed the alternator, power steering pump, drive belt tensioner and drive belt. All parts cost me more than 400 bucks. After this, it was driven in an acceptable state for about one week before it made a noise again. This time, it was the timing belt and water pump that needed to be changed.

I also found the 2.0 i4 engine with 115 hp is kind of under-powered for this car. When I drive on the highway at 80mph, the engine is always roaring at more than 3600 rpm. No wonder it gets so worn down at just 85k mileage.

The other problem that bothers me is the remote access and power lock system. Sometimes the remote doesn't work at all, even after I installed two new CR1606 batteries (9.98$ from the dealer). Sometimes one of the four doors can't be locked down, although the alarm system seems activated with the beep and flashing red light comes on.

The last bad thing is most of its parts need to be ordered from dealer, which usually means extra money. Parts, such as brake pads, coolant, power steering fluids etc., from auto parts stores are highly unlikely be able to installed properly.

Nice looking, good handling, bad quality, bad design for DIY-ers.