1996 Volkswagen Jetta GL review from North America
"Comfortable, Cute, Mechanical Money Pit"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replaced front brakes twice.
Replaced entire exhaust system twice in three years from rust damage.
Replaced ignition coil.
Driver's side door lock fell out one day.
Before lock fell out, auto locking system was moody... sometimes it worked, sometimes it didn't.
Replaced clutch.
Stereo knob came off and won't stay on.
Rear cup holder cover came off days after I bought it.
Visor clips both broke.
Moulding started pealing, but I got it repaired for "free" after drunk driver smashed into my driver's side and had to have it totally repainted, etc...
Trunk release latch doesn't always release, sometimes have to push it 2 or 3 times.
Check engine light is on constantly... I have had paid $2000 in replacing sensors to find out that it won't turn off... mechanic says it must be "defective" main computer... supposedly (he says) it is a common problem for Jettas.
There is no glove box.
Tires small, plastic covers chip and crack and peel easily... have had them replaced once... looked like old ones with in 2 months.
General comments?
Despite all these mechanical issues, I really love the way this car drives. A major improvement on my last car. (An old, although reliable '86 Chevy Nova)
I love the way it looks and the gear shifter is smooth. I'm short so all the controls, etc. are with in perfect reach. Visibility is great. I really like the rear window defrost, A/C, moon roof, and stereo. When locks worked, the built-in alarm gave me peace of mind. I have been driving it for almost 7 years, so I enjoy the comfort, feels like home every time I get behind the wheel.
Not much body rust, which surprises me since I only wash it about 1 time during Ohio winter... lots of salt.
Recommended reviews
| I love my car |
|
| Economical for a 6 cylinder, fast and fun, but not cheap, and almost unreliable sometimes |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 1996 |
| Year of manufacture | 1995 |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 ABA Gas Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 3 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 43000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 115000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Nova |
| Date of Entry | 4th August, 2005 |