1996 Volkswagen Jetta GL from North America - Comments

4th Aug 2005, 14:57

"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.


9th Jan 2008, 09:14

Same problems. I hate my jetta.

Dash light comes and goes, blinkers don't do what their suposed to at all, whole exguast sucks, replaced the wheel bearings more than twice, windsheild wipper motor dosent work, transmission is going.

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