2001 Volkswagen Jetta TDI review from North America

Replaced the turbo.

Replaced glow-plug harness.

Replaced glow-plugs.

Replaced timing belt 2x's within 6 months.

Heated seats do not work.

Heated outside mirrors do not work.

Cup-holders in front and rear are broken.

Tint on drivers window is peeling off.

Wiper base has seized and wipers fail.

When wipers do work they skip across windshield.

I purchased a used car and I should have spent the extra buying new. I have only had the car 1 year and it feels like my mechanic has had it more than myself. The car is in the garage again as I am typing. Again for the timing system.

My problem is finding a mechanic that is competent to work on diesels and is up to date with the models. Taking it back to the dealership is not an option as their prices are too high for labour and parts. Finding a private mechanic is difficult for this model of car.

If the car was working properly I may have time to enjoy it. What I am paying for repairs could have gone to a newer model. I travel approximately 120km to work (one way) each day and purchased the diesel for better gas consumption. I realized after I made the purchase that we do not have a diesel gas bar in our town. I have to remember to fill up before coming home.

Living in Canada and the colder climate I was looking forward to having the heated seats. The seats stopped working within 6 months of my purchase and the dealership mechanic states its the heating elements and the entire seat upholstery will have to be removed to repair the problem.