1986 Volkswagen Jetta GL review from North America

When purchased, the alternator was replaced with a rebuilt unit, and the main fuel pump (loud electric whine) replaced at 266K along with the left-side CV shaft.

I replaced the rear brake cylinders/pads and front pads/disks at 260K, along with the semi-seized e-brake cables. I just replaced the right-side CV shaft when the outer CV broke apart at 346K.

A “C” shaped fissure of rust on the driver side floor pan had the seat springing up and down on bumps, and was replaced with a riveted piece from an rust-free donor. A rust spot on the passenger floor pan allows water to soak the rear carpeting.

Door handles are a VW weak spot, 2 of 4 or broken.

The "A"-arm bushings are shot and clank over bumps.

Window scraper seals improved with black silicone.

This car has been a dream and continues to pass aircare like it could care less. I oil & filter change about every 8K, and air filter about every 30K.

This was a Saskatchewan car prior to BC, so I battle underside rust spots and stuck fasteners/bolts often.

A good econo car with inexpensive, plentiful parts. Fast if you push it, I cruise at 140km/hr on the highway.

Excellent engine access and design. If the timing belt goes, the valves are OK. I recommend the manual rack & pinion steering for simplicity under the hood (45 seconds to replace and tension the lone water-pump/alternator belt.)