2002 Volkswagen Jetta GLS review from North America

Check engine light x 2.

Radio replaced x 2 (plus 2 additional trips to the service department for repairs)

Battery replaced x 4. I had constant electrical problems and kept a portable jump starter in my car - since I needed it ALL THE TIME.

Brake switch.

Windows fell into the doors.

Broken wire in heated seat.

Center console broken.

A couple of 4 inch springs came out from under the passenger seat - VW says that's common???

Multiple plastic pieces kept breaking off the interior of the car (and I don't have children and am generally pretty easy on my vehicles)

I was very disappointed with this car. It was oh-so-fun to drive, but the constant trips to the service department will keep me from ever buying another VW. To add insult to injury, the service departments in my area do not offer loaner cars (which I had gotten used to with my Acura).

It sounds like I'm one of the luckier owners - at least mine hasn't caught fire or had the dreaded oil sludge problem. However, a lot of the problems that I had are very common on the 2002 Jetta.

After having to jump start the car twice in one day (on a 3 month old battery), I got rid of this car a few weeks ago.

Make sure you do your research before buying this car - I wish I had. Consumer Reports ranks it MUCH WORSE THAN AVERAGE.