1996 Volkswagen Jetta TREK review from North America

As soon as the car was purchased:

Ignition Wires and Spark Plugs: $175.00 Installation: Free.

Front Left Bearing Replaced. Part $35.00 Labour $120.00 (While in the shop, asked for a computer diagnostic test. The check engine light and the airbag light were on. Asked for the codes: $40.00) Later googled the codes... gotta love the Internet.

Ignition switch: $30.00 Special Tool: $30.00 Installation: Free.

Maintenance: so far $165.00 (includes full alignment and a four oil change package, air filter, etc)

Winter tires (A highly recommended MUST in Canada): $200.00 (used for one winter) Installation: Free.

Two months after purchasing the car, my Jetta developed a personality to starting up. Sometimes taking 5-6 times to turn the key to get my Jetta to start up. I finally got feed up and purchased a re-manufactured starter from Bosch for $175.00 with a one year warranty. Installation: Free.

Things that STILL need to be done:

Bought new oxygen sensor from Bosch: $155.00.

Rear-right brake drum small leak (found out when my buddy installed my winter tires). New part: $18.00.

Both will be installed for free.

One fog light does not work.

Driver's side key lock does not work.

This is my first car. Thought it was a good deal for $2,500.00. Wanted something cheap so I could learn how to drive stick.

Except for the starter issue, I find the car's handling and driving just fine. Engine purrs nicely (I get a lot of attention from girls as I drive by, even though I'm a girl who drives the car! Must be the sound of the engine, I swear.), clutch is fine, shocks are great (considering the car is lowered).

I've saved quite a bit already since I didn't have to pay for installation fees. Also, you have to have at least one store in your area that specializes in VW parts. Living in Toronto, I've stumbled upon 3 stores which sell parts at half the price the dealer would charge.

Yes, most things that I have already done (or still need to do) to the car are small and painstaking, but that's what you get when buying a used car, especially one with lots of kilometers (mileage).

I find that if I maintain her well and drive her hard once in a while, she'll be good to me.

Overall very happy with the car.