2000 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 2.0 from North America

Summary:

VW is garbage

Faults:

1) Engine replaced under warranty at 70000km.

2) Water leaking through driver's side window.

3) Transmission dead at 140000km.

General Comments:

This car has been nothing, but a nightmare since day 1. Needless to say that I am very disappointed with the VW quality and will never buy another.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 1st February, 2006

2000 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 2.0 from North America

Summary:

This is a malfunctioning car

Faults:

Several Recalls. Timing belt changed at 20,000 miles. Rear brakes replaced at 45,000 miles. New alternator at 55,000 miles.

General Comments:

This car has been a headache since I drove it off the lot. I would not recommend buying a VW to anyone. I have also been displeased with the service at the dealership. They were unable to diagnose the broken alternator.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 31st January, 2006

2000 Volkswagen Jetta GL from North America

Summary:

Fun to drive, but a maintenance nightmare

Faults:

Head Light out.

General Comments:

I have owned VW's since 1967 but never again. The Jetta has been a maintenance nightmare even for the simplest things. Originally I had oil burning issues with the new car that the dealer fiddled around for 3 years until they finally admitted that there had been problems with the engines in this series. They did a major engine overhaul on mine finally for no cost, but though greatly improved, I still add oil far too often. Plastic interior parts break from being too brittle.

Today, my left headlight burned out. The ordeal to change it is unbelievable including removing the battery and case which I still have not been able to figure out how to do. To make such a simple repair mean a trip to the dealer (which the manual recommends and will likely cost a fortune) is ridiculous. A far cry from the simplicity of the beetles where everything could be worked on by a novice mechanic.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 2nd December, 2005

15th Jan 2006, 16:46

I think it is quit simple to change a headlight bulb in this car, all you need is the Phillips screw driver included in your tool kit in the trunk. There is no reason to remove the battery to replace the headlight bulb. just two cases around the light housing protecting it from moisture.

25th Jan 2006, 21:44

I agree with the fellow who reported changing a headlight as a simple task. I work at a service center and the procedure is about as simple as can be.

2000 Volkswagen Jetta 2.0 from North America

Summary:

Looks like an Audi, drives like an Audi, built like a Fiat

Faults:

Front bumper assembly came loose because of broken plastic tabs.

Black colouring wearing off around dash controls, exposing white plastic underneath.

Transmission failed at 95000 miles, requiring complete replacement of transmission and clutch assembly.

Driver's door light/alarm switch failed.

Broken glove box door and pull-out drink tray.

Plastic faceplate on stereo (stock cassette player) disintegrating, causing individual buttons to fall out.

General Comments:

After having owned two Audi models, the 2000 Jetta has comparable handling and cornering. The gearbox is tight and the dashboard is well planned, with well-placed controls and a beautiful indigo/red lighting combination.

All this lovely fit and finish lasts for years on an Audi, but on this later generation of Mexican-built Volkswagens, the beauty is fleeting.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 30th October, 2005

2000 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 2.0 from North America

Summary:

It hurts the wallet, but I feel no regret when I mail off my payments.

Faults:

Check engine light stays on, taken 4 times to dealer.

Doors leak grease.

Climate control panel lights out.

Power locks don't always go down using key remote.

Key remote needs to be reprogrammed at dealer or with hard to find Internet instructions if you have 2 keys.

Grey interior just as hard to keep clean as black.

General Comments:

I have finally gotten service manual and feel it will be best to go that route. Dealers and repair guys either don't know or just want money. Many things are easily fixed if you read a little and do it yourself.

Car is quiet, but performs nicely. It is at a good place of performance vs. economy. There are more economical cars, but they aren't as fun to drive. There are better performing cars, but don't expect ~30 mpg from them.

Expect parts and labor to be pricier than domestic. Catch repairs early, don't let it get worse. Treat it well and it will treat you well.

I think most "across the board" problems have been identified by now. People seem to expect new from used. Things go bad. Get it fixed and your Jetta will be set to keep you happy for a while. Let it go and you will feel decline in performance and economy.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th October, 2005

20th Oct 2005, 07:50

Why is there grease in the doors?

15th Nov 2005, 12:31

I am the guy that asked about the grease. That is not grease, but actually a rust inhibitive wax/crack filler. It has nothing to do with the squeaks.

So, any more problems?