2000 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 from North America
Summary:
A money trap!!
Faults:
Wow! After talking with Volkswagen customer service I thought I was the only one reporting problems. I'll start with the most current problem which is the clutch which appears "glazed" as described by the dealer. I've driven standard transmissions for over 10 years and this has never happened with Ford, GM, Chevy, or Toyota. Volkswagen customer service refuses to do anything about this, even though the service provider says it looks like a default in the clutch. Approximate cost to repair is $1200, which is not covered under even the extended warranty that cost $2000 when I purchased the car.
Next on the list is the same "dropping windows" that have happened a total of 3 times. Twice on the drivers side, once on the passenger side. Luckily this was covered under warranty, but still a major pain to cover with plastic and wait until Monday to take to the dealer.
Check engine light came on twice within 10,000 miles for replacement of a sensor in the engine. Both times this was covered by the warranty.
Leather wrapped steering when began to fade after 8000 miles. I was told by the dealer that this was normal, but not covered.
The rear drivers side taillight has recently went out. (Not covered by warranty.)
The starter sounds as like it is sticking when first started. The dealer actually heard this in the service shop, but said it was not a concern. "Sometimes it happens?!"
Both cupholders have broke in the car, as well as the handle to open the armrest. (Covered under warranty.)
The last one could have not been pretty. This happened pre 20,000 miles. One of the front sway bars was loose. The dealer could not find the problem when I took the car to them to test drive; however, when I drove for them, they quickly found the problem. Service tech said that this could have resulted in an accident.
Also, the wood grained shifter and door trim have both cracked. This was noticed at 21,000 miles.
General Comments:
The car does look sharp and is fun to drive, but it has been a lemon so far.
Beware & check the service history before buying. Also good luck with the customer service department.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 5th November, 2002