After buying my first new car ever (1995 Jetta GL) I was hard core sold on VW's products. I even sold VW's for a short time at a dealer in Kentucky.

When it was time to replace my wifes aging jalopy with something newer, there was no question in my mind that the Jetta would be the one. I now have to live almost daily with the fact that I have spent nearly $25,000 for a car that I can't trust as far as I could throw it.

This car has had nothing but problems from day one. It's a 2002 Jetta GLS 1.8T. Loaded out less leather and the sport package. The problems have included bad engine coils that left the car dead on the roadside, numerous recalls, engine drivability issues, poorer than advertised gas mileage, a bad engine computer, contstant starting problems that were finally fixed when I replaced the battery after being left stranded in a parking lot - and most recently a passenger side window that suddenly dropped down inside the door never to return. The only good thing was that when the battery gave out - I was parked in a Wal-Mart parking lot.

These mechanical issues are the major items, but the list of other issues is long as well. The car squeaks and rattles like a Yugo. This is unacceptable for a such an expensive car with only 14,000 miles on it. The sun roof makes an awful squeaking noise when it opens where the sun shade drags on the roof panel (like fingernails on a chalkboard). Of course the back seat is so cramped that I almost consider that it doesn't have one. The handling is nothing like the previous body styles. It's sloppy in the turns and the feel of the road just isn't there like older body styles.

However it is a love hate relationship that I have with this car. I still love the body styling - it's a great looking car that gets compliments frequently. The interior is comfortable (in the front seats) and offers amenities that are hard to find in smaller sedans - like heated seats. The sound system is awesome (Monsoon CD/Cassette). And the sunroof is very enjoyable - once it's opened. The 1.8T engine coupled with the Tiptronic 5 Speed Automatic is a great combination (as long as you can keep it running) and provides tons of power - but only runs smooth with Premium fuel.

My advice is to consider finding a used VW (regardless of model) and check into the service history of the car. I believe that they CAN make a good car - just that their overall quality is declining and the good ones are fewer and farther between.
Amount Paid (US$): 24800
Condition: New
Model Year: 2002
Model and Options: Jetta GLS