Volkswagen Jetta

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Mary of Henderson, NE July 2, 2009

I join the legions of complaintants about the many, many problems we are dealing with in what I perceive to be faulty design/manufacturer parts in my own 2001 VW Jetta. I am miffed as to why VW is not held accountable, what with this amount of incidents. My own include: interior paint peeling when the car was 6 months old; faulty ignition wires; faulty trunk latch: I've had to replace it twice. That would be THREE trunk latches when you include the one it came with; problems with door locking machanism; faulty temperature gauge part; faulty mass airflow; faulty hazard lights; failed turn signals; faulty brake lights; catalytic converter failure just past the covered period mandated by Federal Law; faulty lighting in trunk area (not a bulb). Some of these problems had "Technical Service Bulletins" from VW, but no consideration if the car was out of warranty. VW should, at the very least, give some concession when these problems occur just past the warranty. VW corporate has constantly "disowned" their product and the responsibility inherent in manufacturing and promoting such vehicles. Although they eventually reimbursed me for the hazard lights, turn signals, and mass airflow valve, it was not without much aggravation and letter writing on my part.

Brian of Stewartsville, NJ June 12, 2009

I]'m writing in response to a series of issues I have had in the past 3.5 years owning my Jetta TDI 2006. The second year the flywheel was replaced. I was told at the service center that the clutch needed to be replaced. I challenged the associate asking if 30,000 miles was a normal amount of time to replace your clutch. He told me yes it happens often when you ride the clutch. I've been driving a manual transmission for 20 years and I do not ride the clutch. He told me it would break in 7,000 more miles. I am now 20000 miles later and it is still working.

At this same service (fly wheel replacement) I mentioned that the door locks weren't working all the time. They told me they couldn't find anything. Keep that statement in mind while I tell the rest of the story. This year the front end was shaking. I took it to the dealer and he told me I needed two new tires. I told him the trunk was broken and the door locks weren’t working all the time. I purchased two front tires and got a new trunk lock put on. They said the door locks were ok. (They said the door locks were OK).

This week (6/8/09), I went to get gas. The gas door would not open. I had to have the car towed to the dealer. The associate tells me the door harness needs to be replaced. Inside the door, the wires were pinched and broken, a factory defect at assembly. This is the cause of the past year and a half of the door locks not working, but since the car isn't under warranty by a couple hundred miles, I have to shell out 700 to get a new door harness.

I'm livid. I have had nothing but problems and no one is very helpful. I was blown off three times when I asked about the electrical problem (WHEN THE CAR HAD A WARRANTY) and now that it is up they decide to find it. I love my car but I can tell you I will never buy another one.

The problems and people I have had to deal with, making assumptions about my driving abilities and lack of customer care is enough to say VW aren't worth the trouble. I should not have had to pay for a factory defect. Now they are telling me my clutch is slipping. I don't know weather to believe them or not. I don’t feel a difference. I can't trust the judgment of my Professionals at the following VW Dealers: Trend VW in Rockaway NJ; Young's VW in Easton PA (where we bought the 2006 TDI Jetta) I feel like I have been taken advantage of and I'm helpless to do anything about it. I should be compensated for the door harness and the lack of respect from VW employees that I have had to put up with the past 3.5 years. I'm very disappointed with company; I use to hold it dear to my heart.

Waleed of Lorton, VA June 23, 2009

I have a 2001 Volkswagen Jetta VR6 and just recently the window just fell into the door bay. It seems this is a common problem. Does anyone know if there is a recall for this or if they will fix it for free? It seems ridiculous that this should happen.

Billy of Whittier , CA June 9, 2009

I own a 2000 Volkswagen Jetta, I was driving on the freeway at 80mph when the check engine light flashed and the car jerked off then back on again, this is not the first of its problems, but at that speed it could cause an accident, after getting it fixed it was the coolant temp sensor, very extreme reaction to something so small. No accident was caused but if the car didn't return to normal running I could of been rear ended.

Joanne of Monticello, NY June 9, 2009

I've owned two Volkswagon Jettas. Both have been afficted with the same problem with the door latches. The doors won't close. Something is defective about the internal latch. Replacing these defective latches is no easy fix. The first time was on my 1997 Jetta. I had a garage extract and replace these latches (rear doors) at a cost of $550.00.

I now own a 2001 Jetta. Last year the same problem arose with the front doors. I once again had to have the work performed for a cost of $500.00. Now, the rear doors are not closing. As you can imagine, I'm at my wits end. I have not had the rear doors fixed because I simply can't afford to. This defective problem poses a considerable safety risk. The doors swing open as I'm going around corners. I've attatched a bungee cord for now rendering my back seats useless for passengers. I do however sometimes need to carry a passenger back there and advise them of the hazard that exsists there. If this is not a recallable item, I don't know what is. Please relay this information to the proper channels.

Carol of Raleigh, NC May 18, 2009

I bought new 2009, Salsa Red, VW Jetta in Fall, 2008. Within 5 mos., I have white speckled pits all over the front bumper and several others sprinkled over the car. The paint job is so thin that the least little thing that bumps it chips off the red paint. This car has never been driven on a gravel or dirt road. I asked service manager where I bought it to take a look. Local dealership chalked it up to "usual wear and tear" from grit and dirt on the highway going back and forth to work. None of the other cars I have owned previously (driven on same roads)nor any of the other cars in our entire parking lot (condominums) have this type of damage to the paint. I believe I have an inferior paint job. I wrote to teh Customer CARE center to complaint and the VW Customer CARE center sent me a letter siding with the service manager at the dealership, sight unseen. Oh, yeah, they sold me some touch-up paint.

tracey of fayetteville , NC April 29, 2009

We bought our 15 yr old daughter a volkswagon jetta brand new in december of 2007. The car is a 2008 model. She really did not drive the car much except with me on the weekends. She did not start driving this car till August when she got her license. That winter or fall we started having issues with the car not starting. The lights would come on, the a/c would come on but not the engine. We had to tow it in they said they fixed it. That was the first time. It happend again, we towed it in they said they fixed. Then again we had to two it in and they kept the car for over a week saying they finally found out the problem. In fact they said the car did the same for them would not start then a couple hours later started. By this time the car had about 8500 or less miles, I wanted to trade it in but they said no.

So months went by and the car was fine. Now in the last three months the car sometimes starts and sometimes does not. We have been stranded several times but after an hour or two the car starts. My husband is deployed so I am dealing with this on my own and feel I am getting the run around. Recently this month the car is doing it much more. So once again I took it into VW and told them the car was a lemon, just to replace the car with the same model. There response was no.

The car is in the shop, they called me on the first day and said the start up was fine they had no issues. I am disgusted with the way this has been handled. The car we have now had for 1 year and four months. The car has 16000miles. Basically I have been screwed. I am stuck with a car that sometimes works and sometimes does not. Now the folks at VW are very very polite and act as if they are going out of their way for me. But the fact is I dont care how nice they are, there is something wrong with the car. We spent close to 25500 on the car and traded in a nice truck getting 8000 dollars for it.

My husband did this for our duaghter because he is always deployed and she is an exceptional teenager. Now as usual my husband is gone and I feel helpless. I am worried to have my duaghter drive the car in fear she will be stranded. The car is at VW but it appear they will never find out what is wrong with it, it in my opinion is a LEMON. It has been the same issue with car over and over again, yet they say they fix it and of course do not. What do I do? Who can help me?

deborah of SOUTHBURY, CT May 5, 2009

I own a jetta tdi 2006, my windshield wipers have caused me a problem every year. the past 2 years the new milford replaced it because it was still under waranty, it not now. obviously there is a default problem with the windshield wiper motor, that the company provided. I feel that this is going to be an every year replacement at $377.00. unfair practice. Thank you

Richard of East Hampton, CT May 4, 2009

I purchased my new 2006 VW Jetta TDI new in 2007. My wife and I have been a long time VW owners going back to 1968. We have purchased new 2 Beetles, 2 Rabbits (my brother and I both purchased matching Rabbits), and 2 Jettas. I never had any major problems with any of my VW’s except my most recent 2006 TDI.

Several people told me before I purchased this TDI that VW has a lot of electrical problems and cost of ownership on a TDI is one of the highest for any vehicle. I almost bought a Honda Accord but I like all the safety features and fuel mileage on the TDI.

One month after I purchased my TDI while at Cape Cod, Mass. the fan stopped working and had no AC on a 100 deg. day while on vacation. I was lucky the VW dealer in Hyannis, MA was able to fix the problem due to a loose wire connection behind the glove box.

The Transmission blew- up under warranty last year. Springs and other parts fell into the starter and destroyed it. VW paid over $5,000 to Gene Langan VW for the repair.

A few months ago out of warranty the air bag warning light came on. It cost me over $100.00 to fix a wire connection under the driver seat. This shows a pattern of poor wiring connection.

On April 2, 2009 I notice no cold AC and the dealer replaced the AC Compressor and Condenser out of warranty for a cost to me of $2,047.56!

Gene Langan VW told me they phoned VW but VW was not willing to compensate me for the repairs out of warranty.

A few days before I found out about the AC problem I had the TDI sold to a private owner but before I delivered it I had it repaired and could not afford the loss of over $2000. so the deal fell through. I was going to buy a new gas Passat. The nice customer service lady I talked to today said for me to mail in my receipts for the AC work done and there is a good chance I will be reimbursed for the $2,047.56 in 4 to 6 weeks.

Carmen of Denver, CO March 26, 2009

My 2004 VW Jetta TDI has had issues turning off while i'm driving. it's done it since i got the car and i've complained but they can never find anything. I usually can restart the car, but recently it will stop in the middle of driving and i can't start again for over an hour. When i take it in to the dealer, they can't find anything wrong. i think i have a lemon. it's happened twice in the last month now.

can't drive, can't get to work. so far it's only cost me a couple days of work and stress there, and a fee to have VW look at the car and find nothing. i've had to find another ride to work.

Kristen of Winter Springs, FL March 26, 2009

well I bought a brand new jetta and it all started when I went through a touch free car wash .. my door panel on my passenger door flew off wjen dryer came on.. went to vw they fixed thn not even a week later it did it agaiin driveing down rd...then at 15000 miles my back breaks go out and I go to vw and they told me 300 to fix it I got upset cause not supposed to happen at that low mileage and the guy was like well that's vw for you... so he mad me feel like I bought a P.O.S... which it is... so anyways I brought my car into firestone where they fixed it for 200.... I will never ever by a vw again.

Lauren of Marlboro, NY March 19, 2009

I have a 2004 VW jetta that I bought brand new, the car right now has about 42,000 miles. I have already had to bring my car into the shop about 3 times for transmission problems now I still have the transmission problem, it feels like its not shifting gears and the rpms race up and then the gear kicks in and jerks the car. Yesterday my heat stopped working!!= and the car began to overheat, the check engine light came on and i changed the termostat but it didnt fix the problem. I think its the Water Pump, thats right at 42,000 miles.

WHAT KIND OF CAR REQUIRES A WATER PUMP AT 42K? A VW JETTA! I WOULD NEVER BUY ANOTHER VW EVER! After some research online I found out that VW uses a very cheap plastic water pump that breaks and they arent recallng this problem. VW says theres nothing we can do you are out of warranty. This isnt right what they are doing to their customers!

Jennifer of North Brunswick, NJ March 16, 2009

In 2007 I purchased a used 2001 Volkswagen Jetta with 62,000 miles. Two weeks after purchase the service engine light came on and has been on since. I've spent over a thousand dollars in repair, on top of what i purchased the car for. There is a recall for the catalytic converter, however, in order to get that fixed cost-free you have to fix everything else that is wrong with the car. And, believe me, there will ALWAYS be something wrong with the car according to the dealership.

The car failed inspection for emissions, so the dealership fixed everything but the catalytic converter (which they stated worked great) and on the way out of the inspection station the light came back on. I've had to replace every exterior light bulb at least twice in the last year and a half that i've had the car. Just two weeks ago my passenger side window just collapsed for no reason.

To make things even worse, after my last trip to the dealership my transmission is failing. According to other Volkswagen owners i know, after they took their vehicles to the dealership they have found their transmissions fail within the next week or so. MY ADVICE TO EVERYONE: DO NOT BUY A VOLKSWAGEN!!!!!! It will only cause you stress and an empty pocket!! ALSO, before i forget, between oil changes I have to put a carton of oil in the engine every 500 miles because the car EATS oil. I would say I just happened to end up with a REALLY bad lemon but my friend has a 2001 Volkswagen Jetta and had to have his entire engine replaced because it was eating oil.

Spent over a thousand dollars in repair and will need to spend over 3 thousand dollars on a new transmission.

Anita of Pembroke Pines, FL February 26, 2009

four months after purchasing a volkswagen jetta 2000 the car exploded. my son got out safe but i am still tramatized by the incident. two months after that i received a recall letter from volkswagen indicating that the car could become overheated and to have a certain part replaced

i am still tramatized by the incident my son lost his job and all of his college savings were used to purchase the car

Marie of Apple Valley, MN February 11, 2009

I lease a Jetta 2007. Every winter when the temperature goes below -0, the air pressure drops in the tires, especially the R front, sometimes 2-3 tires loose air pressure. The air valves are recessed into the hubcaps. Just TRY getting the caps off those valves when it's below 0! I can't always get them off so I am driving with low tires. The service dept says, that's because you have a car with the sensor, it probably happened in all the cars you had, you just didn't know it! I also have brakes that squeak. The service dept told me that was normal. How come I never had normal brakes in any other car do this?

Sharon of Bradenton, FL February 6, 2009

Driving down the street in my 1999 vw jetta gl with 62,000 miles on it my window fell down. One month later another window the oposite window in rear, did the same thing. It won't go up or down. In the front the windows are making noises and the service advisor at the dealership tells me they also preparing to break. I fixed one window but this is a very costly repair considering that this is a faulty design and they are falling down on most of these in the jetta gl series. The vw dealership showed me the regulator that is breaking on these and they are made of plastic and don't stand a chance in summer weather or in cold climates. This should be backed up by the vw dealer and definately falls under the lemon law. Is there anything that can be done or is there any chance or a re-call.

So far on the Right rear window the cost I paid for re-pair for the regulator is $321.81. For the additional window the dealer quoted me closer to $500.00. It need fixed, but the other windows are in need as well.

Carolyn of Johnston, RI February 4, 2009

I own a 2001 vw jetta and both my drivers window and passenger window fell. I was told i need a regulator for the windows which cost over $1000. I got it fixed and was compensated for it by vw but less and a year and a half later, again they both broke. How can vw replace a bad part with the same bad part. Now my warranty is up and they don't want to hear it. I can't believe they haven't corrected this problem yet. Replacing a broken part with the same defective problem is ludicrous. It's just a cheap plastic piece that's supposed to hold up a window.

Andrea of Chesterfield, MI February 3, 2009

I leased my VW Jetta in 2005. I had always wanted one because I thought they were cute so as soon as I could afford it I got one as quickly as possible. It was great for awhile until I had to have my first scheduled maintenance. No one tells you a simple oil change will cost at least $150 and that you have to go to the dealership to get that done because no American dealer can do it.

THEN for the 10,000 mile service no one tells you it will be $400 for what appears to be nothing. Not to mention for all of that you have to take a day off and sit for five hours because they're only open M-F 9-5 and you have to make an appointment, and then sit and wait for literally half the day. The $400 maintenace service has to be done every 10,000 miles.

Then when I went to turn it in it passed inspection and we turned it in without a problem. Which was great, until I got a $350 lease turn in fee which I have never heard of in my life and refuse to take payments. If I don't pay it - they're sending me to collections. I would NEVER recommend a VW to ANYONE nor would I ever purchase or lease new or used, again. They're customer service is terrible as well.

We may be sent to collections because we can't afford the $350 unexpected lease turn in fee plus the $1200 worth of maintance, plus the 5 or so $150 oil changes. My lease cost me around $12000. That's insane.

Paul of Littlestown, PA January 20, 2009

Started my 2001 Jetta TDI early in the morning to let it warm up. Temperature was about 20 degrees. Stepped to the house to lock the doors and upon returning to Jetta I noticed a it was on fire. I was able to put it out with a fire extinguisher. Checking out the damage revealed the fire started at one of the coolant glow plugs. To test this I started the car again and within a minute the one glow plug started sparking and caught on fire. I put the fire out again and disconnected the plugs. The car has 217K miles on it.

Damage was only to the glowplugs. I just wanted it on record as to the cause.

Robin of Newry, OTHER January 20, 2009

I purchased a brand new car on the 1st of July 08. It has come to light that there is a hole in the roof letting in water!! It has been to an authorised dealer for inspection and a disc report sent to the factory. To date nothing has been done to repair my vehicle. my first phone call was made to VW customer care on the 15th September 08. I have made uncountable calls to VW I have also been in touch with the SMMT (the society for motor manufactures and traders) I am still awaiting a reply from them. The vehicle has been financed through Fortis lease, I have also been in contact with them via the phone and e mail.

As a result of nothing happening and no action been taken I have decided to cancel my payments on the car. There is still a hole in the roof of my car. I have blocked the hole with silicone to stop any water getting in. This however does not address the problem and affects the cars warranty.

Noel of Lake Elsinore, CA January 19, 2009

Beyond the regular recalls from VW, when I purchased my 2001 jetta the seasons where still cool. Four months later as soon as the weather heated up I started noticing a crayon smell. I tried air fresheners, auto detailers, I took the car back to the dealer numerous times and no one could find the cause of the crayon smell. The dealerships simply said sorry, and told me to buy an air freshener. The crayon smell is enough to gag a person, and if you need to turn the heat on, the air is so THICK with crayon, you can't breathe.

A consumer complaint forum directed at this company, stated that VW corporate finally acknowledged that they used asphaltic sound deadening material sprayed onto the floor board, that did not cure properly, and smelled when heated. No one at VW will discuss potential health hazards from breathing these toxic fumes.

Hundreds of dollars in mileage costs going back and forth to dealers trying to get an answer; at least a hundred dollars in air fresheners, and close to three hundred in auto detailing and carpet cleaning services to try and remove the smell.

Nancy of Havertown, PA January 14, 2009

Where to start! I have owned this car for almost 8 years. It is a 2001 Jetta Wolfsburg 1.8T. I have had the brakes repleaced twice, all 4 rims are exhibiting the pitting issue (there is a known defect in the clear coat for the 2001 models), I too have the nauseating crayon smell, roof leak. The check engine light has been on for several months and depsite having it in to two different service centers on 5 separate occassions for the light which no diagnostic could figure out why.

Now - for some unknown reason - the engine is being flooded with gas causing a VERY ROUGH idle and loss of acceleration (this is only intermittent but the last time it happened the engine completely overheated). I am being told that they believe this is causing the check engine light to come on but can't determine why it is happening. And, oh yeah, the car is also overheating. This car has less than 65,000 miles on it. I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER VW!

Frustration, safety since I have small children and it is completely unpredictable when driving it.

Karl W. Klug of Patchogue, NY December 22, 2008

I brought my 2006 Jetta 2.0 in for factory service after my local mechanic advised me to do so as he stated there was a probable mechanical problem as a result of the engine light coming on that he couldn't clear. Upon bringing the car to [dealer] where I bought the car in Sept of 2006 as a demo with 6K on it, I was told I needed to authorized diagnostic work on the vehicle. The dealer dismantled the motor, and then advised me that my 3 year 36,000 mile warranty would not be honored because the motor had gone bad because I did not follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule.

I submitted copies of the maintenance records from my local mechanic, but unfortunately I estimated the mileage for when the routine oil changes were done. The VW dealer REFUSED to put the motor back together because I only authorized the diagnostic work - NOT to put the motor together! I was forced to remove the vehicle from the dealer's lot AT MY EXPENSE to have it towed home as I was threatened with daily storage fees if I did not remove the vehicle!

I sent a certified, return-receipt letter to S. Jacoby, CEO of VW, and finally received a return call from K. Fox, from their coprporate office. I was told that VW would not under any cirumstance honor the warranty, despite my proof of routine maintenance. I want EVERYONE to know how poorly VW treats their customers. I will NEVER buy another VW product, and I am telling everyone I know in every manner I know how VW will screw you over.

I am paying $333.50 a month lease for a vehicle with a dismantled engine that sits in my driveway.

Jonathan of San Marcos, CA December 20, 2008

The used 2001 VW Jetta Wagon I bought has a sunroof that leaks water into an overhead cavity when it rains, which the water then leaks through the vanity mirror lights into puddles inches deep in the driver and passenger side floor space. The guy I bought the car from didn't tell me about it when he unloaded the burden on me -- Thanks. Oh yeah, I've also had problems with reoccuring check engine light, with oil burning (typically from driving at higher speeds), and now my car smells horrible like a dead rat is in the vents when I turn the AC on. A mechanic said it needs a new cabin air filter, which I haven't replaced yet. It's a pain to have these issues. I just hope the car doesn't develop the sludge problem, the side window problem, or any of the other problems that people experience with the car. The engine seems to be running fine, but I will definately unload the car at the 100K mark. Hopefully it won't die before then.

Sam of Hillcrest, OTHER December 19, 2008

Purchased a new VW Jetta 5, July 2007 and september 2007 complaint about defective rear suspension, at every service interval vehicle needs new rear tyres, also water leaks in boot, front suspension noisy - returned the vehicle on numerous occations,, - now dealership offers to accept vehicle as a trade in - I to incure more cost

vehicle in unsafe to drive, vehicle spun out on wet road. dealership not prepared to resolve this matter - blame on VW SA- instructed to do nothing.....

Chris W. Ingle of Raeford, NC December 3, 2008

Both my wife's and her co-worker owns a VW Jetta with the 1.8T engine. Both timing belts have broken and both cars have less than the recommended replacement miles of 105K. VW is refusing to help.

Kristin of Union City, CA November 26, 2008

I have a 2007 Volkswagen Jetta with less than 30K miles on the car. My rear brakes are wearing unevenly and are need of repair. I had an outside mechanic take a look and he said the wear is indicative of a serious mechanical problem. According to Volkswagen, this is normal wear and tear and they will offer no assistance. There are duping the consumer by selling an inferior product and will not stand by their warranty saying this is categorized under normal wear and tear. I have contacted the dealer where I purchased the car as well as Volkswagen Customer Care. I have seen via online forums that many people have had this same issue.

I am having to pay out over $400 to have my rear brakes fixed for a car that is still under warranty.

Jonathan of West Covina, CA November 9, 2008

We bought the brand new 2001 VW Jetta GLS VR6 back in July 2001. The car started to have melted crayon smell after about a year of ownership. We took the car to the dealership for a A/C clean and thought it would help the situation, but it did not. Dealerships could not help with the problem, so we thought it was just our luck and we were the only one that have this problem.

After owning the vehicle for several years, the crayon smell becomes so severe that I feel nauseous after being in the vehicle for several minutes. I don't personally drive the vehicle anymore because it makes me sick. However, my family still drives this car from time to time. They mentioned the same problems to me too and I cannot find a way to fix the problem. Anyone can help? Please. We love the car but it just smells so bad that we cannot drive it.

David of Gig Harbor, WA October 30, 2008

Main fuse holder on my 2003 VW Jetta wagon (62K miles)burned and began to melt. Fortunately the car stalled or it could have started a fire with my 8 month old grandson in the car.

$236 in otherwise unecessary repairs. Loss of several days without vehicle.

Patrick of Redondo Beach, CA October 29, 2008

Oh jeeze, where to start. Well, a good spot would be when I first bought the car used, I noticed that it smelt like crayons. The car is a 2001 Jetta 1.8T by the way. Secondly, anytime that I would put it in reverse, the darn thing would always act like it was going to die. It would shake horribly, the engine would sputter and the lights would start to dim. Now the tape player is busted and wont stop spining even when the car is off and no key in the ignition!!! And since I got the tape out the was stuck it still does it, but only now when the car is started or when I turn the lights on.

Jessica of Sacramento, CA October 20, 2008

I was rear ended a few months ago. Took my car to a Body Shop. They fixed it but realized the bumper had a defect. Called Andrew at Volkswagen he, got several new bumbers 5-6, they were all defective. Andrew said there was nothing he could do and was very SORRY, he tried. Called Volkswagen Customer service, they said they were all defective, they were SORRY about it as well, there was nothing they could do either. I asked to be re-inversed, they said that was not possible SORRY.

The Auto Body Shop said there was nothing they could do either since, it wasn't their fault. They said SORRY too. My Auto Insurance said SORRY you choose a shop outside our network, even though they used the money I've been paying for my Auto Insurance even though the job was incomplete. THERE IS NO ACCOUNTABILITY FOR ANYTHING ANYMORE.

Over 2500.00 dollars in damage. I've spent countless hours trying to take care of this problem my self.

David of Milford, PA October 15, 2008

I have noticed thousands upon thousands of complaints about engine sludge problems with audi and vw 1.8t engines. If you read about it on the internet Volkswagen knows about the issues. They require reciepts for every oil change for the life of the car. I purchased the car used ane I do not have any from the previous owner. It appears that VW is just avoiding the problem. I was even personally told by the VW service tech that these engines have this problem.

I have just a average working guy trying to survive in these tough economic times. I like alot of other people just can't afford to repair or replace an engine costing thousands of dollars. I do not know the extent of the damage but the engine sounds like its ready to blow up. My car is a 2001 VW Jetta 1.8T

Kris of Tigard, OR September 18, 2008

Around 50,000 miles, the Airbag light on my car came on. Upon inspection with a local VW dealer, the computer controller for all the airbags had died.

Every single airbag in my car is non-operational and the repair is $900.

Justine of Galway, OTHER September 15, 2008

This car was puchased by by Dad and is a Jetta Automatic - 2006. Stones from the road keep getting caught in the Hub Caps and rattle until they are removed, was told by dealer that this happens to all Jetta's, this is not acceptablet to a relatively new car.

Robert of Hollister, CA September 4, 2008

my 2005 vw jetta needs rear brakes every 23,000 miles, ive complained to various vw dealerships about this and they say thats the way thier cars are built more power goes to the rear brakes than the front! since when do cars with disk brakes send more power to the rear than the front!

ive had the rear brake changed twice in 51,000 miles and the front pads still look like new. if in fact this is the way vw builds their cars why did they put wear sensors on the front and not the rear?

800.00 dollors for rear brakes in 51,000 miles. And if so much of the brakeing force is going to the rear on new VWs are spinouts on wet roads going to be a problem?

Kyle of Snoqualmie, WA August 23, 2008

I recently bought a used (with warranty) 2002 Jetta Wagon. In the past week both front windows have come crashing down into the doors for no apparent reason. It is completely bizarre and I have never had a car behave this way. It is very poor craftsmanship.

I am waiting on an estimate from the dealership but from what I have read the time and labor adds up to about 1000 per window.

Rachel Gorin-Flores of Allen, TX August 1, 2008

My 2001 Volkswagon Jetta has a nauseating crayon smell and I thought it was only my car until I googled it and found out that there are many Volkswagon owners with the same problem.

Not only do I smell like my car after driving in it but I get headaches too. I have not seen any explanation anywhere regarding the hazards, if any, from the harsh fumes.

Margarita of Fort Worth, TX July 30, 2008

I have a 2001 VW jetta and it has a strong crayon smell that I cannot get rid of. It's to the point where I will not drive it because I get a headache when I'm in it. It gets worse in the heat. I have taken it to the dealership and they told me it was mildew and that I had to replace the carpets and padding. I have found many complaints about this same smell online from others who have complained and have been told it was several different things. I want to find out if the odor is toxic because some say it is the glue that VW uses that melts when it gets hot therefore you get the crayon smell

I very rarely drive my car that is paid off because it makes me sick.

Peter of Kew Garden Hills, NY July 29, 2008

I have 06 vw gli this car has been in and out of the shop, months at a time. Burns oil, had the entire engine replaced twice. In addition the turbo been replaced twice, also the catalytic converter twice, navigation replace once, the indicator light on constantly. And in their words several valves have been replaced. Cars at Koeppel VW as I post. Trying to get out of the lease, for about 6 months now..still under review. Also had to purchase another car. VW customer service pretty much dormant.

Kelly of Manhattan, IL July 28, 2008

I own a 2001 Jetta. I bought the vehicle in June 2003 and have had nothing but problems since two days after purchasing this awful car. Two days after buying it the check engine light went on. I took it back to Volkswagen of Orland Park, of course they said there was nothing wrong with it & turned off the light. On my way home the light went back on. I called them and was told I should ignore the light if it was amber. Then days later the tire went flat. When I took it in it was a bent rim. I had only driven the car for a couple of days to and from work less than a mile from home. I didn't hit anything or run over anything that would have caused the damage. But of course this was something that was not covered in the warranty. In September my car began overheating. At that time I had to replace the hoses and one fan. This was at the Matteson Volkswagen. It seemed to be ok for about a month before it started again. I then had to have $2000 worth of repairs to the cooling system. Then another two months later same thing. In the spring of 2004 I had several more repairs. In the Spring of 2005 I had several more repairs one time I had it in to Matteson Volkswagen to have yet again the cooling system repaired again. This time they replaced valves, hoses, and the fan. Two blocks from the shop it started to overheat again. I brought it back and they claimed that the other fan must have just died out (and not that it was the original problem or not working when I left). The thing that I hate most about this car is aside from the engine everything is new in the car. While owning this it has continued to be a money pit, that I have spent hoping eventually it will stop. Basically for 5 years every three months I have spent from $700 to $2800. Now that I have finished college and grad school maybe I can finally ditch this absolutely horrible car. I bought it because I thought vw's were reliable vehicles. I needed a good car to get me to and from school and internships, and this did not. I just hope I can help someone else from making my same mistake. Everyone else I know hates their cars and have had nothing but problems.

Tyler of Sutter Creek, CA July 17, 2008

Rear brakes and rotors were metal to metal at 21,000 miles. According to the VW dealerships, this is normal. Got esitmates between $400 and $600 to replace everything, since no parts apparently can be reused again.

Drew of Elsmere, KY July 15, 2008

I own a 2000 VW jetta GLX VR6. In December 2006 the drivers window fell into the door. My wife took it to VW and they replaced the window regulator kit on the drivers side, but only the clips on the passenger side. The clips are the cheap white plastic kind replaced by much more suitable equipment. All was fine as VW paid for the repair. In July 2008 the passenger window did the same, only now the extended warranty is no longer in effect. Basically VW did the least that they could get away with and now I'm stuck with the bill. No sooner did the passenger window fall in, the drivers door did it again. It's safe to say that FAULTY equipment is the culprit. VW's drive like a luxury automobile... and cost like one too.

Gloria of Fort Mill, SC June 30, 2008

On 5/30, I had my regular 5,000 service at Volkswagon South in Charlotte which I have had regliously since purchasing my VW in Sept., 2001. Also, at this time I had a timing belt and water pump replaced at a cost of $1272.79. The mileage was 104,896. At 105,197 mileage, on June 16, 2008, my car would not start. I had to have it towed to VW South. I was advised that I had regular fuel in my diesel engine and that was the reason that it would not start. At that time, I had approx. 1/4 tank of gas left out of a full tank that I had put in almost 2 weeks earlier. I had gone over 300+ miles that tank of gas and had not had a problem with the car starting. I was also advised that I had probably done damage to the injection pump and it possibly would have to be replaced. From past experience with this dealership, I knew that would be a given. I asked Larry in the service dept. to just hold off on any repair. I then checked with 2 reputable mechanics who assured me that I could not have been operating my car if there had been regular fuel in it. In addition, I called Carolina VW on Independence Blvd. in Charlotte, spoke with Vorg who told me the exact same thing. After paying VW South a diagnosis fee of $105.00, I subsequently had my car towed from there to Carolina VW. A short time later Vorg called me to let me know that the fuel was not the problem and that I had a small glitch in the computer. I OK'd the repair, picked up my car, and paid a bill of only $52.50. I have not received my towing bills yet, but I'm certain they will be expensive. I have insurance that will probably cover one of the towing charges, but not the second one. I feel that VW South was either very incompetent or that being a single woman, I was taken advantage of. I have made the mistake once of putting the wrong fuel in my car, and believe me, it is something that one would not do again. Back then, VW South charged me $188.00 to drain my tank and replace with 4 gallons of diesel fuel. Incidently, at that time, fuel prices were nothing like today's prices. I write this letter now because I have absolutely had it with VW South. Being a loyal customer since the purchase of by car in 2001, I have had NUMEROUS occasions of dissatisfaction with this service department. I kept going there becase of the convenient location as compared to the only other dealership in my area which is Carolina Volkswagon and also because of the difficulty of finding a garage that works on VW's. I actually have two friends that sold their vw's only because they were so fed up with VW South's service department. Personally, I will never take my car there again. My experience with Carolina VW was great!! Because of it's location it will be very inconvenient for me to use their service deptment; but I will continue to do so because of the good, honest service I felt I got there. In comparison to my year's of experience with VW South, it will be worth my trouble. I will never step foot back into VW South; and although Ilove my Beetle, I myself am considering selling it because of the problems I have encountered throughout the years with this service dept.

Leon of Buffalo Grove, IL June 21, 2008

I bought this Jetta for my wife in 1996 brand new, problem started on day one, oil leaking from the engine; car was taken to a dealer more than 3 times without any lock or resolution. My wife drives this car to work 7 miles each direction, as of today car has 90000 miles and still leaves oil spots in the garage. The same problems with transmission, service also couldnt repair. As soon as the warranty run out, sunroof, transmission and front driver door lock broke. First year I called VW customer support almost every day, without any lock they didn't help me at all. Their customer relation department is a waist of skin?, and as good as the cars they are selling. Overall experience I would say -10 on the scale from 0 to 10. I would never again buy or recommend buying VW not only to my friends but all other people that are considering. Performance bad Service bad Price-outrages Would you like to buy something like this?

Julie of Bellerose, NY June 12, 2008

I purchased a vw 06 every since i brought the car as been nothing but trouble, The engine light comes on all the time. I take it vw to get it fix. VW states that the problem is fix. I have taken the car a least 7 to 8 times for the same problem. I complaint to vw and all they could say is that i have to continue taking the car into vw to fix the problem. Has of today the engine lights still comes on. I try to get out of my lease and can't according to VW. I have paper trail of how many times i have been to VW. I had to purchase another vehicle because this car is not dependable

Julie of Vienna, VA June 4, 2008

I have had a 1998 Jetta for 8 years now and I have replaces AT LEAST one window each year. I spoke with VW now that 2 more are broken because I think at this point it is fair to ask for their assistance. I was told that my paperwork would be reviewed and that it was possible that assistance would be offered to me. I faxed in my documents, never received the call I was promised. I then called and was told the fax had to go to the person I spoke to before and it had not made it there yet (96 hours later when it should take 24 hours). I then called after 120 hours and spoke to Ray who told me everything everyone else told me was untrue. He put me on hold for about 10 minutes then came back and told me there was nothing they could do. Due to the year and milage (funny how many other cosumers I have read about have been told the same thing) there was nothing they could do. He then asked me if I am interested in information about a new VW to which I responded well now why would I want a new VW after experiencing a faulty part costing hundreds in repairs over and over again and then given the run-around, flat out lied to and then told there is nothing you can do? To this he responded then why should he help me if I am not going to buy another VW. He told me that they rely on customer loyalty and if I am not going to be loyal then he has no motivation to assist. Lovely right??? I am not asking for the moon...I am asking for my windows to be repaired (just this one time) on VW since I have paid my window dues. With all of the other people that have experienced this problem I cannot beleive VW is getting away with this.

Dana of Tempe, AZ June 3, 2008

My engine light keeps coming on weekly at that it seems, I took it to berge volkswagen and ended up paying for 4 coils, cv boot, light malfunctining problems, a recall, i have all of my reciepts i have only put less than 17,00 miles on my car. it is a 2003 vw passat, and i am continuing to put money or take it in because something else has failed on it. my vehicle died it would not start i was stuck at the mall and come to find out the coils were all 4 bad and messed up the engine failed it to start again, granite it only take me 5-7 miles to get to work each day- this is by all no means wear and tear. i am sickened to my stomach, i ended up paying $611.00 out of my pocket, which 2400.00 was the whole repairs on the ticket.-i drive home one week later the engine light comes on again and now i have to take it to the dealership AGAIN...i was driving 30 miles an hour and it comes on out of nowhere driving to work pulling into the parking lot. by reading all of these it seems like there is a ''tic toc'' engine light that seems to come on weeekly/monthly- and that is DEFINITELY NOT RIGHT. - I HAVE ALL OF MY RECEIPTS AND DATES OF SERVICE FOR MY VEHICLE- i have had two sets of sparkplugs changed on my car and its not even 52,000 miles on it..

Janis of Memphis, TN May 21, 2008

I recently had to replace the rear brake pads on my 2007 Jetta. I purchased it new and when the pads were replaced I only had 20,500 miles on it. In fact, as I called around to try to get an estimate regarding the brakes, no one believed the rear brakes were in need of replacing this soon. I was told by several repair shops that you usually have to replace the rear brakes about one time for every two times you have the front brakes replaced. After replacing them the repair shop manager asked if I was aware that my brakes needed replacing much too soon. As for Volkswagen, they took my complaint and that was the end of that. The dealer wanted to replace not only the pads but they suggested that I have the (undamaged) rotors replaced as well. Needless to say I took the car elsewhere for brake service. I love my little Jetta, but I doubt when the time comes that I will purchase another VW because of the customer service or should I say the lack thereof.

Sheila of Laurel, MD May 13, 2008

On January 21, 2005, I purchased a used 2001 Volkswagen Passat.  Approximately 11 months after purchasing this car, I begin experiencing mechanical problems. The first problem was when the STOP TURN ENGINE OFF CHECK OIL PRESSURE? light came on. Quite naturally, I contacted the dealership and took the car in to find out what was the problem. The Ourisman dealership has serviced my vehicle on several occasions for the same problem. A list of the service dates is below; in addition I have attached a copy of all the service receipts. Date Description of Problem Solution Cost 12/19/05 STOP Turn Engine Off Check Oil Pressure Purge Valve Solenoid Broken $ 400.05 12/22/05 STOP Turn Engine Off Check Oil Pressure Oil Pump Pick Up Tube is Clogged $ 0.00 02/20/06 Engine Light On Replaced Mass Air Sensor $ 504.15 06/08/07 Headlight Out Clicking Noise in Front End When Making Turns Left Head Lamp Wire Harness Failed Both Front Axles C.J. Joints failed $2,532.03 03/13/08 STOP Turn Engine Off Check Oil Pressure Oil Pump Pick Up Tube is Clogged $1,367.77 TOTAL $4,804.00 From the dates listed above, you can clearly see that I have had to have this car in for the same problem on numerous occasions. I have spent within the past 3 years of my owning this vehicle, $4,804 (that would have been a nice down payment on a new car) just to keep it in operating condition, and we are not even talking about the standard oil changes and preventive maintenance service. Just two months ago, my car was towed once again because of the oil pressure problem. It was discovered that the oil pump pick-up tube was clogged again. I spent $1,367.77 to get this repaired. Then on Wednesday, May 7, 2008, I had to take my car back because the check engine light came on again. Only for them to tell me that they found a faulty V Camshaft Position Sensor; the turbo and hoses need replacing, and the secondary air pump is faulty, and the cost would be approximately $1,867.81. Other dates that my car has been in the service shop for other service matters, oil changes, or preventive maintenances are as follows: Date of Service Cost 05/14/05 10/18/05 $542.55 04/10/06 $ 72.39 10/26/06 $ 79.19 02/08/07 $207.65 TOTAL $901.78 I am completely dissatisfied with the services I have received thus far and strongly believe I have purchased what one would consider a lemon. I am writing in hopes of being able to bring these continued problems to an end. I have been inconvenienced each time Ive had to have the vehicle serviced and have incurred expenses that I honestly do not feel should have been my responsibility.

Alicia of Santa Monica, CA April 29, 2008

ENGINE SLUDGE: VW Defect yet they not only deny this defect but actually make money off the backs of their hard-working customers who actually bought one of their cars! The > minimum repair to working stiffs like us is for this VW Defect, Engine Sludge is $2500. No warnings, BAM! Your car says, STOP IMMEDIATELY, OIL PRESSURE, then your engine blows up and has to be replace. No warning, folks but yep, we foot the bill! Please investigate. > It is, yet, ANOTHER VW DEFECT they insist on choking their customers > with. I am totally disgusted in this company's corporate policy. I will > NEVER, EVER buy another VW again. (Yes, I paid for the water > damage/firewall repair just because it rained and ruined my electrical > system and can't tell you how much I've paid out in the defective coils, > and now, this: Engine Sludge which they have extended the warranty on > but you have to show every receipt for every 5000 mile oil change you've > had on your car FOR THE LIFETIME OFYOUR CAR! (my car has 87k miles....GIVE ME A BREAK!) But, of > course, now I will have to dedicate yet ANOTHER WHOLE WEEKEND to finding > all my receipts for these jerks! What else is new? I hear if you're > missing (1) or are 25 miles over on any one receipt, you're screwed and have > to pay in full. Gee, think my next car will be a VW? NOT! CORPORATE, YOU STINK! YOUR GREED STINKS! I AM TOTALLY, TOTALLY DISGUSTED. ALL YOU CARE ABOUT IS IMMEDIATE MONEY, MONEY, MONEY, NOT KEEPING A CUSTOMER FOR LIFE! I SHOULD HAVE STAYED WITH BMW'S WHICH I'VE HAD SINCE I WAS 16 YEARS OLD! 4 OF THEM! WHAT A TOTAL MISTAKE BUYING A VW, GERMAN MADE? PAH-LEEEEZE!

Jm of Sissonville, WV April 15, 2008

Catalytic Converter failed. VW issued an extended warranty to 100k miles. My Jetta had 116k. Claim for cost recovery was denied. This on top of a transmission that I replaced, defective brake light switch, ignition coil, engine mount leaking..Most costly vehicle I have owned in 30+ years of car ownership. VW-NEVER AGAIN!

Bill of Midland, MI April 3, 2008

I have a 2001 VW jetta GLX that i have replaced the coil 3 times on now. and i need a new one. if you keep a can of silicon spray in your car and spray it when it starts running bad this will help for a little bit.

Tim of Durham, NC April 2, 2008

My 2005 2.5 Jetta had the clutch blow with 14K miles on it. To make a long story short, I was driving around, and all of a sudden, my pedal stuck to the floor. The dealer took it apart, and showed me the pressure plate had cracked into 3 pieces. They blamed me, which is ridiculous. I have driven standard for 9 years, and this car was the being treated with the best out of all the cars I've owned. Looking around, this is a very common problem. People need to go to the NTSB website and file an official complaint, enough, and just maybe we can get a recall. In the end, they made me pay 2400$ to fix the problem. This is the last VW I will ever own (well lease actually, and I am stuck with it for 2 more years).

Martell of Forestville, MD February 25, 2008

Hi, I see lot of people have VW problems. Well, VW's are not the only cars with problems. Trust me on this I know, you may own other cars and things have gone great it's b/c you don't know about TSB. Anyways, I have an 01 VR6 Jetta. Love it to DEATH. Death has come. My transmission is dead. My truck latch is broke. All my interior lights come on. I can't arm my car. My rear axel broke when it was new. I know I have more history than anyone. The is dead. The dearler told me that a couple of days ago. It has been slipping for several years. I have complanied and complained. Nothing ever happend. A guy online got his fixed. A minor 1100 dollar item which I was willing to buy but, NOOO one told me about it b/c VW FORD HONDA ETC have TSB(technical service bulletin)..It is a list of complaints and possible problems with cars..We have to either ask for them or buy them. There are tons a people with the same problem I have but, If you don't complain nothing will happen. AND VOLKSWAGEN IS NOT.....IS NOT...who you complain too. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Tell them what is wrong, if you don't well will always sit here looking stupid. I called them, Now you guys have too.

Sherry of Cincinnati, OH February 19, 2008

For our 30th wedding anniversary my husband surprised me will a new 2005 Jetta. I love it. After a few months I noticed a bubble on one of my radio buttons. I took the car back to the VW service dept. and they said the button could not be replaced. The radio would have to be replaced instead, costing $600. I made sure not to use this button for fear it would split open. It has opened up and started peeling. Today I took my Jetta for an oil change and told the service consultant I now have a bubble on my AM button which I never have used. I am sure this will peel as well. The service consultant told me VW is having problems with the buttons on the radio peeling and will not replace the radio. I lease this car and my concern is that when I turn the car in at the end of the lease will they charge me $600 to replace this radio. Over the years my husband and I have owned Accura, Lexus and Cadillac. We have had no issues whatsoever until my husband surprised me with this Jetta which will be the first and last VW we will own. My husband and I own a retail business. If we treated our customers the way we have been treated, we would not be in business today. Our business has survived tough economic conditions because we care about our customers and we put them first. The word of mouth advertising is the best form of advertising and I will never own or recommend a VW. They don't stand behind their product.

We lease this car. We were thinking of buying it, but after being told that VW knows there is a problem and they are not willing to stand behind their product we will not purchase this car. Will we we have to pay the $600 to replace the radio when we turn it in at the end of the lease? I only have 20,340 miles on this car and it is always garaged.

Amber Lawson-Boothby of Robertsville, MO February 19, 2008

I bought a new Jetta from this dealership & have had nothing but problems with it. One such problem is the rear brakes (crunching & failing). I was told on the phone they were under warranty & made an appt to have them replace. I confirmed the warranty issue when I arrived at the dealership. My brakes were installed & I was THEN told they were mistaken & the brakes WEREN'T under warranty. My family owns a towing business & repair facility & would have installed these brakes for cost on parts, no out of pocket for labor. I would have NEVER authorized this work if I'd know it would cost me practically $500.00. I was raised in the automotive repair business & am NOT uneducated when it comes to a reasonable cost for repair. The service manager became irrate with me when I couldn't pay for the work & he refused to turn my car over to me. I was brought to tears by his attitude & had to call my mother for help. She in turn called for the general manager for help. The VW gm was out of town, so she called the general manager, who in turn, drove to the VW dealership to help me. He retrieved my keys from the service mgr & allowed me to leave. I'm now receiving bills for the entire balance, even though I was told TWICE that this was warranty work. A letter has been written to the dealership regarding this entire ordeal, along with a check from my parents for their cost on the parts (family business cost -- approx 25% of price dealers attempting to collect). Neither my parents or myself have been contacted by the dealership to discuss this situation. They've ignored our phone calls & the letter & continue to send out invoices. I'm a college student who works full time & have to budget my income. I can't believe the tactics this dealership uses (especially toward young people) & the lack of professionalism within their staff! The fact that several messages have been left on voice mail in an attempt to resolve this matter, with NO return phone calls is just poor customer service on their part.

Becky of West Palm Beach, FL February 16, 2008

Well, I got my 2000 Jetta as a Christmas present for my senior year of high school - I was ecstatic as you can believe. (It was only 3 years old at the time.) Now, 4 years later, I keep having problem after problem. Now, don't get me wrong, I still love my Jetta....and VW's for that matter. I just think they're such great looking cars. Anyway, the problems began and starting coming one after another..... My glove compartment handle just came off in my hand while I was opening it one day....haven't been able to get into it for a year now....I was told it would cost me $150+ to replace it. It seems like everything in the interior is falling apart: the center console's handle broke, little plastic pieces break. My left passenger's window rolls up half way and then automatically rolls back down, and then it rolls up the whole way on the second try. My A/C went out unexpectedly....and that just is terrible when you live in Florida. I was told it would cost $2000-3000 to fix it....so I'm bearing with it. My antifreeze is leaking, but thank goodness my car's temperature stays fine. It's almost an embarrassment to drive this car with all of the problems it has! Being a student who is paying her way through a private university, I don't have time of $$ to be spending on fixing a car I thought would be reliable!

Gena of Belfast, ME February 13, 2008

I noticed online that many 2001 VW Jetta cars are recalled due to faulty ABS systems - recall # 02V031000. My car was taken to VW service this week, due to the ABS lights going on - needing to have extensive work done to repair the issue on ABS system. I was advised by VW that my particular 2001 Jetta did not fall within this recall. Just concerned there are many more VIN's out there that have the same issue, but do not qualify for the recall (mine included)

Don of Orlando, FL February 10, 2008

I had my 2003 VW Jetta 1.8T towed. The car was sputtering and had very little power. After their service department performed a diagnostic on the car. They called me back to tell me that I would have to pay $2961.00 for the following: Cam chain tensioner, valve cover, 4 spark plugs, engine coolant sensor, thrush sensor, cleaning of throttle body, timing belt and water pump with sensor.

Ashely of Fayetteville, NC February 10, 2008

I always loved Jettas, and i was extremely ecstatic when my father bought me one for my 18th birthday. The car is a 2000 VW jetta, i have had it for two years, and the thing is just falling apart on me. My trunk will not open, my locks do not lock, my lights inside do not work, my gas tank will not open (i have to just tape to block it from closing all the way)..my speedometer has stopped working as well, and my malfunction indicator light will not come off. I cannot fix my burned out tail light because my trunk will not open, i have an appointment with VW to diagnose the problem. My inspection is out, but i will not pass state inspection because that light will not come off, and nothing is working in my car..and mechanics cannot fix my tail light because my trunk will not open.

Turner of Austin, TX February 5, 2008

I bought my 2005 Jetta 2.5 (new model)2 1/2 years ago and overall, it's been a great car. UNTIL 3 days ago when the clutch went out unexpectedly. My car only has 38000 miles on it!! The dealership called with an estimate of $1550 - $2400 (depending if the flywheel is broken - which they won't know until they start taking it apart). They also informed me that a clutch is NOT covered under warranty. Since this happened to my car, I've spoken to TWO other owners of 2005 jettas who also said their clutches went out between 30-40K. This is NOT a normal wear & tear item. I've filed a complaint with the VW Warranty people but from the looks of things i'm going to be stuck with the bill. Which i will then challenge in small claims court.

Luis of Elizabeth, NJ January 28, 2008

Well, like any car enthusiast i bought a 99 jetta....Beautiful car...It really is...Then, like EVERYONE ELSE, I RAN INTO THE VW PROBLEMS....Like for instance, within the first 6 months i bought the car, i had to replace my thermostat, timing belt, and water pump...And let me say, the dealer was quite happy with replacing the parts for me withpout a problem...Seeing that it cost me an arm and a leg to pay for...Few weeks later the window regulator on the driver side goes and has my window not going up, so there goes more money outta my pocket...Within the next 6 months after that, my ECM box goes out which also threw out my wiring harness which then made me have to do a rewiring job to the car.And after doing that my inside lights and door locks dont work so i have to lock it manually...How nice, right.Then the car ran fine for a little but....But, rest asure it wasnt done just yet...It came back at me with more problems then before.This time, the transmission went on me coming off the highway, took 3 months to find the trans for it, then once that was rerplaced i had to replace 2 other parts that were in the motor somewhere that were leaking antifreeze.But as i was getting ready to change the trans some smart guy broke into my car breaking my passenger side window and stealing my radio, so once again ther goes more money i didnt have or want to spend on it.After that...my windshield wiper motor went on the blank on the week it decided to rain for 2 weeks which really made me mad.But now the most recent thing that went on the car was my starter staying engaged because someone ran a wire from the starter directly to the ignition wire, then after getting the starter replaced the car still wouldnt run because something else went wrong with it..What was it you ask...The relays this time wouldnt open properly so my friends and i figured out how to work with and around it, so thats fixed now..But wait...There's more...Finally after fixing that, my heater goes and with the weather not being so warm, it gets really cold in the morning, so i replaced my thermostat AGAIN, but yet it still doesnt work, so chances are its the heater core, which once again is costing me more money...So all in all, and in my opinion, i would just love to watch it burn as i sit back with a nice ice cold one in my hand smiling at the sweet sense of the car going up. But once you get past ALL THE BAD THINGS that has gone wrong, its a nice car....FROM THE OUTSIDE.....

Angela of Oceanside, CA January 22, 2008

I had a brake light switch that failed on my 2001 jetta. I took it o my independant mechanic for repair, costing $105.00. Recently this became a recal campaigna dn I submitted my reciepts to VW of America. THey informed me that i would get $85.00 back, not the full amount. After insiting on an explanation, VW of America encourages people to use VW dealerships for repairs. So if I would have gone to a VW place for teh brake light switch repair, I would get all my money back. I have had HORRID service from volkswagen dealerships and refuse to be their customer. I use an independant mechanic taht charges substantially less per hour, $79 compared to $110 from Capo VW. Without knowing in advance that this would be a recal, I took my car to my regular guy. I am appalled that VW of america pads teh rebate amount to VW dealership customers. I am being penalized for recieving horrid service from VW dealerships thus forcing me to go to my independant mechanic.

Pat of Blairstown, NJ October 30, 2007

My 2005 VW Jetta Deisel was towed into the dealership on Aug. 28th, 2007.The vehicle would not run or if you were lucky enough to get it started it would either stall out or run real rough. The dealer has been trying to fix it for two months, it is now Oct. 30th. So far they have replace many parts but it still does not run.

Daniel of Franklin Park, IL October 22, 2007

I took my fiance's car into to get services because it was not holding any antifreeze in the tank and burning off. We took the car in and the bill was 600$ and the problem was fixed (the thermostat was changed and coolant sensor replaced) through out the next week the problem occurred again and the light went off. My Fiance had called me and said that the light was on i told her to put antifreeze in the tank and when she looked at the tank she saw it was bare. I had called the dealership and they had said to bring it in once again to check it out.

The next day they tell me that it was an auxiliary coolant motor and it was not working when they had checked it before and that it would cost an extra 400 to get it fixed.

Mike of 661 Grand Ave Apt 8, MN October 20, 2007

I own a 2000 Jetta and it is falling apart. I have replace three window mounts, the windshield wiper motor, the valve cover gasket (twice), the trunk latch, the headlights work when they feel like it, the tail lights follow the headlights lead, the dashboard lights only work half the time, the glove compartment hinge broke, the cup holder broke long ago, replaced the catalytic converter, and just today the transmission gave out. I have never missed a scheduled service need (oil, filters, belts etc.) and I take it to experienced mechanics I trust. Even so, I have spent more repairing the vehicle than on the initial purchase. I have long since given up trying to speak with a VW rep. VW dealerships are happy to have my business but wont tell me why these problems keep happening. Perhaps it has to do with a poor quality product. I should have never bought the car. You should never buy a VW.

Cathryne of Tampa, FL October 11, 2007

Ok I bought a brand 2003 Jetta. My first car. And just like the others I have had numerous repairs that did not include your basic car care needs. Now in 2007 My passenger side window fails to go down the button to manuver the passenger window fell apart literally, the glove compartment handle fell off and now I can't close it ( witch has resulted in my battery running down several occassions because of the light), my trunk won't close ( tried shutting it one day and it just won't close, the roof is falling apart. I also got a letter in the mail from volkswagon saying that this model is a recall and needs the brake lights fixed. Which,yes, would come on when my car was completely off. Also the shifter ( the plastic has fell through, where ever and I recently got that one fixed because of the same thing, it falling apart) .Of course Volkswagon says they are not responseable that its normal wear and tear. On a recall! Come on. I am a student and as well need something reliable. They need to fix the faulty cars.We have to do something about this. After reading all the other imputs I am scared of what will come next.

Mike of Lizella, GA October 8, 2007

I'll keep this short since it is one in a long list of negatives you will read about Volkswagen. Just remind yourself why you are at this site... to determine if you should buy a Volkswagen? Then the answer should be no. All these folks can't be written off as winers or complainers. My problem is transmission and windows. My vehicle is a 2001 Volkswagen Jetta TDI. Problems with repair attepts: Volkswagen Corp. non-responsiveness and Volkswagen service quality. There are plenty of folks happey with VW. Are there enough so that some showing of the pleased are happy enough to take the time to write as are the dissatisfied?

Frank of Bothell, WA August 1, 2007

I bought a Volkswagon 2003 1.8T GLS Jetta and I was excited because its my FIRST new car plus I was getting a great deal, or so I thought. A few months later the driver side window would go half way up and back down as if something was in its path.

I would have to hold the switch up for the window to completely close. I took the car to the dealership where I purchased it and they seemed to have fixed it, but the window didn't work as a new car anymore, it was stiff. Two years have passed and the driver side window is getting worse. Not only would it stop half way and go back down, but this time it would go sideways while going up and down.

I physically had to shake it side to side to make it go up and down, doing this while driving isn't exactly safe, but I had to do it while driving on the free way in case it surprisingly drops and shocks the heck out of me and I get into some sort of wreck. I took the car to another dealership, where I did not buy the car, and they replaced the regulator guides.

The driver side window seemed to work fine after that, but as I stated before it was stiff and didn't operate as a new car. A two year old car with problems already? I had extended warranty which I paid to assure stuff like this would get fixed before I paid off the car. Two years pass, my warranty including the extended has expired and the car is completely paid off WOOHOO! Four months after my warranty is expired my driver side window completely went off track and nearly fell into the door. I was lucky I caught the window and was able to get the tracks to hold it up. A

 repeated event, but this time complete messed up. I called the dealership who has been maintaining my car for the remainder of the time, the same dealership that replaced the regulator guides, and without even inspecting the car they coughed up a $320 dollar repair fee. I don't know about you all, but how do they know without inspecting the car that it would cost that much? Something sounds wrong here. Furious I called Volkswagon Customer Service a few times, they state that I would need to pay 65 - 150 dollars for a diagnosis to find out what exactly is wrong with the car and from there determine IF they will assist me. I have not yet taken the car to the ORIGINAL dealership, where I purchased the car, but I hope they fix this issue once and for all.

Oh, in addition to this issue my CD Player, stocked, doesnt work anymore surprisingly 2 months after my warranty expired. Hmmmmm....

Kj of Atlanta, GA July 31, 2007

My '04 Jetta 1.8t broke down on the highway on Jun 18. with 53k miles on it. VW's dealership diagnosed the problem as engine oil sludge build-up of course, and quoted repairs in excess of $7500. For a new car? Oh, but the warranty MAY cover it if I can provide receipts for the life of the car. It took several weeks for me to try to dig up most of these, and I'm sure I've either lost or thrown other ones away, and upon providing them to VW, was told they would not cover the repairs- not even partially! Although VW has admitted to the continued problems with this particular engine, they will not honor their warranty. I suggest for anyone with the same problem to file a complaint with the National Highway Traffic Safety Admin., they are in charge of pressing manufacturers into issuing formal recalls.

Tom of Franklin, PA July 28, 2007

Turbo failed on my 2001 VW Jetta TDI (Diesel). This turbo was replaced under warranty within the first year of new. This part is under warranty (10yr/100Kmi & car is at 97,222) and they agreed, however since I cannot provide 7 years worth of receipts for oil & filters (I performed most scheduled maintenance myself). I have dates, mileage, & description of all maintenance performed (done by their schedule). Everything required was performed, and if it involved more than fluid or filter changes, it was performed by a local mechanic who only works on VWs (40+ years experience).

He is the one who I towed the car to when the turbo failed. I wasn't sure what the problem was, & didn't want to pay to tow 100+ miles to a dealer at $100/hr to do anything that is not under warranty. Once we found the problem, I called VW 800 number & was told that this was covered under warranty. I called New Motors to schedule appt when they would have a courtesy vehicle available. Had my car trailered to Erie (1.5 hrs away) & when it got there, they screwed with my stepdad about the loaner car. After several phone calls, they finally gave him the car. (This was never a problem before - new policy). Then they informed us that there would be a $90 charge to put this on diagnostic computer to verify the problem. I said that if they found out it was not a warranted problem, I would pay the charge, but otherwise, it was part of the warranty.

They said it was NOT covered. I again called VW 800#, & they told me it WAS covered & there would be no charge. This is what I feel caused the voiding of my warranty. This was just payback for not letting them double dip on this charge. I spoke with my VW mechanic & he told me that even if I had not performed regular oil changes (which I have - even more frequent than VW requirements), that would have absolutely nithing to do with turbo failure. The engine oil does not come in contact with the turbo parts.

An oil line runs through the case, but it is sealed & not lubricating this part. I do not feel a receipt from Wal-Mart from 2002 proves any more about my maintenance than my records I submitted. Another interesting point, I have worked at a Pennzoil refinery for many years, and I have a large supply of oil in my garage (legally obtained!!). I could send them a photo of the 60+ cases of oils, lubes, & fluids currently in my garage if that would help. VW Customer Service (800 number) is researching this to see if they can give me some out of warranty consideration, and I was going to wait until I heard from them, but I don't feel I need out of warranty consideration.

I feel they need to honor their warranty. I have always maintained my vehicles at or above dealer standards, and resent the implication that I'm lying to them. One last point. The last oil change I had was about 1000 miles ago (synthetic oil) at Wal-Mart and the receipt is in the car and there is a sticker on the windshield. This should prove that there was the proper oil, with the proper characteristics (new oil-not broken down) at the time of failure. I do not feel I need to drive 3 hours round trip & pay a dealer $60, for something I can do myself for $25, or have Wal-Mart or JiffyLube do for $40 in 10 minutes. All in all, I do not know if this is a dealer issue, or VW USA, but either way they are not honoring the written warranty they provided me. Thank you.

Jennifer of Camden, ME July 23, 2007

I bought a 2002 VW with 32k miles on it.. at 75k the engine blew up due to sludge buildup. the cost to repair it is in excess of $2,500 and in order to have it covered under the VW extended warranty for this exact problem all oil change record must be accounted for which is impossible based on previous ownership.

Samantha of Naches, WA July 19, 2007

so i bought my jetta used just over a year ago, and have had nothing but problems! i want to blow the car to pieces somedays. The first day i bought the car the check engine light came on and so i took it back and they told me it was just dirt setting off the sencors and every time i take it to the dealer to get it fixed they just reset the light and it comes back on a few hours later it's still on to this day! Next the EPC light came on and once agian i took it to the dealer they told me they couldnt it and i had to take it to a vw dealer to get it fixed i cant which is $80 and hour...so i just had to drive it with the light on untill i was driving down the highway at 60 and lost all power. so i got the car off the road and let it sit shut off for a while started it back up and it ran for a coupple days then on my way to work one morning it totally died on me and i had to have it towed home, next i would shut it off and it would idle doe about 10 seconds after the key was out. The cadeltic converter caused me some issues also. my left side speakers work off and on, on a daily basis, now this last weekend my trunk decided to stop working! NEVER EVER BY A JETTA!. They are nothing but bad news. im 19 years old i cant afford all these problems im having with this stupid car!

Glen of Irving, TX July 18, 2007

Consistent problems with my windows as indicated by others on this site. Right now, I have two windows that do not work. I have had to place wood in the door to hold the windows up. It sounds like a design/engineering snafu as I have never had problems with any of my other cars; and I even owned a Ford. In addition, the check engine light has come on over 10 times. Spent about $1200 dollars to have the last one turned off so I can pass the state inspection. The most frustrating thing is that there was nothing mechanically wrong with the car. They just had a very hard time finding which sensor was bad. End result, I will NEVER by another VW.

David of Severna Park, MD July 11, 2007

Bought a 1998 VW Jetta out of a advertisement media and was told that one of the windows did not work; I confirmed this. A couple of weeks another window failed to come up. I called a VW dealership and was told that since it is a 1998 it is not covered. This is very unsafe. If the stiring wheel and my hands get wet and during the rain and slip and someone gets killed then will they still refuse to correct this ongoing problem?

Callie of Myakka, FL July 10, 2007

I own a 2002 VW Jetta and I have had nothing but issues with this car, I am EXTREMELY angry that nobody is willing to step and take responsibilty for the defects with this car. I bought it used and I had a 3 month warranty on it and in that 3 month period I had it in that shop 6 times for various things. But now that I have it longer (a year) to be exact bigger more expensive are happening. And being a student and only working part time does not help the outragous prices to fix this car. I am disgusted with VW and will NEVER own another one nor will anyone i know. I have spent a fourtune on replacing an altenator, 3 dipsticks, hoses, AC fan, and tires going flat frequently. I bought this car hoping to have somthing reliable but I am afraid to drive it.

Kathy of Alamogordo, NM July 10, 2007

We purchased a 2002 VW Jetta 1.8 Turbo in Feb 2005. It was used, but was still under warranty with only 32,000 miles or so on it. A year later, our son was backing his Jetta out of the driveway when he noticed smoke wisping from the dash vents. Within minutes, black smoke billowed into the cab and melting pieces of burning plastic were falling around him. He turned off the key and turned a hose into the car. Fire dept responded, but entire electrical harness and components behind dash on drivers side destroyed.

R.b. of New York, NY July 9, 2007

I also had same defective problems with my 99 jetta's power window. in my case, the window went down making a loud crashing like noise. so now im with a window fallen and stuck inside the door panel as like many of the people who have posted below.

Sheri of Miami, FL June 23, 2007

My 99 VW Jetta Wolfsburg has had every window in the car get stuck down. I've had each of the window regulators replaced at least once, and some 2-3 times. One window just broke for the fourth time. VW will not cover the cost of the repairs, even though their window system is clearly faulty. In December, my garage replaced a motor and regulator, and the window died two weeks later. My garage fixed it for free for me, but clearly VW windows deserve a recall.

H. Thai of Houston, TX June 19, 2007

I own a 2001 Jetta GLS VR6. My ignition coil had to be replaced recently, and like many other VW owners, I was stuck with the entire bill. The coil recall issued by VW in 2003 read as if it included my exact model, but my car was excluded because the VIN# was simply not part of the recall: The vehicles affected in this action include cars equipped with 1.8 liter engines, which includes the Audi TT and A4; and the VW Golf/GTI, Jetta, New Beetle and Passat. The companies also included the Passat W8 engine, all VW's equipped with the 2.8 liter VR6; as well as the Audi 3.0 liter V6 engine. (I should fall into the all VW's equipped with the 2.8 liter VR6 part) VW knows that their individual coils (recalled) and coil packs (not recalled) are all prone to failure, yet refuse to issue a recall for the coil packs. The problem is so common that you can find plenty of discussion boards where owners discuss the same problem with cracked coil pack casings, and possible ways to fix it yourself (didn't work out for me after much hard work).

I

Barbara I Biel of Bristol, CT June 13, 2007

My Jetta 99 has a problem with all 4 windows. They fall into the doors or get stuck. I just don't open any windows at any time. The back windows have door stoppers in them to prevent them from falling into the doors.

Brandon of Phoenix, AZ May 29, 2007

I have now had 2 windows fall down due to the bad window regulator problem so prevalent on VW Jettas. I do not think I would waste my money on buying a VW car in the future since they have not even fixed this problem and do not offer any fix except to put the same badly designed part back in.

Missed work days, high cost of replacement and general annoyance have resulted. This is an idiotic problem to have.

Jill of Roswell, GA May 14, 2007

I have a 99 Jetta (old body style) and have had many many problems with it including the power windows. Three of the four windows have not worked for YEARS. Only the driver side window has continued to work, but now is very sluggish (I'm not optimistic). After the outrageous estimate I recieved to fix the windows, I decided to remove the door panels (for the 2 rear windows)and simply install 2x4's to keep the windows from dropping (held with screws through holes that existed in the door frame), the passenger side never dropped, just stopped working. It is simply incredible of VW to knowingly produce such substandard cars. I have told every person I know about the thousands of dollars I have spent on this car, warning everyone not to buy one, or simply do NOT own a VW out of warranty!

Sharron of Spring, TX May 1, 2007

VW has not fixed it coil problem. They may have did a recall but they still keep burning out. So make sure you keep a spare coil in your car because they only last about a year and once one goes out the others will follow. For the original owners of the Vw's bought in 2002 they need to warranty the coil for life. Or fix the problem for good

Lynn of Williamsburg, VA May 1, 2007

I have had the same problems as everyone else who owns a VW Jetta. I have a 1999 VW Jetta that has not had one window working properly since I got the car brand new in 2000. I have replaced all four regulators and motors several times. I've almost paid the price of my car in window parts. I've complained many times to VW and they really aren't helpful and don't seem to care.

There is no recall for the window parts and they refuse to pay for or discount the repairs. They also haven't done anything to fix the problem so this doesn't keep happening. If they made motors that could last more than 6 months and regulators that were made entirely out of metal and not plastic, maybe this wouldn't be a problem. The other problem VW owners seem to have is leaking.

Two of my doors have been leaking periodically when it rains and now my roof leaks as well. My car smells like mold for a week after it rains. Also, there are various electrical failures in my car to top it off. Yes, my car has many miles on it now, but these issues have been continuous since my warranty ran out. I don't plan on putting any more money into this car. I have had it with VW. I just wanted to add my complaint to the rest.

Donna of Sykesville, MD April 25, 2007

Airbag light is on. Volkswagen says I need to replace my driver's side (seat) airbag. I am the original owner of the car and have never had an accident, and the airbags have never been deployed! Last year, January 2007, the passenger side (seat) airbag had to be replaced. At that time (January 2007) the car was still under warranty. This time around I have to pay $750.00 to replace an airbag that has NEVER deployed! Why are consumer's responsible for replacing airbags that have not deployed? Seems that this is a manufacturing/mechanical or design problem by Volkswagen. Volkswagen should be stepping up on this complaint and taking care of their customers.

Paying $750.00 to replace an airbag that has not deployed.

Heather of Glen Ellen, CA April 25, 2007

Just called customer care line, were of no help at all. I am now on my fifth window regulator they cost $285.00 a piece. This is a known problem since 1994. Someone needs to step up and help us fight Volkswagen. This was not a cheap car to buy, just in parts alone I have spent 1500.00. At customer care they just told me my car was out of the window of warranty. This is true, what is also true is my windows did not start f-ing up until the warranty was over. Timing is everything is it not. Thanks for hearing me out, I will never ever buy a V.W. again.

Sue of Golden Valley, MN April 16, 2007

Like everyone else, the power windows on my 1998 Jetta have been a problem since I bought the car. The windows would come down on their own after I put them up, and a few years ago the rear driver's side window was stuck open. Yesterday the front driver's side window broke. It's stuck about an inch from the top.

Tonya of Putnam, CT March 26, 2007

I own a or did i should say! a 2001 vw GLS 1.8 turbo. with cloth heated seats. On the aftrenoon of march 13 2007 my car caught fire on I 91 in hartford Ct. Thise occured durring rush hour trafice with three children under the age of 6 . we all were able to make it out of the car unharmed, the care went into a full inferno with in secounds of our exit of the vehicle.

the incurance company says macanicle malfuction there is no excuse and i want answers my family is tromitized and we will never ever by VW ever again if you could just get the word to alll owners of VW then I will be satisfied , however if you have any other field commlaints in the self conbustion deppartment i would like to here about theme. thank you, Tonya Godere

Raul of Sugarland, TX March 15, 2007

I bought a 2005 Jetta for my daughter in July of 2005, her first car. She's been drivig all manner of used cars since she was able to drive and she started driving manual so she's familar with a stick shift. We've had the car less than two years and its been to the dealer twice for what I have now come to understand, from the descriptions on others on this website, as an oil sludge problem that the dealer referred to as a fuel injection problem.

The dealer was unwilling to warrant the problem the second time, asking for $650 plus. I am very persistent, especially as this car has less than 25000 miles and is still under warranty. This month, March 2007, the car up and died, it was driving fine and the next moment it would not move although the motor revved up. We had the car towed to the dealership where we were shortly informed that it was bad. I visited the dealership today, 03/15/07, and I was informed that the clutch had burned out, needed replacing, and was not covered under the warranty, (mind you the car has less than 25000 miles), and that this is normal wear and tear. I asked and was shown the clutch plate. It looks like shredded paper, that is not normal wear and tear.

I told them in no uncertain terms that I would not pay their $2500 to repair this car, and that they will repair this car under the warranty. I have filed a complaint with their customer service dept., they were very nice but I was not convinced. I have owned several VW through out my life, and they have generally been very reliable, this one has not, and I am appalled to read how many people have similar problems with this model.

I am in outside sales, persistence is in my blood. Together we can make a difference, they can only stonewall for so long. My daughter pays her bill on time and in good faith, we expect nothing less in return.

Tracey of West Babylon, NY March 11, 2007

I began complaining to Legend VW (starting in 10/26/04-documentation can be provided) about a smell and smoke from my engine. I thought it smelled like anti-freeze and was told nothing could be found and I may have been mistaken. Again on 1/12/05 (before the original 50K warranty expired-documentation can be provided) I complained of a smell/leak. On 12/06/05 I complained of heater not working. Dealership stated car was fixed on 12/12/06. Car had to be returned the next day because heater still again not working. I complained again in February 2006 of the heat issue and it completely stopped working at that time. My car was kept at the dealership for a total of 7 weeks and reported fixed. They were responsible for the entire rental car fee and I still incurred approx. $800 cost for this period. I again complained of the heater not working on 12/11/06 and took car in again. System was again flushed but heater still would not work. 12/15,06, dealership informed me that heater core was clogged and needed replacing. I was informed that neither Warranty Company nor dealership would be responsible for repair. For the record, my car is protected under the Platinum Extended Warranty purchased at Legend VW which protects your car up to 100K miles as stated in brochures 'heater core is covered' under Platinum Plan (original brochure retained and documentation can be provided.

Driving in the NE without heat is putting your family in life threatening danger. Should I have been stranded this winter, I don't want to think what may have happened to me and my family. I still have a cough, which can be documented, that began in December and has lingered in both my children and myself. I have had to borrow a car on the days when the temp dipped below 19 degrees. I recently resorted to carrying blankets in my car as a result of the temp to protect my children.

Nidia of Austin, TX March 6, 2007

Are you kidding me?!!!?!?! I purchased a 2006 Jetta TDI late 2005 looking for reliability and great gas mileage. After less than two years, it has had a whole NEW engine and a NEW transmission put it. After all that drama, i had a major oil leak, missing screws, dangerous exhaust leak, and missing oil coolant parts. Half of these things I dont even understand what they mean!!

And now I am driving a two-year-old car that hums, hisses, vibrates, and rattles like my husband's ten-year-old ranch truck! If I take it in one more time, I am going to get the classic line, Rattles and noises are not covered after the first year. What a huge disappointment.

ˆ

Tim of Ontario, CA February 28, 2007

Tim of Ontario CA (02/28/07)

I bought a used 2003 Volkswagen Jetta 1.8t wagon with 65k miles on it. About 1 1/2 years later I was driving when the oil light came on then went off, a minute or two later it came on in a blinking manner. I stopped at the first station I came upon and checked the oil and found it to be about a pint low, no need to worry, I topped the oil off and started the car again, the blinking oil light was still on blinking away. Since the oil level was correct I figured may be a problem with the sending unit and planned to have it looked at the next day. Never made the next day, engine quit running about 10 minutes later. The car was towed to the dealer on Tuesday, and the dealer first said the motor was fried and I need a new one, I asked why the motor was fried and dealer said for another $600 he would tell me. The dealer then said the motor failed due to engine sludge build up, a clogged snorkel oil pick up screen that feeds engine oil pump and smoked the engine and turbo, and that it would cost me $10,000 to replace engine. I talked to Volkswagen customer service, incident # 70013631, I think that is right, and VW NA said that I did not maintain engine correctly.

Elishia of Huntington Beach, CA January 29, 2007

Volkswagen Jetta GLX with ignition coil problems. I have a 2001 Jetta GLX with 44000 miles on it. Just recently the ignition coil went out, costing me $1100 in repairs. I see that other 2001 Jetta models had been recalled, but when I contacted VW about it they said my car is not included. It looks like this is a wide spread problem among VWs although they refuse to own up to it and are selectively choosing the autos to recall. This seems to only be an effort to make themselves look a little better instead of actually owning the problem. Don't buy a VW.

Jimmy of Whitehouse, TX January 25, 2007

We bought the car, a 2003 VW Turbo Beetle used from Saturn dealership in Tyler with 25,000 miles. The car now has 65,000 miles. The engine light came on we took the car to the local dealership for VW(Crown). Diagnostics indicated it had low oil pressure and would require removal of the valve covers to determine the cause. They notified me of oil sludge problems and said it would most likely require a new engine and the cost could be approximately $5000.00.

I told them I could not fix the car right now and the service manager said I could probably drive the car for 10,000 or 20,000 miles before the engine gave out. I didn't get but 20 miles until the engine jumped time and died.

I have taken the vehicle to a local shop which works with forein vehicles and they will try a complete teardown and valve job to resolve the sludge problem. Cost will run around $2000 if not else is wrong. I must get the vehicle fixed, still owing $10,000 with hopeful tradein value of $14,000. I am awaiting the repair.

Dan of Stillwater, NY January 24, 2007

Happened a week before xmas 2006 (Merry Christmas!): 2000 VW Jetta VR6 bought from private party sale (friend of my sister's) @ 59k miles. At 62k miles the auto transmission crapped out. Between 2nd and 3rd shift/3rd and 4th/the engine would race and RPM shoot to about 5k. I shopped around and brought the car (short distances towed) to three different shops.

Got the same reply from each: rebuilt needed. Big bucks. Note: I dont believe this was a lemon, the seller was trustworthy and you really can't hide tranny problems. When they go, they really really go.

Total costs came to around $2700.00. The car was in the shop for two weeks as additional parts were ordered and mystery problems arose. The shop I picked didn't seem too bad and I was delighted that it was under the original $3k estimate.

They had to take the transmission out twice to fix the problem and stopped charging labor past the quote they gave me. They probably worked an extra 6 or 7 hours uncompensated to get it fixed. If you're reading this because you are having the same problem currently, I feel for you. I know every car design has problems but there seems to be ALOT of complaints about VW transmissions.

As a testament to this, when I went to finally pick up the repaired car...the shop had another Jetta ('02) inside and two waiting outside. Yep...german engineering at its best. More like cheap parts assembled in Mexico.

Alton of Boerne, TX January 24, 2007

I have a 2006 Jetta Diesel. I bought it for economy but it is ending up being the most costly vehicle I have ever owned. To change oil, the price is 60 to 80 dollars because VW specifies special oil in owners manual.

They have a monopoly on this issue. Getting the oil changed is awful because VW has so few service facilities which are overcrowded with customers. Second issue is tires. My Jetta has a little over 30K miles on it and have gone through a complete set of tires plus new tires. The car has those low profile tires and when you suspect you have a low tire, it is already ruined. The tire will ruin when slightly under inflated.

You have no way of knowing that is a tire problem until it is too late. There are no low tire sensors. VW sales does not warn customer that they should buy the extended tire warranty. Even if I had the warranty, you better have the flat near a VW dealer.

Richard of Fairfax, VA January 24, 2007

After buying a 1999 Jetta in July 2004, I have had a myriad of problems with it. The passenger window fell into the door within the first month. We have had to replace the headlights about once every two months. At 65K miles, the transmission literally blew apart. But the dealership decided to drive it around for 20 or so miles in hopes of figuring out what was wrong, before finally looking at the transmission itself.

Ever since then, every time it is taken to a repair shop, we are told that the computer has cylinder misfire codes in it, but no one can figure out why this happens. The knob to adjust the side mirrors fell off in my lap one day while driving down the road. The speed sensor (which tells the transmission to shift gears once the engine reaches a certain number of rpm's) has been replaced twice. It was finally decided that the cause of this problem was the computer, which was replaced the third time the speed sensor went out.

The floor heating vent stopped working the first time it was cold enough to need it (fall 2004). The air conditioner went out at the end of this summer. All in all, way too many problems for as young as the car is. The people at VW have been less than helpful. When the dealership has offered to fix anything, they have quoted me prices for brand new parts, telling me that there is absolutely no way for anyone to do it any cheaper.

For example, VW quoted me $5600 to repair the transmission. I had a local auto repair shop fix it for $2000. When I called customer service to complain, they told me there was nothing they could do.

Elias of Livermore, CA January 16, 2007

1.8T VW Jetta 2002 - 46885 miles vehicle, bought new from dealer 100% serviced by dealer, it has gone 5 times more to dealer for repairs than my MBZ 1991 w/195K miles. Repairs include but not limited, Wheel Bearings, Water Pump, ignition coils, horn steering wheel, Numerous recalls Air Pump, Ignition coils, Rear View mirror Defrosters etc etc etc. I have purchased extended warranty for 84months/100K miles but it does not help. It looks like there is always something that warranty does not cover.

Susan of Birmingham, AL January 3, 2007

Feb 2006 replaced transmission on 2003 vw Jetta with 40k miles on it. June 06 same symptoms happening told by dealership not to worry as long as light does not remain on, the sensors take time to adjust to remanufactured transmission and my driving. continued symptoms, and calls to dealer. Dec 06 dealership agrees to see vehicle after car loses all power on interstate. two week wait to get vehicle in.

Dealership states it is the transmission contol module. This part tells the transmission when to shift gears. Told not covered under warranty. This part was never chkd when trans replaced? Called 800 VW refused to help. I suggest after reading the same complaints on this web site a civil suit against VW.

Sunny of Westlake Village, CA December 29, 2006

I bought the brand new 2003 VW Jetta GLI and it has been always serviced by the dealer. Right after I bought the car I lost power on the freeway and the car started to shake. I took the car the next day to the dealer and they changed the Ignition coil. Since then I have been to the dealer several times for exactly the same problem and they keep replacing the coils. They have replaced all the coils at my expense of over $1,650 so far not to include my time off from work to see these idiot rip-off dealers.

My Dad who is an attorney discussed this issue with them about the voltage irregularity in the design of the ignition system of the car. The dealer referred my Dad to the factory saying that they really don't know why this problem persists. My Dad tried repeatedly speaking to VW HQ and they keep referring back to Customer Care who keeps referring back to the dealer. This catch 22 nonsense continued till today. Twe weeks ago, for the forth time my coil went back again and the dealer replaced it with a new one at a cost of over $250.00. Within 12 days the same thing happened again and yesterday I picked up the car from Neftin VW dealer with coil # 1,2,3,5,and 6 replaced. #4 coil was replaced over 10 days ago.

I have almost got into accidents twice as I tried to get to the right lane due to loss of power. My Dad is a classic car collector and knows a lot about cars. His 1936 Rolls Royce Phantom has a voltage regulator that prevents high voltage from iginition coil going to the spark plugs. He raised exactly the same issue with the Service Manager who agrees with him and say that it is certainly a design deficiency and that I should address this issue directly to the engineering department of VW America. He also took my name and phone info telling me that the VW Rep visits us once a month and that he will contact me when he is at the dealership the next time to look at this problem. In the meantime, if the coil keeps going bad I have to keep spending everytime over $250.00. But the problem is that I do not feel comfortable and safe in driving the car.

So I drive my Porsche instead and parked the VW untill this issue is resolved or the coil defect is illiminated for once and all. I can never think of taking my VW Jetta on any of my skiing or other trips too far away from home. It is absolutely unbelievable that the German car makers like VW could make such an unreliable and defective product.

Michael J. Pucci of Racine, WI December 21, 2006

The engine of my 2001 VW Jetta 1.8T with 80,000 hwy miles seized due to oil sludge. VW is aware of the issue resulting from an engine design flaw. Articles have been published about the quality problem. I am looking at a $5200 repair bill to install a new engine but VW is unwilling to even cover the material costs because my VIN number is not within the covered range and there is not a 'Campaign' for the 1.8T engines that were placed in Jettas, only those in Passats and Audis. Nevermind that it is the same engine. I presume this is because there are fewer Jetta 1.8T owners out there.

Plastic CAM covers within the engine melted circulating plastic throughout the interior of the engine. The engine and oil pump are a complete loss and must be replaced.

Brent L Joyner of Lehi, UT December 17, 2006

I drive 85 miles to work on sunday. I stay at work all week. When I return to my vehicle on thursday it will be dead. I have take it to the dealership and they tell me they can not find anything wrong with it. They tell me it dies while they have it but they can not find why it dies. they charge up the battery. I take it to work and it dies. They have kept the vehicle for a week tell me nothing is wrong. I pick up the vehicle and take it home and the next morning it is dead. I have taken the vehicle to them 3 times and all three times they tell me nothing is wrong. Yet I can have it for one day and it dies.

i can not use my car without having to jump start it every use and I am tired of hearing nothing is wrong.

Reid of Katy, TX December 8, 2006

My 2002 jetta has 37000 miles on it and it burns oil. (about 1/2qt per 1500miles). I have contacted the dealersihp and they tell me that it is a common problem with the 2.0ltr engine. I have since been told that the powertrain warranty will not cover it because the original owner sold it at an auction. I have all his info but the do not care. Thank God that I bought an extended warranty. I plan to pick the car up from the dealer when they finish and go by another Chevrolet. My best advise to anyone in the market for a vehicle is buy anything but volkswagen. Everything I have found since I purchased this vehicle is problems with these cars.

Rob of Amsterdam, NY November 29, 2006

The clutch on my 2001 Jetta 'busted' after having only 35,000 miles on the car. The car drove fine until driving through some rainy roads on my way to work. When I left work, the car refused to start, and I had it towed under the roadside program to the dealership, where they told me I needed a new clutch. I suggested to the dealer that they should consider checking the sensor in the clutch pedal that tells the car it's engaged, and allows for the engine to turn on. He said he'd 'never heard of such a sensor' and told me again that the entire clutch needed to be replaced, and that it would not be covered under warranty because it was considered 'wear-and-tear'. While my extended warranty would have covered anything electronic, including the sensor I suggested was bad, the entire repair had to be paid at a total of about $1600 for a car with only 35,000 miles on it. The dealer also refused to allow me to witness the repairs, nor did he allow me access to my parts that had been taken out of the car and supposedly replaced. My presumtion is that they made either minor repairs to the existing clutch, or that they went ahead and replaced the bad clutch sensor, while charging me for anew clutch. Further investigation immediataly after the repair by an independent mechanic also reveaaled that the clutch housing appeard to not have even been touched let alone replaced.

Vera of Palm Coast, FL November 28, 2006

I have a 6 month old car the air bag light came on 5 times now they have eliminated the sensors from the drivers side and passager side seat air bag we have asked them to take the care back because we dont feel safe in the car they cant tell me the air bag will came on at any time or if i have an accident they dont know if it will come out. I have 2 small children they are putthing my family at risk . Vw says if the lite shutts off its fixed but so far its been 5 times and i have a new car with crossed wires and unsafe please make sure people do not make the same mistake by buying the car and putthig their families at risk.

I live one houre from the dealer i have to go bring the car every other week or so i have wasted money on gaz time with my children me and my husband are stress out because no one will help us or do the wright thing we dont want money we just dont want this unsafe car.

Terry of Port Austin, MI November 20, 2006

The vehicle is a 2004 Volkswagen TDI with 138,000 miles. Without out warning, the engine began making a loud popping noise. We immediately took the vehicle to the dealer to have it looked at. They had the car for 3 days and could not find the problem. The dealer contacted a Master VW Technician who, without even looking at the vehicle, told the dealership to look for an excessively worn camshaft, lifter and cambearing damage (metal on metal contact). He even told them what cylinders to look at and that they would be seeing more cars with this mileage with the same problem. The technician was right.

We are faced with an approx. repair bill of $5,000 to replace the complete head assembly. We've contacted VW Customer Care and explained the situation and they are unwilling to help in anyway or stand behind their product. VW's response has been there is no help - you are beyond your warranty. They were unwilling to admit there was a problem, even though we told them what their Master Technician had said.

Sandra of Freeport, NY October 2, 2006

I purchased a 2002 Jetta GL in August, 2001. This was my first brand new car and I was looking forward to many years of troublefree driving. I live on Long Island and drove less than 20 miles daily round trip to work for the 1st 2 years I owned the car. For the last 3 years, I've commuted to Manhattan to work, so my car very rarely leaves my town. As of today, I have 36,883 miles on my car. During a trip to Maryland this past weekend on September 29, 2006, I got less than 50 miles from home and the internal transmission failed. That's the diagnosis from the VW dealer that my car was towed to after breaking down on the NJ Turnpike with my 3 year old child in the back seat. When I contacted customer service, I was informed that my transmission warranty expired on 8/21/06. It was good for 5 years (which I'd reached) or 60K miles. I received no advance notification of this but with such low mileage and being just outside of the warranty period, I was sure they'd be willing to rectify this situation. After speaking with customer service today, I was informed that they will not help me and they apologized for not being able to meet my expectation today. My expectation was that a car with less than 40K in mileage would not have transmission failure.

Maureen of Newburyport, MA September 30, 2006

In my 2003 VW Jetta, the EPC light has come on and my brake lights won't work. While researching online, I have found postings from other owners of 2003 Jettas reporting the same problem. Volkswagen has issued recalls for a defective brake light switch in earlier-model Jettas, but none for the 2003. My VW dealer/service department tells me no recall has been issued for my model. How do we get VW to initiate a recall for the 2003 models?

Caroline of Tallahassee, FL September 27, 2006

I just bought a 2000 Jetta vr6 exactly 1 month ago. 2 days ago I started to hear a click when I closed my window and today I went to roll it down and it just fell into the door. This sucks!!!!!!!!!!

VW should recall these parts and make their brackets out of metal or at least start making them out of metal so when we replace them they dont just break again. I am so mad!!!!!!!!!!

Nicolae of Chicago, IL September 6, 2006

I have a 2002 Volkswagen Jetta TDI. Starting at 27,000 miles the engine started burning oil. I asked Volkswagen to fix this problem, but they have not succeded in doing so. They have been trying to persuade me that it is normal for this prolem to be occuring.

I do not believe such a thing because in the technical language oil consumption means the engine is worn out. I have contacted several other service shops and they have told me that the enigine, or parts of the engine are worn out.  One of the shops that I contacted informed me that it would cost me $3,800-4,300 to repair the engine.

Justin of Zimmerman, MN August 29, 2006

Wow... in reading the stories that are so upsettingly familiar I just started to get mad all over again. I have a 2002 Jetta 1.8t that I have hit every problem there ever was. Ignition coils, window motors, out of control cruise control, brake lights always on, and now the engine sludge problem. Only I didn't realize this was a common problem. I went round and round with VW and the local dealer (who I will never go back to). They wanted receipts and I gave them what I had and of course they still wouldn't cover it cause I had a gap of about 10,000 miles from 10's of thousands of miles ago. The local dealer (St. Louis Park MN) told me it would be about $900 to fix it. I said BS and went and towed it out of the shop myself. I felt good towing my car in front of the dealer and potential buyers. Anyway I then called another dealer who was extremely helpful. Unfortunately they said the same thing however this time it was going to be $450 to fix it. So after being without the car for almost a month I gave in. Now almost a year later I come across all of these other listings and just get upset all over again. *@&#&$ VW NEVER again.

Brian of Santa Clara, CA August 26, 2006

I have a 2002 Jetta 1.8T. First off engine light comes on continually every time oil is changed. Second front driver seat frame broke, and on top of this seat seems to be cracking apart from the frame of the car. A $175.00 hose on the turbo engine cracked at 60k miles. And last but not least the clutch went out at 62k miles. I grew up driving manual transmissions. I don't ride the clutch or grind gears. Explain to me how a clutch could go out on a car 12k miles after the warranty is void. I spent about $700 getting the turbo, and light fixed. I am now looking at another $600-$700 dollars for the clutch. These cars seem to be plagued with problems. All over the web site I see complaints about them. If I wasn't still paying on it I would of traded it for some 1990 Japanese import. This is a disgrace. I thought Volkswagon was a good car, at least it used to be.

Stephen of Redwood City, CA August 23, 2006

I am the owner of a 1998 Volkswagen Jetta. As is stated on numerous public Web sites, these cars have had chronic problems with the power windows. It seems to affect Jetta's from 1994 thru 2000. I myself have had to take the car in for this problem on numerous occasions, with another visit again this week to fix the drivers window. Volkswagen knows of the problem with the power windows, but has done nothing to compensate the consumers for repairs needed to fix them. I have paid over $2,000 in window repairs since I have owned the car. Other owners have experienced the same financial burden - a burden that should be assumed by Volkswagen for producing such a terrible product. They are well aware of the problem, but will do nothing about it. I have tried talking to the dealer service centers, VW Customer Care (they might want to think about changing the name - they don't care), but they will do nothing to help.

Renee of Maineville, OH August 13, 2006

Experienced a car fire with my 2002 Jetta 1.8T. Kept car well maintained. Drove car that evening no more than 1/2 block when engine light came on. Car acted as if it was going to stall. Came back home, pulled into garage and noticed car was smoking from under the hood, as if it was overheating. Temp gauge did not indicate overheating. Put car in park, engine light came off, although still running. Smoking more, tried to restart car to get it out of the garage, which is attached to my house, but would not start. Got out of car, looked under car and noticed flame. Within minutes, car was on fire. Called 911. Luckily, my neighbor is an ex-firefighter, who contained the fire and the town fire department is only a block away. My insurance did take care of everything. When I notified VW, the only response was we're glad you're ok and do not wish to investigate. I do not know what could or should be done, but since VW promotes safety, which is why I bought myself one and my daughter one, I would think VW would want to be more proactive in finding the cause. This upsets me greatly.

Kevin Van Der Sommen of Sidney, NY August 7, 2006

I was under the impression that Volkswagen was an honorable, and reliable company, that is why I bought a 99 Jetta. Well like others have stated it has been one problem after another, however, the most recent has put me over the edge with this company. I live in upstate New York and I was on the way home from a vacation in Delaware. On our vacation the weather hit record heat indexes, which I believe led to the poorly designed window clip to break on our car. The passenger side window fell into the door and would not go up. We had to travel 29 miles to Dover Delaware, the nearest Volkswagen Dealership to get it fixed.

Thankfully they had the part, but only because as we were told, this was a common problem. Actually, so common the man doing our intake diagnosed it!! Anyway, we were told the window clips were poorly designed out of plastic, and that Volkswagon WAS covering the cost of repair for 7 YEARS, and we missed the cut-off for coverage by 3 WEEKS! Apparently the new part is now made out of metal.

We called our warranty company who also would not cover this problem. They told us Volkswagen should cover it. We were out $200. because of poor design that the company knew about and covered for a time. I tried calling Volkswagen of America to see if I could be reimbursed but got nowhere. They wouldn't even transfer me to corporate offices. I am so angry by the principle of this! If a company knows they have a defective part shouldn't they replace it?? I was going to buy a Passat but now I am DONE with this company. I do not and will not recommend anyone buying a Volkswagon if this is how they operate.

Barbara of San Diego, CA July 27, 2006

I own a 2004 VW Jetta. In June of this year my car reached 30,000 miles and the clutch blew. After taking it to the dealer they said it was a wear and tear item and was not covered under warranty. They stated I was riding the clutch which means while pressing on the gas the clutch is in. I have owned manual transmission cars for over 20 years and have never had a clutch go on me. This one went at 30,000 miles!

They also replaced a part in my driver seat due to a recall, when I received the car back the driver seat was rubbing on the center console. The dealer told me this was the best they could do.

Susan of Hartwell, GA July 24, 2006

I recently purchased a 2001 Volkswagen Jetta that had always been my dream car. I saved for almost 2 years for that car only to have it fall apart. It began with the blinkers and emergency flashers, which did have a recall but still came as a superise because these cars are made of such fine quality.

Then my trunk locked down completely and refused to open no matter what I tried. I took it in to have it repaired only to find out that latch had come off. This cost me over $100. Then my transmission blew. I had always taken perfect care of my car so obviously there was no reason for the transmission to blow at only 50,000 miles.

 It first began with my gears locking up. The car would lock in park and it would take hours for me to release them. Then the car would refuse to go into reverse it would have to idle for 15 minutes before it would go into reverse. Then on my way home one night my car completey stopped in the middle of the road. I somehow rolled my car into a nearby parking lot and called for help. I had to have my car towed into the nearest VW dealership which was 60 miles away and cost me $125. When the repairman looked at my car he told me that it would cost $5000 to have the car repaired.

Mary of Painesville, OH June 21, 2006

While driving in slow road repair traffic on I-90 near Kirtland/Mentor Ohio, my clutch system failed. I was driving just fine keeping car in 1st gear but while in stop and go traffic suddenly the car was staying in gear even when removing foot from clutch pedal. Clutch pedal was stuck in full down position. -- Could not easily shift gears or get car out of gear once this problem occurred, and was forced to keep starting and shutting off the engine for approximately 2 miles until I could exit.

My car had to be towed to Classic VW on Tyler Blvd in Mentor. Have been told it is the clutch master and slave cylinders must be replaced and then the brake lines must be bled and refilled. This model has the 2.0 engine, and I have had a manual transmission car for over 30 years. Surprisingly, an hour after my Jetta was towed, and a 2000 Jetta was towed in to the same dealer with a clutch pedal stuck in the same position.

I also had the ignition coils fail on this vehicle in 2005, to the tune of $420. -Another system that seems to fail very often in VW models. VW of NA recalled all Golf, Jetta and Passat ignition coil systems EXCEPT those models with the 2.0 engine. All this, and I still have two payments to make before I actually own this Jetta. What a deal.

Ofeer of Ringwood, NJ May 25, 2006

My 2003 VW Jetta has been the worst purchase of my life. I traded in my perfect Jeep Grand Cherokee when gas prices went up thinking I was making a good choice but the money i have spent on the Jetta in the past 9 months far exceedes what I would have paid in gas for the Jeep. Whatever could go wrong in this aweful car has and my complaints are similar to all the other ones. The car eats oil every 3000 miles and I was told to just throw a bottle of oil in there every 1000 miles, gee thanks.

The transmission went and i had sludge in my engine that magically disapeared when I took it to the dealership, only other mechanics could find it. This car is a piece of junk and the dealerships will do nothing about it. I'm a broke graduate student so I'm pretty much stuck with this thing until May 07 when you can bet I will be buying a new car.

Amanda of York, PA May 10, 2006

I recently bought a 2006 Jetta TDI, brand new. I had it for a week and a half and put 800 miles on it, when my tiptronic transmission suddenly blew. They have no clue what happened, and it has been now 8 days.

Supposedly they were going to replace the whole transmission, but they can't seem to find one. I have spoke to my dealer, and I have spoken to VW Customer Care and no one knows anything. My car is just sitting there waithing for a new transmission.

Customer Care has been extremely rude to me. The lady told me not to call back, that they would call me back when they got an update. I finally got a rental. They gave me a KIA!

I complained that due to my very first car payment being due- I was not paying $504 to drive a KIA, so they gave me a Toyota. I still have yet to hear why they have not found a transmission yet. I am very dissatisfied and have asked for my money back- my dealer says that this is not an option.

Clay of Cumberland, MD February 25, 2006

2002 Jetta The transmission in this car shifts very very hard at times. After decelerating and then haveing to pick the throttle back up the transmission slams down into a lower gear. After highway driving and coming to a stop the tranny after sitting still for perhaps a few seconds (seems longer) once again slams down! Yes while sitting still the transmission slams down. It is tearing itself apart but the dealership can't seem to replicate the problesm they say.

Charles of Shreveport, LA February 23, 2006

I was driving my 2003 (produced in 2002) VW Jetta that has 51,000 miles on it home when the car began to jerk and lose power. At the same time this was happening my MIL light began to flash. I was only 1/8 of a mile from home. I began to smell something similar to rotten eggs.

I got home and began to research the problem and found this site (ConsumerAffairs.com) where people where listed the exact same symptoms I was having.

The cause according to the other Jetta drivers was the coil pack. I called the service department at my local VW and they immediately suggested it was the coil pack as well. I went to VW and ordered one. It took two days to get in. I began switching each coil pack out and starting my car. Eventually the car ran correctly verifying it was the new coil that fixed the problem.

Emily of Tempe, AZ February 16, 2006

One year ago I took my 02 Jetta in to be repaired due to the engine light coming on. At that time I was told that there was oil sludge in my engine and that the oil pump had to be replaced. They requested a maintenance log, which I did not have at the time, so that it would be covered under warranty. After doing research my mother found that this oil sludge problem was common in VWs and told the dealership as much.

Shortly I was contacted by the dealership, told the maintenance logs were not necessary (ever) and that they would do the repair under warranty. Now, 1 year later the same thing has happened. After consulting with the dealership here and getting a second opinion, it came to light that my engine was full of old oil sludge because the dealer did not flush the sludge out of my engine. They simply replaced the pump and left all the sludge in there to fester and damage my engine.

I called them since this recent malfunction to clarify that it was oil sludge that caused them to replace the pump. I was told yes. Then when I asked if they had flushed my engine I was told that it wasn't sludge, it was debris and there was no reason to flush the engine. Other mechanics tell me that anything in the oil pump is reason to flush the engine. Then, when I complained to VW Corporate and they did an investigation, The dealer lied. They told Corporate that there was never any sludge or debris. It was a part malfunction and they just needed to replace it. So, now, I am left paying for engine repair, diagnosis, etc., and have been denied any help from Corporate because of their lies.

Amanda of Rock Hill, SC February 2, 2006

I purchased a Certified Pre-Owned 2001 VW Jetta VR6 on 5/26/05. Since then my car has had the transmission replaced, the axel replaced, 2 rotars replaced, frame bolts tightend, 2 services to the engine for a tapping noise (which is still there) and an electrical problem which cause the car to get stuck in park. It has been in their service dept for a total of over three months (on and off). The dealership refused to get me a license plate and was only resolved recently.

I bought GAP insurance at the time of purchase and then approximately 2 months later received a letter from the GAP Insurance Company stating they could not write me a policy and to contact the dealership. It took the dealership almost 7 months to resolve this issue also. The total cost of the GAP Insurance was $600 and during the time in which they were "looking into it" they refused to refund me that money. No one can answer were the portion of my monthly car payment that should have been designated to the GAP Insurance is or where is it was going and they still refuse to refund me that money.

Paul of Mount Vernon, NY January 31, 2006

I drive a 2001 Volkswagon Jetta. The ignition coils failed on me, and my engine shut off while I was exiting the highway. I almost crashed into another car and the exit barrier as I had to steer my car to the shoulder. I had to get towed home. Thank God my son and I were ok. The dealer said it was the ignition coils (a BIG problem with VW's, but not recalled). I spent a little over $1,000 to fix it, and it was just several hundred miles over warranty. The money isn't a problem as is the safety factor. I lost ALL power on the highway. This is an issue that must be faced by VW.

Louise of Mansfield, MA writes (1/3/03):
I bought a brand 02' VW Jetta, back in July. On Dec. 21, it went in for routine maintenance and oil change. On Dec. 23, while driving to work, my engine light was flashing and my car started to struggle, when I applied the gas. Then, there was a terrible smell. I was able to turn around and creep slowly to my parking lot. I called a tow truck, and got it towed to my dealership. Then, I placed a call letting them know what had happened and that it was on its way to them.

I questioned why this would of happened, service told me that they have had several problems with my model and that he already had 30 cars having the same issues and that the problem was a faulty coil pack on the engine. Also, VW was only authorizing them to be replaced "as they go". Well, my car only has 7500 mi on it, and it has already gone. I called VW to verify the info that the dealership told me. I was told that they were not replacing all 4 coil packs, just the ones that fail. I explained that this is ridiculous, that I had just bought the car and I think that it is a safety issue. Also, that I was not comfortable with the fact that my car eventually will break down again and again until all of these coil packs are replaced.

I explained this until I was blue in the face, all I got from VW was that the car is under warranty and they will take care of the problem as it happens, and not authorizing any preventive maintenance, because of the fact that the car had not technically been recalled. He also told me that they used the new coil packs in the 03' model. I think this is awful, the car is only 6mo old. Can they do this? I feel that my car will always have engine trouble, and I may just trade it in and never even look at a VW again. What can I do to get piece of mind? I really love the car and want to be happy with it.

Angela of Ocean Springs, MS (1/1/03):
My husband and I purchased a 2002 Jetta Turbo in Novemeber of 2001. Immediately we noticed a rattling within the windows. The dealership in Athens, where we bought it, could not find any problems with the windows. About six months later we moved to Mississippi. I took it to a dealership in Gulfport, MS and complained of a rattling in the dashboard. They did make an attempt to fix it but ultimately failed. As the weather turned cold, we noticed the rattling in the dashboard and windows got worse.

I then took it to a dealership in Mobile AL. They were willing to take a test drive with me but of course the car didn't rattle then so I said I would wait and bring it back when it got cold. We then took a trip to Indiana where it is very cold. The windows, dashboard, and the top plastic part of the doors rattled so bad that not only did we feel like we were going to lose our minds, but we were also very embarrassed to have anyone drive in our car.

We were stupid to think that having a new car would mean we would not have that many problems but this has been a headache more than anything. As soon as we can, we are going to trade this car in and we will never buy another volkswagen in the future. I can also promise that none of our family or friends will either. They see how often my "brand new car is in the shop" and they hear the rattles when they drive with us. Unfortunately, this would all be quite the opposite if someone could fix this problem because other than the windows, dashboard and other various noises, this is a great car. But definitely not worth my sanity.

Gloria of Fallbrook, CA (10/23/02):
I have a new 2002 Jetta 1.8T, I have taken it into service repeatly as the transmission freezes continually, this is dangerous and they refuse to replace the car. A new car should not be doing this! Now they tell me they will have the car over two months while ordering a new transmission from Germany. I drive 200 miles a day in my commute to work and I really need a good car. This car has stranded me several times and now I am stuck in a rental car, partially at my own expense. I don't want a repaired new car, I paid for a new car!

Heather of Atlanta (10/22/02):
I recently had a bad car accident in which my Volkswagen Jetta locked up, spun out and flipped over several times. There was no speeding and no foul play involved. The roads were wet, and I feel as if the car just locked up. It has done this one other time which also resulted in an accident. I have had numerous problems with this car and it has spent most of the time in the shop with various things going wrong. After doing some research, I find I am not alone in my complaints.

I was injured in this past accident. I broke my left foot in 2 places in addition to other injuries to the head, neck, and back. I need some help because the car is totaled, I am in pain, and feel like if the car was in better shape the accident would not have happened. I have a borken foot and cannot do my job properly. (I am a teacher and usually stand all day). I am still in serious head and neck pain and the car is totaled and I do not have another one.

Heather should consult a personal injury attorney, though if it was a one-car accident, it will be difficult to prove that the car was at fault.

Visham of Richlands, NC (10/20/02):
I purchased a 2002 VW Jetta GLX VR6 on may 20th 02. Since the purchase of the vehicle I have made numerous trips to the dealership for service on the engine because of the check engine light being illuminated. At first it was dismissed as a misfire and the computer reset. It happened again and I was told that it needed plugs replaced. OK, they replaced the plugs. It happened again on a road trip to Fla and when I got back to a dealership they did some investigations and told me that I had a misfire and low compression in some of the cylinders.

They removed the head from the vehicle and sent it to the machine shop for a valve job (this is all happening under 10k mi). I wrote a letter to the CEO VW America requesting an extended warranty on the power train because I felt as though I would be having a problem right around the time the factory warranty would be ending. Initially by customer care I was told that this is something that VW does not do. I have not heard anything from VW's CEO. OK, here I am again after getting the vehicle back from the dealership after the head is cleaned and replaced, and you guessed it the check engine light comes on and again I find myself with a brand new car with its engine taken apart at the dealership and no answer to what is causing the problem with the engine light.

I have written numerous letters to VW America about my situation being a Marine on active duty and not having time to be fooling around with a Lemon car. I also told them about how I am being searched at the front gate on a daily basis because I am in a rental. In a nut shell VW America does not care about VW owners.

"T" of Santa Barbara writes (4/7/02):
As many VW owners say, Where do I begin?

Volkswagen • Beetle • Cabrio • Jetta • Jetta Windows • Passat • Toureg • Windows - All Models --- • Engine Sludge • Ignition Coils • Oil Burning • Engine Fires • Paint • Automan's Advice --- News • VW Rabbit Tops Affordable Hatchback Tests • VW Fined $1.1 Million for Clean Air Violations • VW Admits Sludge Problems

I had a 1994 Jetta which was totaled in an accident, and since I was so pleased with that vehicle, I thought "Hey, the new ones must have only gotten better!" - yeah right, not even close.

I bought a 2001 Jetta GLS from a Southern California VW dealership in April 2001. It is now April 2002 and I am looking for another car due to my 9 visits to the VW dealership, and after my unsuccessful meeting with Jeff T. from VW of America in an Arrbitration/Mediation thru the BBB Auto Line. I presented to them the fact that a brand-new vehicle having this many problems is obviously defective and I would be happy with a replacement, since I trust VW and enjoy the car. Well, didn't happen, nothing happened.

In fact, I was given the BBB's response of: " We feel that as long as the vehicle has been repaired, and all warranty items were in fact covered at no cost to the consumer, a replacement or refund is not awarded." I never claimed time off work, stress, money I had to front on 2 occasions for a rental, all other times Hoagie at one VW dealership was wonderful enough to take of for me, and he is always a pleasure to work with by the way.

So here is a short list of some of my problems: A/C Valves and components faulty, repaired twice, front seats "click" in and out slightly at acceleration and braking, was told it was "normal", rear doors rattle was "repaired" twice and told nothing further could be done and a tech actually said " you got one that isn't so bad maam, I have seen much noisier in the new models."

To continue, brake line was replaced, brake calipers prematurely wore, skidplate faulty repaired, EPC light comes on intermitently, brake light relay switch defective, the cupholder (sounds petty but it is a problem) has been repaired three time and still sticks, AM radio was contantly interfered or not picking up proper signals so I got an ear-piercing squeal until a new base and antenna was installed.

"T" should talk with a Lemon Law attorney.

Autum of Beaverton OR writes (4/17/02):
I purchased my 1999 Jetta last year and I have had nothing but problems with it. First the AC has mold growing in it that has the worst smell ever. The check engine light always comes on and it runs really rough. I took it to the dealership and they said that I would have to pay $800.00 to get it fixed! It has a faulty oxygen sensor that they did fix because it was on recall. I also had a bad mass air flow sensor. The rear passenger door sticks all of the time. My stock alarm goes off all of the time by itself, of course in the middle of the night too. My trunk opens when I try and unlock my doors with my electric keys.

For a 99 I can't believe I am having problems like this. The dealership told me that my car had a lot of miles on it and that is why I am having these problems. My car has 50,000 miles on it, I hardly think that is a lot of miles. I think that Volkswagen threw their cars together and it is unfair to the consumer. I know several people that own Jettas and they all say that they have had nothing but problems as well.

Bernadette of Sharpsburg GA (4/7/02):
Since first purchasing a 1999 VW Jetta from Heritage Volkswagen, I have had contiuous problems with the vehicle itself and the employees of the dealership. My car has approximately 44,000 miles and has already had the radio, interior dome light, cd changer (2 times), back cup holder, battery, front passenger window, entire computer, and mass intake air sensor replaced. There is a great deal of interior noise and rattling that can not be eliminated. In addition, the car has been taken to the dealership to have three recall items repaired.

John of Farmington Hills MI (3/29/02):
My 1999 Volkswagen Jetta was my pride and joy. I stress WAS. Since I've had this vehicle I've had 3 oxygen sensors, a turn signal relay, an instrument cluster, and now I'm sitting here waiting for the diagnosis of a possible mass airflow sensor replacement. This is ridiculous!! The car has 41,000 miles!! I WILL NEVER PURCHASE, LEASE OR RECOMMEND VW EVER!

I've poured almost $2000 in repairs for the 3 year old car. I'm frustrated, angered, and completely disillusioned towards VW forever.

Nicole of Red Bank NJ 93/5/02):
I purchased a new VW Jetta in 1999. The car now has approximately 80k miles. I have been back to the dealer about 15 times in 3 years for the following repairs: faulty brake switch, 2 mass air flow sensors, 2 window regulators, 1 catalytic convertor and associated sensors, faulty/leaking fuel line, faulty gas tank switch, 1 speed sensor, 1 transmission harness and 1 instrument panel. This weekend, my water pump failed causing my timing belt to shred which in turn has destroyed my engine. I am returning to Volkswagen next week for an oxygen sensor recall.

I used the car to commute for about 2 years and put enough mileage on the car to no longer be under warranty or lemon law coverage for many of these items. I was encouraged by the dealer to purchase an $800 extended warranty which has been of no help during these repairs. I have missed at least 7-8 days of work and have been without a car for about 32 days in the past 3 years.

I believe that, while I do not fall under the NJ lemon law statutes, I have suffered great financial and emotional damange due to the inefficiencies of this car's design and construction. After replacing my car's engine, I will have spent over approximately $8,000 in repairs and car rentals. That means that I will have spent approximately 40% of the original car cost on repairs alone during the course of 3 years. I believe that this car is an embarrassment to the automotive industry and that Volkswagen should suffer the consequences and costs incurred due to their lack of thought, care and precision.

Heather of Quakertown PA (3/4/02):
I bought a 2000 VW Jetta in September 1999. There have been 2 major problems with my car. First, it burns an incredible amount of oil, about a quart every 1000 miles. I keep extra oil with me always, which is ridiculous for a new car. The other major problem is the check engine light. That went on at about 42,000 miles. I was told it was a "Mass Airflow Sensor" and it was receiving the wrong signal and it needed to be replaced (over $400 repair) Now there is a recall for another sensor, this one being a malfunctioning "Oxygen Sensor". It causes many problems related to emissions, including increased fuel consumption, which I have noticed. My airbag light is also on, for no apparent reason.

I am sick and tired of my 2000 Jetta and all its malfunctioning lights and sensors and its constant thirst for more oil. I can't tell you how many times I have checked the oil stick after only a week and a half of driving and found it almost out. Quite frankly, I am disgusted and throughly disappointed with this car. Volkswagen of America, you should be embarassed. In my research on my Jetta's problems I have found so many others have the same problems as me, along with some other things, like windows falling down, and trasmission trouble. At least Volkswagen has finally owned up to the Oxygen Sensor malfunction with their recall, but how about facing the facts and not compromising the safety of the public, and put out recalls on all the other malfunctioning Jetta parts??? I am not alone in my complaints. I have owned 2 Jettas in the past and never had so many problems. This is my third Volkswagen, and it will be my last.

Jeff of Reno writes (11/4/01):
I just bought my first VW a month ago (2001 Jetta turbo deisel) and reeeallly liked it. Unfortunately, last week the ABS braking system went crazy and locked up my brakes on the freeway. After a few 360's I escaped with no physical injury to anyone or the car.

After the car finally stopped spinning out the yellow ABS light came on along with a flashing red brake light and a beeping sound in sync. with the flashing red brake light. These warning lights and sounds came up on the dash after the fact -- a whole lot of good it did me. Needless to say the car went straight to the dealer service dept. where I was told that the ABS brain had to be replaced and that it was on national back order. The dealer said they put the part order on the (priority red list) and it would be appx. 2 weeks before they received it from Germany.

Since this part is on back order a little red flag went up in my brain that said, hmmm. Is this part in high demand, has this event happened to others?

After talking this harrowing event over with my wife and thinking about it for a few days, I have come to the conclusion that I do not feel safe in this car. Furthermore, I am afraid to drive this car. I don't want to sit in another Jetta for as long as I live. I asked the parts dept. at the dealer if they were going to replace the defective part with an identical one and they said yes. Oh sure, please by all means, put the same part in there which is in such demand that it is nationally back ordered due to (I suspect) a high failure rate. Yeah baby, that makes me feel reeeallly safe & secure.

Kelli of Dixon CA (8/1/01):
About three years ago I decided to buy a brand new VW Jetta 99 Wolfsburg. I absolutely loved this car. Unfortunately I was involved in an accident and the car was damaged severely. Because I loved the Jetta so much and it saved my life in the accident I definately wanted another one. I went back to the same dealer that I purchased my first one and in a matter of an hour I was driving off with my second Jetta.

I was extremely happy with my purchase and even more proud because I sealed the deal all on my own. In a matter of months I started to think I made a terrible mistake. Within 3 months, I was picking my mom up from work, when all of a sudden my car started smoking, I pulled off to the side of the road and called the emergency roadside assistance. Two days later I found out my radiator had blown.

I don't know much about cars, but I knew that this wasn't good. Volkswagon provided me with a rental car and I had to drive this for 3 1/2 weeks. They would have dragged it on longer, but my father went into the dealership and told him that he knew about the lemon law and 2 days later they ripped apart another car and my car was ready. Then my gas tank went bad, it didn't allow me to put gas in my car, it was spitting gas out at me. Again, my car spent a couple weeks in the shop.

At this time I'm talking to a dealer in my home town that knows more about the Llemon Law than I do. He has already determined that it has spent enough time in the shop and is definately a lemon. But the people at VW aren't willing to budge. Both my dad and I have already tried to call and complain to the company and it hasn't gotten us anywhere.

Next, my electrical work in my car decides to take a dive, both the dash lighting and the electric seats stopped working. Again, in the shop, at this time I'm getting very frustrated, yes my car is under warranty, but I'm only 24 and I bought and paed for this car on my own and I don't think that when you buy a new car you should be experiencing these kind of problems.

Well, it didn't stop there. I was driving down the street and I rolled down my window and it sounded like a huge crash, it scared me half to death I thought somebody threw something at my car, I tried to roll my window back up and it wouldn't go back up. Another trip to the dealer I go, where their excuse was this is a common problem, well to me I think that this car is a problem. I'm now having HUGE regrets.

Then, I'm driving down the freeway, 45 mins. away from my house and I hear this horrible sound, I blame it on another car 20 yrs. older than my car but I should've known better. I drove a few miles further and had to pull over because the sound wouldn't go away, I looked under my front driver side wheel and my bumper started to fall off, I pulled off to the nearest service station and they couldn't believe it, they said that this is the worst put-together car ever. They weren't telling me anything I didn't know.

Anyway they rigged it good enough for me to get home, and back into the shop it goes. I went a couple of months without any problems. But, then they started up again. My passenger side window fell off the tracks just like the driver side did, and now my electronic key remote has stopped working. I've tried to talk to the company again, pleading with them to take this car back. I don't feel safe in driving this car. I'm constantly thinking that something is going to happen to it, what next? They haven't done anything to make me feel like my business is worthy. They have ignored all mishaps that have happened with this car. Everyone I have talked to, they believe that this car is a "lemon".

Huma of Burke VA (7/2/01):
I purchased my 2000 VW Jetta in February 2000 and since then, I've had several problems with the car. I had a faulty airbag light, a leaking coolant system, sudden accleration, a bad oxygen gasket (or something like that) the AC makes a terrible noise and now my trunk won't close! The car is barely 18 months old and I've had it in the shop more than I should. I should not be having these problems. The car also does not perform the way it should be. Accerlation is very poor and the drive is just not the same. I have a 94 Corolla that runs better!

I have to take time out of work and my personal life to drop the car off at the shop. I've been without my car as long as two weeks. It's an inconveniance I, as a consumer, should not have to deal with and I really feel that VW has sold me a LEMON! I will never buy a VW again as long as I live.

Brian of Austin TX (5/31/01):
This is a letter I am sending to VW about an experience I just went through: It is a strange coincidence that the reasons I bough by Volkswagen Jetta are the same reasons why I will never buy another. I bought my ’99 Jetta because I believed Volkswagen never cut any corners on quality, service and safety. I spent the extra money for this car because I believe that to have peace of mind is worth the extra money. Apparently, to Volkswagen, these terms only mean something before the sale is made.

On Monday, May 28, I was with a friend, driving home to Austin from San Antonio. I stopped at a gas station in San Marcos (about 55 miles from home) to fill up at 9pm. When I turned the car back on, I heard a loud bang, and then my car would not start (later I found out that the battery had blown up.) I called roadside assistance and explained the problem. They said they’d send a tow truck and because of the holiday, things would be a bit slow – they warned me that it might take up to an hour. I asked if the tow truck would be able to take both of us back to Austin and was assured that this was not a problem; the truck could take us to the dealership in Austin and from there we could take a cab home.

An hour and a half later, the truck had still not arrived. I called back and was told that they had a mixup with the tow company and it would be another hour. I was also told that since it was now so late, the tow truck would not be able to leave the car at the Charles Maund lot any longer and we’d have to park it elsewhere. Annoyed but reassured, we continued to wait. At 11:45 the truck finally arrived. Our relief did not last long, however – the truck driver told us that he would not be able to drive to Austin that night because he couldn’t leave the car at Charles Maund.

We called roadside assistance again and explained the new situation. If we had been told this at the beginning of the night, we might have been able to call a friend to come get us. It was now nearing midnight and we could not wake up a friend and ask them to drive an hour to pick us up, so we were stuck. We asked the representative, Kim, what are options were, she said we could take a cab but that we would only be reimbursed up to $25.00. To remind you, we were about 55 miles away from home, in a now deserted gas station in San Marcos. A cab ride from there would have probably cost close to $200.00!!! We asked if we would be reimbursed for a night at a hotel. Kim said no. We asked if we would be reimbursed for more than $25.00, given the late hour and the long distance to home. Kim said no.

A woman at the next payphone then offered to give us a ride home. We were hesitant to take a ride with a stranger, but we had no alternatives.

Roadside assistance should be more than a bullet item in your sales pitch. For it to be valuable, I need to depend on it to get me out of a serious jam. The reason I paid for roadside assistance was so that I would always have a backup plan. I never wanted to be in a situation where I am stranded and with no options. Well, that is exactly the situation I found myself in after all. In this case, putting my faith in your service put me in danger. If I had known your approach to safety and service was to provide the cheapest product available, I would never have depended on it, and certainly never paid for it.

The next day I called Charles Maund to find out the status of my car. I was directed to someone’s voice mail and left a message. A few hours later, they returned the call and said they had received the car and would take a look at it today and call me back. At the end of the day I still hadn’t heard back so I called again. They told me they hadn’t even had a chance to look at the car yet, and will get to it the next day. I asked if I could get a rental car until they figure everything out, and they said that until everything is diagnosed I could not.

The next day I called in the morning and left a message asking whether they had taken a look at my car or not and to call me back. I waited a few hours without an answer and sent in an email and finally someone contacted me. The car had been inspected and they found a faulty battery (no kidding). The battery had been replaced and I could pick it up. I got a ride down to the dealership. To be honest, I really believed that this kind of incident was an anomaly at your company. I believed that someone in your service department had gotten wind of how a terrible chain of events led to a situation where you had treated a customer to the poorest level of service. In short, I expected an apology. Instead, I got a bill for $3.00 for disposing of the bad battery.

I have had other problems as well with this car including a broken sunroof, a wheel that would not come off (a bolt was on too tight), a check engine light, wax coming out of the doors ... A lot of things for a two year old car

Paul of Glendale AZ (4/5/01):
Numerous faults with my 1999 Jetta TDI leased in June of 1999. Many of the same faults as listed by your other complainants, including three power window regulator replacements, goo oozing from various panels (which Volkswagen recognizes as a problem but is unwilling to solve it), a faulty sunroof "potentiometer", faulty switches. Plus, the driver's door creaks (shoddy hinges), the air conditioning system has been malodorous from day 1, and now I have a $325 repair bill due to a faulty diesel fuel relay which VW is refusing to cover as a goodwill gesture (I have 35K miles on the car but the lease originated only 22 months ago).

This is ridiculous and VW should be ashamed. I would LOVE to vigorously pursue any and all class-action claims against VW and I am sure I am not alone. All I want is a new vehicle with which I can serve out my lease term, or a service contract retroactively awarded, along with full monetary indemnification. Of course, I will gladly accept awards of a punitive nature against VW.

Buck of Northglenn CO (4/3/01):
I own a 2000 Jetta GLS. It has been in the shop numerous times in the last year and a half. I brought the car in over a year ago to complain about the passenger side front/back windows not rolling up properly, told that they couldn't find anything. Now passenger side front window has fallen into door, both front and back need new window regulators. Not covered under warranty or extended warranty (car has 35k miles).

The mass air flow sensor has been replaced twice, first time was told the part was on national back order, it took three weeks to get out of the shop. Also, the first time it went out, the engine stalled on the highway, the steering wheel locked up, and I went into a ditch. Dealer could not find anything wrong with the steering column, the key, or why it would lock up. Now because of the the problem with the mass air flow sensor the 02 sensors have gone out.

Also, fuel pump regulator has been replaced. Right turn signal now blinks erratically, but had entire fuse panel and some wiring were re-done (by a VW engineer from Germany) because some of the wiring was not assembled correctly in Mexico over a year ago. Too many people I have spoken to have had the same problems with their Jetta (power windows, mass air flow sensor, 02 sensors, fuel pump regulator, etc.)

Many trips to the dealer, many rental cars later; some paid for by the dealer, most have not been. A lot of money spent to replace things that should not be going wrong, as well as time lost with work, VW should step up and say they have had some manufacturing problems - and fix these problems before they lose some unhappy customers.

Richard of Arvada CO (1/22/01):
I see from your website that I am not alone in having trouble with my Volkswagen and with their customer service department. I am starting to think that the department's focus is on deterring the customers from complaining about an inferior product. A few weeks ago I saw an article in the Wall Street Journal that Volkswagon's CEO is going to make customer service his number one priority. Good luck to him.

I have a 96 Passat GLX that is in the shop every 3-6 months. I am on my third set of tires in 75K miles even though the alignment is done every year. I have gone through two emission sensors and have had the door handles and locks repaired eight (8) times. I am now in the process of replacing the water pump and a coolant recirculation pump, both of which are leaking. My thirteen-year-old Nissan Pathfinder has had fewer problems than any given year that I have owned the Passat.

Legendary German engineering and quality is quite absent in this car. I was told by the Dealership that for the 96-97 Passats, they see approximately 30-33% come in for electrical and door lock problems. I would hate to see Volkswagen wait like Ford did to remedy what is obviously a big safety problem. When I did contact the customer service department, I received a run around much like the postings describe. When I did talk with a real person, they were very unhelpful. They did not have a complete repair history and said I had not had the car in for the required service even though I had the repair ticket in front of me for that service. The dealership informed me that Volkswagen has access to their computers and records.

The dealership also implied that the premature emission sensor failure maybe due to the use of reformulated gas. VW customer service denied this and would not send me any requested service bulletins. There was no follow-up phone calls or any contact from the VW customer service department to find out if I was satisfied. I will not buy another VW product which is a shame because Audi has some nice products. Customer service is as important to me as how reliable the car is. VW has failed in this category, and not just with me. They may be gaining market share in the short run but will lose it in the long run when the word gets out about their poor customer service, quality, and product. There are a lot of other alternatives.

Know any one who wants to buy a used 96 Passat?

Shad of Philipsburg PA (11/2/00):
I leased a new 95' VW Jetta in August of 1995. The color "was" suede silver before it became blotchy silver. My wife noticed the problem with the paint fading within two months of purchasing the vehicle. Also, it was obvious that the white covers used during transportation from Mexico left an everlasting impression.

Since the car was still under warranty, we took it to another dealership (the original dealership went out of business). They were understanding and repainted the car themselves. We asked if they could paint it a different color since we feared the same problem would arise and they laughed at us. Well, within a year the paint started to deteriorate again and we eventually took it to yet another dealership and they would not do anything about since it was not under warranty and the dealership who repainted the car could not stand behind their work. VW USA said it was our problem and refused to compensate us.

The consequences are that we have a vehicle that looks terrible and has virtually no resale value. Also, VW will suffer in some minor way by the reputation they have gained as a result. We go out of our way to discredit VW with anyone we meet. This probably means nothing to VW, but I will not stand by and let other people make the same mistake.

The dealer insisted that my insurance had to cover the $13,000+ cost of repairs, since they claimed that they had "tested the parking brake linkage" and found that the "wheels would not turn" with the brake engaged - no mean feat, considering that the impact with the tree that stopped my car at the bottom of the hill also bent the rear axle so badly that the rear wheels could not possibly rotate under any circumstances anyway. How exactly could they have "tested" the brake with the axle in this condition?

Admittedly, putting the transmission into first gear could have prevented the roll-away, something which I would have known had the dealer who sold me the car included the owners' manual! As it happened, the manual was not sent to me until a month after the accident (a violation, I am told, of CA law, which requires all papers and manuals, etc to be included with the car at the time of delivery).

Peter of Indianapolis writes (1/3/03):
When I test drove my 96 Jetta for the first time, I fell in love with the car with the exception of a hesitation when shifting gears. My sales person idenified the hesitation as "the way German cars drive" a couple thousand miles later I decided it was time to consult another dealer, after their diagnostics which I learned later to be a test drive they found no problems. Another couple months down the road and I am without a transmission or a Jetta. I contacted volkswagens help line and as soon as I stated my problem the customer service rep told me there was nothing that could be done. So I am left coming out of pocket on a rebuilt 1998 transmission in my 96 car, I assume I couldnt find a 96 because they don't work and dont exist.

• Days in the shop: approx. 20
• Brake discs replaced 10
• One valve cover gasket replaced after two months of ownership, leaking again today!
• Passenger side window switch-inoperable
• Current electrical system problem-vehicle discharges the battery if left longer than approx six hours
• Trunk opening switch occasionally inoperative.

• when the in warranty problem will be corrected,
• that my safety, and that of my passengers is not compromised,
• and if they do not honor their warranty contract I will be compensated accordingly.

Over the next two months I noticed that the tire was still continuously losing air. I brought it to another Volkswagen Dealership and they said they found a small leak at the valve stem. Over the summer the tire still continuously lost air. I went to gas stations periodically and refilled the "NEW" tire.

I again brought the car in for service on 10/9. I needed other items fixed on the car but brought up the problem with the front left wheel again. When I got the car back they had not even checked the tire. I made another appointment specifically for the tire to be looked at. Again they said they could not find a problem -- "visual inspection found all in normal operation". A month later I had brought the car in because I had been rear-ended. When I picked the car up the manager mentioned that the front left tire was extremely low. I again gave him the history of the tire. He said I should really take the car to a Direct Tire because they had a tank and the Dealership did not have a tank and could not do a good job.

The next morning I go another flat. I was completely stranded on a freezing cold morning. I went to a gas station. The mechanic said that with alloy wheels this sometimes happens. The alloy contracts in the cold and separates from the tire.

What can I do? I do not feel safe in the car. Is this alloy wheel problem common? The dealership refuses to accept any responsibility for the tire. When I sent them a complaint letter asking them why they did not send me to direct tire initially they said that they did not know but they would send it to Direct Tire now but I would incur any cost associated.