Used 1996 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan Consumer Reviews
Fun car, mixed reviews
I still love driving this car, particular as it is a manual (and thus, peppy). The electrical system, and annoying (very expensive) things like poor window motors and windshield wiper motors take a lot away from my overall satisfaction with this car.
German Unreliability
After a year of owning this car: the sunroof motor is blown ($300), the back passenger window regulator and motor is blown ($400), the ignition coil failed ($300), sunroof was leaking for awhile ($40 for new seal), and the alarm system arms everytime I got into the car and after 3 visits to the dealer. One month later, they hadn't a clue of what was wrong except that disabling the power locks stopped the problem ($500 for nothing!). So I have no power locks now either. The suspension squeaks over everything and half the interior panels rattle. The motor is still running pretty strong though. This should give you a clue of how reliable VW's are after a decade of use.
Never Again
Never Again will I buy VW. Unfortunately, I had bought this car used in '99 with 36k miles on it. I have had nothing but problems with it. From small mechanical problems, to having to replace my entire transmission last year, this car has been nothing but a giant headache. I hate to drive it because it always seems like there is something wrong, and it's broken down more times than I can count. I don't know if I was just sold a lemon but this experience, unfortunately, has made me never want to buy VW again.
Might be my last Volkswagen
This is the 4th Volkswagen I've owned. Be very careful who you have service a Volkswagen. They are different from most other cars and you can't take them to just any old mechanic. Other than that, learn how to work on it yourself or you will be very disappointed and/or broke. In the 4 years and 40,000 miles I've owned mine I've replaced the starter twice (do not get a rebuilt starter!), valve cover gasket, oil cooler O-ring, complete exhaust system, coil pack, two window regulators, a light in the instrument cluster and other regular maintenance stuff. On the other hand, the interior is very comfortable. Climate control works great and it is fun to drive. Good MPG (have had up to 40 highway)
Very Reliable
]My Jetta has been very reliable and has lasted through a beating. It comes with a good warranty if things happen to go wrong. It could use more power, but is sufficent for everyday driving.