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Used 1997 Volkswagen Jetta Consumer Reviews

4.0 out of 5 stars
108 reviews

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5 out of 5 stars

VW built to save lives.

TAMMY BANE, 09/10/2007
1997 Volkswagen Jetta Jazz 4dr Sedan
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

My 17 year old daughters (twins) have been driving this car for 1 1/2 years. Friday night my daughter lost control of the vehicle, flipped twice, hit a tree, hit a rock wall and landed on the roof of the car. The exterior of the car is completely totaled. The interior of the car is completely intact. The frame work around the top and sides of the car held it from crumbling around her. My daughter walked away from the accident and has only 9 stitches in her knees (and I believe that is from crawling out of the car.) VW is built tough and will be the car of choice for my children to drive.

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1.5 out of 5 stars

Never Buy a VW

ihatevw, 12/09/2006
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan
14 of 19 people found this review helpful

I really hate this car with a passion. Literally every day something goes wrong. Yesterday my starter went. I had it replaced. Today the idle is going crazy and its smelling like gas really bad. The coolant system is terrible. Pretty much everything on this car is designed poorly and made of plastic. The exhaust rattles of the underside of the car. The electrical system is total junk. I have had problems with this car since day one. If you are reading this and are considering getting a VW, please go buy a Honda, seriously.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

1997 VW Jetta GL

KMP, 03/31/2009
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

We currently have 180K miles and no major problems other than the necessary and routine maintenance plus its FUN to drive! I understand some of the cars were put together in Mexico and others in Canada; ours was from Canada. We would definitely consider purchasing another VW when the time comes to replace this one (which won't be too long from now).

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4.25 out of 5 stars

My First Car

Ashh, 09/24/2010
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I got this as my first car in 2007. It was a 5 speed stick shift with about 185,000 miles on it. I loved it from the start. Radio sounded awesome, seats were comfortable, plus it was super fun to zip around in. Almost 35 miles to the gallon. Almost 4 years later and less than 800 dollars into it, it had 216,000 miles on it and still kicking! Slight exhaust leak, and new struts needed, but only major problem was a leak in the radiator. The only reason I gave it up was to trade in for an SUV for the twins coming soon. Overall, absolutely loved this car!

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3 out of 5 stars

Worst Car I Ever Owned

Haz, 06/06/2005
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

This car was the never-ending money pit! Engine had to be replaced along with two clutches. Window motors were constantly breaking. Electric side mirrors stopped working. Glove compartment hinges broke. Windshield washer system stopped working. Molding was falling off. Seat recliners never worked. Emergency break broke several times which resulted in the car rolling into the street and finally - a LAKE! The repairs were incredibly expensive compared with US or Japanese made cars.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Sport Sleeper

New Dad, 06/09/2004
1997 Volkswagen Jetta Trek 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

So, my wife has never owned anything but a VW. When her '88 Fox GL wagon finally went over the hill, we bought this car, and we love it. The Trek edition is beautiful with the flat 5-spoke 14" rims and the rear deck lid spoiler. Keep wax on it and the Fiesta Red will shine forever. The 2.0L SOHC 8V engine is fantastic. Don't let the uninspiring 115hp fool you. It's the 122lb/ft of torque that makes this car fly. You want a 5-speed. Throw on some Koni adjustable shocks/struts and you've got a European sports sedan.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Great overall car, maintenance is key to go 200k+ miles

vwguy84, 05/06/2014
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GT 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I owned 2 VWs on the past, a 02 Jetta Wolfsburg, and 03 Gti , both 1.8t 5spds. I recently got rid of my newer truck to go back to No payments, and found a 1997 Jetta Gt black with black leather w/140k miles this past January. This car has been awesome, ive taken great care of her, since it was a 1 owner and interior is immaculate with no rips and paint looks new. mechanically car seems very sound, especially on the freeway, its very smooth. Ive had a few hiccups with car, such as gas gauge not always working or power door locks not working on driver side, but its expected with a older car. I plan to do a full overhaul and tune up to car in next 6 months, glad i finally own MK3 JETTA.

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4 out of 5 stars

Great Little Car

Mark, 02/04/2005
1997 Volkswagen Jetta TDi 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This car has served my faithfully and reliably in the entire time only once I was stranded due to a dead battery. Have not even changed a light bulb yet. Got about 45 mpg highway and about 40 city.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

My VR6 is AMAZING...

gh225345, 11/09/2006
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I really love this car. I've had it for a little over a year now and it runs excellently. I've had to replace a few minor things such as hoses and belts, clutch, and the trim started coming off but it was an easy fix with an adhesive tape that you can get from any auto parts store...it's called molding tape. I've put many high performance parts on my VW and it has 250 whp with no problems with the motor at all. I would highly recommend this vehicle. Just make sure you inspect it before you buy. My 1997.5 Jetta Vr6 has 111,982 miles on it and like I said before it runs great.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Great automtive investment

QuantumSyncro, 08/23/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta TDi 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This used car has been fantastic. It gets near 50 mpg and the ride is great. Sound build and rattle free even at this mileage. Would definitely recommend a used VW TDI to anyone who was considering a diesel. These late 90's TDI's are very reliable, even moreso then the 99.5's and priced very reasonably.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Love it

Ohio, 04/17/2010
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I have owned my Jetta GLX for thirteen years. It is fun to drive, goes like a soldier through snow, and has minimal rust for its age. I had a head gasket problem which necessitated an engine replacement (or so my mechanic said), but that is the ONLY repair I have had other than scheduled maintenance. Interior is top quality, still looking fine today, the trunk space is great, and I have had no problems with exterior body trim. I am still running the original muffler, though the fore intake pipe on the first unit is broken and the car is a bit noisy. Thank goodness for cage straps which make it able to delay the replacement a bit longer. Overall, I am very satisfied.

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4 out of 5 stars

I'm still happy with my Jetta GT.

Romael, 08/22/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GT 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I’ve had no problems for the first 4 years. Luckily it came without power windows. The alarm work sporadically but now not at all. The battery was replaced once. The molding was a problem until I found that epoxy and tape together holds longer. Pretty expensive to maintenance after warranty expired until I found a reasonable non- dealer VW Expert. With routine maintenance and only 1 driver it’s been a great car. I’m constantly getting offers from young people to buy it.

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5 out of 5 stars

A fun Car

donm, 05/22/2002
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GT 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

You will not be disappointed in this car!! Great acceleration, handling and ride!! Get your hands on one if you can.

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3.88 out of 5 stars

Fun,fast,zippy 4 banger

wvmechanic88, 09/27/2012
1997 Volkswagen Jetta Trek 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Good little car. plenty of power and torque for a 2.0 gas engine. great gas econmy 30+ mpg. sporty handling.plenty of room for a small car. now for the cons. not that good in bad weather. cheap plastic parts. power windows have lots of problems. expensive repairs if you have a shop do them. traded in with 170K miles due to bad rust on body but she still run great.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Jetta Trek...What an amazing car.

Mardin, 07/07/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta Trek 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I purchased my 97 VW jetta from a private party. It is my first car. I have had it for just over a year now and have put about 5000 miles on it since purchase. This car runs great, very reliable and always fun to drive. Everywhere I go I turn heads, because the car is in such good shape and just a sight to see. I would reccomend a 5 speed VW jetta (esp Trek) to anyone looking for a dependable car with great handling, a smooth ride, and more power than you would espect from a normal 4 cyl. car.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

TDI going strong

Waldini, 10/14/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta TDi 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I've gto a '97 TDI that I've piled on 175K miles. I've had a few electrical problems and the alternator was replaced with a rebuilt. But this car gets 50 MPG and has great pickup. The heater is so hot it will burn your face and the a/c will freeze you out. I hope to keep running it for a couple hundered thousand more.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Made me a VW fan for life.

Gunar, 09/23/2010
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GT 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I got this car 6 years ago for my 16th birthday. I was the first of my friends to be able to drive. The car had just hit 100,000 when I got it... Being the only one who could drive I was always loading my Jetta (we named it Ronald) with friends and going all over the place. It's never let me down. It's still running, and I bet it's going to run for quite a long time more. I've put 65,000 miles on it in 6 years, with only routine maintenance, and it's still chugging along as great at it was when I got it... The VR6 has TONS of get up and go, and people are amazed how fast this thing will get going when I put my foot down. This is my first Volkswagen, and it's NOT going to be my last one.

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3.25 out of 5 stars

VW Farfrumworking

Tarrytown, 05/07/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I will never buy another VW. My transmission went at 97000 and had a costly engine coil replacement at 85,000. After 2 years of owning the car I have replaced virtually everything. The suspension has been a nightmare and the service I have received from VW has been even worse. I have experienced numerous electrical problem, the ride stinks and with the cost of repairs I could be driving a Bentley for less. Unfortunately, it's been a big disappointment for me.

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3.25 out of 5 stars

cursed car

shellky, 08/24/2009
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I've had my jetta for around six months now and had nothing but problems I know the complete history of the car being close friends with every owner its always had an elet problem brake light randomly not working but other than that no big problems sence ive had it the trunk latch broke key and elet moldings falling off coolant resvior cracked catt cloged fuel injector exhaust the brake lights are blowing instead of just randomly not working the coil cracked the back seat is falling apart clutch is going (180k impressive but still on its way out)

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Fun

jojo, 03/04/2002
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GT 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I love this car, fun to drive

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3.63 out of 5 stars

get ready..

timme791, 02/01/2010
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I am 18 and work on cars as a hobby so I do know what I'm talking about. To start off I have done many mods to this car. Watch out for European parts vs American... Very different supports. And parts can come pricy. My car... At about 105k miles had an intake valve come loose. It cost me 2400 bucks... More than I bought the car for. After I fixed that, my maf went bad (cost 500) and a week later... Engine light back on. Stick with jdm than this. The handling is fun, but needs a lot more power and the gas isnt as great as most everyone claims it to be. Stock averages like 20 mpg and I get 22 with my intake. Just... Prepare for problems basically. I love this car but it can frustrate me!

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3.25 out of 5 stars

Good car, but it will cost you in the long run...

flint879, 10/07/2011
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan
1 of 4 people found this review helpful

This car was great when my wife and I first bought it. Great gas mileage, very reliable when travelling long distances and it wasn't bad to drive. I wouldn't recommend owning this car though. The gas mileage is great, but it's a Volkswagen, parts for this car are not easy to find and when you find them, they are hella expensive. Since I've owned this car (4 years), I've had to replace the transmission, 3 starters, exhaust system, fuel pump, and other such things. It doesn't do well in terms of going up hills because the engine is so small it can barely make it up most hills. Other than the gas mileage, I don't care much for this car.

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3 out of 5 stars

VW fan, NOT Jetta fan

theodore, 07/29/2009
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan
1 of 4 people found this review helpful

I see many reviews ment std maint as a repair. I've owned my VW for 11 yrs and spent $2,500 for rep. Repl brake pads (30K mi), spark plugs, dist cap, & rotor (15K mi), fuel filter (15K mi), clean K&N air filter (15K mi), repl belts, gask, & hoses, tim belt 70K-80K mi, etc. My eng & man trans have been great (orig clutch, but slips on occ). The elect & cool syst are horr! I did repl the throttle body asmb 2X, ign switch, starter, driver's side lock to disable the alarm (still arms random), driver's window reg, MAS air-flow sens, etc. I have NO A/C, heat, or defog (switch melted) & NO cruise & horn. Key doesn't work in trunk lock & pass door. Temp, fuel, spd, & odom guages work on occasion.

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3.25 out of 5 stars

Not the bang for your buck.

dejaentendu247, 03/19/2009
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GT 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this car and literally a couple months later everything started going bad. I've replaced the exhaust system, shocks, cam shaft sensiry, spark plugs, fuel injectors, the whole coolant system, and the list goes on. The style of this car is awesome, and the interior is really cool too, but it's been non stop trouble for me. If you want to own any Jetta around this year, you might as well buy a Mercedes Benz b/c you'll spend the same amount. Honda and Toyota will never leave you hangin. (The spark plug wires alone were $100.00, which should be $20 bucks)

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4.88 out of 5 stars

I love this car

VR6-inside, 02/10/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Well this is my second MKIII jetta. My last one was a GL and now i upgraded to a GLX. I love this car. It is so fun to drive. The VR6 is a great motor. I added intake and a preformance chip.... the car feels even better! Stock sound system is nice too.

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3.5 out of 5 stars

97 GLX Reliability issues

Scrappy, 07/26/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Door alarm problem - car arms itself whenever the rear door is opened or that electric window is operated. Need 2 keys to get it started. Engine Sputters - Car sometimes hesitates and runs poorly for a few days then is fine for weeks at a time. Side door molding strips keep falling off. Buy some doublesided tape ahead of time. No big deal to fix. No place to put stuff. Ex: Cup hldr under ashtray so unusable for anything taller than soda. though. FIX ELECTRICAL PROBS! VW's notorious for this. You'd think theyd have solved by now.

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3.13 out of 5 stars

smart/creative enginerin-deficient qual.

don't buy; get Civic, 07/27/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

bought this car a year ago with radio/speakers stolen. shortly after,exhaust broke loose and paid $450 for new dual-muffler system (excluding catalytic converter, fixed everything from there back. touchy trunk opener latch but fixed. fixed front/rear alignment 1 month ago; needs rear again;no big bumps.brakes glazed over.check engine lit;sensor near fuel tank dealing with economy.replaced pwr steering reservoir & 2 hoses costing an excessive $520.transmission giving out? (jerk during accel).gas not bad, but could be better.gets 29hwy but Civic more power and runs 38hwy

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3 out of 5 stars

Fun to drive, but not fun to own

Robin M, 07/29/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta Trek 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

We bought our Jetta Trek new in 1997. We've had three of the power windows go out (at 26,000, 30,000, and 34,000 miles), replaced the clutch twice, replaced the brakes three times, replaced the battery four times, replaced both our power front door locks, and now our alarm arms itself at random while we are driving the car. VW customer service also leaves much to be desired. I thought I would love this car, and to be fair it is fun to drive, but I will never buy another VW because of all the problems we've had with the car and customer service.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Fun, Fast, Affordable

Big Pimp, 07/20/2002
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Never had one mechanical problem. Would definitely purchase another VW or other German made auto. Dependable and fun to drive. Recommend this car to anyone.

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2.88 out of 5 stars

Transmission Problems With My 1997 VW

vdubbub8403, 07/19/2008
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought my car 2-3 years ago and I have had nothing but trouble with the transmission slipping it started out something I can deal with but has just gotten worse threw time I think I have spend more money on this car than I paid at the dealership. I got an estimate on it $3000 to replace the transmission. Forget it I will go buy A Honda are A small truck I have heard that there is issues with this year and other years I wish I would of knew that before wasting my money I have always liked VW but I have lost all respect for them know

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4.63 out of 5 stars

1997 Volkswagen Jetta GT 2.0L

Sampman, 04/07/2002
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GT 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

The Jetta GT is an excellent car! I have never experienced any of the problems with the alarm or sunroof, and I use them a lot, especially since warm weather has come. As for performance, I don't see why people complain, if you run it out right, it will take anything. This is the perfect car for someone who is looking to be different, but also wants to customize it. I have already put on exhaust, K & N air filters, nice 18' Rims and tires, Eibach pro-kit 1.5". Personally I have had no problems other than comfort on long road trips, but this car isn't for grandma, is it?

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4.13 out of 5 stars

So-so

Mike LLLL, 09/17/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Fun to drive, great motor, lots of minor problems: coil pack went like all VR6's (if your car stutters when wet, it's the coil pack), speed sensor went- left me stranded several times, locks freeze up/fell out, been through 3 window regulators, cruise control not functional, intermittent wipers not functional, several sets of molding trim fell off, VW has terrible service and has surcharges to get parts in less than 48 hrs.

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2.5 out of 5 stars

This car will be my last VW

Buffmeat, 09/09/2002
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

We have had numerous problem with this vehicle and have less than 60,000 miles. My favorite was replacing the air bag clock spring twice. We also had a fun problem with the shocks rubbing with 2 people in the back seat and the tail pipe fell off at 10,000 miles. The only thing I can say good about the car is we live in the midwest and the car starts every morning no matter how hot or cold.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

VW Jetta GLX

Tim53217, 09/18/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Great car. Much more fun than the 4 cylinder models.

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3.88 out of 5 stars

Fantastic car..when it's not in the shop

Still in Texas, 08/23/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GT 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought my Jetta new in the summer of 1997. The engine, transmission, brakes and handling have never let me down. I am absolutely amazed at how well the major components work and how poorly the other components function. Since, I've owned it, I've replaced the side molding (twice), the rear tail light, and an interior light. The A/C recirc button malfunctioned, the passenger side locks freeze every winter. Once the passenger side lock actually came out as I pulled the key out of it! Several other little problems as well. This can be a very enjoyable car to drive, just be prepared for all the little repairs that neeed to get done every 6 months..

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4.88 out of 5 stars

The Best car that I have ever owned

Lee Metcalf, 08/27/2002
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car will grab you and make you drive all the time. It feels so good, I can't stop driving it. The engine is fast and smooth. The interior is great and functional. The Trunck is bib, I have put things in it that I thought would never fit. I love this car.

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3.63 out of 5 stars

Love-Hate Relationship

lastvw?!?, 07/18/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

There aren't a lot of cars that offer more driving bang for your buck than this one. The VR6 engine is plenty powerful, the handling is up to the job and there are more than enough luxury features, including excellent sport seats and a power sunroof. The problem is VW's laughably sub-par build quality. This car has had problems with the clutch, the shift mechanism, the air conditioning, the cruise control, several engine computer chips and so on. Then there are all the trim pieces that have come apart or dropped off completely. Final word: Great to drive, but poorly built.

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2.38 out of 5 stars

what will fall off next...

last VW?, 09/24/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

71,000 miles... 4 exhausts, starter (@26k miles, dealer said was not surprised.. and wouldn't cover a new one), altenator (@45k miles, not covered), power steering pump, radiator, 3rd set of tires (alignment does not hold), body molding falls off, trunk leaks, randomly stalls in the rain (plugs, wires, dist. cap, solenoid, etc.. replaced 3 times), AC unit died, interior lights behind dash died (~$500 to rip out dash to replace $3 bulb). This thing is less reliable then the old land rover I have, and maintance costs are about the same.

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5 out of 5 stars

Reliable, Accurate handling, Economical!

mobiliare, 09/16/2002
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GT 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car is a great performer! I will never sell this car especially it's my 1st car. I have put a ton of things (even a whole drumset in the trunk) and I have taken care of it really special: K&N filters, new imported brakes (not dealer brake) and it's still running perfectly fine at 115000 miles. It's fast - I can beat anyone on highway and it's slick looking. As long as you maintain it just right, it's a very special car. GT is really rare - get one if you can!!

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2.75 out of 5 stars

Good looks, VERY poor vehicle...

Lino, 04/20/2002
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Former G.M. engineer - I have owned Oldsmobile, Saturn, VW & BMW 325Ci. VR6 is marvelous. Fit & finish: initially appears exceptional for price range. HOWEVER, I will NEVER buy another VW. Overall reliability & long-term quality is ABSOLUTELY HORRENDOUS; interior parts are cheap & break FREQUENTLY. Check engine light came on at ~50,000 miles & STAYED ON until I sold it at 70,000 miles. VW could not correct problems and told me, "that's just the way these engines are". I have PERSONAL knowledge of other VWs (GLS & GLXs from 1996 THRU 2001 & 2002 VW Beetle) that have had THE EXACT SAME PROBLEMS. CHECK JDPowers surveys as well as NHTSA recall/TSB boards before buying ANYTHING from VW.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

its a rockstar

Nat, 04/18/2009
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My father got this car in 1999 from a VW dealership. Sold it to me in 2007. Still on original clutch, nothing falling off it, gets up to 40 mpg, brakes going on five years. We are gentle on our cars but still, this thing rocks. Engine sounds beautiful-like new still! FITS THREE CARSEATS! radio the only sad part about it, but we make due.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Good Car

Flower Mound, 09/29/2002
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My VW is a 1997 VW GLS with some of the bells and whistles. The only compliant I HAVE is problems with it are the electrical system> It has 85000 miles and has been a generally fine car to drive and own.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Great Car if you get a good one!

Piran, 03/26/2005
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this car at the end of last summer. It was a one-owner car and had very high mileage. But for the price I got it for, I couldn't complain. So far, I haven't had any problems. I had to fix the power locks and touch up the paint a bit. Still looks great though. I've replaced the entire suspension with Eibach springs and Koni shocks. Feels much more competent. I added an intake and a GIAC chip. Also replaced the stereo with an Alpine head unit. The car goes very well for the mileage. At the mileage, it doesn't have any rattles or intruding wind noise. People are shocked to find out the mileage after they've been for a ride in it. Good car if you are lucky to get a non-lemon.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

The best car I have ever had

Mohavi, 10/25/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

P E R F E C T, what can I say...Great on gas, fun to drive, I bought it used with 89k miles, changed the oil, spent total 100 dollars on it, and just kept it maintained by changing the oil, tune ups, tire rotation, and basic maintainance. I never had a problem with it. TRUST YOUR VOLKSWAGEN DEALER. Before you buy your new volkswagen, take it to a dealer, invest that 40 dollars to have it checked, they can tell you exactly what needs to be done and what kind of condition it is in. This is the best car I ever had, when I am ready for a newer car, I will buy a newer Jetta. Love it

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4.25 out of 5 stars

VW heaven

Vw all the way, 06/13/2008
1997 Volkswagen Jetta Trek 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This car will always have a special place in my heart. It was my first. I love the interior but the cup holders are not good. I have had issues with window motors and transmission but I have recked it two times and its still getting me around with out issues at 130k. Overall this is a nice car and its design is very sporty.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

good car, short money

johnny C, 10/26/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GT 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

sporty, fun to drive. quality German engineering for a fraction of the cost of other german motors

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5 out of 5 stars

Fun to drive GLX vr6

ssvk, 10/19/2002
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLX VR6 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

From the time i have owned this car, i have enjoyed driving it. It begs you to drive, push harder on the corners, it handles great. The engine is very peppy and responsive. All in all, its a very fun car, no major problems.

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3.13 out of 5 stars

I Regret Buying This Jetta

christinamarie, 10/28/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GL 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this car in July 2003 with 52000mi. I drive all over the state, at least 500 mi a week. I was told by the dealer that the kick in the engine between 2md and 3rd gear is normal. Well, at 60,000 mi the kick has become fierce and my check engine light is on. The glove compartment lock is busted, too. Also had problems with the bearings on the wheels, and serious issues with the poor presentation of my car at the dealership. And don't even think about having more than 2 people in the backseat!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

97 Jetta GLS

tony k, 10/21/2002
1997 Volkswagen Jetta GLS 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Have had the car for about 5 month now and I am pleased with it. I have put on it 8K miles and mechanical reliability has been good. The molding from one of the doors came off and the muffler seems to touch the underbody of the car whenever I hit deep wholes on the road, but other than that, I am very pleased with the car. Fuel economy has been good, avg. about 27 mpg.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Fun German car

Mephistopholes, 03/03/2003
1997 Volkswagen Jetta Trek 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just bought this car a few months ago and all I've really driven with it since then is long trips on the freeway. This car gets very very respectable gas milage for the freeway trips and its gearing is such that it has plenty of passing punch even in top gear at 70 MPH. Also this car is fun, it may be somewhat underpowered but it is certainly a car which wants to be hustled and loves the twisties. A+ German engineering in a resonable car.

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