2001 Volkswagen Jetta - Cozy and reliable, but yearly maintenance is needed
I purchased this Jetta used at a family-owned Volkswagen dealership. Although it is tan, the paint has a sparkling effect that makes it seem metallic. It runs well most of the time, with working A/C and heat (including heated seats) and a good CD player with powerful audio. However, about once or twice a year, something goes wrong with its transmission or fuel injectors. It is a great car with excellent value for its age and mileage, but that yearly breakdown costs anywhere from $400 to $1,000 to repair. On the last repair, the mechanic told me that since we live in a humid zone, the car may be accumulating rust damage when it is not in use. He recommended I run it more often, even just to drive around a bit during times it would otherwise sit unused in the driveway for a few days.
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I purchased this Jetta used at a family-owned Volkswagen dealership. Although it is tan, the paint has a sparkling effect that makes it seem metallic. It runs well most of the time, with working A/C and heat (including heated seats) and a good CD player with powerful audio. However, about once or twice a year, something goes wrong with its transmission or fuel injectors. It is a great car with excellent value for its age and mileage, but that yearly breakdown costs anywhere from $400 to $1,000 to repair. On the last repair, the mechanic told me that since we live in a humid zone, the car may be accumulating rust damage when it is not in use. He recommended I run it more often, even just to drive around a bit during times it would otherwise sit unused in the driveway for a few days.
No other aspect, from electronics to brakes, has needed maintenance in the time I have owned it. It handles stop-and-go traffic well and has hit over 100mph on clear freeways without a hitch. However, it is not powerful enough to drive during active heavy snowfall. Also, it may stall when cold and need to be warmed up before driving when temperatures are below freezing. Even the stereo will stall or play funny in the cold.
Comfort-wise, the front seats are adjustable and there are numerous cup holders as well as a central storage "arm." The front seats are also heated, which is great for winter. The back seat is roomy, and between it and the trunk I am able to stash anything I need when traveling. The skylight can be covered, uncovered to let light in, or open to let air in.
While driving to Hartford on I-91, I was zipping along free of other traffic and listening to music loudly. I noticed my GPS had significantly reduced the amount of time until my arrival, and then noticed I was doing 110MPH! I slowed down but was impressed this old car had snuck up to that speed without me feeling any negative effects.
While driving to Hartford on I-91, I was zipping along free of other traffic and listening to music loudly. I noticed my GPS had significantly reduced the amount of time until my arrival, and then noticed I was doing 110MPH! I slowed down but was impressed this old car had snuck up to that speed without me feeling any negative effects.
Dependability, comfort, speaker quality, ease of handling, skylight, power windows, and roominess for size.
Dependability, comfort, speaker quality, ease of handling, skylight, power windows, and roominess for size.
Fuel injector issues, transmission issues, and not ideal for winter.
Fuel injector issues, transmission issues, and not ideal for winter.