Are the older models (1999) of VW jettas (gls) any good? reliable?????

Question

i just purchased a 1999 VW jetta GLS and after reading many reviews about this car from msn and google, it sounds like this car isnt very reliable. Many people had common mechanical and technical problems like the window falling into the door, the engine light always turining on, the O2 sensors going out, and rain coming through driver door during rainy days and more. Does any one have any comments or answer as to if the 1999 jetta gls are reliable???? THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP

Answer 1

My brother drives a 1999 GLS VR6 and has had some problems, but mostly they are the same problems that every car has with that many miles.

I drove a 95 GLS for 6 years and then bought a 2005 GLi. So far, I haven't had any problems.

The Jetta is made in Mexico and as such, there are times that the quality will vary a little. This was much more evident on older cars, i.e. early 90's, but sometimes there is still a "Friday" car when the workers just want to go home.

I would look up the carfax report and get the maintenance record. If they are both clean, you should be fine.

Keep in mind that the negative reviews are going to be the majority of reviews. There are thousands of Jettas on the road, and only the ones that have problems get the reviews. Many people love the Jetta, many people won't buy anything else. Some people find they can't get a VW they like.

You may want to talk to the mechanic at your local VW dealership. They usually have a pretty good idea. Also, look for a VW/European specialized repair shop locally. The mechanic there will be unbiased and will have seen everything.

Answer 2

Look around this site for more info. Remember, you bought a first year new revised model. Always buy 2nd year or later as the 1st year bugs are worked out - well, mostly.

http://auto.consumerguide.com/Auto/Used/reviews/full/index.cfm/id/2404/act/usedcarreviewreliability/

I own a 97 Jetta with 208,000 miles and have been very lucky as to minimal repairs. Remember - With a VW, if something is broken and it isn't an issue (i.e. radio button, panel won't stay on, moulding falls off, etc) don't fix it - something else will go wrong once you do and it may be major! Just speaking from experience and other friends who own Vdub's.

Answer 3

I had a 1992 Jetta, and yes I had many problems with it, mostly regular problems, it is reliable but I wouldn't get another one, that was a while ago. The only thing I would buy another Jetta is 'cause the chassis is well done, I crashed mine at 60 mph in the freeway against a parked 12 wheeler, 2 scratches.