Volkswagen Jetta 1996

• Recall 83408 [USA]: Decreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.
  Sabersport is recalling 16,270 combination corner and bumper lamp assemblies of various part numbers sold for use as aftermarket equipment for various passenger vehicles. These headlamps fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." these lamps do not contain the required amber side reflectors.
  sabersport will notify owners and offer a full refund for the noncompliant combination lamps. The safety recall began on may 11, 2009. Owners may contact sabersport at 1-909-598-7589.
  this recall only pertains to aftermarket replacement equipment and has no relation to any original equipment installed on vehicles produced by the vehicle manufacturer.In order to determine if your aftermarket lamp assembly is affected by this noncompliance, please review the list of model numbers provided to us by sabersport.The list can be found under "document search" located at the bottom of your screen.Owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.Safercar.Gov .

• Recall 12342 [USA]: Unexpected opening of the hood could occur obstructing the driver's view of the road while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
  Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. The bolts securing the front hood latch can loosen over time. The latch would move causing disengagement of the hood striker from the latch.
  dealers will inspect the hood latch and securing bolts and replace them if necessary.
  owner notification began october 15, 1998.Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact vwoa at 1-800-822-8987.Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

• Recall 1998158 [Canada]: Structure
  The bolts securing the front hood latch may lose their specified fastening torque over time. Should this happen, the latch could move out of its design position and cause disengagement of the hood striker from the latch. In some vehicles the latch may not have been properly aligned during production. Repeated opening and closing of the hood with an improperly aligned latch could result in damage to the latch. Either condition could result in hood fly up and obstruction of the driver's vision. Correction: hood latches and securing bolts will be inspected and replaced if necessary.

To ensure accuracy and for your safety, it is recommended to do a free VIN recall check here or here [USA] - UK - Canada.

Bulletins are notices put out by manufacturers in conjunction with the NHTSA to notify the public of manufacturing issues or changes.

• Fuel tank puncture investigation as of 20001228

  
  

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• Light and /windshield wipers investigation as of 20000810

  There is no summary currently available
  

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• Fuel tank puncture investigation as of 20000810

  The office of defects investigation opened this investigation on august 10, 2000 based on 9 reports regarding punctured fuel tanks involving the jetta, passat, and cabrio models.The reports indicate additional reports in its response to the preliminary evaluation.This investigation has been upgraded for further study.
  

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• Lights and/or windshield wiper obscured investigation as of 20000202

  There is no summary currently available
  

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• Hood latch failure investigation as of 19980701

  Odi has received three reports, including the petitioners, regarding alleged hood latch failures.All of the odi reports indicate the hood flew up while driving.Following a telephone inquiry, volkswagen provided odi with some limited information regarding six additional reports of hood fly-up for model years 1995 and 1996.This investigation was opened to further study this issue.Defect description:"it is possible that on some of the affected vehicles the bolts securing the front hood latch may lose their specified fastening torque over time.Should this happen, the latch could move out of its design position and cause disengagement of the hood striker from the latch.In some vehicles the latch may not have been properly aligned during production.Repeated opening and closing of the hood with an improperly aligned latch could result in damage to the latch.Either condition could result in unexpected opening of the hood and could obstruct a portion of the drivers view of the road while driving, and result in an accident."remedy: "volkswagen of america, inc. Will initiate a voluntary safety recall instructing its authorized dealers to check the hood latch and securing bolts and replace them if necessary."
  

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Tl*the contact owns a 1996 volkswagen jetta. While driving approximately 25 mph, the vehicle experienced a sudden aggressive and forceful acceleration. The contact immediately depressed the brake pedal, but there was no response and the vehicle failed to slow down. The vehicle crashed into two parked vehicles. The ambulance and police were called to the scene and a police report was filed. The driver and the occupants in the parked vehicles were transported to the hospital and sustained moderate injuries. The cause of the failure and extent of the vehicle damage have not yet been determined. The mileages were unknown.

I own a 1996 vw jetta gls and my car smokes from my steering wheel column. I will be driving and out of no where white smoke pours out of the column. I thought it was because of my headlights being on but then noticed it doing it without them on. It even does it when the car is off! This i feel and my friend who has the same problem is a fire hazard and could be very dangerous to drive. I called a vw dealership and spoke to the mechanic and he told me he feared for my life and it sounds like a fire hazard or it could cause my breaks and other things on my car to fail. I could be driving down a highway at 65 and my car can just die. I have brought my car to 3 different mechanics for this problem and they all said they have no clue what it could be . In my case nothing leads up to this happening it just happens randomly at anytime with or without my lights on or blinkers being on. This is still an unknown cause but very scary, even scarier knowing its not just my car. *tr

When the vdo electronic instrument cluster "total" odometer reading crossed from 299,999 miles to 300,000 miles . . . The word "total" disappeared and mileage dropped to "0". The "trip" side of the odometer works ok. Now (05/06/2010) the jetta is about to cross 350,000 miles, but the odometer only shows 50,000 miles. *tr

Driving home from school (12 minute drive) at night and the air coming from the vents smelled funny, like coolant. I turned off the fans but still smelled funny. I turned the fans back on and white 'smoke' was coming out of the vents and it smelled heavily of coolant. My windshield began to fog up while i was on the highway. I rolled down my windows and sunroof and tried everything i could to get the window to defog, but it only got worse. I could barely see and felt like i was in a very dangerous situation so i pulled off on the nearest county road. The car began to overheat and i still couldn't see anything so i opened the door and drove to a safe spot and turned the car off. Found out later that there was coolant all over on the floorboards and that the heater core has failed. *jb

Dt*:the contact stated while driving on an interstate highway at 70mph, there was stinging/burning sensation to the contact's foot. When the foot was removed from the gas pedal, a steaming liquid was observed on the foot and on the floor around the pedals. The liquid was spewing from an area under dashboard above the gas, break and clutch pedals. Steam/vapor also appeared to be coming out of the defroster vents on the dashboard. The accessories were immediately turned off and the vehicle was moved over and off the road. The hot liquid continued to spew and burn the contact's foot as the brakes were being applied. The vapor of the liquid filled the vehicle interferring with the contact's vision.

On january 12, 2006, as i was driving my car at 65 mph on the highway an opaque white gas was quickly released from my heater vents and within seconds effectively turned the passenger compartment of my car into a gas chamber. The engine temperature increased after i was able to safely remove the vehicle of the highway. My car was sold with a permanent maintenance free pink vw antifreeze. The documentation that came with the car indicated that other than topping off the antifreeze periodically that no maintenance was necessary. It was determined that my heater core failed; the dealer says it failed because of lack of maintenance. If the system is maintenance free then how can a component fail because of lack of maintenance? I originally thought the vehicle had been vandalized, but the dealer differed. I was unable to find any warnings of the possibility of this occurring in service bulletins or any other vw literature. If the catastrophic failure of a heater core is possible doesn't the manufacture have a duty to warn the purchasers of its products? *nm

On sept 2, 2005 and sept. 6, 2005, under two circumstances involving quick acceleration with moderate load (two adults and one kid. About 50 lb load in trunk), the engine kept high revving after the gas paddle had been fully released, thus pulling forward hard unintentionally; it kept so doing for seconds, even after braking was applied for the first few seconds, and pumped. It recovered back to normal responsiveness after hard braking for at least five seconds in the first incident and about three second in the second. Another problem is the cruise control never worked since the purchase in 1996.

In late feb 2005 purchased a 1996 volkswagen jetta (which was a certified used vehicle) and in (appox) sept 2005 while driving down a packed freeway during rush hour, in the middle lane, the hood of my vehicle flew up. I was traveling about 60-65 mph and it visually looked like a piece of cardboard crumpling however the impact was so great that it cracked my windshield. I consider myself and the passengers extremely lucky that we were not injured and/or did not crash. My vehicle sustained tremendous body damage to the hood and can not shut properly and as i mention previously the windshield is cracked all the way across. I am uncertain whether or not similar vehicles to mine have had problems but i feel that this was a manufacturer defect / failure due to the fact of the safety latch malfunction. I am not 100% sure whether or not the hood was not shut completely because i did not physically check it before the incident but regardless that is why i thought safety latches were put into use on vehicle hoods to prevent such dangerous occurrences. *jb

Heater core ruptured, causing the coolant to spill over the driver's feet. This eventually caused the windshield to fog up, making the ability to see the road difficult.*ak while consumer was driving the vehicle, he hit a bump and hot coolant fell on his feet. The steam from the hot coolant fogged up the windows and escaped through the vents. The consumer pulled over to parking lot to avoid crashing because of the steam on the window. Volkswagen agreed to repair heating core.*sb

Smoke from the steering column. After the vehicle was started, a puff of smoke arose from the steering column and i lost use of my windshield wipers. I have been online and have seen numerous similar complaints to the same affect. Shouldn't this be a recall item ? Ave had quite a few others problems in the 6 months since we have owned our 1996 jetta. *ak

Consumer complained that side windows were not going up and down at will. Consumer took the vehicle to a dealer, and was told that the motor window regulator was defective. To have them repaired would cost at least $500.00 per window, which consumer did not have.*ak

The rear side windows of my jetta have fallen into the door. *jb

Just purchased my first vw jetta. May be my last vw period. My windows work when they feel like it. After researching the problem, i found out this is a extremely common problem that vw takes no reponsibility for. Fixing it myself, it costs me $150 every time it happens. I should charge vw $70 an hour for labor!*ak

Well, its an old car yes and haven't had any severe malfunctions except on pretty much every latch mechanism on the car. Currently, the trunk does not open. The latch is broke and will not open with key placed in it or with release button. To open it, i have to lay the back seats down and crawl into the trunk and activate the emergency release manually. To add to the mess, both rear doors will open but under no circumstances will close again. I've had to rig a wire to pull the latch into its locked position to keep both doors closed. (resulting in the only 4 door coupe i know of!) *tr

1996 vw jetta - door locks would not operate when temperature is below 0 c or 32 f. This matches technical service bulletin # 57 9702 nhtsa item number 53643. *la

Windshield wipers and head lights were working intermittently. Consumer took vehicle to dealer for check up, and results showed that the ignition switch needed to be replaced.*ak

The front passenger side door was damaged during a collision. The door was repaired and painted. The paint fumes are very strong in the passenger cabin of the vehicle. *nm

While driving at 65 mph driver's side rear wheel fell of without warning. *ak

While driving rear passenger's side door flew open without warning. Dealer notified.*ak

Dt: the consumer owns a 1996 volkswagen jetta. She said that in 2003 her rear tire blew out causing an accident and almost taking the life of her daughter. When the vehicle was taken to the dealer for repairs, dealer had to replace the wheel bearings and the wheel struts. On may 15, 2005 her husband checks the vehicle regularly to make sure it is safe. While checking the vehicle he noticed the wheel was loose. They took the vehicle back to a tire center and they said that everything would have to be replaced again. *tt

I have now had to replace the transmission in my one owner automatic jetta, three times. My last transmission was replaced 35,000 miles ago, and i now need to spend 1,700 dollars to replace it. *nlm

Consumer purchased a used vehicle from dealer and vehicle needed rear wheel cylinders and brake shoes. The wheel cylinders were leaking, and the brake shoes crumbled when removed for repair done by consumer since dealer was not willing to do anything about it.*ak

My car was a lemon the engine seized when the car had not even reached 60,000 miles despite regular maintenance and hundreds of dollars in repairs.*jb

The steering in this 1996 jetta is just horrible, no mechanic has been able to repair it. Im told there is something on the wheel base torn (rear) and its going to cost me 800 to fix. Yet, the steering has been this way since ive had the car and i hardly noticed until i rented a car (because the crank shaft in the jetta broke too). This car has never been in a collision or any major trama to have anything torn, it only has 66,000 miles on it, yet ive had to replace the crank shaft, last week the entire computer, 2 years ago the entire engine fell to the ground (my land lord discovered) and now the steering. I thought vws were supposed to be well built cars. *ak

After driving approximately 1-2 hours consumer parked vehicle. Afterwards found out that fire was shooting from under the hood. During fire sun roof was automatically opening and closing by itself, also, vehicle popped itself into reverse and went backward during the fire.*ak

Since i have had my 1996 vw jetta gls, all four window regulators and all four window motors have broken. I have spoken to several people who have had the exact same problems with their jettas. *ak

While driving 2-3 mph both airbags deployed, no injuries.*ak

All four windows broke in my vw jetta gls. I bought the vehicle used, as that was what i could afford. When the first two broke, i called vw usa (not the dealership) to get an estimate on what they were going to do about it. I told them i found the technical bulletins describing the exact issue i was experiencing. They told me specifically "ma'am, we don't know what you've done to the car, therefore we can only pay for 1/2 of the cost of repair". I was furious at the suggestion that all i do all day is sit in my car and burn out the window motors. I ignored it until a few months later when the driver's side window fell into the door as i was entering the parking garage at my place of business. I called vw again and they told me there was nothing they could do since i was a 2nd owner and there was no warranty for me. I got two of the three fixed to the tune of about $900 (which was half off) and left the 3rd (in the rear) broken. Now, all four windows have broken and i refuse to pay for the repair of the two remaining broken windows since it is now a 100% failure rate. 50% is unacceptable, but 100% is downright ridiculous and no consumer should have to deal with this frustration over and over again. Also, i know two other jetta owners (both own 1997 models) and both of them have had at least 2 windows break. Something has to be done about this issue, even for 2nd owners of this particular brand of automobiles.*ak

Each time it rains heavy enough for water to splash underneath the car when driving (ie a puddle; splash for another vehicle driving by; car wash) - the car stalls, has to be towed and ends up having the ignition wires replaced. This has averaged about 1-2x per year since i bought the car in august of 1996

While driving 55 mph hood flew off, breaking windshield . Dealer was notified.*ak

When locking passenger's side door entire cylinder fell out. Unable to unlock or lock door.*ak

Front door latches fail to operate, causing occupants to be trapped in the car.*ak

Consumer was driving along and smelled smoke from inside. Vehicle was stopped at a stop sign and smoke was coming from rear. Consumer pulled into a parking lot and getting out noticed gas tank had flames coming out. Dealer was notified and not concerned.*ak

Cylinders came out with the key. They just stopped working and came out! I can no longer lock my car or use the key to get into it. I have to leave it unlocked and climb in through the back seat.*ak

All problems have reported to manufacturer to no avail. No safety defect listed. *ak

There is a crack in valve body which causes transmission to burn out.*ak

Consumer was leaving an intersection and was traveling 15mph on a wet pavement, applied brakes, and vehicle slid and hit enbankement curb. Upon impact, both airbags did not deploy. Dealership was aware of problem.*ak

Every summer especially during 90 degree temperature, the temperature guage moves to highest setting and often times vehicle completely shut off to cool down. Vehicle will starts again after cooling down. This happens only during hot summers.*ak

When steppping on brakes air conditioner fan comes on. This may also happen when stepping clutch pedal. *ak

Electrical systems failed and caused alarm to go off, power windows not to open or close. Took to mechanic, who replaced lock system which helped for awhile. Took it back again, and this time mechanic located electrical wires that had fused together under dash and were causing electrical failure.*ak

Air bag inadvertently depoyed while driving at 33-34 mph. Manufacturer was notified, and no response was received at this time. Feel free to provide any further details on this matter. *ak

Electric window operators on this vols jetta have failed on all four windows. In the case of the driver's side window the mechanism failed with only 31,000 miles on the car. The dealer admits that these mechanisms fail regularly but volks usa refuses to discuss the failure. Sooner or later someone going to be in an accident and he or she will not be able to get out of the vehicle because this window mehanism has failed without notice. Volkswagen usa refuses to discuss the matter or to make partial payment for this design fault. *ak

Transmission would not shift properly. Would make whinning noise, fluid would be leaking. Took to dealer & mechanic tried to repair it. Claimed would work fine. Transmission seized up, and vehicle was hit by another vehicle. Vehicle was totaled.*ak

Middle rear lap belt buckle broke off after child safety seat was installed in middle. It did not properly hold css, and css tipped over. If involved in a crash it may have cause injuries to child. Middle rear lap belt only used for css. Please provide further information. *ak

It seems that on a very rainy day or a damp day the car stalls or doesn't start at all. I get a "check engine" light that comes on as well. I brought the car in to koppell vw in nyc and they always blame the heated o2 sensor for the "check engine" light. They also have changed the ignition wires, rotor and rotor cap for the stall. It has been an on and off problem since then. The o2 sensor has been changed 4 times and the ignition wires, rotor and cap have been changed 6 times. I would like to have this problem solved. The car is still protected under the original manufacturer's warranty but it seems they (koppell vw in nyc or vw themselves) don't want to honor the warranty. Thank you.*ak

Within 4 months both rear windows malfunctioned.This appears to be a common problem w/volkswagen. The part is now made of plastic. It seems this defect should have been recalled or at least replaced when it malfunctioned. The cost of the part is $108.00 through volkswagon dealer. That is without labor charges.*ak

3 of 4 windows don't work. Motor burned out on rt front, regulator burned on lft front, rt rear does nothing. Dealership told me it would cost upwards of $800 to fix.

3 of 4 windows don't work. Motor burned out on rt front, regulator burned on lft front, rt rear does nothing. Dealership told me it would cost upward of $800 to fix. *nlm **dimsii ivoq entry posted after 12/12/02 cut-over to artemis*734295

A defective cooling fan assembly making noise dealer notified and replaced unit at consumer's cost. Manufacturer notified, and informed consumer that part was not cover due to it being out of warranty. *ak all professionals we have spoken with say these parts should not have failed at such low milage. *yh

Engine harness shorted and smoked upon starting. Part can not be found. Vw of america notified and no response in 3 weeks. Vw file number 667784. No help from vw at all. No explaination as to why it happened.*ak

The battery in my 96 jetta exploded as i turned the key. There were no indications of a problem prior to the explosion. This is the second time this has occured. Volkswagen has been extremely uncooperative about the situation and i have not been able to contact their customer service dept because they aren't open on weekends or labor day. After the first explosion (about 1 year and 9 months ago), they did next to nothing to assist me. Two days after the explosion, i got a "check engine" light and i have been unable to determine the problem because they are closed. This is a very disturbing situation which has been compounded by volkswagen's unwillingness to take responsibility for their defective products. Both batteries were purchased through and installed by vw dealerships at absurd prices, i might add. They have assured me that it is not an electrical problem, but i find it extremely unlikely that two batteries would explode in the same car for no particular reason. I would appreciate any feedback you might have on this issue. Thank you.

The vehicle has experienced continued problems with hard shifting, the transmission cooler ruptured internally and was repaired, however the vehicle continued to shift erratically, final diagnosis is to replace the throttle body, pcm and ecm, however the parts are on backorder, consumer is requesting help. *mjs

The original volkswagen battery exploded with loud bang when ignition key was turned to the "on" position, but i had not started the car yet. Initially i thought, the starter or alternator had filed, since the car would not start. Since it was a friday evening, i left the car in the parking lot and getting it towed to the dealer the following monday. On sunday, i noticed some thing dripping from the engine compartment, on closer examination it was acid dripping from the battery. Both sides of the battery had ripped open, with acid dripping to some of the electrical components and the engine. I removed the battery from the engine compartment and put it in a wooden box to show the same to the dealer the next day. After checking the engine functions and the charging system, the dealer concluded there was nothing wrong with the charging system and some undetermined factor caused the battery to explode. I called volkswagen to inform them of the situation and requesting them to pay for a replacement battery and other labor charges. They refused saying the warranty on battery had run out. My point is, i would have had no problem if the battery had just failed (not exploded). This battery had never failed earlier and i have never jump started this car. I strongly believe that it was a manufacturing defect and a safety concern when battery expoldes. Volkswagen would not give a likely cause for the battery to explode or if there were other complaints of similar incidents from the field.

The jack pops off the ridge under the car when lifting the car. This caused damage to the car and could have caused the car to drop on use while changing the tire. Second problem: on inspecting the front brake rotors, they were worn down more than what one would expect at 40k. There was still pad left. This would indicate poor materials in the rotor.*ak

No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak

Was driving on expressway and vehicle failed to go past 45mph. Would not change into either 3rd gear. *ak transmission failed and replaced. *yh

Power window regulators on all 4 windows have broken. The right rear window mechanism has broken twice. The second time requiring the power motor also be replaced. The failure rate on this vehicle seems to be beyond what would normally be expected.

All four windows in my '96 jetta have malfunctioned. Problems involve the window regulators and the motors. As it is today, my vehicle has three operating windows with defects (makes loud crunch sound when rolled all the way down) to a stuck-half-way window that won't go up or down. *jb

Loud noise coming from front of car, wheel bearing had to be replaced; trunk release inside car works occasionally, never when the car is turned off; engine check light comes on yearly, never turns up problem, have to clean oxygen sensor, told not to use "cheap gas";

No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak

Horn doesn't work at all. *ak

Engine light came on. And the consumer took vehicle 7 times into a dealer, and each time vehicle was looked at, but never fixed. *ak

My name is tonya m shears my brother patrick w rice purchased the car for me. On 12-1-99 i was on my way to his house. I was traveling west onto south conversa. Miss carter was traveling north onto marion ave. She was going about 40-45mph when she ran a stop sign. My car hit hers head on both my air bags came out. My car did about an 360 turn. When my car did come to an complete stop my seat belt had came off. When you put your seat belt on, you put it on for safety not for it to come off during an accident. That is when you need your seat belt the most. The car was located at campbell body shop at 507 amelia ave spartanburg, sc 864-583-5616. The car was a total lose. You can speak with anne kohlmayer at 1-800-331-4920 ext 230 she is with general accident. Please look into this matter is get back with me. I just thank god that my children was not in the car. Thank you and god bless. *ak

Electronic thermostatically controlled fan vibrations caused the electrical connection to become unreliable in vehicle. Eventually this connection was completely severed causing the fan to become inoperable leading to engine overheating. Before the connection failed completely, a spark would be created when the radiator temperature switch or the air conditioning switch would send power to the fan. I believe this is a safety problem that could have led to an engine fire.

Ignition was sticking.Driving at 55 going to turn headlights on,there are none. Pull over turn car off and keep restarting.Wipers the same. Brought in for repair. Told ignition sticking.Replace at my cost. Never tried while driving but experimented at a stop. If car is running and you lightly touched ignition...Car would shut off.This i assume would also happen when driving. I was quite a few customers were bringing in their car with this problem.

The entire abs has failed. This includes the ecm, the abs pump and the sensor. This will cost over $1600.00 to fix. The car is barely 3 years old.

Transmission clutch pack failed. *et

When driving at 35 mph passenger's side door flew open, and passenger almost fell out of vehicle due to latch being broken. Also, when shutting passenger's side door, door will pop open because of the latch being broken, and locks don't work. *ak

Faulty window system...Had to repair window operator twice! *ak

Left front window motor failed causing window not to open or close. Nlm

The door mouldings repeated fall off the door--defective adhesive. To date, no one was hit by the expelled moulding. *ak

Driving for 1/4 mile at about 20 mph - strong burning smell and smoke from under dash board - pulled over - turned car off - tried to start car after a few minutes but no electricity at all (completely dead). This could have been a very seriously incident on a conjested highway.

Both bucket seats have no cushion. Consumer is sitting on the frame in both front seats. Dealer said they realized the problem, and they were willing to pay 25 % as long as consumer paid 75% for repairs. *ak *ml

Sun roof and window regulators failed.*et

During extreme periods of cold temperatures for more then 24 hours moisture tends to build up in the engine causing tan creamy foamy build up on the inside of the valve cover, on the dipsick and in the oil pan. This could cause an owner to believe that they have a blown head gasket or valve cover. Left a message that i might have a blown head gasket for gene langan service department on a saturday. To this day 1/3/98 they still have not returned my phone call. After leaving a message, i did call back and speak with a salesman who told me to have my car towed to glastonbury. My father in law is a mechanic and he knew of the problem wih moisture in the engine and properly drained the oil and flushed the engine ridding it of any excess moisture. If i waited for the dealer to call me, i ould have a blown head gasket driving around with the crap in y engine or i would have one hell of a rental bill. Also if my car needed to be towed gene langan should have towed it seeing that vw has a 10 year 100,000 mile power train warranty and i only had 50880 miles!

Within the last 6 months i have taken by car to have the right front window fixed twice, the right rear window once, tailpipe fell off with no warning, now front left window is broken, dealer said the reason for the failure is that we don't use the windows that much. Defective fan belt.

The consumer was driving on highway in front of a tractor trailer flatbed. The tractor was hauling hay,one of the hay blocks fell in the lane in which trailer was traveling, causing a reaction to turn into the grass area into the guard rail. Mr hamilton was notified from the insurance company that his car was totaled. Driver's air bag failed to deploy. *ak

Vehicle has been in and out of the shop due to the fact that the consumer had alot of problems with the power windows/power door locks and the signals. The dealer repaired all of the defects, but the consumer took the vehicle in for the windows to be repaired again, and they wanted the consumer to cover the fee. *ak

Consumer received recall letter for the hood latch. Manufacturers recall#1h24q3 and nhtsa recall#98v160000. Dealer was contacted and the parts were not avalible. *ak *slc

When driving and applying the brakes they grind and squeak, and there is a knocking noise coming from the brakes. Also, hood latch needs to be fixed due to the hood flying up while driving which could blind the consumer. *ak

Consumer had accident on freeway. Another vehicle hit consumer from behind because when consumer applied the brakes the light did not come on, and the oncoming vehicle did not know that he was stopping. *ak

The consumer received a recall notice for the hood latch on sept. 2, 1998. The parts for that recall has been unavailable since the day that the consumer received the notice. The manufacturer has been contacted. *ak

Recall 98v160000/ consumer has been on a waiting list for three months, parts are still not available. Dealer will not inspect hood latch or bolts until parts are in. Problem still exists. Provide further information. *ak

While driving 60 mph the rear wheel on the driver's side broke from the axle, almost causing a crash. Manufacturer is aware of the problem. The vehicle will be repaired. *ak

Airconditioner compressor failed.

Vehicle experienced failure of the recall component (98v-160) hood latch prior to recall notification resulting in extensive damage to the vehicles hood and windshield when the hood flew open while driving. *mjs

Windshield wipers and headlight do not work.

Battery exploded when ignition turned with key. *ak

Brake rotor failure.

Both right side window assemblies failed. Manufacture refused to do anything about these failures. Only question asked by manufactures representative was how much money had i spent on previous dealer maintenance. When informed that i had not had them perform the 30,000 mile checkup he told me since i had not spent money with his dealerships he wouldn't even conside spending any money on me. I had not had the dealer perform the 30,000 mile check because i had the engine set to specifications both prior to and after the 30,000 mile mark because the engine failure light had made it necessary to have emergency maintenance performed at those times. I could see no reason to have the 30,000 mile check done additionally. I had checked the vehicle visually for the balance of the 30,000 mile items myself. And yes i am qualifed to check the other items with the exception of the engine.

Was driving down the street at approximately 35mph when suddenly the air bag popped out for no reason. Did not explode. Lost control of vehicle due to visibility obstruction. Hit the curb & then a pole. *ak

The oxygen sensor failed causing the check engine light to illuminate. *mjs

On october 7th, 1997 my 1996 vw jetta gls would not start. I had the car towed to the dealer for repair with 28,000 miles on the car and out of the warranty period. The dealer had told me the starter went bad and that i would have to replace the starter. The dealer had provided the starter to me in goodwill and i just paid for labor. On june 1st, 1998 my car again would not start with 42000 miles on the car. I had the car towed to the dealer and they stated that the starter was bad again. I had to replace the starter and then they told me that the ignition switch was bad. They told me that they believed that was the problem with the starters going bad. The warranty on the starter was 12 months or 12,000 miles which had run out on me. I was forced to pay for the full repair. At that time, i filed a grievance with vw and they denied my claim to regain some of my money back because i was on my third starter in 2 years. On december 14, 1998 i took my car to the dealer because there was a screaching sound in the engine compartment when i started the car. The dealer stated to me that the starter was bad and it was out of warranty again so i would have to pay for it with 60,000 miles on the car. I had asked what might be causing the problem this time and they told me i might be holding the key to long which to me means they do not know what the problem is again. In two years i have replaced the starter 4 times. I have paid approxmiately $1178.15 to replace the starter 4 times and i have no guarantee that this is fixed.

While driving vehicle about 50 mph was trying to avoid hitting an animal when vehicle went off the road, crashing head first into a tree. None of the two air bags deployed. No report from fire department. Manufacturer nor dealer were contacted. *ak

Transmission failure causing hesitation and jerking when shifting.

The rear window motor does not function. When the problem was assessed by the dealer, they said that it was no longer under warranty and that it would cost $350 to fix the motor. The motor was taken out of the door until we decide when or how to take care of this matter. It is a manufacturers defect and the cost should be covered by them. The check engine light comes on frequently and is often taken to the dealership for a check-up. When taken to the dealer, they replied that there was nothing wrong.

The multi-shift switch that changes the gears automatically while the vehicle is being driven at 60 mph, shifted the vehicle into the 3rd gear, causing a powerful downshift in the speed. Dealer has been contacted. *ak *ml

When driving at highway speeds the vehicle jumps out of gear . The dealer has been notified. *ak

Vehicle power locks experiencing erratic operation; both front door would not locks or unlocks intermittently; dealer notified and informed that vehicle was out of it warranty and any repairs would be at consumer cost. Feel free to provide any further details:

This jetta has had electrical problems since 8 months after purchase. First, it was the 'door ajar' chime(11/96), then the air conditioner on/off, 6/97, then the 'headlight is on' buzzer and the 'coolant warning' light began flashing on, 12/97, coolant warning light flashing again 5/98 , and finally coolant warning light flashing constantly 6/98.

When vehicle is at a stop light the vehicle cuts off. Sometimes the vehicle will not turn back on. Took vehicle to dealer several times, and they said that they had fixed the problem. But owner knows that this was incorrect information because the vehicle is still cutting off. *ak

Consumer was traveling about 28 to 30 mph involved in a head-on collision in which the driver's and passenger's side air bag did not deploy. Please provide any further details. *ak

Right rear electric window fails to operate.

Air conditioning pressure switch corroded.

Hood latch failed.

Replaced battery. *mjs

Consumer is experiencing problems with the electrical system, while driving the lights on the dashboard come on randomly, the windshield wipers are inopperable, owner has had vehicle into the dealer for repair. The dealer has not been able to duplicate the problem. *ak consumer stated that dealer was able to fix problem which was a faulty ignition switch, which caused all elecxtrical power to be diverted into ignition to start vehicle, the a/c radio, and dash lights were inoperable, also 2 weeks after that repair, water wasaccumulating on the floor of the back seat, passenger side air conditioning not draining properly.*jb

Manual window crank failed.

Total brake failure; while driving at or about 10 mph owner tried to stop vehicle by pushing brake pedal to the floor. She was not able to stop with the regular brake system , so she applied the emergency brake. Manufacturer was contacted . *ak

Vehicle rear ended another vehicle going about 45 mph and there was no deployment of the air bags. There was $4,000 dollars worth of damage to the front of vehicle. The vehicle has been repaired. *ak

Outside door locks freeze in inclement weather.

My windows have repeatedly failed. I am the only person in my car. Vw will do nothing to remedy the situation. The back windows are rarely used and have also failed. The faulty parts are always motor and regulator. This represents a dangerous situation for me. I am a frequent user of a river "ferry". Bad windows are dangerous in this situation. I have received to help from my dealership or vw. Please help. Sincerely, heller hodge-moore

Engine runs at high rpms when the vehicle is at rest. Transmission jerks violently when shifted into gear.

Power window motor failed.

At a low speed went over a patch of ice and hit a pole air bags did deploy and the rear window exploded. Please describe details. *ak

My car has had continued window motor and regulator problems beginning 3 months after the purchase of the car in july 1996. Six times the window motor/regulator has stopped working. Currently there are three windows in the car which do not function properly. I consider this safety issue because should there ever be passengers seated by those windows in the case of an accident or fire, and the doors did not work there would not be a way to get out of the car.

Consumer experiencing several problems with vehicle. When driving in wet weather conditions the windshield wipers will cut off. This problem is intermittent. At times, will not function at all. Consumer has contacted the dealer . Also, replaced transmission/ throttle body and alternator. In addition, front brake rotors failed and front pads cracked/engine idles/bucks and stalls. Engine check light comes on/off. *ak

Driver's door drops when opened, problem with sheet metal inside door, told by dealer metal is not correct size to carry weight of door; drops 1/4 inch, rattles inside while driving; also, engine intermittently hesitates at all speeds. *ak *slc

Consumer had child safety seat attached to the lap seat belt, the latch came apart while consumer turned a corner. *ak

While driving an electrical fire broke out directly behind the sunroof which spread to the gas tank and engulfed the vehicle. Vehicle was totalled. *ak

Right/rear window not working. Dealer could not fix. Did not have part. I could not get to the dealership when part came in. Went to another dealer for basic service and was told they would put a window motor in, but they would have to charge me, it was out of warranty.

I am dubious about the safety of a well maintained car when the transmission fails in the first 6 months. The manufacturer's serviceman jumps the battery against owners manual recommendations and blows the internal fuse for the radio and sets off the airbag sensor (neither repaired by the dealer at no charge. Also,) tires needing replacement at less than 20,000 miles - lock cylinder fallling out of driver's side door- and all the power locks failing, resulting in having to go to the dealer just to get out of the car. *ak

Dealer had to replace the engine due to loud noise coming from the engine and knocking noise. Also, motor burned in the window and the window would'nt go down or come up, and the consumer had to take the vehicle back to the dealer. *ak

Driving at speed 0f 50mph, frontal collision, impact 12:00 position, dual airbags did not deploy. *ak

Rear wheel and axle assembly flew off of vehicle.

Sun roof will not close.

The battery exploded and caused a fire in the vehicle.

Drifedt off into the grass area, regained control, driver airbag deployed, impact 11:00 position, passenger side did not deploy. *ak

Radio failed.

Front end misaligned.

Check engine light failed.

Air conditioner hose failed.

Rear reading light on right side inoperative.

When attempting to brake, they vibrate and make very loud noise. *ak

While driving on the highway at 60mph, the car was involved in a front end accident and the air bag did not deploy. *ak

While driving, hood latch came unfastened, hood flew up; latch made out of flimsy material; no warning; speed 30 to 35 mph. Tt

Tensioner belt broke, loss of power steering. Tt

Upon depressing the four-way flasher switch, usually only one turn signal blinks, inside and outside the vehicle, only the left or right turn signal blinks, after depressing the switch several times, the four-way flashers will work normally. *tt