1998 Volkswagen Jetta Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.02/5 Average
104 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The TDI has finally arrived. New wheel covers and colors are offered, while remote keyless entry makes it easier to lock and unlock the Jetta. GLX models have new one-touch up power windows with pinch protection.

Pros:
  • Classic good looks. Great road manners. Optional side airbags. Remarkable powertrain warranty. Free scheduled maintenance for two years or 24,000 miles.
Cons:
  • Slightly underpowered. Cramped rear seat.

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 104.00
  • Die Hard VW lovers will love a Jetta GLX - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love this car. It has all the power of higher end luxury cars along with all the room you would expect from a midsize SUV. The trunk is HUGE. The engine is powerful, the drivetrain responsive, and the stock BOSE stereo is pretty amazing as well. It does require a little bit of car know how to keep in tip top shape however. The power window regulators in this car are also not designed well. They will go out. Guaranteed. If you like VWs, you will like this car. Mine has 85k plus miles on it and drives awesome.

  • Pretty happy with this car - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car in 2000 with only 34k mi. I am very hard on cars, and this car has stood up to my "abuses". This car wasnt perfect, though; the crank sensor and cruise control went out on me. Gas mileage is pretty good, but could be better. Unfortunately, I was involved in an accident in 2002 and the car was never the same. The rack boot and front axle needed replacement on 2 occasions, and the heat shield rusted off. Tires were wearing unevenly, and after the latest repair bill (which involves all the above), I have to say goodbye to this venerable car. Outside of those issues caused by the wreck, the only thing I had to do was change the oil and this car was ready to go. Ill miss it.

  • i love my jetta! - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    this is my first car ive bought. It was prviously owned and taken care of very well. Its a vr6 model, wich is faster than a regular gl jetta series, but this vehichle is very reliable. Gas milage is impecable and i have had NO problems what so ever with this car. And it is so much fun to drive!

  • Please do NOT buy a VW Jetta - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Jettas are a maintenence nightmare! Since I got my Jetta (new in 1998), the following are only some of the problems I have had (most occured REPEATEDLY or were never resolved): window motors went out 6 times, cruise control (fixed twice, still doesnt work), volume control on radio, side plastic moldings dont stay on, keyless entry broke less than a year after buying, faulty front spoiler. To top it all off, I just found out I have $7,000 in transmission repairs. Everyone who I have spoken with has had similar problems and several VW owners I know have or are trying to get their cars declared lemons. I am NOT a person who complains at much...but it is ridiculous that VW is still in business.

  • Nothing but problems - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ever since i have owned this car, i have had to keep putting money into it. New spark plugs, new transmission, window mount broke twice, faulty wiring, engine mount broke, emergency break light stays on some times; it is by far the worst car that i have ever owned. I will NEVER own another volkswagen again.

  • 1998 Jetta Gt - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is a great little car that is extremley fun to drive. Nice exterior styling with Gt upgrades- tinted rear lights, spoiler, alloys silver racing dials. Very, Very safe car. Ive been in 2 head on collisions with this car at speeds over 60 km/hr and have walked out of those accidents with a couple bruises. The car goes nice on the highway and the fuel efficiency is fabulous.

  • Had to sell it - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I just sold my Jetta with only 80,000 miles on it. I had planned on keeping it for a lot longer. It just completly fell apart. It was a great car up until 80,000 miles, and then it just went downhill. Everything broke on this car, EVERYTHING. It just isnt reliable.

  • Love My Jetta - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I purchased my 98 Jetta GLS in Dec. of 1997. It is truly a "peoples car" by the best automakers in the world (think Mercedes, BMW, Audi and others available in Europe). Today, I can honestly say this is one of the best cars out there today! After 6+ years and 73000+ miles (and counting), I have not experienced ANY major complications with it. I do the oil changes and tire rotations and that about covers it. Handles magnificently!!! Leaves other compacts in the DUST in its superiority!!! I feel my Jetta is just getting broken in. It is a superb car with outstanding appeal, both inside and out. My next new car will definitely be another Jetta!

  • give it a - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Extremely reliable, comfortable and enjoyable to drive car, nice design inside and out, "feels" like a more expensive car than it is. Lacks a bit of power, bit sluggish on take-off. Small problems become annoying - moldings come loose, door handles stick, antennae needs to be tightened. Should note previously owned 92 Wolfsburg Jetta had none of these problems.

  • Bad 1998 Jetta GT - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had nothing but problems with my Jetta. It seems like everyday something goes wrong. Electrical, brake system, clutch, motor mounts, axles, ignition, key switch, heater and a/c controls have all failed within 50,000 miles. The wheels oxidize to the hubs and can not be removed without pounding on the wheels with a sledge hammer. This is not good when you have a flat tire. The car is a total nightmare. Very unreliable. Parts are extremely expensive. I can not recommend this car to anyone.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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