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 71 through 80 of 104.00
  • Great little car - GT should do more... - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I really like my 1998 Jetta GT, there are a few things that I think VW could have made better, like the shifting is a little harsh. Sometimes takes a while for it to shift. Other than that its a great car... once it shifts normal its fast.

  • Stay Away - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Stay away from this car. I bought it last June and since September my repair bills have topped $5,000. They are lemons. A lot of little things go and labor kills you. It feels like it has spent more time in the shop then with me. Trust me, they look nice and will run for the test drive, but once you leave the lot, get ready for some headaches.

  • Migraine - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I purchased the car with 96K and now have 133K. Repairs so far include: timing chain & belt clutch all 4 window regulators struts, ball joints, control arms - entire suspension AC all hoses sparkplugs now Im looking at fixing the heater core, which is ~ $700. Also worth noting the radio gets minimal reception, CD player died soon after purchase, electronics are quirky (turn volume down and it goes up), cruise control doesnt work. When theres nothing wrong with the car it drives fine and is fun, but the maintenance is horrible, and I take it to the best and cheapest shop around (Black Forest Industries). Probably put in ~$5K in 40K miles/2.5 years (paid 5600). Never buying a VW again

  • I Hate my Jetta - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    My car has been nothing but an expensive project since I bought it 2 years ago. Fist I had to have all 4 struts replaced, and new tires and alighnment. A few months later it needed a new exhaust and still is having cat issues. I have replaced both front axels, the brakes, new timming belt, and water pump. I have learned how to fix the Windows cause I have had all 4 break on me and its actually simple to replace the regulators, but getting the window back in to possition is a pain. The crank shaft possition sensor was just replaced and now its going back to the mechanic today, there is something wrong in the front end and it needs the valve cover gasket fixed and is leaking oil. What a pile!

  • Could have been a contender. - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I like the way she drives.. I bought the car with 106k miles on it. Salvaged the ailing (automatic)transmission with transmission conditioner. The window regulators are garbage. They break often and run you over $350 a pop to put in. Dont let a substandard shop work on the car. They will cause you more problems. The car has broken motor mounts, they cause a shimmy when accelerating and cause the CV joints to wear quickly. The engine and Transmission still run really strong with 170,000 miles. Just dont think the rest of the car will last. With TLC early in the life of the car I think it would be running and looking great in every facet.

  • Another great VW - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought mine used from a local VW dealer, and abuse the snot out of it. I autocross and do hill climbs with this car, as well as daily drive it. Normal wear and tear items get replaced, and regular maintenance keep things going strong. As with any used car, parts tend to wear out faster than new, so be prepared to spend money keeping them going. Do your homework and never buy a used car without having it checked out!

  • Great VW - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive owned this vehile for almost 3 years now and have felt nothing but love for it. I have to give a little extra care here and there but over all shes one awsome peice of work.

  • my 98 jetta GT - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    the jetta GT is basically a trim package, the funny thing is that people on the street swear thast means its like a GTI. in my opinion the mid ninteys jetta looks a lot better than the newer ones. it looks espically good with the clearcoat paint and the spoiler. the 2.0 engine just sucks, good thing im not into racing. but watch out if your buying this car to hook it up. aftermarket parts are few in number and high in price. and you have to watch out for that too little things can shut down the electrical system of this car, like a new cd player or an new alarm.

  • Do you really want one? - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The Jetta is an interesting car in the beginning when you get it and step on the gas and let out the clutch it feels good you want to drive it. However as you begin lifes journey with the vehicles things start to break such as the back rotors which wear out every 40,000 miles because of a "design flaw" the window cable, not the motor, fray because of a "design flaw", the O2 sensor fails because of a "design flaw". Bottom line the entire car is a design flaw and is made with cheap parts which snap together in some instances. Dont be fooled by its good looks, these cars are money pits. Why do people still own them? Most likely they owe more than what the car is worth and are just trying to get by.

  • Unique and $ Pocket Friendly - 1998 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I like this car, it attracts attn cause its a diesel and people are suprised. I put in some extra features and it almost looks like a Lexus IS300. With the proper care you have a car that will lasts you 300k miles easily.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area