2002 Volkswagen Jetta Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.97/5 Average
494 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2002, the turbocharged four-cylinder engine receives 30 extra horsepower for a total of 180, which you can couple to a five-speed automatic with Tiptronic -- the 1.8T is now available for both sedans and wagons. In the spring of 2002, the Jetta GLX sedan's optional 12-valve 174-hp VR6 is replaced by a new 24-valve unit providing 200 ponies. A six-speed manual gearbox and the aforementioned five-speed automanual become available with the new VR6. Later on, the GLI sedan will appear -- it includes the new VR6, the six-speed and stability control without all the expensive GLX trimmings and replaces the manual-shift GLX. Other changes include the availability of the 1.9-liter turbodiesel engine for GL and GLS wagons. The base GL trim level is new to the wagon in 2002 -- previously, you had to step right up to the GLS model. A CD player is now standard on all GLS and GLX models, and all-new Volkswagen vehicles come with an improved four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, up from two years/24,000 miles. Volkswagen also offers a fully transferable limited powertrain warranty that covers five years or 60,000 miles. An on/off switch for auto-dimming rearview mirrors, a cruise control indicator light, a trunk escape handle for sedans and a new exterior color (Reflex Silver replaces Silver Arrow) complete the changes.

Pros:
  • Powerful 1.8T and VR6 engines, fuel-efficient TDI powerplant, fun to drive, comfortable ride, rich interior materials, loads of standard features, solid build quality.
Cons:
  • More expensive than most small sedans and wagons.

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 494.00
  • Not bad, but could be better - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car because I knew it would lower my insurance and gas bills (coming from SUV) I drive 500 miles a week and my gas bill is $60/month. I have enjoyed my VW a lot, however...Dont park over a parking space bump or curb. I did this 3 separate times (and have finally learned from my mistakes) and it pulled my front bumper off. Just the other day, my passenger side window fell into the wondow pocket and I had to take it to the dealer b/c of a downpour coming. "This happens a lot" the VW rep said. They rigged it, but I have to go back and pay for them to fix it now that I am out of my 25,000 mile warranty.

  • Theyre Not All Lemons - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Im surprised to hear about so many major problems others have had. My car has been pretty great. Last car was a Honda Civic. The Jetta is fun to drive, super peppy, comfortable, and Im getting about 30MPG. The car was recalled for the coils (after I had to be towed once because of poor behavior related to the coils). Mechanically, the Honda was perfect - never a problem with it. The coil issues, and frequently blown taillights, are annoying, but all in all Im very happy with the Jetta. Mine was manufactured/assembled in Germany - it was the first year of the wagons.

  • jetta review - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This car is horrible. Windows rattle over rough surfaces and suspension makes chirping sounds. Car will not come out of park from a cold start. Additionally a spring off of passanger seat fell off in the first 5 months of ownership. Drivers side seat bladders make popping noises. Also you have to manually turn gear mechanism to make seats recline. I used to drive a Honda and Im trading this VW in for one again.

  • Great Bang for the Buck - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I purchased my Jetta 1.8T w/ leather, cold pkg, Monsoon, and sport pkg on 1.25.2002. Overall, I have been very happy with it. The build quality is comparable to a low-end BMW, but certain parts lack some quality. I have had a couple coilpacks fail, and I have had the ECU replaced. All issues have been painlessly taken care of under warranty, so there is no real problem. The interior is classily- styled, yet does not have an over- abundance of wood trim. It is very fun to drive. I only wish I had gotten a 5-speed. Maybe next time.

  • Worst Car I have Ever Owned! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    My 2002 Volkswagen Jetta was the worst overall experience Ive had with any product, not just a car, that Ive ever had. The car needed to go in for repairs an inexcusable 13 times. Some repairs took multiple visits to correct which was a strong indication of how inept their mechanics are. The car had problems ranging from electrical to catalytic converter to even the radio needing to be replaced twice. The customer service was neglectfull and even rude at times and the Volkswagen customer care people do not care! My car now is leaking through the sunroof & smells like a fishbowl. Their service is outright terrible. Dont buy a Volkswagen! That is unless you enjoy frustration and being ignored.

  • Windows - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love my Jetta i spent two years building them online, and when i finished up my senior year of high school i told my mom and dad that we were going New Car Shopping b/c i was not going to drive my POS anymore. We got my Jetta the day i graduated and a month later my drivers window broke so they fixed it. A month after that the passenger window broke we took it back but we had to drive in the pooring rain with the window down and they fixed it. That time they gave us a loaner b/c we were pissed. What we found out is that there is a plastic clip and it brakes but the replace it was a metal one. But your window has to brake first before they will fix it.

  • Jettas a winner!! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    We bought our Jetta in August 02 so we dont have any long term experience with it but the time we have had it has been great!! The quality of assembly and materials of the interior is wonderful and the exterior styling is what we were looking for. I work for an automotive supplier and could have recieved some great discounts from the "big three" but they just didnt have a car that could compete with the Jetta. The VR6 is incredible in its smoothness and power. This is the first import we have owened an at this point we are very impressed.

  • Are you Kidding - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this from a Lady in Kansas over the internet and she drove it to me in Colorado, delivered in pretty much perfect shape. I have over a million miles on it now and I am pretty much shocked by the other owners reviews. It was built in Mexico and has had the usual faults like electric window problems and seat heaters but that was all covered in the warranty and replace with no hassle at the dealers. On the last days of my warranty I had them replace the Turbo as easy as if it was a light bulb. Since then I have done most the work on it myself. A lot cheaper than mechanics will do. Replaced the thermostat for 15$ in thirty minutes. $200 plus at most shops.

  • NICE CAR - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I HAVENT HAD ANY ISSUES WITH MY JETTA. I DONT USE THE CUP HOLDERS OR THE BACK SEAT (ALTHOUGH THEY HAVE ISSUES) THE SEATS ARE HARD TO CLEAN. I PLAY MY MONSOON PRETTY LOUD SO I HAVENT HAD THE SOUND ISSUES (FINGERS CROSSED)

  • fun to drive!! - 2002 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I have had my GLS 1.8t for r week now, I and I love it. The power from the turbo is great, and the tiptronic tranny is fun to use, and useful. Even though I am still in the break in period, I have tested the power a few times.

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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