1999 Volkswagen Jetta Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.59/5 Average
208 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Volkswagen offers two generations of the Jetta for sale in 1999. The third-generation Jetta has been around since 1993, and it is a carryover for 1999. VW deletes the GT, K2 and GLS models from the lineup, leaving only the GL, GLX, TDI and Wolfsburg models. Later in the model year, the company introduces a completely redesigned Jetta with a smooth new European body, improved versions of the base inline four and the VR6 and a simplified lineup of GL, GLS and GLX models. If you can hold out for a 2000 model, VW will offer a 150-hp 1.8-liter turbo for the GLS.

Pros:
  • Fun to drive, comfortable ride, available VR6, solid construction, rich interior materials, lots of standard features, generous 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Cons:
  • Some controls hard to decipher, CD player should be standard, expensive compared with other compact sedans.

User Reviews:

Showing 121 through 130 of 208.00
  • Terrible reliability - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car for my parents to drive being a supposedly great car. Unfortunately, we have never seen such terrible reliability in a car. This car visits the dealership every other month with every breakdown possible from turbo, glowplugs, electrical, engine problems, carbon build up, door locks, lighting contols, stalling, not starting etc. etc. My parents are stuck driving their older Buick LeSabre most the time because it is the only car they can trust.

  • Biglemon - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    My car is a 1999 model. Since the warranty went off (24,000), I have replaced the fuel gauge and float, radiator valve, several sensors, catalitic converter, etc. etc. I have spent over $1500 in one year on service. Never again.

  • The "Not-Worth-It" Mobile - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought this car because my best pal (Nissan 240sx) was totalled in a wreck that was not my fault. I needed a car before work on Monday, but didnt do as much research as I could have. I loved the styling on the Jetta and wanted a 4 door sedan, but I didnt know what I was in for. Immediately I had to go back to the dealer for an engine coolant system fix (which they couldnt do, they had to send to the VW dealer). Then other parts started breaking - glove compartment, center console, other misc. plastic interior parts, passengers door jamb, windshield wiper fluid thingy, etc. Now I have a fuel pressure problem and a broken AC that I have already fixed once - dont buy this car!

  • poor review - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The volkswagen jetta i purchased has given me problems after 2 months. several others who own a jetta has complaints as well. customer service as well as the service dealers are never helpful. my car is always in the shop. one major thing goes wrong every few months. they can never establish what is exactly wrong with the car. i will never purchase a volkswagen again.

  • 1999 Volkswagen Jetta - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I purchased my VW Jetta and it has been great for a year. I had problems with the dash lights behind the temperature panel. Then it started to have electrical problems. I could not open the gas filler door, then the alarm would not lock the doors, then the trunk light went out and only turns on when it wants. Next the A/C broke. Oh, the glove box is hanging by one hinge. On the positive side, I love the ride and it can do high speeds on the highway. Its gas mileage is great. I would say the quality needs to get better. I bought this car because my Mom owned a 73 Bug and never had a problem. Then I owned it and never had a problem. I mistakenly thought the Jetta would be the same.

  • Great Ride! - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    One of the best cars I have ever owned!

  • Very pleased - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I love my Jetta. I bought it used with 18,000 miles on it. Yes, I had the problem with the O2 sensor, but it was replaced free of charge. I replaced tires and brakes. Big deal. Performance has been great. I do a lot of traveling and havent had any problems to date. (Let me knock on wood). I hope to replace it next year with a Passat. German cars have always been my favorites. Has 72,000 miles and runs like a top.

  • Great Car Overall - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I purchased this car new. Ive had many of the same cosmetic problems as others, ie.. broken window regulator (twice, driver side), broken glove box, broken armrest cover, cup holder. Ive had multiple teenage drivers, its been in the body shop more than once. Mechanically its a wonder! It is now 13 years old with over 275,000 mi on it and it is still on the original engine and transmission (automatic). The only major maintenance has been replacing the timing belt three times I think and a coolant pump. Ive had to replace the blower fan and am now having problems with the A/C control but hey, its 13 yo. If they can get the cosmetic things fixed it would be perfect. Getting 22 - 25 mpg.

  • Has some problems, Love it anyway - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Although it had some issues, like needing the ignition system replaced (Around $400 DIY), I love this car. Ive been getting good gas milage and adequate performance. Mine has just over 160,000 miles on it, though the previous owner mistreated it. If you dont want to do any DIY car repair, I would not recommend this car. Otherwise, go for it. I use mine to get to and from school every day along with the occasional road trip and have never had any reliability issues with it. If you do get one, get yourself a good service manual and a metric socket set. I have the GLX 2.8L VR6 engine with the five speed manual transmission.

  • Disappointed - 1999 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    This is my 2nd Jetta and Im extremely disappointed. Cupholders have been replaced twice. Glove box replaced twice. Battery died after 12 months??? Trunk motor went on the fritz, causing the trunk to continually pop open. 02 Sensor issue. Interior seat material does not wear well at all. Brakes needed to be replaced too soon for me. Too many little things for a lease car. Im willing to pay anything to get out of it. Never again!

Volkswagen Jetta Reviews By Year:
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