2001 Volkswagen Jetta Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.90/5 Average
397 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2001, improved cloth and velour interior materials come standard in the GL and GLS trim. Side curtain airbags that offer head protection for front and rear passengers are introduced this year, and steering wheel controls for the audio and cruise systems are available on GLS/GLX trim models. Optional 17-inch wheels and a sport suspension can be had on GLX models and GLS models with the 1.8T or VR6 engine. The Wolfsburg Edition returns as a limited-edition model in early 2001 -- standard features include sport suspension, bolstered sport seats and 16-inch BBS wheels. All models get redesigned cupholders and a trunk entrapment release button. A wagon arrives in the spring of 2001.

Pros:
  • Solid build quality, rich interior materials, loads of features, available turbo and V6 engines.
Cons:
  • Cookie-cutter Euro-copy sheet metal, bigger standard-features list means bigger base price.

User Reviews:

Showing 171 through 180 of 397.00
  • GLX Wagen - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Since bought as demo with 4k, front roters have been replaced, cupholder non-functional, power roof adjusted, then would not close completely, and the transmission is absolutely horrible, in that it upshifts too quickly when starting from a stop, then downshifts abruptly just to keep up a moderate acceleration. During this, the RPM jumps back and forth from 1500 to over 3k. Dealer has told me twice that the tranny is normal, but in over 500,000 miles and a lot of vehicles, I have never driven such a strange transmission. Next is to the VW rep, I guess, or lemon suit.

  • Fun to drive, slowly falling apart - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Its strange with this car. I really enjoy driving it but Ive had issues with it for a long time. I had to replace all 6 engine coils about 3 years ago that cost me $800. Various other things have broken as well (glove box, arm rest - 2 places, rear ash tray, turn signal - twice and front bumper coming off. Saying all of that, its a fun car to drive with a lot of great options.

  • Expensive parts/service - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    The car is beautiful, fun to drive, but it is so expensive for gas/service/parts for this car. I have to sell mine beacuse of it.

  • Love the car, but not VW service - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I bought my Jetta GLS TDI new in 2001 and it now has 197,000 miles and is going strong. I commute 150 miles round trip daily, so I wanted a comfortable car with good fuel mileage - I have been well pleased. Im considering buying another one, but want to hang on to this one. My only problems have been with VW service. I used to take it to the dealer since its difficult to find a non-VW dealer mechanic, but have regretted the inconvenience and the cost. When I contacted VW last summer after a dealer in SC had my car for 3 weeks and continued to give me the run-around, VW was not helpful and borderline rude. So, Ill keep my TDI and maybe buy another one, but find an independent mechanic.

  • No problems here - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Ive had this car for going on three years and only a few minor problms. The air flow sensor was bad when I bought the car (recalled but I was over the milage - $80) and the brake light switch wasnt working correctly ($15). Other than that I havent put any money into the car except regular upkeep. Oil changes (using synthetic) dont have to be done but every 10,000 miles which will save a few bucks. The only improvement that could be made is with the auto transmission. The auto doesnt make good use of the torque the car has and RPMs go too high before shifting for a diesel engine. If youre looking to buy get one with the 5-speed manual transmission.

  • do not recommend - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    i have had problems more with the dealers than the car itself, when you take this car for repair they always charge you 500.00 in whatever the repair is, the treatment is very poor, at any dealer, too many cars with problems so when you go for repair they either re-schedule you or you have to wait , the car itself is made for like to brake at the 5 year mark, i had to replace twice the alluminum oil pan, then too much oil cumsumption in the engine, shocks, temp sensor, water pump,timing belt, window just went down inside the door a common problem with this car, now is the transmission, it shifts very hard at times, 3 times at the dealer, they cannot repair it, guess what my warranty is over

  • poor mans audi / bmw - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Bought it new two years ago and overall have really enjoyed this car. The VR6 motor is outstanding, but does use more gas than the 4 cyl. models. Body roll is a little excessive in fast corners, but it grips well when pushed hard. Ride is plush, quiet and smooth. Very comfortable for road trips. When I first picked up the car the cruise didnt work and the climate control wouldnt switch to defrost. Dealer fixed both problems promptly, and I havent had a problem with the car since. Guess Ive been lucky (knock on wood) as I see a lot of reliability issues from other folks.

  • Love my Car, Not my dealership - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    To be honest I love my car. I dont love my local VW dealership. Every time I take her in for a $100 oil change something needs to be fixed. However, being female I always go for a second opinion before I get anything done and half the time they are just trying to rip me off. The catalytic converter did go. But it was under and extended warranty because there was an error in all 1.8ts in 2001. The O2 sensors. Fine, it was time for them to go. As for the rest I will never go back to my dealership unless I have a problem no one else can figure out.

  • The Oil Consumer - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    Burns 1 quart of oil every 3000 miles - even though the ownders manual says it can go 5000. Also, owners manual claims oil burning will go away after "short break-in" period - it does not go away ever.

  • 01 Volkswagen Jetta 1.8L Wolfsburg Ed. - 2001 Volkswagen Jetta
    By -

    I just recently bought my 2001 Jetta. I have heard of all of the problems and concerns they have. I did my research and in my opinion it is worth it. If you buy a Volkswagen you must realize that one; it is an ALL GERMAN MADE VEHICLE. Most cars on the road, whether it be Toyota, Honda, Subuaru or Audi, most of the parts are made in America. Excluding 2008 models, VWs are exclusively made in Germany, especially engine parts, hoses, etc. I have had to put some work and money into it but for the gas mileage, performance, handling and safety, I love it. Plus I enjoy learning about my car and how to fix it. It has flaws, all cars do, and VWs take a bit extra work, but to me it is worth it!!!

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