1994-1998 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
1998 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta
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1994-1998 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta ▼
- Price Range: $900 - $3,000
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Our reliability study for this generation Volkswagen Jetta/Golf/GTI/Rabbit includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Volkswagen Jetta/Golf/GTI/Rabbit .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Climate control:
If ventilation knobs become hard to operate or no air is being directed to the floor vents, it is possible the air distribution flaps have malfunctioned. (1994)
Engine stalling:
If the engine occasionally loses power, stalls, or stumbles, the problem may be vibration of the mass airflow sensor. (1994-95)
Hard starting:
Intermittent no-start or stalling condition is often due to the #3 relay. No trouble codes are stored in computer. (1993-96)
Poor drivability:
Magnetic interference can cause drivability problems if the shielding for the oxygen-sensor wiring is damaged. (1994)
Rough idle:
Backfires due to faulty plugs dislodge the idle control damper from the rear of the VR6 engine causing rough, or no idle. (1994-98)
Suspension noise:
A dull clunking noise from the front end may be due to too much free play in the upper MacPherson strut bearings. (1994-95)
Tire wear:
Cupping of the rear tires may be caused by too much positive rear toe, which is corrected by replacing the rear-axle stub shafts. (1993-96)
Water leak:
Leaks at the bulkhead should have been corrected during predelivery inspection. (1994)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $640 |
| Alternator | $660 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $720 |
| Brakes | $210 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $530 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $845 |
| Exhaust System | $485 |
| Radiator | $585 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $410 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $110 |
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