1999-2005 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
2005 Volkswagen Jetta and Golf
View the Photo Gallery
View the Photo Gallery
1999-2005 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta ▼
- Price Range: $2,200 - $13,500
Reviews & Ratings
Pricing
Explore
Specifications & Safety
Related to Volkswagen Jetta/Golf/GTI/Rabbit
Related Reviews
View Another Vehicle
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.
Audio system:
The door speakers may rattle due to loose rivets or wiring harness contacting the speakers. Requires new fasteners and rerouting wires. (1999)
Clutch:
Due to the return spring falling out of position, the clutch pedal may not fully return and the cruise may not disengage. (1999)
Coolant leak:
Backfires due to faulty plugs dislodge the idle control damper from the rear of the VR6 engine causing rough, or no idle. (1999-04)
Engine noise:
Due to the throttle cable contacting the engine cover, the throttle pedal vibrates and there is a rapping noise under the hood. (1999-2000)
Hard starting:
Diesel engines may be hard to start or run poorly below in cold weather due to fuel clouding. VW recommends using Stanadyne One Shot during the winter. (2000-02)
Rough idle:
Backfires due to faulty plugs dislodge the idle control damper from the rear of the VR6 engine causing rough, or no idle. (1999-04)
Vehicle noise:
A humming noise when cornering may be coming from the differential. Draining the automatic-transmission fluid and replacing it with synthetic may help. (1999)
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 | $495 |
| Alternator | $360 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,100 |
| Brakes | $360 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $470 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,370 |
| Exhaust System | $370 |
| Radiator | $405 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $490 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $280 |








