Problem Reports
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1998 Volkswagen Jetta
High Mileage Automatic Transmissions May Have Shifting Problems
Shifting issues due to internal problems in high mileage automatic transmissions can be difficult to resolve without transmission replacement.
Power Window May Fail Due to Window Regulator
One or more power windows may fail. Our technicians tell us this is commonly due to a failed window regulator which will require replacement.
Reverse Gear Failures and/or Noise From Manual Transmission
Reverse gear failures and noise in the manual transmission models are common.
Difficult to Diagnose Electrical Issues Are Typically Due to Ground Issues
Electrical issues that are difficult to diagnose—and sometimes intermittent—are typically due to ground wiring issues. The most troublesome ground locations are under the battery or at the engine.
Engine Overheating Due to Damaged Water Pump Impeller
A damaged water pump impeller may cause an engine overheating condition. Our technicians tell us the repair should include replacement of the water pump, thermostat, and flushing the cooling system.
Wrong Anti-Freeze/Coolant May Cause Heater Core Leaks
Heater core leaks are common in this model, more so if the wrong anti-freeze/coolant is used in the cooling system.
Engine Misfire Due to Failed Ignition Coil, Spark Plug, or Ignition Wire
An ignition coil or spark plug may fail unexpectedly resulting in an engine misfire and possible illumination of the Check Engine Light. Vehicles equipped with spark plug wires may also develop a misfire caused by a failed spark plug wire.
Coolant Leak From Oil Filter Housing O-ring
A coolant leak may develop after oil filter replacement. The coolant o-ring seal can be damaged if the oil filter housing turns when removing or installing the oil filter. The recommended procedure is to hold the filter housing when tightening or loosening the oil filter.
Coolant and Oil Leaks
The water pump and/or other cooling system may develop a coolant leak. Oil leaking from the valve cover gasket is also common.
Shifting/Drivability Issues Due to Throttle Body Failure
Throttle body failure is not uncommon and can lead to shifting issues with the automatic transmission and other drivability concerns.
Check Engine Light on, Multiple Possibilities
The Check Engine Light may illuminate due to a faulty oxygen sensor and/or coolant temperature sensor. Proper diagnoses will be required to confirm the fault.