Windshield Wiper/washer problems of the 1996 Volkswagen Jetta

Smoke from the steering column. After the vehicle was started, a puff of smoke arose from the steering column and I lost use of my windshield wipers. I have been online and have seen numerous similar complaints to the same affect. Shouldn't this be a recall item ? Ave had quite a few others problems in the 6 months since we have owned our 1996 Jetta.

Ignition was sticking. Driving at 55 going to turn headlights on,there are none. Pull over turn car off and keep restarting. Wipers the same. Brought in for repair. Told ignition sticking. Replace at my cost. Never tried while driving but experimented at a stop. If car is running and you lightly touched ignition. . . Car would shut off. This I assume would also happen when driving. I was quite a few customers were bringing in their car with this problem.

Windshield wipers and headlight do not work.

Consumer experiencing several problems with vehicle. When driving in wet weather conditions the windshield wipers will cut off. This problem is intermittent. At times, will not function at all. Consumer has contacted the dealer . Also, replaced transmission/ throttle body and alternator. In addition, front brake rotors failed and front pads cracked/engine idles/bucks and stalls. Engine check light comes on/off.

Intermittent brake failure. In addition, front end vibrates and vehicle pulls to the right/passenger's seat came off the track/ steeering wheel bolt cracked twice, causing steering wheel to come loose while driving/windshield wipers failed twice in freezing temperatures and rear brake light bulbs need to be replaced every other month due to premature failure.