Four problems related to ignition have been reported for the 1997 Volkswagen Jetta. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Engine shuts down when sitting at lights. Car has been in shop 4 days problem cannot be found.
While traveling on the highway and without prior warning vehicle will shutdown.
While driving and with no warning vehicle will stall. It will be hard for consumer to control the vehicle.
I purchased a used 1997 vw Jetta gl in November of 1999. When I purchased the car, the dealership refused to give me a warranty. They said that they didn't offer the warranty with cars over 55,000 miles, mine had 55,500 miles. In late September of 2001 (69342 miles), my automatic transmission went out, during rush hour, in a high traffic area. About 1-2 months prior I had the transmission serviced, including a fluid change. I was forced to replace my transmission, and had several problems with it after. The shop that I had replace it said that they have seen many Jetta's with this problem. I still am having problems, with the car. Problems include: check engine light clicks on and off for no reason, not starting in warmer weather, irregular idleing, and sticky locks. I am aware that these cars have electrial problems that could cause unsafe conditions. I do not believe that the customer should be forced to pay for these coastly repairs, when so many cases exsits.