One problem related to manual transmission floor shifter has been reported for the 1997 Volkswagen Jetta. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Problem with manual transmission not shifting into reverse; difficult to shift into and out of reverse and second gear,forcing you to double clutch to enable shifting. Ticking sound when in reverse. This resulted in chipped and pitted reverse idle gear and gear teeth missing. Also, shifter lever vibrating, becoming loose and eventually breaking off. Vehicle also recalled for a fire protective shield in the right rear wheel housing. Vehicle in shop for over a month due to litigation with penn warranty corp. Refusing to repair, stating damage was due to driver misuse.