One problem related to steering failed has been reported for the 1999 Volkswagen Jetta. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
This car was purchased new in July 2000. It is the newly redesigned Jetta. Since it's purchase the car has been in the shop 9 times for water/air leaks, twice for failed drivers side front suspension steering failure, namely the shock, bearing, spacer, retainer (struts). In addition several pieces of the inside molding have detached. One of the largest safety issues for me, other than the strut, is the poorly designed floor mats which pop loose, slip forward , and catch the gas petal causing accerlaration. The air conditioner has molded over twice. I have informed both the seller and the manufacturing of my complaints and have demanded a refund or a lemon law take back. I am not sure what to do but feel vw hasn't been honest about all the problems the "new" vw has had. I just wanted to file this complaint in case other owners out there are experienceing the same problems I am and have not received any help from vw also.