My dad is considering surprising my mom with a VW Jetta for Christmas and he wants to know what kind of problems are common on them. I think he'* mostly looking at the current (2005+) and the previous gen Jettas.

What'* recommneded? My mom loved my cousin'* Jetta Wolfsburg Edition (1.8T/6M).

I betcha Greyhare can answer this...

I looked online and seems that hte common problems are brake lights/switchs and some rubbing of gas lines.

Grayhare'* is nothing like the MKV..

Aren't too many common issues with them as the MKIV, I frequent GTI boards more often, but both are the same up front. Some have a few mystery rattles in the dash, my sunglass holder doesn't do well with my extra pair in it sometimes. I've the spring break on my HVAC recirculation button, and a coolant fitting has come loose. All were covered under warranty as quick as my dealer can take care of it.

Jettas are assembled in m=Mexico, while the GTI is done in Wolfsburg, some people think this is why the last gen had so many issues. Jetta is slightly heavier, but weight is also balanced better towards the rear. Coil packs and windows aren't problems anymore.

A MKV is worlds ahead of the MKIV, rear suspension is now a multilink setup, and makes the car much more "chuckable." If you want a VR6, you'll have to get the MKIV, but you can't go wrong with the 2.0T, or TDI coming soon with either 6Sp manual, or the 6 sp DSG. Don't get the automagic...

MKIV (previous gen): everything