1998 Volkswagen Jetta electrical problems

Filed Nov 15, 2017 · Electrical · MO

The vehicles' anti theft had went haywire. Went to start, beep sound went off. Then was locked inside car. With the alarm going off. Was only able to exit vehicle by having passerby unhook battery, while I held the unlock button. This was over 2 weeks ago. When hooking battery back up, the alarm still goes off. I am unable to drive. The battery was purchased new in june. Nothing has been added to vehicle. Please advise to how this matter will be resolved & if anyone else has had a similar problem.

Filed Nov 14, 2012 · Body, Electrical · CO

I have been trapped inside the front seat of this vehicle. Both front doors will occasionally not open from inside or outside the car, even with the doors unlocked. This is an intermittent and unpredictable problem that I feel is quite dangerous. These vehicles should have been recalled and had the door locking mechanism replaced.

Filed Nov 30, 2006 · Electrical, Engine · 1 miles · VA

Like others, I have had the ignition coil replaced. This happened after the warranty expired, of course. I have also had electrical problems with the windows (regulator and motor) for all of them. Now, my check engine light is flashing and the car is sputtering. I know the secondary air intake valve needs replacing but it did not cause problems. Now I'm wondering if something new is wrong??? Also, I was having problems with losing coolant and had to continuously replace antifreeze. After fixing what I thought was a small leak the entire system will not produce cool air! This car has been nothing but problems and vw should look into all of these complaints.

Filed Jul 1, 2006 · Electrical · 96,821 miles · NC

Glow plug control unit fails on 1998 vw jetta tdi, but there is no part for the last 5+ months available from volkswagen. Also, there is no estimate of when volkswagen will have a part available. This is nationwide. The control unit is essential for the starting of the car.

Filed Jul 5, 2005 · Electrical · 12,000 miles · IL

1. Driving 2. Lights went out, fan went out and windshield wipers stopped working.

Filed Feb 10, 2005 · Electrical, Fuel system · PA

While driving 40 MPH driver noticed that the front left tire was flat. Suddenly, the vehicle stalled. Driver was not able to restart vehicle, and noticed fluid leaking from underneath. Vehicle was towed home.

Filed Dec 2, 2004 · Electrical, Lights · 00

While driving headlights were dim. Consumer took vehicle to the dealer. Consumer found there were alot of complaints regarding the headlights. Consumer had to replace the bulb with higher waltage. There was also a problem with the passat. However, the problem was electrical.

Filed May 14, 2004 · Electrical · 75,000 miles · CT

Battery exploded while starting the engine. Hood damaged, battery acid released.

Filed May 5, 2004 · Electrical · IN · fire

I own a 1998 volkswagon jetta, wolfsburg edition. I've been stranded a total of 6 or 7 times (losing count) on the interstate by this vehicle. Purchased this vehicle from a private owner less than a year ago and have experienced numerous mysterious problems ever since. I work for the state of indiana, communte into indianapolis 5 days a week, I am an interstate traveler. I have forgiven most of the problems this car has had, but recently have reached the limit. Just last week I was once again stranded on the interstate during rush hour and my car suddenly stopped running and smoke began to rise from my steering column. This situation terrified me. Not only did I have to urgently coast to the shoulder of the interstate, but I was in fear that the car would be on fire due to seeing this smoke. The car was towed and the ignition coil was replaced; although the service man didn't think that was the source of the smoke from my steering column. I know from reading other complaints that the bad ignition coil in these vehicles is a common problem. There are existing recalls on some volkswagon ignition coils. This seems unjust considering they used the same ignition coil in the 1998 that they did in other vehicle years. This repair cost me $400, which is just icing on the cake for me right now. Now my airbag light is on and the serviceman who replaced the ignition coil says all is connected and he thinks the smoke in the car was coming from the airbag wiring. He said there's no way to disconnect the airbag (to stop any chance of it exploding out on me while driving). If it comes out while driving..I am dead.if it fails in an accident.I could be dead. I am afraid to even have my family in the car. I honestly think it's entire electrical system is wired incorrectly. Please assist me in getting justice served. I've heard of so many others who are mistreated and ignored by volkswagon. This vehicle's repeated failure should be noted. I appreciate anything you can do.

Filed Apr 1, 2004 · Electrical · CA

When turning the ignition on electrical components do not work. The headlights don't come, and heater doesn't work. Consumer believes it is an electrical problem. *ak