Just bought a 98 GLS for $2300. 105K Miles, Clean NADAGuides Report, BUT....
3 out of 4 windows do not work at all.
Instrument Panel will not light up (Speedometer, Gas Gauge area definitely doesnt, defrost button DOES though.)
Engine while idling has a constant, slightly high pitched sound, dealer says that can be common for 4 cylinder engines?
I purchased a Penn Warranty Co. 6 Month/7500 miles Basic Contract. I called them, no go on interior problems like the windows. I am waiting on the dealer, he said he'd see about getting them fixed himself.
I read about disconnecting the battery cables and holding them together to do a reset related to the dash lighting. Does that sound right?

It may sound weird, but i could not dream of affording a newer VW with two babies. I had this same car, it was given to me for free because it was in horrible shape and eventually had to be junked. But while I had it, this car has become nothing but a love and obsession. I am SO excited to have gotten the one today in much better shape, but i also want to ensure this car gets the love it deserves!
Thanks in advance for all your help.

 

I would guess that your window control module is bad and are you saying that half of the instrument panel lights up?

 

Howdy, racerx002, and thanks for the help. I edited my post to make it more clear.
I'm pretty sure two of the four windows, you can hear the motor when you press the switch, but the windows don't move.
Also, no radio, arrgh! What's my best bet? Can I just go to a Best Buy, etc and get a radio?

So exciting to have this car!

 

Have you checked the fuses as far as the dash lights and radio are concerned because they share the same power wires. If your fuses are fine, this may sound strange but you may need a new light switch. Also, I'm not sure in your model year but on mine there is what's called a comfort module that controls most everything in the interior. If you get a repair manual or subscribe to alldatadiy.com I think it would help you out quite a bit. Those two windows may be off track or the regulators are bad in them. Feel free to ask more questions if you need to.

 

Thanks man,
I'm trying to find the fuse diagram/key online. Hopefully the fuse is it, I have an Autozone up the block Thanks again!

 

racerx002,
You're gonna laugh. I never turned the headlight switch to the proper position! Now I can see my instrument panel, yay!

 

If the car sat for a bit before it was sold maybe the tracks are frozen for the windows.