'98 Jetta: Window regulator or motor?

I bought the car last year and since I bought it the back windows do not work. I can't afford to have a shop fix it. When I push the up/down button you can briefly hear the motor attemping to work... How can I confirm its a regulator problem? or a motor problem? What parts would I need to buy to repair? Is it hard? Any suggestions for a cheap place to purchase?

Most likely you have bad window regulators. It is a very common problem with these cars. The motor is probably good since you can hear the motor attemting to work. The dealer wants about $90 for each regulator. Try buying one online or off of ebay used. It is no too hard to put one in if you are mechanically inclined, definitely not for beginners.

Try the salvage yards. You can get some great deals if you can find one. The job really is not that difficult I advice you to get the Haynes manual since its way cheaper than the Bentley service manual and unlike the service manual, the Haynes show you how to take off the door panel and disconnect the electrical. don't forget to get some contact paper since you are going to tear the old moisture shield you need to replace that with the contact paper it works great. hey! hope this helps you.
Tacuvito.