what's the matter with my jetta?

[snugent]

i have a 1997 jetta, 2.0, 4 cyl. I've had it for about three years and have had no major problems with it. Last night, i got in it to go out and everything was fine and normal. the starter turned over once and then every bit of power cut out. brake lights, radio, head lights...everything. i tried jumping to to no avail. i left it alone for the night and when i went out to it in the morning, it seemed that the power had come back. the dome light turned on, headlights went on, but then i noticed that the radio had reset itself and gone into "safe" mode. also, the hazard lights were on even though the button wasn't pushed down. when i tried to start the car, absolutely nothing happened. what's going on? any help will be greatly appreciated.

[GaryFenza]

wow, thats sounds wierd, good luck man. I dont have a Jetta, but my neighbor does, i drive the Grand Prix, GOOD LUCK!

[veedubmechanic]

Check the battery terminals for corrosion and proper fitment and tightened down good. If thats ok I would say its the ignition switch.

[15bigfoot]

After you clean the battery terminals (or before),You will find a small clear plastic cover near or next to the battery with the two main fuses or fusible links for the entire car underneath.Check those for starters.