Volkswagen Repair: 2001 VW Jetta 57000 miles, air flow meters, mass air flow

Question
I have 3 issues. 1) My EPC light has been coming on and I cant shift out of park. If I play around with it by stepping on the break or giving it some time it will eventually work but it's getting worse. This happened 2 years ago and I had the brake switch and oxygen sensor replaced. 2) 2 years I left my car for about 2 months at my friend's driveway while I was away on vacation. When I got back, the car wouldnt start. So I had the battery changed. However, The whole driver side front and back footwells were wet, I thought I may have left the window open. I notice that everytime that it rains hard it happens again. My mechanic said there werent any leaks but I dont know how hard he looked but I had taken it in for A/C. 3)Sometimes when I press on the gas, and then let go I think it hiccups? or kickbacks? I dont know how else to explain it. Is it time to get rid of my baby :(

Answer
Hi Kate;
(1) N4...brake light switch campaign...free at the dealer.(2) Your mechanic is a PUTZ!!!  There are sunroof drains in the door hinge are made of rubber that clog with debris, and allow water to flow into the cabin.  Cut them off!  Cut them off on both sides with an X-acto knife.(3) The Mass air flow meters in these cars...especially "AZG" or "AVH" engine code 2.0 litre engines...have a history of trouble, and failures.   Keep your baby.
I thought of some thing I should have added the other night Kate;

There are 2 more "drains" made of the same rubber that was in the door hinge area...under the trunk.  They clog, too.  cut them off, as well.  Thanks for the nice rating.