Volkswagen Jetta problems
The Volkswagen Jetta is a compact car/small family car manufactured and marketed by Volkswagen since 1979. Positioned to fill a sedan niche above the firm's Golf hatchback, it has been marketed over seven generations, variously as the Atlantic, Vento, Bora, City Jetta, Jetta City, GLI, Jetta, Clasico, and Sagitar (in China).
The Jetta has been offered in two- and four-door saloon / sedan, and five-door wagon / estate versions – all as four- or five-seaters. Since the original version in 1980, the car has grown in size and power with each generation. By mid-2011, almost 10 million Jettas have been produced and sold all over the world. As of April 2014, Volkswagen marketed over 14 million, becoming its top selling model.
Nameplate etymology
Numerous sources note that the Jetta nameplate derives from the Atlantic 'jet stream' during a period when Volkswagen named its vehicles after prominent winds and currents (e.g., the Volkswagen Passat (after the German word for trade wind), Volkswagen Bora (after bora), and Volkswagen Scirocco (after sirocco).
A 2013 report by former VW advertising copywriter Bertel Schmitt, said that — after consulting VW sources including Dr. Carl Hahn, former Volkswagen of America Chief and W.P. Schmidt, former sales chief at Volkswagen — no evidence suggested Volkswagen employed a naming theme for its front-drive, water-cooled vehicles; nor was there evidence the names derived from a theme; nor that a naming system "was ever announced, either officially or confidentially."
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Volkswagen Jetta model years
Common Volkswagen Jetta problems
The Volkswagen Jetta is a popular compact sedan, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from owners:
- Power Window Failure: Power window failure is often due to a failed window regulator, which will need to be replaced. This issue affects 2010, 2014, and 2016 models with an average mileage of 90,000 miles.
- General Electrical Issues: These issues can be difficult to diagnose and are often caused by ground wiring problems under the battery. This issue affects many models, including 2012, 2013, and 2014 with an average mileage of 150,000 miles.
- Odor from HVAC Vents: This issue is caused by condensation in the heater case and AC (HVAC) system after the car has been sitting idle for 2 hours or more. It affects 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2016 models with an average mileage of 50,000 miles.
- Faulty Stereo System: This problem is particularly common in the 2010 Jetta, where many drivers have reported that the car stereo simply died.
- Transmission Failure: This issue is common in the 2006 Jetta, where many drivers have reported problems shifting and getting stuck in neutral between 85k and 110k mileage.
- ABS Module Failure: This problem is particularly severe in the 2009 Jetta, where the failing Antilock Braking System (ABS) has led to numerous accidents or near-accidents.
- Clock Spring Failure: This problem affects Volkswagen owners, causing the driver's side airbag, horn, and steering wheel controls to become disabled. This issue has been ongoing for years, with a recall that was first issued in 2013 still under investigation.
- Ignition Coil Failure: This problem affects Volkswagen coils, causing the engine to suddenly lose power. This can lead to shaking or hesitation and leave the driver in a vulnerable position.
- Oil Sludge in the 1.8L Turbo Engine: This issue affected VW's 1.8-liter turbocharged engine from 1997 to 2005, and resulted in a class-action lawsuit due to the tiny 3.7-quart oil capacity that couldn't compensate for the engine's heat generation.
- Diesel Emissions Scandal: Volkswagen has admitted to using a defeat device on its supposedly 'clean diesel' vehicles to skirt around US emissions standards.
These issues can affect the reliability and safety of the Volkswagen Jetta, and it's important for owners to be aware of them. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent some of these problems, but others may require more extensive repairs or replacements.
Are Volkswagen Jetta reliable cars?
Is the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta Reliable? The 2024 Jetta has a predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Does the Volkswagen Jetta have issues?
Volkswagen Jetta Reliability Problems. Jetta owners have made 1,244 complaints over 32 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it second to last in overall reliaibility , with significant engine and interior concerns.
How long do Jetta engines last?
Most Volkswagen vehicles will last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles, although well-kept models can last even longer than that. All VWs are remarkably reliable vehicles. When it comes to longevity, the Golf, Passat, Jetta, and Beetle are known to be particularly long-lasting.
Do VW Jettas have transmission problems?
As their owners will be well aware, certain models of the Volkswagen Jetta 2.5 have been known to have transmission problems. The transmission on these vehicles, the 09G automatic, often has problems with rough shifting into certain gears, making driving an uncomfortable—and often frightening—experience.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Jetta years
We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Jetta cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen Jetta model years:
- Volkswagen Jetta 2009
- Volkswagen Jetta 2010
- Volkswagen Jetta 2002
- Volkswagen Jetta 2001
- Volkswagen Jetta 2011
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Jetta model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Jetta years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volkswagen Jetta car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Jetta , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Jetta vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Jetta model years
A total of 496 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Jetta model years
There were a total of 324 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Jetta model years
There were a total of 604 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Jetta model years
There were a total of 19 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 10236 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Jetta . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Jetta vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volkswagen Jetta 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 3VWNM7BUXNM
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: My car only had twelve thousand miles on it when the problem started with the rear brakes. They were at an eight and in less than two weeks time they started dragging not fully disengaging and went down to a one. Screeching. I looked it up and seems to be a common problem. If it is common and VW is aware of it not only affecting my specific model but other models as well. I believe it should be addressed and figure out a way to stop it. It messes with my fuel economy as well as goes thru pads way sooner than what they should. Which is gonna be costly over time.
Volkswagen Jetta 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 3VWD17AJ5EM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated while driving on the highway at approximately 50 MPH, the RMPs revved however the vehicle lost automotive power. The contact merged to the side of the road and noticed transmission fluid was leaking. The vehicle was restarted however failed to increase in speed. The vehicle was towed to the residence where an independent mechanic diagnosed that the vehicle was leaking transmission fluid from between the transmission and the engine. A dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number:13V568000 (POWER TRAIN) as a probable cause for failure. The approximate mileage at the time of failure was 190,000.
Volkswagen Jetta 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 3VW4M7BU3PM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2023 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that upon coming to a complete stop on an incline, the hill start assist system activated but activated the brakes for an extended period causing the contact to stall the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to diagnose a failure. The contact was informed that the system was functioning as intended. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 0.
Volkswagen Jetta 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 3VWD17AJ6FM
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My Volkswagen vehicle (Jetta Model 2015, MOdel 4DJSA, VIN [XXX] ) had a first event on [XXX] where the car suddenly stop in the middle of [XXX]. The car was taken to Volkswagen at Inver Grove and the cause was related to failure in a piston. The car was fixed without cost as it was covered by the guarantee of the vehicle. Again, around [XXX], the car again suddenly stopped working and needed to be thawed to Volkswagen at Inver Grove, the diagnosis done was extreme misfires on all cylinders that cause the car to die while in operation. The root cause was due to excessive oil inside the cylinder. In this occasion, the repair would not be covered under the guarantee and thus the option provided was to replace the motor at an estimated cost of $11,000 USD which is above the cost of the vehicle. It is important to notice that the car was routinely checked and serviced by Volkswagen at Inver Grove during the time we have owned the vehicle. There were not diagnostic tools that we could have to address this issue, to our knowledge there is nothing we did to cause this catastrophic failure. This recurrent incident could be likely a manufacturing issue and thus it is not caused by the user. The damage of the cylinder was not isolated to just one, all four have the same issue. Our car is currently parked (we are paying storage insurance on it) and we cannot use it. Our ask is for Volkswagen to repair the vehicle at no cost to us as we were not at fault for this issue. We kindly ask you for your support on this matter. Respectfully. [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Volkswagen Jetta 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 3VWE57BU7KM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My son was driving 45 miles per hour when he hit the sidewalk with both tires on the passenger side. Due to this, the curtain airbags were activated on both the driver and passenger side as well as the passenger seat bag, which I think should not have happened and this caused my insurance to determine it as a total loss.
Volkswagen Jetta 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
- VIN: 3VWLL7AJ5CM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Clock spring went out and would have failed to deploy the airbags if i was in an accident. there was no notification that said it went out. NHTSA campaign number - 15V483000
Volkswagen Jetta 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 3VWSF29M5YM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2000 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that while driving with the front driver’s side seat heater activated, the seat became extremely hot. The contact started smelling a burning odor coming from the seat. The contact felt a hole in the seat, which burned the contact's middle finger. The contact immediately pulled over and turned off the vehicle. The contact’s back started burning due to the extreme heat of the seat back. Upon inspection, the contact discovered a hole in his jacket and approximately four holes that had formed in the front driver seat due to the seat heater failure. The contact was not treated for the burns to his back. The contact stated that two dealers were notified of the failure but neither provided immediate assistance. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and informed the contact that there were no recalls on the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 489,000.
Volkswagen Jetta 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-02
- VIN: 3VW7M7BU6PM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: While in operation the dash cluster goes completely black. Aprox 45mph. Dealer had to replace entire dash cluster
Volkswagen Jetta 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 3VWL17AJ7HM
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that on several occasions while the vehicle was started, the infotainment touch screen occasionally went black and did not respond to touch commands. Additionally, the side buttons of the infotainment screen did not respond when depressed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the infotainment screen was inoperable. The vehicle was not repaired. The mechanic advised the contact to take the vehicle to a dealer for assistance. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.
Volkswagen Jetta 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-29
- VIN: 3VWCM7BU5NM
- Components: STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I have a 2022 VW Jetta and my breaks lasted 13,400 miles, I have a daily commute of 11 miles and I believe this is not a normal condition on a car. The delaer refused to replace the breaks despite the eviden condition of low quality. In addition I have a problem in my door where the door does not close in case of really cold weather. I have a video but it I cannot upload.
Volkswagen Jetta 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-28
- VIN: 3VWRA69M44M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Unknown, very complex. Multiple issues. Have been addressed as well as parts been replaced however other issues arised that are definitely safety concerns between electrical issues engine motor etc
Volkswagen Jetta 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
- VIN: 3VWLL7AJ9DM
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 2013 Jetta TDI with 92k miles. I am the third owner of this car which has been regularly maintained since new with all service records, including a 2019 emissions modification per VW recall. I bought this vehicle less than a year ago. My son was driving to work when the car shut off without warning. He was able to restart it and park safely and had it towed home. After replacing the battery and a fuse, the car continued to show a code for the ECM Power Relay Load Circuit . We took it to the mechanic to have it inspected, and learned that the high pressure fuel pump had imploded and metal shavings were found throughout the entire fuel system. This is evidently a common and very costly issue that VW has an obligation to fix. They knowingly continue to use a defective part that is essentially a ticking time bomb without regard to the owners safety and the financial ramifications of the repair. All VW vehicles with this defect should be covered by VW, not just selected model years and models. This causes catastrophic damage and VW is completely negligent by not doing what is right by the customer. The VW dealer quoted a $9,000. repair and VW North America declined any assistance with the vehicle. The car is not worth that, and it would be absurd to pay out of pocket for the repair; especially since VW continues to use a defective designed HPFP that can eventually fail again. VW was selective in the model years that they recalled, but only after the parts failed. They should have applied the recall and repairs to ALL vehicles proactively. I now have a 2013 paperweight in my driveway. The reason I purchased this specific car was for the longevity that diesels are known for. What a shame that VW does not rectify the situation in lieu of the previous diesel scandal. I'll be going back to Volvo or Subaru, two companies that I have had great experiences with, both in safety and reliability. VW should do the right thing, but I guess that's of no importance anymore.
Volkswagen Jetta 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
- VIN: 3VWDB7AJ9HM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed fuel leaking from under the hood of the vehicle. The check engine, and electronic power control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the fuel rail bolt had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 114,000.
Volkswagen Jetta 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-23
- VIN: 3VW2B7AJ0HM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns 2017 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the vehicle failed to turn off while turning the key to the off position in the ignition switch. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and a dealer and was diagnosed, and it was determined that the cylinders in the engine was rusted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 89,000.
Volkswagen Jetta 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-21
- VIN: 3VWDZ7AJ9BM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Component/System Failure/Malfunction: ignition switch and starter, possibly transmission Yes, available for inspection upon request. Car has randomly stalled while in motion; ignition and starter switch have been replaced as well as microswitch panel - yet problem persists. Power steering shuts down, steering wheel becomes very difficult to turn. Have to put car in neutral, typically, and try to restart while in motion. Has happened over 100 times; replaced alternator as well. Battery was replaced, brand new, yet was drained multiple times - recharged at Autozone. Vehicle was brought to Larry H. Miller Volkswagen - was advised the problem was fixed, as well as recall repairs (microswitch), paid for the service, went to leave dealership and problem immediately happened again. Complete shut off. Would stay running a little longer while in neutral or AC on. When the vehicle stalls the only light that comes on is the battery light. All other lights and systems work. Ran diagnostic codes through personal mechanic, friend, and dealership... Code states "Key/Ignition/Computer" but unsure what specifically. The 2011 Volkswagen Jetta also does not have the original key fob. May be improper programming? Continued to research all other recalls, services have been completed and yet the problem persists.
Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Jetta
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 216 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Jetta.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volkswagen Jetta 2019
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
- Model: Volkswagen Jetta 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
- Model: Volkswagen Jetta 2019
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-06
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Jetta vehicles. The instrument cluster may not provide an audible warning to let the driver know that the key is still in the ignition when the door is open. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 114, "Theft Protection."
- Consequence: Without an audible warning, the driver may be unaware that the key is left in the ignition, which can increase the risk of vehicle theft or a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the instrument cluster, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 3, 2023. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 90W7.
- Model: Volkswagen Jetta 2019
- Report Received Date: 2023-08-30
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Golf, Golf Alltrack, Golf Sportwagen, 2019-2020 Golf GTI, and Jetta vehicles equipped with a conventional ignition switch. The ignition switch may fail, especially in high temperature environments.
- Consequence: Ignition switch failure can cause the electrical system to shut down and the engine to stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 1, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 28H7.
- Model: Volkswagen Jetta 2020
- Report Received Date: 2023-08-30
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Golf, Golf Alltrack, Golf Sportwagen, 2019-2020 Golf GTI, and Jetta vehicles equipped with a conventional ignition switch. The ignition switch may fail, especially in high temperature environments.
- Consequence: Ignition switch failure can cause the electrical system to shut down and the engine to stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 1, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 28H7.
Latest negative Volkswagen Jetta car reviews
Latest positive Volkswagen Jetta car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2009
I was on the hunt for an 'adventure-mobile' to replace my beloved 1993 Toyota Corolla. I test drove the RAV4, CR-V, and Escape, but none of them quite fit the bill. That's when I stumbled upon the VW Sportwagen. It has been a flawless performer, with a strong engine, solid build, ample cargo room, and excellent MPG. The ride on the highway is smooth and well-cushioned, and the handling is impressively agile and responsive. My only real complaint is that the sunvisor is too short! They cut off three or four inches to accommodate a fancy ceiling console that I hardly ever use. It's not a deal-breaker, but it just seems kind of silly to me. I was planning on tinting the windows anyway, which should take care of the issue.
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Vehicle year: 2023
I recently upgraded from a 2017 Jetta S manual to a 2022 Jetta Sport manual and I must say, the improvements are significant. The seats are not only more comfortable but also more attractive. The 1.5L turbo has more punch and the six-speed manual is among the smoothest I've ever driven (and I have owned numerous standard transmission cars over 30 years of driving). The optional Driver Assistance package is an awesome addition for the price. The autonomous cruise works well, and the leather steering wheel/shifter add some fit and finish. Knowing that the car is equipped with emergency braking technology offers peace of mind. The best accident is the one you avoid. I've filled the tank twice in this car and I'm impressed with its efficiency. My first tank was a mix of city/highway, and I managed 37.9 mpg. The second tank of mostly highway driving surpassed 41 mpgs. My 17 Jetta would manage nearly 50 mpgs on long highway trips, and I have no doubt this new drivetrain will manage the same once broken in. Outstanding efficiency. Although there are some basic plastics inside, and the car has an underwhelming radio, it's still a far-improved car over the past five model years. Noticeable improvement in the interior with digital instrumentation, seats, standard technology. The car has grown a few inches to really ride the line between a compact and midsize, which I really appreciate at the compact price. The massive trunk is a plus. While nobody will confuse the car with an Audi, it definitely is a handsome vehicle for the pedestrian price point. I definitely recommend the Sport model over the S for the small price increase. It meaningfully changes the presence of the automobile, both inside and out. Is this a swanky car? Of course not. However, it is a bargain purchase that I highly recommend.VWs are not only safe, but also extremely efficient and feel well-built inside and out. My 17 Jetta caused me zero mechanical or reliability issues in the five years I owned it. Nothing broke on the car at all, and nothing required unexpected service. It's what brought me back for another quality commuter vehicle. We have a much more expensive family SUV which shares our garage with the Jetta. However, the Jetta is the better value for the purchase price, as long as you have reasonable expectations for what you're purchasing. I would definitely recommend the brand and the vehicle far and away above any other competitive product, other than the Honda Civic. That's a great car, too, and a comparable product. Between the two, I would argue it comes down to aesthetic preferences. This car deserves far more accolades than it seems to be receiving. Thank you for considering my opinion!
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Vehicle year: 2007
This car may not be the most glamorous, but it provides excellent service and comfort at an unbeatable value. It's known as 'The People's Car'.
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Vehicle year: 1991
Your 1990 Jetta is a fantastic car that has served you well! With 163,000 miles on it, it still runs like new. This car has given back many times over what you paid for it. It still has the original clutch, and you've only had to replace minor things like all four door handles at one time or another, brakes, tires, and the usual. Preventive maintenance goes a long way with these cars. Although the A/C stopped working long ago, the 90 Jetta is one of the last years these cars were built in Germany, and the quality shows. If you take care of this car, it will not let you down. In conclusion, I highly recommend the 1990 Jetta as a fantastic car.
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Vehicle year: 2017
As a long-time owner of Japanese nameplates such as Honda and Toyota, I was initially hesitant to purchase a German brand, especially after VW's 'dieselgate' scandal. However, after owning my '17 VW Jetta SEL with the 1.8L turbo for 13 months, I can confidently say that I have not regretted my decision. The Jetta is an incredibly enjoyable car to drive, with great power from the 1.8L engine and a relatively quiet ride for its size and price. The controls are logically laid out and easy to operate, and I have had no issues with the Navigation system, which has worked flawlessly. I particularly love the adaptive cruise control feature. In the 10,000 miles that I have driven the car, I have not experienced any mechanical problems or needed any repairs (except for a computer-related update). The gas mileage has been excellent, with 39 mpg on straight over-the-road driving and a respectable 26-28 mpg in city/town driving. Overall, I am extremely pleased with my purchase and feel that it was an excellent value for the price paid.
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Jetta?
Sim Littel 2025-10-22
Vehicle year: 2006
It is important to note that while saving a dollar on mileage may seem appealing, it is crucial to consider the potential costs of maintenance. In this case, several repairs have already been made, including the turbo, dash display control chip, stereo, interior lights, and driver's electric seat controls. Additionally, there are some issues with the outside mirror defogger and the ceiling skirt. It is worth noting that dealer maintenance and parts can be quite expensive. In retrospect, it may have been more prudent to opt for a high-quality Japanese car with slightly weaker gas mileage. It is important to learn from this experience and make informed decisions in the future.
Ralph Nikolaus 2025-10-20
Vehicle year: 2015
I purchased my 2015 Jetta on September 7th, 2018, from a dealership in Glen Burnie, MD. Unfortunately, I have already had to spend $191.47 on an alignment and will need to spend an additional $757.09 to fix the broken Bluetooth module. As a single mom, I am frustrated by the unexpected expenses. However, I am confident that I made the right choice in purchasing this vehicle and will continue to take care of it to ensure its longevity.
Broderick Swift 2025-10-19
Vehicle year: 2009
The 2009 TDI sportwagon is a great car, but unfortunately, I have had some issues with reliability which have been a bit of a show stopper for me. While I have owned many Toyotas over the years which have been incredibly reliable, this VW has required major overhauls for virtually every system except the engine. Repairs for this model can be quite costly, with the cost of repairs during the first 120K miles being almost as much as the cost of the car itself. While it has been the least reliable and most expensive car I have owned, I still appreciate the many great features of this car. However, I may consider other options in the future.
Marques Trantow 2025-10-18
Vehicle year: 2016
Since writing the initial review below, I have experienced some issues with the EPC light coming on and the engine losing power on three separate occasions. This can be particularly concerning when traveling at high speeds and trying to pass someone. Although I have had it towed back to the dealer once, the other two times I drove it back myself. Unfortunately, the dealer was unable to duplicate the problem and VW Customer Care has been of no help. Despite this, I must say that the GLI is a pretty decent ride overall, with some nice upgrades to the interior since this generation was introduced. Although it still has some hard plastic door panels, it has done a good job of making upgrades. The upgraded electronics work quite well, despite the USB being in a tight spot (under the HVAC, in front of the shifter).The Fender audio sounds great, and while the bass can be overwhelming at times, it's still a pleasure to listen to. The seats are comfortable, although they don't provide as much support as the GTI seats. The car is equipped with V-Tex instead of leather, but I don't mind that at all. The 2.0t engine is more than capable of handling my long commute to work. While the GTI was more agile, the Jetta is still quite nimble and responsive. I have noticed a bit of a DSG lag in this car, especially when starting from a stop, but it's not a major issue. The Jetta rides smoother and is quieter than the GTI, and I'm getting much better gas mileage too (and it uses regular unleaded now). The car is loaded with features, which is fantastic. It would be nice to have dual power seats and power lumbar, but that's a minor quibble. Compared to the GTI, this car offers similar features at a much more affordable price. My 2014 GTI had several major issues in the past year, including a water pump, A/C system, sunroof system, and intake manifold. That made me hesitant to consider a new one. However, the dealer was able to get me out of my lease early and into this car for the same payment, which I'm very happy about. The new MQB platform is expected to be available on the Jetta within the next year or so, so it might be worth waiting for that. Some people find the current Jetta to be bland and boring, but I've always appreciated VW's understated styling. They age well compared to more radical designs, in my opinion. I still think it's worth taking a test drive. Just make sure your dealer confirms that it's not one of the GLI models that are currently on stop sale due to bad cam shafts. They should be able to check that by the VIN.
Gayle Deckow 2025-10-14
Vehicle year: 2006
In June 2014, I took my 2006 VW TDI with 112K miles to the dealer for a timing belt and fuel filter change. I was surprised by the cost of the service. The service guy informed me that my fuel filter was black, which meant that my injectors were shot. He also mentioned that there was a 50/50 chance that the camshaft and lifting arms would need to be replaced due to poor design by VW with dissimilar metals that tend to fail. Unfortunately, this resulted in a bill of $4k. I sent two letters to the VW Customer Care center, and they were very apologetic. However, I still feel that the cost was too high. I hope that VW can improve their design and pricing in the future.