1986 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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Common 1986 Volkswagen Jetta problems
The Volkswagen Jetta, first introduced in 1986, has faced a variety of issues over the years, as reported by its owners. One of the most common problems concerns the DSG (Direct-Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission, which has been plagued by issues such as sudden stopping, erratic gear changes, and rough shifting. These problems were particularly prevalent in the 2009 model year and were slow to be addressed by Volkswagen, leading to a voluntary recall. The DSG transmission was used in a majority of Jettas, making it a significant concern for potential buyers.
Another issue reported by owners is the compatibility of the Jetta with E10 petrol, a fuel blend containing 10% ethanol. While all Australian-delivered, fuel-injected Volkswagens built after 1986 can run on E10 petrol, the Jetta is better off with 95RON ULP and is not able to use the standard 91RON stuff that many cars can use. This can lead to performance and reliability issues if the incorrect fuel is used.
The 1986 Volkswagen Jetta diesel model has been praised for its reliability, with one example having accumulated 400,000 miles and still being in great condition.
In summary, the Volkswagen Jetta has faced several issues over the years, with the DSG transmission and E10 petrol compatibility being notable concerns. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider the associated costs and risks when purchasing a Jetta, particularly for older models.
What is a common problem in Volkswagen Jetta?
Automatic gearbox problems
It has been known for the automatic gearboxes on these cars to suffer with different problems. One of the most common problems is for the gears struggling to change, which could be caused by problems with the gear linkage. Does this video below sound anything like your problem?
What year Jetta has transmission problems?
Harsh Shifting on Automatic Transmission Jettas
Shifting problems have been a common issue in many 1990-2012 and 2016 Jettas. Drivers report that their vehicles jerk when shifting from second to third gear, as well as suffer from a slipping transmission while moving at 35-50 miles an hour.
What year Jetta is most reliable?
2014 Volkswagen Jetta
This model received high ratings for safety, reliability, and fuel efficiency. It also has a spacious interior and a smooth ride. The 2014 Volkswagen Jetta is a compact sedan known for its reliable performance and comfortable ride.
How long do Jetta engines last?
In many cases, the VW Jetta can run for more than 200,000 miles when properly maintained. Most VW Jetta owners drive their cars for 7 and a half years, which is usually around 75,000 miles before they upgrade to a new model with the latest features.
What is a common problem in Volkswagen Jetta?
Automatic gearbox problems
It has been known for the automatic gearboxes on these cars to suffer with different problems. One of the most common problems is for the gears struggling to change, which could be caused by problems with the gear linkage. Does this video below sound anything like your problem?
What year Jetta is most reliable?
Here are the most reliable selections for the Jetta:
- 2011 Volkswagen Jetta.
- 2017 Volkswagen Jetta.
- 2020 Volkswagen Jetta.
What year Jetta has transmission problems?
Harsh Shifting on Automatic Transmission Jettas
Shifting problems have been a common issue in many 1990-2012 and 2016 Jettas. Drivers report that their vehicles jerk when shifting from second to third gear, as well as suffer from a slipping transmission while moving at 35-50 miles an hour.
How reliable is a Volkswagen Jetta?
The Volkswagen Jetta Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 21st out of 36 for compact cars. The average annual repair cost is $609 which means it has average ownership costs. Repairs are less severe and less frequent than the average car, so the Jetta is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road.
1986 Volkswagen Jetta car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Jetta problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Structure problems
- Visibility problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Volkswagen Jetta vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1986 Volkswagen Jetta complaints
The NHTSA has received 17 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: WVWGA0168GW
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1986 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 60 MPH WHEN HE NOTICED ANTIFREEZE ABNORMALLY LEAKING ONTO HER FOOT. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BURNS TO HER FOOT AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL REPAIR FACILITY. THE MECHANIC ADVISED THAT THE HEATER CORE HAD FRACTURED AND CAUSED THE ANTI-FREEZE TO LEAK ONTO THE CONTACT. THE CONTACT DID NOT CALL THE MANUFACTURER REGARDING THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 97,869.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VISIBILITY
- Summary: THERE IS A WEAK MELTED SEAL IN THE FUEL BOX WHICH IS LEAKING. *JG THE HEATER CORE WAS RECALLED. RECALL# 87V053000 *SCC
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1990-08-10
- VIN: WVWGA0167GW
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: I FOUND OUT THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE FUEL PUMP LOCATED INSIDE THE FUEL TANK. DURING LONG IDLING MY FUEL PUMP MAKES ALOT OF NOISE THEN SHUTS DOWN. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR A VERY LONG TIME AND THE MANUFACTURE STATED THERE WAS NO RECALLS ON THIS VEHICLE. ITS AMAZING THAT I HAVE PUT UP WITH THIS FOR THIS LONG. I SPENT MANY HARD EARN DOLLARS TO TRY TO FIGURE THIS PROBLEM OUT AND STILL HASN'T BEEN FIXED BECAUSE NOONE COULD FIGURE WHAT THE PROBLEM WAS. WAS THERE A RECALL ON THIS PART AND DO I HAVE ANY RECOURSE . THANK YOU. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-07-21
- VIN: WVWGA0167GW
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: VEHICLE SPUTTERS AND THEN STALLS WHILE IDLING AND IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC. WORSE DURING HIGH TEMPERATURES. WILL NOT RESTART FOR APPROXIMATELY 10 MINUTES. FUEL PUMP MAKES WHINING NOISES.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-12-24
- VIN: WVWGH0164GW
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: A SUDDEN FAILURE FROM THE FRACTURE OF THE METAL HOLDING THE PART OF THE K-FRAME WHICH HOLDS THE LOWER LEFT FRONT SUSPENSION MEMBER, STEERING CONTROL BECAME SUDDENLY VERRY SLOPPY, NEARLY RESULTING IN A COLLISION WITH ADJOINING TRAFFIC. I BELIEVE THIS IS THE SECOND FALURE OF THIS MEMBER ON THIS VEHICLE. THE DEALER WANTED TO SELL ME PARTS AND LABOR BUT WAS OTHERWISE NOT INTERESTED. IT SEEMED WHEN I WAS INQUIRING ABOUT PARTS AVAILABILITY THAT THIS MAY NOT BE AN UNCOMMON FAILURE TO OCCURR ON THIS VEHICLE. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHEN TURNING THE IGNITION ON CAR DID NOT START UP. THIS WAS DUE TO A FAULTY FUEL PUMP. DEALER HAS NOT SEEN VEHICLE. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-10-06
- VIN: WVWCA0162GW
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: CONSUMER RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE ON THE HEATER CORE. THE DEALER HAD TO REMOVE THE AIR DUCT SEALS. THE MECHANIC INFORMED THE OWNER THAT THE SEALS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED . DEALER HAD TO REMOVE SEALS IN ORDER TO REPAIR THE RECALL. DEALER WILL NOT REPLACE THE SEALS UNLESS THE OWNER PAYS FOR THEM. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWGA0163GW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: STARTER FAILED.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3VWRA81H2TM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VIOLENT DEPLOYMENT OF DRIVER'S AIR BAG DURING A COLLISION RESULTED IN MULTIPLE CUTS/BURNS/CONCUSSION. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3VWRA81H2TM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: DRIVER SUSTAINED MULTIPLE INJURIES WHEN AIR BAG DEPLOYED DURING CRASH, INCLUDING A BURN THAT LEFT THE VW EMBLEM FROM THE STEERING WHEEL EMBEDDED ON ARM.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: WVWGB0163GW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE INNER PADS ON THE LEFT AND RIGHT BOTH SEPARATED COMPLETELY FROM THE BACK PLATES AND PUSHED DOWN IN THE CALIPER, RUBBING AGAINST THE ROTOR.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-08-13
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL PUMPS FAILED TWICE.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-29
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FAILURE ON THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER AND REAR DOOR HANDLES, DOOR HANDLES ARE BROKEN OFF CAN NOT GET INTO THE VEHICLE. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-29
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FAILURE ON THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER AND REAR DOOR HANDLES, DOOR HANDLES ARE BROKEN OFF CAN NOT GET INTO THE VEHICLE. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-29
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: FAILURE ON THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER AND REAR DOOR HANDLES, DOOR HANDLES ARE BROKEN OFF CAN NOT GET INTO THE VEHICLE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-22
- VIN: WVWGB0163GW
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MANUAL TRANSMISSION CLUTCH PEDAL GOES ALL THE WAY TO FLOOR, UNABLE TO ENGAGE IN FORWARD GEARS. TT
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-01-22
- VIN: WVWGB0163GW
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MANUAL TRANSMISSION CLUTCH PEDAL GOES ALL THE WAY TO FLOOR, UNABLE TO ENGAGE IN FORWARD GEARS. TT
1986 Volkswagen Jetta recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1986 Volkswagen Jetta.
- Manufacturer: FOREIGN PARTS DISTRIBUTORS, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CERTAIN HYDRAULIC BRAKE HOSES, P/N 171.611.107B, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR 1975-1985 VOLKSWAGEN (VW) RABBIT; 1985-1992 VW GOLF; AND 1980-1992 VW JETTA PASSENGER VEHICLES. POSSIBLE BRAKE HOSE RUPTURE COULD OCCUR WHICH FAILS TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 106, "BRAKE HOSES."
- Consequence: BRAKE HOSE RUPTURE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF BRAKING ABILITY, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: FOREIGN PARTS DISTRIBUTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE BRAKE HOSES WITH COMPLIANT BRAKE HOSES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 30, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FOREIGN PARTS DISTRIBUTORS AT 305-885-8646 EXT. 11.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE
- Summary: THE END CAP CONNECTING THE HEAT EXCHANGER'S CORE TO THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM COULD RUPTURE AND ALLOW HOT COOLANT TO ESCAPE INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT.
- Consequence: THE COOLANT ESCAPING INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT COULDCONTACT THE DRIVER'S FEET AND INJURE THE DRIVER. ALSO, STEAM FROM THE HEATEDLIQUID WILL CLOUD ON THE WINDOW SURFACES AND IMPAIR THE DRIVER'S VISION ANDCOULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE HEATER CORE WITH AN IMPROVED HEATER CORE.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: FUEL PUMP, LOCATED INSIDE FUEL TANK, COULD SEIZE DURING HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES BECAUSE OF AN EXTREME FINE MESH FUEL FILTER RESTRICTING THE FUEL FLOW.
- Consequence: FUEL SUPPLY TO ENGINE WOULD BE PARTIALLY INTERRUPTED,RESULTING IN STALLING.
- Remedy: INSTALL A MODIFIED FUEL PUMP AND FILTER.
Other years of Volkswagen Jetta
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