1990 Volkswagen Jetta problems

volkswagen logo

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."

1990 Volkswagen Jetta

Social links

Common 1990 Volkswagen Jetta problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 1990 Volkswagen Jetta, several common problems have been reported:

  • Hot Start Problems:
    Another common complaint is related to hot start issues, where the car fails to start after a longer drive, requiring a few hours to cool down before starting again. This could be indicative of issues with the starter, fuel system, or engine components affected by heat.
  • Brake Failure:
    Owners have reported brake problems, including the pedal falling to the floor, increased braking distances, and uneven braking between wheels. These issues could stem from brake fluid leaks, worn brake pads, faulty calipers, or problems with the brake system's hydraulic components.
  • Heating System Malfunction:
    Complaints have been made about the heating system, with reports of the fan only working on high, insufficient heat output, and occasional coolant smells inside the car. These symptoms suggest potential issues with the heater core, blower motor, thermostat, or coolant circulation within the system.

These problems highlight the importance of regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues that arise with the 1990 Volkswagen Jetta to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.

1990 Volkswagen Jetta engine

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.

Are Volkswagen Jettas reliable cars?

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.

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?

Is the Volkswagen Jetta reliable?

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.

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.

Are Jettas high maintenance?

The 2021 Jetta ranks for lowest cost of maintenance compared to other compact sedans. The 2021 Passat and Arteon have lower maintenance costs than similar midsize sedans by Toyota, Honda, or Hyundai. The 2021 Atlas Cross Sport has the lowest maintenance costs of the midsize SUV category.

1990 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:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Visibility problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Volkswagen Jetta vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 1990 Volkswagen Jetta

The NHTSA has received 26 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Volkswagen Jetta. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1990 Volkswagen Jetta vehicles.

2007-07-25

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-07-24
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1990 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A STRANGE NOISE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. HIS WINDOWS STEAMED UP AND HE SLAMMED ON THE BRAKES, NEARLY CRASHING INTO A WALL. HE DISCOVERED COOLANT ON THE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. HE HAS NOT TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO THE SHOP. AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE SIX WEEKS AGO, THE CONTACT JUST FOUND RECALL NUMBER 2V050000 (VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:HEATER CORE). THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT HIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE CONTACT BELIEVES THAT IT SHOULD BE INCLUDED BECAUSE THE VEHICLE IS EXPERIENCING THE SAME FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 220,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 219,200.
2007-03-03

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-03-03
  • VIN: WVWTJ21G0LW
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY
  • Summary: AUTO RECALL DATE: 19920414 VEHICLE COMPONENT: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:HEATER CORE ESTIMATED VEHICLES AFFECTED: 650000 1990 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA DEFECT 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. DEFECT 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. NOTES: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC,
2005-04-15

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-04-11
  • VIN: WVWRA21G1LW
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: WHILE MY SON WAS OPERATING HIS 1990 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA THERE WAS AN EXPLOSION IN THE DASHBOARD AREA WHICH RESULTED IN HOT COOLANT POURING AND SPRAYING INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. AFTER CONTACTING A LOCAL SERVICE STATION I LEARNED THIS DEFECT WAS ACTUALLY RECALL 92V050000. THE DEALER WHERE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED CLAIMED THERE WAS NEVER A RECALL BASED ON THE SEARCH OF MY VIN. MY SEARCH STATED THE MANUFACTURING DATE FOR THE RECALL WAS JANUARY 1990. APPARENTLY, MY VEHICLE WAS MANUFACTURED IN APRIL OF 1990. I DESIRED TO DISCUSS THIS IDENTICAL PROBLEM IN MY VEHICLE , AND WAS HOPING TO HAVE IT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL AS WELL AS ALL OTHERS WHO MIGHT BE HARMED WITH SIMILAR FAILURES. I LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR RESPONSE .*AK SINCERELY, JEFF FILOSA
2005-01-21

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-12-25
  • VIN: FILL IN
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THE GAS PEDAL FALLS TO THE FLOOR CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO EXPERIENCE SUDDEN ACCELERATION. OWNER HAS TO STOMP ON BRAKES IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE. OWNER WILL CONTACT MANUFACTURER. *NM
2004-08-27

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-08-24
  • VIN: WVWRA21G9LW
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: VEHICLE LEAKED HOT ANTIFREEZE INSIDE PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDES. VEHICLE WAS TOWED, AND MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THERE WOULD BE A CHARGE TO CONSUMER TO HAVE THEM ANALYZE THE VEHICLE.*AK
2003-05-14

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-05-05
  • VIN: WVWRA21GXLW
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: I PURCHASED 4 TOYO ULTRA 800 TIRES IN OCTOBER 1998. SINCE THAT TIME I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THREE OF THE TIRES DUE TO TREAD SEPARATION. I DRIVE APPX 5,000 MILES OR LESS PER YEAR. *NLM
2001-11-14

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-11-05
  • VIN: WVWRA21G5LW
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
2001-08-13

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-08-05
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 3VWRB11GXLM
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: STOPPED FOR ICE CREAM AFTER ABOUT 60 MILE DRIVE. DID NOT LEAVE VEHICLE. STARTED CAR AND WHEN I WENT FROM PARK TO REVERSE, THE RPM'S SOARED (I HAD NOT TAKEN MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE) CAUSING THE CAR TO ACCELERATE IN REVERSE AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED. I PUT BOTH FEET ON THE BRAKE TO ATTEMPT TO STOP IT & THE BRAKES DID NOTHING. SO I PUT CAR INTO PARK & STILL CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE IN REVERSE AT A HIGH RATE OF SPEED. WITH DIVINE DRIVING, THE CAR BACKED THROUGH AN EMPTY HANDICAPPED PARKING SPACE WHEN IT GOT CAUGHT UP ON THE CEMENT PARKING SPACE BARRICADE. WITH THE RPM'S STILL RACING, THE CAR HIT A SIGN, PROCEEDED ACROSS THE FRONT LAWN OF THE ESTABLISHMENT, HIT AN OCTAGONAL PICNIC TABLE, AND FINALLY HIT ANOTHER CAR PARKED AT AN BUSINESS ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE BUILDING. I WAS BRAKING WITH BOTH FEET THE ENTIRE TIME WITH THE CAR IN THE PARK POSITION THROUGH MOST OF THE ORDEAL. A WITNESS VERIFIED HE COULD HEAR THE RPM'S SOARING..*AK
2001-05-24

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2001-05-15
  • VIN: WVWRA21G6LW
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: WAS IN DRIVE THROUGH LINE WHEN SUDDENLY INSIDE OF VEHICLE FILLED WITH STEAM AND HOT WATER ON DRIVER'S SIDE. CONTACTED MANUFACTURER , AND INFORMED CONSUMER NO RECALLS. WILL BE TAKING VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP'S MECHANIC TO CHECK IT. *AK
2000-03-01

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-09-01
  • VIN: WVWRA21G1LW
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: RECEIVED NOTICE 92V058001/ FUEL LINE: METALLIC AND CONTACTED DEALERSHIP. WAS INFORMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE, AND WERE ON NATIONAL BACK ORDER. CONTACTED ANOTHER DEALERSHIP WHO HAD PARTS & VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. *AK
2000-02-18

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: WVWRA21G7LW
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: CONSUMER CONTACTED DEALER ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS IN REFERENCE TO RECALL 92V058001/MANUFACTURER'S RECALL SK/CA/ FUEL LINE:HOSE METALLIC. DEALER STATED PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. *AK
1998-08-19

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-08-15
  • VIN: WVWTE21G3LW
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: HOT STEAM AND HOT WATER CAME THROUGH VENTS AND FROM UNDER DASH, CAUSING THE WINDOWS TO BECOME FOGGED OVER.
1998-08-14

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-08-13
  • VIN: WVWPAO1GXLW
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: THE ENGINE BLOCK HAS RUSTED THROUGH TO THE WATER JACK AND OIL FEED LINE AT THE FRONT OF THE BLOCK JUST BELOW THE CYLINDER HEAD AND CANNOT BE REPAIRED.
1998-03-20

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-03-20
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: WVWWR21G4LW
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: WHILE STARTING VEHICLE IT SUDDENLY CAUGHT ON FIRE. VEHICLE WAS TOTALLED. *AK
1997-10-21

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 3WVRB11G4LM
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: VEHICLE HAS NO FRONT LAP SEAT BELTS. HAS KNEE BOLSTERS WHICH DRIVER'S KNEES DO NOT REACH BECAUSE OF HIS HEIGHT, 6' 5 INCHES. *AK
1997-07-02

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-05-18
  • VIN: WVWRA21GXLW
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: HEATER CORE FAILURE. *AK
1996-06-18

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-09-01
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: FAULTY STARTER SYSTEM TOO CLOSE TO THE ENGINE, CONTINUES TO OVERHEAT AND SHORTS OUT, REPLACEMENT 3 TIMES. *AK
1996-02-29

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-02-29
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: THERE WAS A FAILURE IN THE BRAKE PEDAL LINKAGE. PLEASE DESCRIBE . *AK
1996-02-29

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-02-29
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: THERE WAS A FAILURE IN THE BRAKE PEDAL LINKAGE. PLEASE DESCRIBE . *AK
1996-02-05

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: DISTRIBUTOR LOCATED BELOW ENGINE; IF THIS AREA GETS WET VEHICLE STALLS SHUTTING DOWN ALL OTHER ENGINE RELATED FUNCTIONS. ON ROAD SEVERAL TIMES W/NO WARNING. TT
1995-12-14

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: WVWRA21G1LW
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: AUTO LOSES POWER AT HIGH SPEEDS-WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY. TT
1995-12-07

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: WVWRA21GLW2
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: FUEL THROTTLE CABLES HAVE BEEN REPLACED FIVE DIFFERENT TIMES. TT
1995-02-19

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-02-19
  • VIN: 3VWRB116716
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: ACCELERATOR PEDAL STICKS.
1995-02-19

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-02-11
  • VIN: 3VWRB116716
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: VEHICLE WON'T START, ALSO WHEN VEHICLE DOES START IT MAKES GRINDING NOISE. *SKD
1995-02-19

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-02-19
  • VIN: 3VWRB116716
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: GRINDING NOISE IN TRANSMISSION WHEN SHIFTING FROM LOW TO HIGH GEARS.

1990 Volkswagen Jetta recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 1990 Volkswagen Jetta.

2009-04-07
  • Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
  • Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
2006-03-01
  • 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.
1993-08-02
  • Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: AN ENGINE PREHEATING TUBE MAY NOT BE PROPERLY SUPPORTED DUE TO A MISSING SUPPORT BRACKET, CAUSING THE PREHEATING TUBE TO CHAFE AGAINST THE RIGHT FRONT METAL BRAKE LINE. THIS CAN DAMAGE THE HYDRAULIC LINE, CAUSING BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE AND DIMINISHED BRAKING IN ONE BRAKE CIRCUIT.
  • Consequence: DIMINISHED BRAKING CAN RESULT IN INCREASED STOPPINGDISTANCES AND A POSSIBLE ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A PREHEATING TUBE SUPPORT BRACKET TO ENSURE PROPER POSITIONING RELATIVE TO THE RIGHT FRONT METAL BRAKE LINE.
1992-04-14
  • Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: THE FUEL HOSE ATTACHED TO THE FUEL DISTRIBUTION RAIL ON THE ENGINE MAY SHRINK BEYOND THE CLAMP FORCE OF THE FUEL HOSE CLAMPS, ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK.
  • Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAN CAUSE AN UNDERHOOD FIRE IF THE FUEL COMES IN CONTACT WITH A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
  • Remedy: REPLACE THE FUEL HOSE ATTACHED TO THE FUEL RAIL AND INSTALL A NEW SPRING TYPE SELF-TIGHTENING CLAMP.
1992-04-14
  • 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.
1990-08-06
  • Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
  • Summary: OMISSION OF AIR DUCTS INTENDED TO GUIDE FLOW OF COOLING AIR TO LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT BRAKE CALIPERS COULD ALLOW BRAKE FLUID TO EXCEED ALLOWABLE OPERATING TEMPERATURE UNDER CERTAIN OPERATING CONDITIONS.
  • Consequence: IF BRAKE FLUID BOILS, THIS COULD RESULT IN REDUCEDBRAKING PRESSURE WITH POTENTIAL FOR AN ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: INSTALL MISSING LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT AIR DUCTS.
1990-01-22
  • Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
  • Components: STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
  • Summary: POWER STEERING PUMP BRACKET IS SUBJECT TO BREAKAGE DUE TO EXCESSIVE TENSION CAUSED BY A LACK OF CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE PUMP MOUNTING BRACKET AND SEALING FLANGE EDGE OF THE OIL PAN.
  • Consequence: BRACKET BREAKAGE COULD ALLOW POWER STEERING PUMP TO LOOSEN AND DRIVE BELT TO SLIP, RESULTING IN THE NEED FOR UNEXPECTED INCREASED STEERING FORCE WITH THE POTENTIAL FOR AN ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: REPLACE POWER STEERING PUMP BRACKET.

Negative 1990 Volkswagen Jetta car reviews

  1. Greg Beer 2024-11-18

    Hi guys, I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my Jetta, which happens to be my third vehicle. As a young person, I was surprised by the amount of repair work it needs. Unfortunately, it seems to fall apart on a weekly basis! My father has already put 3 grand into this car, and it's been a bit frustrating. I'm sure he had good intentions, but I wish he had bought me something that doesn't require so much maintenance.

  2. Adelbert Greenholt 2024-08-18

    She's a good car, and although she's old and has had her share of problems, she still has a lot of life left in her.

Positive 1990 Volkswagen Jetta car reviews

  1. Merlin Cruickshank 2024-08-05

    I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share that I bought my car for $1,200 with 108,000 miles on it, and it runs great. I've made a few modifications, including a 2 1/4 catback exhaust, cold air intake, racing seats, and a short shifter. I also added a Grant steering wheel, which I love. It's not the fastest car out there, but I can finish a 1/4 mile at about 85-90 mph, which is pretty good. Thanks for listening!

  2. William Metz 2024-07-28

    The 1990 Volkswagen Jetta is a great car! It's practical, reliable, and has few modern gadgets that are prone to breaking down and leaving you stranded. This car has very few electrical components compared to newer vehicles, making it very inexpensive to maintain. Plus, the spark plugs, oil, fuel and air filters are very simple to change yourself and the parts are inexpensive. The trunk is very large and tall for a smaller car, offering high utility. The seats and covers are of high quality and provide considerable adjustment and firm comfort compared to similar class US or Japanese cars. The only downside is the poor quality paint, which is assembled in Mexico. However, the German paint is three times better. Overall, the 1990 Volkswagen Jetta is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and practical car.

  3. Reed Upton 2024-07-13

    I was searching for a car that was both affordable and dependable. Although it may not be the most visually appealing car, it runs exceptionally well. I have never had any issues starting or running it, aside from the muffler which is a common occurrence. It has been achieving over 33 mpg on the highway and 26 in rush hour suburb driving. My goal is to keep it running smoothly for a few years until I finish school, and I am confident that it will continue to provide me with reliable and enjoyable driving experiences. Despite being a 1990 model, it runs comparably to my '99 model (minus the aesthetics).

  4. Gust Rodriguez 2024-06-09

    I'm so excited about my car! I got it for a great deal at only 250 bucks, and even though I had to replace the exhaust for another 250, it's been running like a dream. I found another identical car for parts, which is perfect in case I need anything else. It's got 225,000 miles on it, but it still keeps up with most cars. The only other things I've had to replace are the front brake pads and rotors, and the right front strut froze up, but I was able to replace it easily. I absolutely love this car and I hope it lasts me a long time!

  5. Ludwig Bergstrom 2024-05-03

    I got this car three years ago and it just won't quit! I've put a lot of work into it, but it's been worth every penny. I've replaced the starter, suspension, tires, radiator, heater core and coolant reservoir, but I don't mind because I love this car. I'll keep replacing parts until it finally gives up on me.

Leave your review of 1990 Volkswagen Jetta

Other years of Volkswagen Jetta

volkswagen jetta 1991 photo
Jetta 1991
Volkswagen

33

7

17

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen jetta 1992 photo
Jetta 1992
Volkswagen

31

4

19

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen jetta 1993 photo
Jetta 1993
Volkswagen

19

6

3

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen jetta 1994 photo
Jetta 1994
Volkswagen

155

7

13

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen jetta 1995 photo
Jetta 1995
Volkswagen

278

6

24

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen jetta 1996 photo
Jetta 1996
Volkswagen

197

2

24

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 1990 Volkswagen Jetta?

Add car complaint
1990 Volkswagen Jetta photo