2018 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 2018 Volkswagen Jetta problems
The 2018 Volkswagen Jetta has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to excessive oil consumption, a worn-out throttle body, vibrations at highway speeds, and recalls.
Excessive oil consumption is a widespread issue among 2018 VW Jetta owners, with many reporting this problem around 10,000 miles. This issue is generally not a cause for concern, as it is considered normal operation for the vehicle. However, if white or blue smoke is observed, it may indicate an oil leak into the engine, which would require diagnosis and repair by a professional.
A worn-out throttle body has also been reported by some 2018 Jetta owners, typically around 30,000 miles. This issue is not as widespread but can be expensive to fix if it occurs outside of the warranty period, with replacement costs averaging around $850 depending on local labor rates.
Vibrations at highway speeds are another problem found on some 2018 Jetta models, typically within the first 10,000 miles. These vibrations are often caused by simple alignment issues, which can be fixed for around $100. However, some suspension problems may also require realignment, which can cost around $250.
Three recalls have been issued for the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta, addressing loose fuel rail bolts, the brake master cylinder, and the key. These issues can lead to fuel leaks and brake problems, but Volkswagen has committed to fixing these issues for free on affected models.
The 2018 Volkswagen Jetta is expected to last around 200,000 miles with regular maintenance, which is slightly less than some other compact cars. Annual maintenance costs are slightly higher than the competition, with some major components requiring replacement around 100,000 miles, such as the fuel filter, coolant temperature sensor, and timing belt tensioner.
While these issues may seem concerning, many 2018 VW Jetta owners report feeling that the car is reliable and have not experienced any significant problems. However, some owners have noted outdated technology and issues with the Volkswagen signature cloth seats wearing out easily.
In summary, the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta has several common problems related to oil consumption, throttle body wear, vibrations, and recalls. However, with regular maintenance, the car is expected to last around 200,000 miles, and many owners report feeling that it is a reliable vehicle.
Is 2018 Volkswagen Jetta reliable?
How Reliable Is the 2018 Jetta? J.D. Power gives the 2018 VW Jetta a predicted reliability rating of three out of five, which is about average.
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?
How many miles will a 2018 Jetta last?
A well-maintained 2018 VW Jetta can last around 200,000 miles, which is shorter than some other compact cars like the Toyota Corolla. Regular annual maintenance costs are slightly more than the competition, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $549 per year.
Do Volkswagen 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.
Is 2018 Volkswagen Jetta reliable?
How Reliable Is the 2018 Jetta? J.D. Power gives the 2018 VW Jetta a predicted reliability rating of three out of five, which is about average.
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 is the electrical problem with the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta?
Vehicles recalled: Volkswagen Jetta sedans with a traditional ignition key manufactured between Sept. 3, 2018, and Dec. 21, 2019. The problem: The ignition switch may fail while the vehicle is in motion, which could cause the engine to stall and the electrical system to shut down.
Do Volkswagen 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.
2018 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:
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Volkswagen Jetta vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2018 Volkswagen Jetta complaints
The NHTSA has received 20 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-28
- VIN: 3VW2B7AJ6JM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Malfunction ignition switch, and ignition cylinder, 50,000 miles on car. Took it to the dealer for diagnosis. No warning lamps or lights showed. My car just stopped allowing my key to come out of the ignition to turn the car off. I have to struggle to get it out of the ignition for 10-20 mins every time I take my key out. My car could potentially not turn on or off when the pieces go out completely
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-13
- VIN: 3VWDB7AJ9JM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Air bag light came on unprovoked. Remains on. We noted this announcement and feel it is the same problem. ((In April 2023, Volkswagen recalled some vehicles due to a faulty front passenger detection system that could deactivate the front passenger air bag. A deactivated air bag won't deploy in a crash, which could increase the risk of injury to the front passenger. Volkswagen is developing a remedy and will notify owners when it's available. In the meantime, owners shouldn't let anyone sit in the front passenger seat. ))
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-06
- VIN: 3VW2B7AJXJM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: ignition swith . Same as 2019 and up model recall.NHTSA campaign number: 23V604
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- VIN: 3VW2B7AJXJM
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: Front wheel bearing failure same as nhtsa campaign 19V879000
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-07
- VIN: 3VWDB7AJ9JM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: N/A
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-03
- VIN: 3VW2B7AJ4JM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: the tunk lid fills with water and gets all the tail light components and wiring wet when it rains heavy or get a car wash.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-18
- VIN: 3VW2B7AJ1JM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle suddenly stalled without warning. The contact shifted in neutral and attempted to restart the vehicle. The contact had to push the vehicle to the side of the road and made several attempts to start the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was made aware of a recall regarding the fuel rail. The mechanic was unable to determine the exact cause for the failure however, the mechanic linked the failure to a failure with the electrical system. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure persisted with the battery and EPC warning lights illuminated. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 90,782.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-15
- VIN: 3VW2B7AJ1JM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that after entering the vehicle and attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start on the first attempt. Upon starting the vehicle and driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle suddenly lost motive power. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle seemed to return to normal functionality. However, the contact stated that the failure had since become a regular occurrence. The contact also stated that the infotainment system operated erratically, symptomatic of a possible electrical issue. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the fuel pump. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-16
- VIN: 3VW2B7AJ9JM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact's mother owns a 2018 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that her mother's vehicle had failed to start up with an abnormal fuel odor coming from the vehicle. Upon inspection, her mother discovered that an unknown fluid had leaked from the vehicle. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed with a leak in the fuel rail. The failure was linked to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V648000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the vehicle was not included in the recall. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was 51,723.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-24
- VIN: 3VWDB7AJ0JM
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: On or about January 24, 2023, Found oil leak and heard noise from engine. No warning lamps or messages prior, mechanic diagnosed and found cam phaser cover bolts loose and leaking. He had to re-torque bolts and check engine. Leaking stopped. Mechanic said they should not have come loose and if bolts came anymore loose, they could have caused serious problems with timing and engine.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-29
- VIN: 3VW2B7AJ0JM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Key locked in ignition at an unsafe area where I was stuck for hours. Car has approximately 89,000 miles and the key being stuck in ignition has happened to me twice recently and I know it will continue to do so until there is a recall for the safety issue that the Ignition causes.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-27
- VIN: 3VW2B7AJ4JM
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Vehicle Dealer Colonial Volkswagen failed to register the DOT number on all of my tires Colonial Volkswagen is in Feasterville/Trevose PA Tire failed have photos inside of tire wall
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-19
- VIN: 3vw2b7aj6jm
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: From the day I bought the car brand new the driver window rolls down and you have to roll it completely down in order to roll it back up I have had every part replaced in the window and it still does it
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-30
- VIN: 3VWD17AJ9JM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AT ABOUT 40,000 MILES- CAR WOULD NOT MOVE IN DRIVE POSITION. DASH CODE: ESC. LUCKILY, 2018 JETTA STILL UNDER WARRANTY AND THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-12-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3VW2B7AJ1JM
- Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 55MPH. THE CONTACT DEPRESSED ON THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE PEDAL WAS NOT FUNCTIONING, THE CONTACT STRUCK A GUARDRAIL AND THE VEHICLE COME TO A STOP. THE CONTACT STATED THAT NO ONE WAS INJURED AND NO ONE SEEKED MEDICAL ATTENTION. CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED BUT DID NOT DEFLATE AFTERWARDS; WHEN INSPECTING THE SIDE AIRBAGS ON FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIRBAGS HAD "RIPS" ON THE TOP AND BOTTOM. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED AS A TOTAL LOSS. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 40,700.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-04-24
- VIN: 3VW2B7AJ6JM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: STRAP FP. 6H0-867-749 THE YELLOW STRAP IS RISKING DRIVER OR OCCUPANTS OF A HOMICIDE FROM ASSAILANTS OR ASSAILANT BECAUSE OF CRIME OF OPPORTUNITY FROM STRANGULATIONS. THE SPACE SAVER TIRE CHANGING SPACING IN KIT IS NOT BEING UTILIZED FOR A FULL SIZE TIRE WHILE IN DISTRESS WHILE AWAITING OR CHANGING FLATTEN TIRE ON ROADSIDE.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-01
- VIN: 3VW4T7AJ3JM
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER REVERSING AND THEN STOPPING AND SHIFTING FROM REVERSE TO DRIVE THE TRANSMISSION POPS IN TO GEAR. ALSO VEHICLE RADIO TURNS ON AND OFF AT RANDOM TIMES HAVING TO RESTART WHILE IN MOTION. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-26
- VIN: 3VWE57BU5KM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WHILE IN MOTION AT LOW SPEEDS, BETWEEN 28 AND 30 MPH, YOU CAN HEAR A GRINDING OR SCRAPING NOISE COMING FROM THE CAR AND YOU CAN FEEL A BIT OF LOSS OF POWER IN THE CAR. I BELIEVE THIS IS IN THE TRANSMISSION. WHEN BOUGHT NEW, THIS NOISE WAS NON EXISTING, IT APPEARED AFTER A FEW MONTHS OF DRIVING
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-18
- VIN: 3VWDB7AJ3JM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE BACKUP CAMERA INTERMITTENTLY FAILS TO WORK ALONG WITH THE OTHER FUNCTIONS(E.G., RADIO) OF THE INFORMATION SCREEN. A LOCAL DEALERSHIP "REBOOTED" THE INFO SYSTEM BUT THE PROBLEM HAS RECURRED.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-11
- VIN: 3VW167AJ1JM
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SOMETIMES I LEAVE MY CELL PHONE ON THE PASSENGER SEAT AND THE WARNING BELL CHIMES. IF I REMOVE MY CELL PHONE FROM THE PASSENGER SEAT, THE WARNING STOPS OR IF I DO LOCK THE SEATBELT, IT WILL ALSO STOP THE WARNING. IT SEEMS LIKE THE PART THAT CHECKS IF A PASSENGER IS SITTING IN THE SEAT IS MALFUNCTIONING. THIS DOES NOT HAPPEN EVERY TIME BUT I HAVE NOTICED IT THREE TIMES SO FAR, MOSTLY IN COLDER WEATHER.
2018 Volkswagen Jetta recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:FUEL RAIL
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Jetta vehicles. The fuel rail bolts may become loose over time, allowing fuel to leak.
- Consequence: A fuel leak increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel rail bolts and, as necessary, the fuel rail. The recall began March 31, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 24Gi.
- Manufacturer: Tenneco Automotive
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
- Summary: Tenneco Automotive (Tenneco) is recalling certain Beck/Arnley Master Cylinders, part number 072-9831, sold as aftermarket or replacement parts for 2004-2018 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2012-2019 Volkswagen Beetle vehicles. The fluid seal crimp on the master cylinder may be insufficient, causing brake fluid to leak or the cylinder to come apart.
- Consequence: If there is a brake fluid leak, it can reduce braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Beck/Arnley will notify the distributors that sold the master cylinders and will work with the distributors to notify the end users. Affected master cylinders will be exchanged for a new master cylinder (part number 072-9990), free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2020. Owners may contact Tenneco customer service at 1-800-625-9319.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2019 GTI, 2015-2016 and 2018-2019 Golf, 2012-2019 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2017-2019 Golf SportWagen and 2011-2018 Jetta vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, manual handbrake and keyless entry. A build-up of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition when the transmission shift lever is not in "Park."
- Consequence: Removing the key while the shift lever is in a position other than "Park" increases the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional switch and circuit board, free of charge. The recall began November 19, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 37M2.
Negative 2018 Volkswagen Jetta car reviews
Positive 2018 Volkswagen Jetta car reviews
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This VW model may be at the bottom of the line, but it's at the top when it comes to fuel efficiency. I had to sell my TDI due to EPA regulations, but VW's buyback program made the process easy and hassle-free. I found the Jetta S 5M to be a great value, especially with the end-of-the-year discounts. During my test drive, I was impressed with its performance. I purchased it in late August 2017 for less than what I paid for my Acura Integra 4-cyl hatchback back in 1988. After driving 477.5 mostly city miles on about 12 gallons of RON 87, I calculated the fuel efficiency to be excellent. As of March 8th, 2018, the odometer reads 5509 and Fuelly.com reports an average of 39.9 in 70/30 City/Highway use. The brakes, clutch, and 5M shift synchros make for very smooth operation. I also appreciate the LED daytime running lights and the USB port that allows me to store all my music. This 1.4 turbo model was almost exactly half the price of my 2013 TDI wagon. As of September 8th, 2018, the odometer reads 12355 and Fuelly reports an average of 39.4 (40.1 last 10 fill-ups). I have had no issues with the car so far. As of June 20th, 2022, the odometer reads 45505 and Fuelly reports an average of 40.7. I continue to be impressed with this car and have had no issues since purchasing it.
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This car is a blast to drive and has excellent gas mileage. It's not uncommon to get over 40 mpg on the highway. We recently moved to the mountains in Colorado, and even with the altitude and hills, we're still getting around 34 mpg, which is pretty impressive at 8,500 feet! The car has plenty of power for the mountains, as long as you keep the RPM above 1500. We've owned it for four and a half years and have put 35K miles on it (not driving much due to Covid), and we haven't had any issues. We did receive a recall notice this month for the fuel rail, but overall, we're very happy with our purchase and experience. Although a 6-speed would be better, we still love this car. We sold it in 2019 since we no longer needed it, as we started working from home.
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I have a 1.4 liter manual - the cheapest car VW sells. In my opinion, it's a matter of personal preference. This car has a classic, understated yet poised and handsome design that follows the principle of form follows function. On the other hand, the Japanese cars seem to be following a transformers/exotica style school of design that appears juvenile to my eyes, and I don't think it will age well. The Jetta is a compact car with back seat legroom exceeding 38 inches, which is enough for even large adult passengers to be comfortable. This is particularly nice if you occasionally drive coworkers or clients to lunch. Additionally, it has an enormous trunk space. Although I have the 1.4 bottom end, it has the same torque as the 1.8 top end. This car can go from 0 to 60mph in under 8 seconds, which is traditionally the very definition of a fast car (that's v-6 performance). Yet, it gets over 40mpg on the highway if you drive 70mpg or under, and in excess of 42mpg if you drive at 65mph or less. This quite simply is a car that exceeds the performance of its classification in all parameters: interior/trunk size, acceleration, and efficiency. It also has more cache than most other compacts. It neither looks nor drives like a cheap car. In my opinion, buying the 1.8-liter version is unnecessary. It costs more, gets slightly less gas mileage, and has the same torque (pulling power/acceleration). Its only real advantage comes if you are going to be routinely driving over 90mph. There might be a practical performance advantage if you buy the automatic, but mine is manual. I'm not sure it's worth the increased cost and loss in economy. This car was a remarkable achievement for VW. The interior is practical, handsome, and logical, but I would prefer a more driver-focused layout. Also, the car came with nice steering wheel controls with a sophisticated and highly accurate cruise control that allows me to set my speed right at the maximum allowed for my long highway commute to work. When I was shopping for a car, I felt that the Jetta offered the most car and the most substantial car for the money.Chevy actually has a competitive model. While Mazda is the gold standard, it is more cramped and has a transformer design. On the other hand, Toyota is less cramped but has lower mpg and worse performance characteristics. Whenever I see a compact car, I think that the driver could have bought a Jetta. However, if it's a Mazda, I can understand different tastes and perhaps better quality - though I have had no quality issues. I have owned Japanese makes before, and their quality reputation is well deserved in my opinion.
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Congratulations on your new 2018 Jetta! It's great to hear that you're enjoying it so much. As a loyal VW driver for 18 years, it's clear that you know what you like and this car does not disappoint. The exterior is sleek and eye-catching, and it's no surprise that you're getting looks and invitations to race from much more expensive cars. The interior is also quite sexy, with the black headliner and all black interior. It's great to hear that the driver's seat fits you and is comfortable, unlike the seats in your previous car. The infotainment center has undergone a huge upgrade and it's so easy to use, practical and fun. It's understandable that you miss the sunshade extenders and having air/heat vents in the back seat, but overall it sounds like you're really enjoying the more comfortable ride of the Jetta. The acceleration is quick and the car feels heavy and safe. It's great that you're getting used to the keyless entry and that you're so happy to have the ENORMOUS trunk. Here's to many years of fun and safe driving in your new Jetta!
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After my 05 Accord EX was totaled, I found myself in the market for a new-to-me vehicle. I was pretty upset about losing my rare car, but I was determined to find something that could fill its shoes. Despite looking for several weeks at all of the brands, new and used, I kept returning to the Jetta. This particular model was the only car in its class that came with everything I was looking for and at a very reasonable price: MT, moonroof, (faux) leather and heated seats, and a CD player. I live in the country and do a lot of country commuting for work, so I wanted to be sure I bought a car I could always play great music in. I was a little hesitant to purchase because of the Consumer Reports reviews and things I'd heard about reliability with previous models, but I found a CPO w/ 20,000 miles on that came from the dessert. The test drive was great. The turbo was very responsive and the torque is certainly noticeable. The Jetta is a fun car to drive, especially for those who like to accelerate quickly. I took the car for a weekend run and had a really consistent experience. I discovered the Consumption gauge and was shocked to see MPGs in the 50s and up, often. Now having had the car for a few weeks, I am still surprised by how good the mileage is, even at highway speeds. Not just that, but having the miles-to-empty range is a really useful feature. And the trunk is HUGE. Every time I look back there, I'm shocked; it's much deeper and taller even than the trunk in my Accord was. The deep rubber floor mats are great at catching leafy debris and water from shoes. The cup holders are in a great spot.I really appreciate the sliding armrest and the contour of the driver's seat. Unlike other compact sedans, the Jetta's seat is not dramatically flared out, so it doesn't push my shoulder out at an uncomfortable angle. As a small person, I fit very snugly into the seat. Body lean is minimal, and steering is tight and responsive. The clutch even has a really nice weight, not like a marshmallow, as in a lot of other models. The Jetta SE is very similar to my Accord and is more than just a suitable replacement. I am extremely happy with this purchase so far.
Other years of Volkswagen Jetta
Are you having problems with your 2018 Volkswagen Jetta?
Korey Herman 2024-11-13
The car is priced fairly for its quality. Although I traded in a BMW X5, I was pretty disappointed with the quality of the interior materials, which felt like cheap cloth. Additionally, the backup camera is not up to par and lacks alerts to notify you if you're getting too close to anything. Navigation is not equipped unless you download an app on your phone and plug it into the USB port, which disables your phone from all other operations and use. Unfortunately, the HD radio doesn't get a signal in most areas, resulting in gray blank squares across your screen for all radio stations. The MPG is nowhere near what they claim, with mid to upper 20's at best. You may receive periodic messages on the radio screen when you put it in reverse that say 'Park pilot currently unavailable'. This is because the cars don't come equipped with it, but the computer shows a malfunction because it's searching for something that isn't there. It can be extremely frustrating, but it's important to be aware that these are common issues with VWs.
Miller Stehr 2024-08-07
I recently sold my 2013 Jetta SE with 124,000 miles and upgraded to a 2018 Jetta SE. The difference between the two cars is like night and day in terms of quality, performance, and ride. Unfortunately, I made the assumption that the 2018 Jetta would be just as good or better than the 2013, but I was mistaken. While the 2018 Jetta may be suitable for those who prefer a ho-hum mediocre car, it did not meet my expectations. However, I did manage to get a good deal on the price at $19,754 and 1.9% for the 2018 Jetta SE, and the warranty is one of the best on the market at 60 months/72,000 miles. Looking back, I should have done more research before making the purchase.
Orlando Green 2024-04-21
The 2017 Jetta I purchased in 2020 unfortunately experienced a blown turbo charger after 20k miles, with a repair cost of $3500. It is recommended to consider other options when looking for a reliable commuter vehicle.