Volkswagen Jetta Years To Avoid [Complete Walkthrough] 2025

Volkswagen Jetta are generally reliable vehicles with excellent fuel economy and comfortable rides; however, certain model years may experience issues that require costly repairs.

Before purchasing a used Volkswagen Jetta, it’s crucial to conduct extensive research and receive a professional inspection. Doing this will allow you to avoid expensive issues down the line.

Here I’m going to explain to you some of the Volkswagen Jetta years to avoid and the most reliable years of the Volkswagen Jetta. Moreover, at the end of the article, I’ll also share some tips for buying a used Volkswagen Jetta that help you to make the best purchase under a suitable budget.

Volkswagen Jetta Years To Avoid

The Volkswagen Jetta years to avoid include:

• 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
• 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
• 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
• 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
• 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
• 2019 Volkswagen Jetta

2006 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2006 VW Jetta is an attractive compact sedan known for its European styling and high level of reliability, yet is plagued with various maintenance issues, according to CarComplaints. Some common complaints about it include transmission failure and internal mechanical problems.

These issues can drive up costs of ownership and decrease resale values, so buyers should avoid this model year. Other complaints about it include reduced interior quality and engine performance issues (misfires or foul odors); these problems may even trigger check engine light illumination.

2009 Volkswagen Jetta

Many Jetta owners adore their vehicles for their European styling, fun-to-drive handling and excellent fuel economy. Unfortunately, however, certain model years of the Jetta have been plagued with electrical and mechanical issues which can be expensive and infuriating to deal with.

Window regulators, wiring harnesses, and DSG transmission issues can lead to costly repairs and less-than-satisfying ownership experiences. To minimize such problems, opt for later model years of the Jetta.

2010 Volkswagen Jetta

Volkswagen Jettas are reliable small sedans that deliver great fuel economy and quiet interior comfort, but some models contain engineering defects which may cause issues for owners, such as DSG transmission failure or electrical system issues.

2009 Jetta TDIs were affected by the dieselgate scandal and currently have lower resale values than other models. Furthermore, many owners report clock spring issues which lead to costly repairs.

An inspection from a reliable mechanic can help prevent these problems. Furthermore, it’s wise to select vehicles with proven service records when searching for new cars.

Volkswagen Jetta Years To Avoid: 2012 Model Year

Volkswagen Jettas are popular compact cars known for their European styling and solid performance. But not all model years are equal, leading to costly repairs for owners.

These models tend to experience engine and electrical issues, as well as having lower quality interiors which may lower owner satisfaction. Furthermore, these cars are often the first victims of cost-cutting measures which compromise overall quality – this means it should be avoided at all costs.

2013 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2013 Jetta is also included in Volkswagen Jetta years to avoid and was known to experience numerous issues that required costly repairs and caused its owners a great deal of inconvenience, as reported on Car Complaints. According to this website, many drivers experienced transmission problems such as loud grinding noises and leakage; its engine would also misfire occasionally, leading to its check engine light being illuminated.

The Volkswagen Jetta is an ideal compact option for drivers seeking European styling and quality handling on the road. To maximize your enjoyment from your vehicle purchase, be sure to select a reliable model using the CoPilot app; they’ll help you locate one suited to your specific needs.

Volkswagen Jetta Years To Avoid: 2019 Model Year

Volkswagen’s renowned quality and safety ratings make the Jetta an attractive option for anyone searching for an all-round, reliable sedan. Unfortunately, owners have reported ongoing infotainment quality issues which reduce satisfaction levels and increase maintenance costs significantly.

Picking out the appropriate VW Jetta model year can help prevent issues like transmission problems and poor interior quality, saving both money and providing you with peace of mind. Enjoy shopping!

The Most Reliable Years of Volkswagen Jetta

When looking for a Volkswagen Jetta, ensure it has an excellent reliability score and resale value to avoid costly repairs while increasing its lifespan.

As a resource to you, we’ve put together a list of the most reliable years for Volkswagen Jettas. These models boast lower owner complaints and higher FIXD Reliability scores for optimal reliability.

2011 Volkswagen Jetta

Volkswagen’s Jetta compact sedan is an iconic compact model, known for its outstanding fuel economy and top performance on the road. Furthermore, Volkswagen provides one of the most cost-effective warranties in its class with bumper-to-bumper and powertrain coverage up to six years/72,000 miles – one key selling point.

The fourth-generation Jetta is an ideal blend of fuel efficiency and power, providing a comfortable ride while offering plenty of interior space. However, reliability issues plagued its production – something the fifth-generation model had avoided altogether.

These older models were plagued with multiple issues, from body hardware faults and stalling engines to checking engine lights and other problems, making them less reliable than modern options on this list. Though still worth considering, expect to pay more than other options here for them.

2016 Volkswagen Jetta

Since it launched for 2016, Volkswagen’s Jetta has not seen any major revisions or redesigns. This model continues to perform exceptionally well, earning high scores in Owners Reliability surveys as well as government crash tests. Furthermore, its peppy four-cylinder base engine offers plenty of performance; there is also the option of installing an economical diesel, sporty GLI or plug-in hybrid powerplant.

This year’s models offer a touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone app integration, seat warmers, and a premium Fender audio system – as well as seat warmers and Fender audio system options. Unfortunately, owners report more problems with these Jettas compared to some recent years; primarily due to glow plug/wiring harness issues that cause check engine lights to illuminate on occasion.

2017 Volkswagen Jetta

The Volkswagen Jetta is an affordable sedan, packed with plenty of space and features that match its price. However, some years of the Jetta are more reliable than others when it comes to reliability – the ideal models should require minimal unexpected repairs from owners and have few online reviews or complaints from them.

RepairPal reports that Volkswagen Jetta owners visit repair shops an average of 1.1 times each year – lower than the overall average for Compact Cars. Nonetheless, certain issues appear across multiple model years that should be taken into consideration when purchasing used Volkswagen Jettas.

Be sure to use CoPilot when shopping for used Jettas; it can help you locate one within your budget while notifying you if there is another comparable vehicle at a lower price nearby. It’s the smartest way to buy used cars!

2018 Volkswagen Jetta

Though in its sixth generation, the VW Jetta still provides an enjoyable driving experience and ample space and value. It boasts excellent reliability scores from FIXD and Owner Reliability tests. Recently, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability were added as standard features; additionally Volkswagen released a Wolfsburg Edition trim model during that year.

Unfortunately, its 2013 iteration suffered from stalling issues and check engine lights failing prematurely; moreover its TDI counterpart experienced issues with its high-pressure fuel pump which resulted in performance issues and safety risks; issues with its high-pressure fuel pump caused performance issues as well as safety risks for its owner-driver.

Avoid years that were affected by major issues as reported on CarComplaints, such as body hardware faults and stalled engines. Such troubles can severely erode driver peace-of-mind and confidence behind the wheel.

2020 Volkswagen Jetta

Purchase of a used Volkswagen Jetta can be an economical and rewarding way to save money, yet finding one can be tricky. Reliability, low repair costs, and optimal handling should be your goals; top VW Jetta models boast high owner and FIXD reliability scores with lower-than-average risks of engine, transmission, and brake repairs make up some of your criteria for finding your dream Jetta model.

The FIXD reliability score (Green line) measures the frequency with which Volkswagen Jetta check engine lights illuminate after 12,000 miles; while its Owner Reliability score (Gray line) relies on survey responses from Jetta owners.

Be cautious of 2011 and 2012 Jetta models that have generated many complaints on Car Complaints website, such as Manifold Air Pressure Sensor Electric Circuit Output Range and Performance Problem (P0106) and Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected (P0302). These vehicles have been noted as experiencing fault codes that indicate manifold air pressure sensor problems with output range performance problems such as Manifold Air Pressure Sensor Output Range Performance Problem (P0302) issues.

Related Posts:

GMC Sierra Years To Avoid
Chevy Malibu Years To Avoid

Tips For Buying A Used Volkswagen Jetta

The Volkswagen Jetta is the ideal used sedan for anyone seeking to add some enjoyment back into their daily driving experience. Boasting performance that rivals that of its Golf counterpart while providing comfort that more closely aligns with larger sedans, this vehicle makes an excellent choice for families or solo drivers alike. Be it running local errands around Dumas or traveling cross-country on commutes across America – its agile performance will provide reliable transport with great fuel economy!

Check the Vehicle History Report

As part of your research process when purchasing a quality vehicle, checking its vehicle history report (VHR) should be your top priority. While dealers may be unwilling to show it you, you can easily do it yourself online with just VIN number input and viewing any accidents or title issues that might affect your purchase decision. Furthermore, VHR also shows information such as number of owners and previous uses which can provide insight into its condition and usage history.

Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Pre-purchase inspection is essential when purchasing a used Volkswagen Jetta. If the seller allows you to take it for a test drive, take note of any peculiar sounds or smells during your journey; for instance if knocking or burning smells come from its engine. It could be time to look elsewhere!

Avoid High-Mileage Models

At first start-up, listen carefully to your engine. If any loud grinding noises or it takes an unusually long time for your car to turn over, that could indicate engine problems. Also keep an eye on how windshield wipers operate – any rattle, grind, or squeal suggests their motor could be failing.

Focus on Maintenance Records

Carefully review any maintenance records of any potential vehicle that interests you. If it hasn’t been regularly serviced, repairs and replacement costs could add up quickly over time. To find out about its maintenance schedule for a specific model year car, perform an online forum search to see what kinds of problems have arisen in its past.

If you plan on selling or trading in your Volkswagen Jetta soon, it would be beneficial to research its resale value as soon as possible. Investigate which models hold their value more efficiently while others tend to lose it quickly; you might be pleased to find out that one make and model that consistently holds onto value is the VW Jetta!

With these tips in mind, you can feel sure that driving a used Volkswagen Jetta with confidence for years. For more information about selecting one at Brooklyn VW. contact their team of professionals now.

Martin Lee

Dorian Winslow is an ASE Master Certified Automotive Service Technician and author of SincereMechanic. Based in Denver, Colorado, Dorian has over 12+ years of experience in the automotive industry. He graduated with honors from Denver Automotive and Diesel College in 2012. Dorian has been developing his writing skills while nurturing a deep passion for cars. His enthusiasm for the automotive world grew even stronger when he became the proud owner of a brand-new Mercedes-Benz in March 2020.