Introduction
The Volkswagen Jetta has long been a popular choice for people who like compact sedans because it is fast, reliable, and has a stylish design. But not all model years are made the same. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll talk about the best and worst years of the Volkswagen Jetta. We’ll give you detailed information, facts, and statistics to help you make a smart choice if you’re considering buying a used Jetta.
The Worst Volkswagen Jetta years to avoid include 2006, 2009-2013, 2017, and 2019. On the other hand, the best years for Volkswagen Jetta include 2016, 2018, 2020-2023. This result was obtained from trustworthy sources such as NHTSA, Edmund, JD Power, and Kelley Blue Book.
Brief History of Volkswagen Jetta
Since it was first made in 1979, the Volkswagen Jetta has had a long and interesting journey. The Jetta quickly gained a passionate following because of how small and comfortable it was, how well it drove like an European car, and how many different things it could do. Volkswagen has always made the Jetta better over the years, adding new technologies and safety features to make it easier to drive.
Importance of Choosing the Right Volkswagen Jetta Year
It’s important to choose the right Volkswagen Jetta year, especially when getting a used car. Each model year has its own set of improvements, changes, and possible problems that can greatly affect how well the car runs, how reliable it is, and how much it’s worth overall. If you know which years are the best and worst, you can make a choice that fits your needs and budget.
What are the Best Volkswagen Jetta Years to Buy as Used?
1. 2023 Volkswagen Jetta
The 2023 Jetta is the most recent version of this iconic car. With its sleek design, high-tech safety features, and cutting-edge features, it is a great choice for people who want to buy a car with the latest innovations in automobile engineering.
The 2023 Jetta comes with a variety of strong and fuel-efficient engines, some of which are turbocharged. Inside the cabin, you’ll find a modern entertainment system and driver-assistance features that make the car easier to use and safer. The interior is also well-designed and roomy.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 0 recalls and 2 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.0/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2/5.0 consumer and 3.9 expert ratings.
2023 Volkswagen Jetta
2. 2022 Volkswagen Jetta
The 2022 Jetta builds on the success of its predecessor by combining good gas mileage, useful features, and a fun driving experience. The inside is cozy and well-designed, and the entertainment system is easy to use.
The 2022 Jetta has a variety of trims and engines, including a turbocharged engine for better speed, so it can fit a variety of driving styles. It also has high-tech safety features that make it a good choice for people who care about safety.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 1 recall and 9 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.0/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 75/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2/5.0 consumer and 3.9 expert ratings.
3. 2018 Volkswagen Jetta
The 2018 Jetta is a great choice for people who want good gas mileage, a cozy cabin, and quick handling. It has a variety of trims and engines, so buyers can choose the amount of performance that works best for them.
The 2018 Jetta is a refined car to drive with accurate steering and a smooth ride. Inside, there is plenty of room for people and things, making it a good choice for everyday use.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 3 recalls and 12 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.2/5.0 consumer and 6.4 expert ratings.
- J.D. Power: 82/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.1 expert ratings.
4. 2020 Volkswagen Jetta
The 2020 Jetta hits a good balance between power and fuel economy. It comes with a range of turbocharged engines that are both quick and good on gas. It looks good from the outside and inside because it has a sleek body and a nice interior.
The 2020 Jetta has a well-thought-out interior with high-quality materials and a lot of tech features, like smartphone integration and driver-assistance systems. The comfy seats and smooth ride of the Jetta make it a nice car to drive.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 4 recalls and 21 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.9/5.0 consumer and 7.4/10 expert ratings.
- J.D. Power: 82/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2/5.0 consumer and 4.4 expert ratings.
2020 Volkswagen Jetta
5. 2016 Volkswagen Jetta
The 2016 Jetta stands out because it has a lot of space, a smooth ride, and a lot of great features that come as standard. It comes with a variety of engines, including a TDI diesel engine that gets better gas mileage.
The 2016 Jetta is a well-rounded car to drive, thanks to its stable handling and quick turning. It also has an infotainment system that is easy to use and a lot of modern safety features, making it a good choice for people looking for a used car.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 5 recalls and 133 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.3/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 81/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.2 expert ratings.
6. 2021 Volkswagen Jetta
The 2021 Jetta stays true to the Jetta name by having a lot of room for cargo, a smooth ride, and high-tech features. It has an interior that is as comfortable and well-made as some higher-end cars in its class.
The 2021 Jetta has a variety of driver-assistance systems, like forward collision warning and blind-spot tracking, that make the car safer and give the driver more peace of mind. The 2021 Jetta is a reliable and useful choice because its engines are good on gas, and it looks good.
2021 Volkswagen Jetta
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 4 recalls and 24 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.9/5.0 consumer and 7.4/10 expert ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2/5.0 consumer and 3.9 expert ratings.
Consumer Scores for Best Volkswagen Jetta Years
To add to our list of the best years for the Jetta, it’s important to look at consumer ratings and comments from reliable sources. These numbers take into account things like how reliable, fast, safe, and happy the owner is with the car. Based on customer ratings, the above-mentioned model years always rank high, which confirms that they are great choices for used Volkswagen Jetta models.
Model Year | Edmunds’ Consumer Rating |
Kelley Blue Book’s Consumer Rating |
JD Power’s Consumer Rating |
2023 VW Jetta | 4.0 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 | NA |
2022 VW Jetta | 4.0 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 | 75 / 100 |
2021 VW Jetta | 3.9 / 5.0 | 4.2 / 5.0 | NA |
2018 VW Jetta | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 82 / 100 |
2017 VW Jetta | 4.3 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 83 / 100 |
2008 VW Jetta | 4.6 / 5.0 | 4.5 / 5.0 | 81 / 100 |
What Are the Worst Years for the Volkswagen Jetta?
Even though the Volkswagen Jetta has had many great model years, some years have gotten a bad name for being unreliable or having poor performance. Before you buy a Jetta, it’s important to know about these possible problems.
1. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
People didn’t like how the 2011 Jetta’s interior was made out of cheaper materials and didn’t feel as high-end as earlier generations. Some owners also said there were problems with the automatic drive.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 11 recalls and 618 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.1/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 78/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer and 3.3 expert ratings.
2. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
People who owned a 2009 Jetta said that the electrical system had problems, such as with the power windows and door locks. Some people had power outages every now and then, which was annoying and inconvenient.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 7 recalls and 886 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer ratings.
3. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
People didn’t like how reliable the transmission was in the 2010 Jetta. Some owners’ transmissions broke down too soon, leading to expensive fixes or replacements. Before you buy a 2010 Jetta, it’s important to carefully check and test the engine.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 6 recalls and 863 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.5/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer ratings.
4. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
There were more engine problems with the 2012 Jetta than with other years. Owners said there were problems with the ignition coils and fuel injectors, which could cause the engine to fail and run less well.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 9 recalls and 506 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.0/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer and 3.7 expert ratings.
5. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
Just like the 2012 model, the 2013 Jetta had problems with the engine, especially the 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine. Some owners said that the fuel pump and emission system broke down early and needed expensive fixes.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 6 recalls and 464 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.9/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 77/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer and 3.6 expert ratings.
6. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta
The 2006 Jetta had a number of electronic problems, such as broken power windows and door locks. These electricity problems could be annoying and could even be dangerous.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 6 recalls and 579 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.6/5.0 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.5/5.0 consumer ratings.
7. 2019 Volkswagen Jetta
Some 2019 Jetta owners reported problems with the transmission, like rough shifts and a pause when accelerating. Even though these problems don’t happen often, it’s important to be aware of them.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 8 recalls and 346 complaints.
- Edmunds: 3.9/5.0 consumer and 7.4/10 expert ratings.
- J.D. Power: 79/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.2/5.0 consumer and 4.4 expert ratings.
8. 2017 Volkswagen Jetta
Some people didn’t like how the 2017 Jetta’s interior materials weren’t as good as those of some rivals. Some owners thought the inside didn’t feel as refined and high-end as other cars in the same class.
Reviews, Ratings, Recalls & Complaints:
- NHTSA: 7 recalls and 114 complaints.
- Edmunds: 4.2/5.0 consumer ratings.
- J.D. Power: 83/100 consumer ratings.
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4/5.0 consumer and 4.1 expert ratings.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Volkswagen Jetta Year
When choosing a Volkswagen Jetta year, it’s important to consider more than just the model year. Some of the factors you should consider include:
Budget
Figure out how much you are willing to spend on a used Jetta, as prices can vary depending on the model year, condition, and location of the car.
Mileage
Think about how far the used Jetta you’re thinking about has been driven. Less wear and tear and possibly better long-term dependability are usually signs of lower mileage. But a well-kept Jetta with a little bit more mileage may still be a good choice.
Maintenance History
Ask for the maintenance records of the Jetta you’re interested in to learn more about how it has been taken care of in the past and what problems it might have. A full repair record shows that the car has been well taken care of, which makes it more likely to be reliable.
Trim Levels and Features
Look at the trim levels and features that are offered for each model year to make sure they meet your needs and preferences. There may be different amounts of comfort, convenience, and technology features at different trim levels. Choose a trim level that suits your preferences and how you want to live.
Safety Features
Look at the safety features that come with the Jetta model year you’re thinking about. Advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency brakes can make driving safer and give you peace of mind.
What Problems Do Volkswagen Jetta Have?
Even though the Volkswagen Jetta is usually a reliable car, there have been a few problems with it over the years. It’s important to know about these possible problems so you can make a good choice. Some of the most common problems that Jetta owners mentioned are:
Electrical Problems
Some Jetta owners have had electrical problems, like power windows that don’t work, door locks that don’t work, and lighting problems. These electricity problems can come and go, and you may need a professional to figure out what’s wrong and fix it.
Transmission Problems
Some years of the Jetta have been known to have transmission problems. Some signs of a bad transmission are hard shifting, a pause when accelerating, or a total failure of the transmission. Transmission problems can be prevented or fixed with regular upkeep and proper fluid changes.
Problems with the engine
Some Jetta models have had problems with the engine, such as ignition coil failures, fuel system problems, and misfires. These problems can affect how well the engine runs, how much gas it uses, and how reliable it is overall. Changing the spark plugs and oil as part of regular maintenance can help keep these problems from happening.
Interior Quality
In some model years, Jetta owners have complained about the quality of the car’s interior, saying that the materials used may feel cheap or less polished than those in competitors’ cars. Even though it’s a matter of taste, it’s important to check out the cabin and evaluate its quality during a test drive to make sure it meets your needs.
It’s important to remember that not every Jetta will have these problems, and the severity of the problems may vary from car to car. With regular upkeep, careful driving, and repairs done on time, these problems are much less likely to happen.
What Are the Best Alternatives to the Volkswagen Jetta?
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Volkswagen Jetta, there are several other compact sedans with similar features, reliability, and performance. Some options worth considering are:
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is known for being reliable and good on gas. It also has a comfortable ride, a roomy interior, and improved safety features. It comes in different trim levels, including fast ones for drivers who want a more exciting ride.
Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla is known for being reliable, having a high resell value, and having a long list of safety features that come along with it. It is easy to drive, gets good gas mileage, and has a reputation for being reliable over time.
Mazda3
The Mazda3 is a fun car to drive because it has sporty handling, a stylish design, and a well-made interior. It also has high-tech features. It comes as both a car and a hatchback, so it can be used for many different purposes.
Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra has a nice look, a roomy interior, and a lot of standard features, making it a well-rounded car. It has a smooth ride and gets good fuel efficiency, which makes it a good choice for daily driving.
Subaru Impreza
The Subaru Impreza stands out because it comes with all-wheel drive. This makes it a great choice for people who want more grip and steadiness, especially in places with bad weather. It also has good safety ratings, the choice of a hatchback, and Subaru’s reputation for being a durable brand.
Kia Forte
The Kia Forte has a stylish appearance, a well-equipped interior, and an infotainment system that is easy to use. It provides a comfortable ride, gets good fuel efficiency, and comes with Kia’s best-in-class guarantee, which gives owners peace of mind.
Nissan Sentra
The Nissan Sentra has a roomy interior, a smooth ride, and a long list of safety measures that are included as standard. It is both useful and comfortable, which makes it a good choice for a compact sedan in terms of reliability and price.
FAQs
Is It Expensive to Maintain a Volkswagen Jetta?
The cost of keeping a Volkswagen Jetta in good shape can change based on the model year, the number of miles driven, and any repairs that may be needed. In general, the average annual maintenance and repair costs for Volkswagen Jetta is $651. But prices for regular maintenance like oil changes, rotating the tires, and replacing fluids can be about the same as for other compact sedans. To make sure your Jetta lasts as long as possible and runs at its best, you should set aside money for regular repair.
How Long Will a Volkswagen Jetta Last?
If you take care of your Volkswagen Jetta and get it serviced regularly, it can last well over 100,000 miles and maybe even 200,000 miles or more. How long a Jetta lasts depends on many things, such as how it is driven, how often it is serviced, and how well it is taken care of generally. Your Jetta will last longer if you have it checked regularly, take care of any problems right away, and follow the maintenance plan suggested by the manufacturer.
Are Used Volkswagen Jettas Reliable?
Used Volkswagen Jettas can be reliable, especially if they are properly maintained and kept in good shape. The reliability of a used Jetta rests on many things, like how well it has been taken care of, how many miles it has been driven, and what model year it is. Before buying a used Jetta, do a lot of research, get a vehicle background report, and have a trusted mechanic check it out. This will give you peace of mind and help make sure the car is reliable.
Conclusion
When looking for a used Volkswagen Jetta, it’s important to choose the right model year. You can make a better choice that fits your preferences, budget, and expectations if you look into the best and worst model years, understand how consumers rate them and know what problems could happen. You should also think about your income, the car’s mileage, its maintenance history, and the features it has. Also, thinking about alternatives to the Volkswagen Jetta can give you more choices that fit your wants and tastes. By doing a lot of studies, taking into account important factors, and taking the right precautions, you can find a reliable and fun vehicle that fits your lifestyle and the way you like to drive.