Jetta (A7)
Verdict Go for a 2022 or later Jetta with the 1.5L turbo, or a GLI with the 2.0L turbo. A 2019 to 2021 1.4L car is worth it only at the right price with full service records.
Data covers 3 NHTSA model names
Reliability Score
Complaints by Engine Code
1.4 TSI
1.4L 4-cyl Turbo / 147 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
2.0 TSI
2.0L 4-cyl Turbo / 228 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
1.5 TSI
1.5L 4-cyl Turbo / 158 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Volkswagen Jetta Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Show 1 additional engine variant with limited data
2.0-I4-Gas
2.0L 4-cyl / 228 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Reliability Overview
Volkswagen's A7 Jetta arrived for 2019, and its reliability record divides almost cleanly down the middle of its run. The early cars built the model's reputation, and the later ones have spent years quietly walking it back. Of the 831 NHTSA complaints across the 2019 through 2025 model years, 585 come from cars fitted with the base 1.4-liter turbo four, the engine Volkswagen used from 2019 to 2021.
That 1.4-liter TSI is the story. Volkswagen replaced it with a 1.5-liter turbo for 2022, and the newer engine has a small fraction of the complaints. The 2.0-liter turbo in the GLI scores 3.8, on 62 powertrain complaints from an estimated 33,000 cars. The engine badge on the window sticker tells you most of what you need to know about a used Jetta's risk, and the 2019-2021 base cars carry by far the heaviest load. That the complaint volume dropped so sharply after the engine swap is the clearest signal in the file that Volkswagen addressed the root problem rather than papering over it.
Beyond the powertrain split, three systems dominate the complaint file. Electrical and engine problems run close at 218 and 201, with the engine group flagged critical, and the eight-speed automatic draws 186 transmission complaints rated serious. Brake complaints reach 98 and safety-system faults 87, the latter flagged critical. The record also carries a heavier human toll than most compacts its size, with 31 crashes, 41 injuries, and two deaths logged across the generation, a reminder that some of these faults reach beyond inconvenience.
Nineteen recalls track the same early-car pattern. Most target 2019-2021 vehicles and cover suspension, electrical faults, front wheel bearings, seats missing bolts, and two separate air-bag problems, including an incorrectly installed driver airbag and a control module welded out of position. Even the newest cars are not exempt: 2025 and 2026 Jettas drew fresh electrical recalls for a transmission ground wire and an instrument panel that can fail to show warning lights.
The Jetta remains an affordable, space-efficient compact, and the later cars have earned back some credibility on the strength of the engine change alone. A used buyer is best served leaning toward a 2022-or-newer example with the 1.5-liter engine, and treating the 2019-2021 1.4-liter cars with real caution unless the price and a documented service history make the risk worth taking.
Owner Complaints by System
Complaints owners filed with NHTSA about the Volkswagen Jetta, counted across every engine. A complaint can name more than one system.
Buyer's Guide
The single most useful filter on a used Jetta is the engine, and by extension the model year. Cars from 2019 to 2021 carry the 1.4-liter turbo that accounts for the overwhelming majority of the generation's complaints, while 2022-and-later cars moved to a 1.5-liter turbo that has behaved far better in the data. A GLI with the 2.0-liter turbo scores 3.8, against 5.9 for the 1.4-liter and 7.7 for the 1.5-liter. If you are choosing between a bargain early car and a slightly dearer later one, the later one is usually the safer money.
Turn the weaknesses into checks. On any Jetta, exercise the electrical system thoroughly: instrument cluster, warning lights, infotainment, and lighting, since electrical faults are the largest complaint category and the subject of several recalls. Drive it far enough to feel the eight-speed automatic shift under load and watch for hesitation or harshness. On an early 1.4-liter car, ask for full service records and treat any hesitation, misfire, or turbo noise as a reason to dig deeper.
Run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup, because the Jetta's list is long and spans air bags, suspension, and electrical systems. Confirm the air-bag recalls in particular show complete on any 2019-2021 car. A later Jetta with its recalls closed and a clean maintenance record is a reasonable, low-cost commuter. An early 1.4-liter car is only worth it at the right price and with its history fully documented.
What to check on a used 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta
On a used 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta, the systems with the most NHTSA owner complaints are the electrical system (218), the engine (201) and the transmission and drivetrain (186). Each one has an inspection step below, with counts as of 2026-10-12. A complaint is an owner report, not a confirmed defect, and counts rise with sales.
- Switch on every electrical item in turn: lights, windows, locks, wipers, climate fan, screen and power outlets.Costly repair. NHTSA has 218 owner complaints on the 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta about the electrical system.
- Start the engine cold and listen for the first 30 seconds, then again at idle once it is warm.Costly repair. NHTSA has 201 owner complaints on the 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta about the engine, all engines combined.
- Accelerate gently through every gear, then once at full throttle. Shift into Reverse and back to Drive.Costly repair. NHTSA has 186 owner complaints on the 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta about the transmission and drivetrain, all engines combined.
- On an empty road, brake firmly from 40 mph with a light grip on the wheel.Safety. NHTSA has 98 owner complaints on the 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta about the brakes.
- Switch the ignition on and watch the airbag light. On the drive, check the backup camera and any collision or lane warning.Safety. NHTSA has 87 owner complaints on the 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta about the airbags and driver-assist systems.
Recalls (19)
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2025 Jetta and Taos vehicles. The instrument panel may fail to display warning lights or gauges. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Control and Displays."
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Jetta vehicles. The transmission ground wire may not have been properly connected during assembly, causing an open electrical circuit.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Jetta vehicles. The instrument cluster may not provide an audible warning to let the driver know that the key is still in the ignition when the door is open. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 114, "Theft Protection."
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Golf, Golf Alltrack, Golf Sportwagen, 2019-2020 Golf GTI, and Jetta vehicles equipped with a conventional ignition switch. The ignition switch may fail, especially in high temperature environments.
Show 14 older recalls
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan LWB, Golf Sportswagen A7, Golf Alltrack, Golf R GP, Audi Q3, Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas, Golf A7, Audi A3, 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport, and 2021 Atlas FL vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system may not detect an air pressure loss in adequate time when deflating occurs among all four tires simultaneously. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Golf GTI, Jetta GLI, Jetta NF, Arteon FL, Tiguan LWB, 2022 Taos, Jetta PA, Tiguan PA, 2021-2022 Atlas Cross Sport, and Atlas FL vehicles. The manufacturing process of the eMMC memory module in the infotainment system may cause the rearview camera image not to display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Jetta and Jetta GLI vehicles. The air bag control module was welded in the incorrect position.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Long Wheelbase and Jetta vehicles. Bolts may be missing from the front seat tracks.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas Cross Sport, Tiguan LWB, Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas FL and Arteon vehicles. The rear view camera could malfunction during an ignition cycle, leading to a black screen or infotainment system freeze. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen ) is recalling certain 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, Jetta, Jetta GLI and Tiguan and Audi Q5 and SQ5 and 2021 Volkswagen Atlas vehicles. Parts of the front seat frame and backrest adjuster may not have been welded properly.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling one 2020 Jetta vehicle. The front brake caliper bolts may come loose.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Jetta GLI, Golf Alltrack, and Golf GTI vehicles. The front wheel bearings may have been improperly machined, potentially causing excessive stress on the wheel, wheel bolts, or wheel bearings.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Volkswagen Passat, 2018 Tiguan LWB, 2007-2009 Jetta Sedan, 2011-2013, 2015 and 2019 Jetta, 2013 Jetta Hybrid, 2008-2009 Jetta Sportwagen, 2015 Golf Sportwagen, 2013 Golf, 2008-2010 and 2012-2013 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2008-2010 Beetle, and Beetle Convertible vehicles. Modifications made while the vehicles were in an internal evaluation period may cause the affected vehicles to not comply with all of the applicable regulatory requirements.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Golf Sportwagen, 2019 Jetta, 2015-2019 Golf, and 2018-2019 Tiguan vehicles. The rear coil springs may prematurely fracture.
Volkswagen Group of America (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Jetta vehicles. An incorrect driver frontal airbag may have been installed during a service/repair visit.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Volkswagen Atlas, 2015 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen, and 2019 Volkswagen Jetta vehicles. The rear coil springs may prematurely fracture.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Volkswagen Atlas and Tiguan and 2019 Volkswagen Jetta vehicles that do not have keyless entry. The instrument cluster may not provide an audible warning to let the driver know that the key is still in the ignition when the door is open. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection."
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Volkswagen Jetta vehicles equipped with LED headlights. The passenger side headlight may be incorrectly positioned, reducing the driver's visibility when it is dark. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
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Alternatives in Compact Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta complaints?
Owners have filed 831 complaints with NHTSA about the 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta. The systems they name most often are the electrical system, the engine and the transmission.
Is the 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta a good used car?
That depends on the model year, the mileage and the maintenance history of the car in front of you. Owners have filed 831 complaints with NHTSA about the 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta. Check which systems they name most often and whether a recall is still open on that car.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta have?
NHTSA has 831 owner complaints on file for the 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta as of the latest data pull. A complaint is an owner's report, not a confirmed defect, and counts rise with sales.
What recalls affect the 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta?
NHTSA lists 19 recalls covering some 2019-2025 Volkswagen Jetta vehicles. Which ones apply depends on the VIN: enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see the open campaigns on a specific car.
What should I check before buying a used Volkswagen Jetta?
Run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm every open recall has been done. Look hardest at the electrical system, the engine and the transmission, the systems owners complain about most. Ask for maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the car and run a vehicle history report for prior accidents and title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Jetta?
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 4 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (13.0% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Standard. Lane Departure Warning: Standard. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 831 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-10-12.