In general, customers choose a Volkswagen when they want a car that is more elegant and sophisticated than others in its class. Volkswagens are a premium option in their respective sectors because of their appealing interiors, well-balanced rides, and smooth handling, which are frequently commended. While buying a used Volkswagen is a genuine option, it’s crucial to take the right safeguards to make sure you get a dependable car.
Is Jetta Reliable?
The 2022 VW Jetta has earned a 76 out of 100 rating for quality and reliability from J.D. Power.
J.D. Power quality and reliability ratings are based on defects, malfunctions, and design issues reported by real owners. These ratings evaluate every aspect of the vehicle, including the wheels and engine.
The higher the J.D. Power quality and reliability score, the fewer issues owners have reported.
To provide added peace of mind, the Jetta comes with a new car bumper-to-bumper warranty that covers the first four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first.
While regular maintenance is necessary for any car, owning a Jetta or any other vehicle can be expensive and time-consuming. VW helps alleviate this burden by offering complimentary maintenance for the first two years or 20,000 miles.
Things to Consider When Buying a Used Volkswagen Jetta
If you’re considering purchasing a used Volkswagen Jetta, it’s important to follow these guidelines to ensure that you’re getting a safe and reliable car:
- Test Drive: This is literally the most important thing to do before purchasing a used car. It’s doubtful that you will know if the vehicle has been used appropriately in the past if you don’t take it for a test drive.
- Keep an Eye on the Maintenance: Before making a purchase it’s detrimental to see if the Jetta has a complete service history or not. Ensure that the owner’s manual was filled out correctly before making a purchase.
- Inspect the Engine: Inspect the engine thoroughly. Take a good look at the belts, rust, and corrosion on the engine and its parts.
- Confirm Oil Changes: If the Jetta model you are planing to purchase has a turbocharger, a proper oil change is a crucial aspect assuring that it will last the lifetime of the vehicle.
- Inspect the Fuel System: Take a good look, and check for possible leaks, fuel pump, and fuel lines, especially if you are planning on buying the TDI Jetta.
- Listen for Knocks and Unusual Sounds: Listen for any unusual sounds at different speeds, while idling, accelerating, and during startup.
- Operate the Sunroof: Fully open and close the sunroof repeatedly and listen for grinding noises, which may indicate debris on the track.
- Test the Windshield Wipers: Turn on the windshield wipers on each setting and listen for any potential electrical wiring or motor issues.
- Inspect the Wheels: Look for damage, corrosion, or wear to the finish and verify that the vehicle has a valid VW rust and corrosion warranty.
- Check the Tires: Look for uneven wear which may indicate trouble in the vehicle’s suspension.
- Verify Recall Campaigns: Have a dealer run the vehicle’s VIN number through the computer system to ensure that there are no outstanding VW recall campaigns.
- Verify the Factory Warranty: When purchasing a used Jetta, verify the status and limitations of the factory warranty.
Different Generations of Jetta
First Generation (1979–1984): The boxy-looking first-generation Jetta debuted in 1979. It was supplied with a variety of engine choices and had both sedan and wagon body configurations.
Second Generation (1984–1992): The Jetta’s second generation had an upgraded interior with greater room and comfort. It also had a more aerodynamic design. It had both gasoline and diesel engine choices and debuted fuel injection technology.
Third Generation (1993–1999): Jetta’s design was more rounded and streamlined in the third generation. It added a VR6 engine and provided more safety measures as well as more interior space.
Fourth Generation (1999-2005): The Jetta’s exterior design was more sophisticated and contemporary. It had more engine options, better interior amenities, and better built quality. The Jetta GLI performance version was also launched during this generation.
Fifth Generation (2005–2010): The internal spaciousness and exterior styling of the fifth-generation Jetta were improved. It incorporated cutting-edge innovations including a turbocharged engine choice and an optional dual-clutch automatic transmission, as well as increased safety features and higher fuel economy.
Sixth Generation (2011–2018): The Jetta’s sixth generation had a significant facelift and a roomier cabin. It included available amenities such as touchscreen infotainment systems and cutting-edge driver-assistance technologies, as well as revised design and increased fuel efficiency.
Seventh-generation Jetta (2019-present): It has a more premium and sophisticated appearance. It provides a greater range of features that are standard and optional, such as cutting-edge safety technology and networking possibilities. The Jetta GLI performance version, which has a more potent engine and a sport-tuned suspension, was also launched during this generation.
The Bottom Line
If you are looking to buy an elegant and sophisticated car, Volkswagen Jetta may be a good choice for you. To be sure that you make a thoughtful choice, follow the guidelines provided above, they will help you make a quality purchase of a safe and reliable car. While the owners of models manufactured in certain years have complaints about different issues revolving around the Jetta, proper maintenance and care can greatly affect the vehicle’s quality over time.
To be 100% sure that you made a good choice, call a mechanic and let them inspect the vehicle thoroughly. Generally speaking, Volkswagen Jetta is a reliable car that is worth considering if you are looking to buy an elegant, smooth-handling, and comfortable car.