Since 1979, the Volkswagen Jetta has been winning the hearts of drivers. It’s been known as the grown-up, more serious version of the VW Golf because it’s practical, yet still fun. While the popularity has been well-earned, it’s not immune to trouble.
However, there have been recalls for the Jetta over the years. Like any car, some models have faced some serious recalls. Most recently, the failure of the rearview camera has put drivers at risk of an accident. But don’t get us wrong; there have been many more serious issues the company has had to deal with as well.
The Lemon Pros are experts when navigating defective vehicles and recall repairs. Our practice area centers on lemon cars, but many of these start with recalls that can’t be fixed. We also offer free consultations, so you have nothing to lose. Contact us today.
Yes. Many VW Jetta models have been affected by serious recalls over the years. Common recall issues have included airbag malfunctions, fuel leaks, brake system failures, and emissions problems.
Because recalls vary by model year and equipment, it’s important that you check your specific vehicle using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
New car issues aren’t uncommon among many brands, so these recalls don’t make the Jetta unique in any way. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there have been some notorious recalls over the past two decades.
Here are a few notable concerns with relevant links from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
Many of these situations can be classified as some of the most common car problems. However, Volkswagen may be best known for the Dieselgate scandal. It was reported that Volkswagen violated the Clean Air Act by selling around 590,000 model year 2009 to 2016 diesel motor vehicles that had “defeat devices" installed to cheat on federal emissions tests.
The key to finding out what recalls are open on your Jetta is the vehicle identification number (VIN). On the NHTSA website, you can enter the VIN to find out if your vehicle has been recalled. You can find the VIN in these locations:
You can also call the dealership to get information on current recalls. If you are planning to buy a used vehicle, a recall check should be done, and you should have a mechanic inspect the car before making up your mind.
After finding out that your car has been recalled, the steps you take now can have a profound impact on whether you get any future settlements.
First and foremost, reach out to the dealership. You want to schedule the service appointment immediately, whether by phone or online. Ask the service department if the parts are in stock. Otherwise, you could be waiting without a vehicle for shipments to arrive. Of course, you can always ask them to provide a loaner car, but there’s no guarantee they will.
Typically, the dealers will replace recalled parts free of charge, but you should also verify that you won’t owe any money.
To expedite your service appointment, it’s best to be prepared. Consider taking these items with you:
At drop off, ask how long the repair is expected to take. Document the answer, just in case you need to file a claim later.
That leads us right into the next step. You must keep detailed records of everything that occurs. Get a copy of the work order or invoice, even if there’s no charge to you. On the repair order, mark down the date and name of the service advisor. If you need to pursue legal action, you will want this information.
Once the repair is completed, be vigilant and watch for future issues. If the issue isn’t fixed, you must contact the dealership again. You want to act quickly and show that the problem is important. In case of some unresolved defects, you may need to consider suing a car dealership, or you can file for Lemon Law protection.
If you get your previously recalled car back and it is still exhibiting problems, know that you aren’t alone. Drivers routinely experience recalls that don’t resolve a defect. There are several things you can do next:
The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, otherwise known as California’s Lemon Law, protects consumers from defective cars and forces manufacturers to comply with regulations. If all repair attempts fail, you may have a Lemon Law case. Note that not all states have lemon laws, but California is proactive and protective.
Depending on the situation, you may be offered a vehicle replacement. It would be the same make/model with similar features, but free of defects. Otherwise, you may prefer a Lemon Law buyback. This option requires you to return the vehicle for a settlement. If the defects aren’t terrible to deal with, you may prefer the cash and keep settlement, but all choices should be discussed with a qualified attorney before making a decision.
Not every car with defects or recalls qualifies as a lemon. Is your car a lemon? If your recalled Jetta meets these criteria, you may be dealing with a lemon:
Most lemon laws center around new vehicles. In California, the defect must occur within 18,000 miles or 18 months, whichever comes first. It must also be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. However, there is also a Lemon Law for used cars that could be helpful.
You may be hesitant about hiring a lawyer for Lemon Law, but you shouldn’t be. An expert can help you file the claim, negotiate with the manufacturer, and ensure you get the largest settlement possible. The best part is that you may not need to pay a dime out of pocket. With a free consultation and lawyers that work on a contingency basis, you won’t be out any more money right now.
At this point, can you afford not to hire an attorney?
It isn't out of the ordinary for vehicles to fail from time to time, causing manufacturers to notify owners that there’s a recall. Once you learn that Volkswagen is recalling your Jetta, you need to take steps to protect your rights, just in case the problem doesn’t get resolved. You should also check for open recalls regularly, just to be sure you are informed.
The Lemon Pros are experts in recall issues and defective vehicles. We’ve fought hundreds of claims related to recalls, and we know how to address your concerns. If you need help from the best Lemon Law attorney, contact us for your free case evaluation. Let us show you what you may be owed for your troubles.
Have any more inquiries? We've provided answers to some of the most common questions people have regarding Volkswagen Jetta recalls.
Over the past few years, Volkswagen has had numerous recalls for the Jetta. In July 2020, a recall was issued to replace all of the front brake caliper bolts because they didn’t meet the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety laws. Furthermore, there was a recall for the front seat frame that was not properly bolted and malfunctioning airbags. Some of these also affect the Jetta GLI vehicles, so it’s important to check open recalls by your car’s VIN.
Since 2019, consumers have experienced a lot of problems with the Jetta, Passat, and Golf Sportwagen. Among the top complaints are transmission jerking and hesitation, electrical system glitches, engine stalling, rough idling, ignition switch failure, and a fuel pump leak that can cause a fire.
You should have received a notice from the manufacturer in the mail. You can also perform an online search with the NHTSA to see if your vehicle has any open recalls. If you find recalls, you want to call Volkswagen’s number or reach out to your local dealership.
There are reports of 2019-2021 Jetta models struggling with sluggish shifting. There are also reports of jerking and hesitation, especially when dealing with the 8-speed automatic. Thankfully, many of the issues are software-related and can be worked out with an update, while others require valve body repairs.
Yes, 2019 and 2020 models equipped with the traditional ignition switch had trouble with overheating. Because of the heat, the engine can shut off while driving. It turns out that a polyfuse assembly in the switch fails prematurely, so a recall was issued to replace it with a better design.
The 2019 and 2020 Jetta GLI models deal with a seal failure in the fuel tank’s suction pump, allowing gas to flow into the evaporative emissions system. This leak can spark a fire, so it’s extremely dangerous. Therefore, dealers are supposed to install a new pump at no charge to the driver.
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