2013 Volkswagen Jetta Review: A Small Car With Big Ownership Costs

Alex Showalter
Jan 22, 2022

The 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is a compact car with a price range of $7,461 to $13,564. Lower reliability scores than the competition and lackluster technology for the price are reasons to avoid the car.

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likeFilled The Good
There’s more interior room than other compact cars, the optional diesel engine is very efficient, and the driving experience is more engaging than the competition.
dislikeFilled The Bad
Mechanical problems are very common, parts and labor are expensive relative to the price of the car, and the base engine is extremely weak.

2013 Volkswagen Jetta: Quick Overview

  • New features for the 2013 model year include an upgraded navigation system on the SEL model, and a Fender stereo system.
  • Reliability ratings are average, according to J.D. Power, with fewer complaints than the 2012 model.
  • Four engines are available, including a very efficient turbo diesel 4-cylinder.
  • Fuel efficiency is excellent and is in 2nd place out of 38 compact cars with a combined rating of up to 32 miles per gallon.
  • Safety ratings are above average, getting a 4-star rating in government crash tests and earning the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s Top Safety Pick award.
  • The 2013 Jetta ranks 21st out of 39 compact sedans, based on owner reviews. Expensive mechanical problems and outdated technology prevent the Jetta from scoring well in the competitive compact car class.

Expert Ratings

KBB
3.6/5
US News
7.7/10

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Fanny L
Reviewing my car from space to comfort.
I always wanted small car so if that's what you're looking for this is it. I like how the interior of the car and how easily you can manage everything, from pedals to steering wheel. Comfortable seats and moves as you want for your comfort. Enough space for passengers and trunk has big enough space for all your needs.
accountCircle John V
The Passat passes with a b.
The car came with XM radio, and that is nice. The seats are leather and comfortable. Recently, mom has had problems with the brakes being wet, and the engine currently has an oil leak.
accountCircle Mary V
I like that it does everything well and is versatile.
I like that it is well built, gets good gas mileage, and is comfortable. No complaints. Nothing I do not like.
accountCircle Dana M
They are safe, great on gas, comfortable and hands down the best.
The comfort of my Jetta is amazing it is also very simple and clean on the inside. The body of Volkswagens are way thicker plastic which is safer for collisions. My friend got into a head on accident doing 45 and she had a small dent and a few scratches. Theses cars will last well over 250k miles as long as they are well maintained.
accountCircle George V
The Volkswagen Jetta is a good car to have if you want something reliable for a long time.
I've had this car for two years and it has been reliable every time I have to use it. It's more spacious than I could've hoped for, runs good every time I turn it on and have no lights come on. I have the basic model so no distinct features.
accountCircle Sandra K
That's it's well taken care of and reliable and looks nice and I love it
It's sleek and nice looking. It has some upgrades but no enough to make it too expensive. It's also safe and reliable
accountCircle greg c
It has a TDI Engine.It gets upto 42 miles per hour
It has a TDI engine. I love the gas mileage. It is smaller then I am used to but it works
accountCircle Austin A
Jetta SportWagen tdi. Sporty and fun.
I have had my tdi for about a year now, the car drives smooth and has good amounts of power. The sound system is amazing and the car has a lot of space. Even after the emissions fix, the car still averages round 42 mpg. The dsg transmission is 100 percent the best feature of the car. Its smooth and downshifts at the right time.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Dqphane B
Pros and cons to the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta.
Skips all the time. There is always something needing to be fixed on it. As soon as one thing gets fixed another thing breaks. On the upside is does get up and go. It is super great on gas, but it is most definitely not the worst on it either. All in all it is decent.
accountCircle Samantha B
I do really like the look of my car.
Volkswagen has discontinued making my car. The transmission has gone out 3 times on me. I have had to replace the battery once. The air conditioning is also malfunctioning. I feel like I keep having problem after problem with this car. I do not recommend buying a Volkswagen Jetta hybrid.
accountCircle dan K
Volkswagens are junk, from a crooked company who had to lie to the government
There is nothing good about this car. I have had countless problems since the beginning, and service is awful. My first AND LAST gERMAN CAR
accountCircle Kyle B
Drivetrain is weak
2013 Jetta, with 55,000 miles, Mechanic just called to say my transmission is junk, Booo. Back to Nissan...
accountCircle Reanna S
2013 VW Jetta s sedan. The most boring VW ever made!
I have owned 3 VW in my life and this 2013 Jetta is by far the worst out of them all. It has a hard time even making it up hills. Not to mention it is the most basic model that VW has ever made! There are no bells or whistles, it is just super boring!!
accountCircle Samuel M
The multifunction switch goes out on the steering column.
I dislike the fact that any issues like fuses or mechanical you have to take it to a VW dealership to get any work done. The dealerships will not disclose any info that would allow you to fix a simple 1 second issue. They always want to charge close to 200. 00 dollars to just diagnose the problem. The only thing I like about VW is the design that is it.
accountCircle Laura S
An old Jetta: reliable .
It rides very smoothly and has a lot of pick up and go. It is built like a tank and has great gas mileage. My only complaint about the car is the stereo that comes stock. Plus I wish it were a newer year with more modern features like a back up camera and XM radio.
accountCircle Guy O
Buy something else not a Jetta.
It is very slow, it always needs a light replaced, it's expensive to fix and you always need special tools to do anything. The gas mileage is not great either for a 4 cylinder it could be a lot higher, the radio is stock and basic boring bumpy ride as well.

What Problems Does the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Have?

The 2013 Volkswagen Jetta has an average number of complaints compared to other compact cars, but they’re usually more severe. The 2013 model is a better choice than the 2014 since there are fewer problems.

Engine problems, including stalling and running roughly, are the most common issues. Usually a sensor failure causes the engine to run poorly, but you will need to use an OBD-II scan tool to diagnose the problem if the motor stalls. Replacement sensors can cost around $1,000.

Keys getting stuck in the ignition is another problem owners have encountered. Replacing the ignition for $500 will solve the issue.

Fuel pump failures on diesel models are also mentioned. Replacing the fuel pump or entire fuel delivery system, depending on the problem, is a very expensive procedure, and can cost over $5,000.

There are 6 recalls, which is average for a car from 2013. The recalls include the water pump, rear trailing arm, air bag clock spring, key may be removed when not in park, modifications, and master cylinder fluid seal crimp. All are serious and affect the reliability of the car.

What are the Prices, Models & Specs?

The 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is average-priced for a compact car with a range of $7,461 to $13,564, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price was $15,545 to $26,990. Depreciation is average, dropping 40% in value over the first 5 years.

  • Base is the entry-level model and has 15-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, manual seats, power windows, and a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system with AUX input.
  • S is next in the lineup and has power mirrors, power door locks, keyless entry, cruise control, and air conditioning.
  • SE falls in the middle with 16-inch steel wheels, power front seats, a more powerful engine, and a leather steering wheel.
  • SEL offers luxury with 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seating, heated front seats, fog lights, a 6-way power driver’s seat, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, and touchscreen navigation system with an 8-speaker Fender stereo system.
  • TDI is a diesel-powered version and has unique 17-inch alloy wheels, and all of the features found on the SEL model.
  • GLI is a sport-focused model with more power, a front differential lock, and sport-tuned suspension.
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Base Sedan
115 HP 27 MPG
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S w/Sunroof Sedan
115 HP 28 MPG
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car
car
SE w/Convenience Sedan
170 HP 26 MPG
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SE w/Convenience/Sunroof Sedan
170 HP 26 MPG
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How Long Will the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Last?

A properly maintained 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will last over 150,000 miles, which is shorter than other compact cars. Maintenance costs are also more expensive. Repair Pal estimates them to be $652 per year.

accountCircle Martika B

Yes it is very reliable. I have had it for about 6 months, and other than basic maintenance and new tires I have had no reason to bring it in to the shop.

accountCircle M E

This car is very reliable and does not have problems. It is very dependable, this is a very good car that you will not have to be worrying about it very often.

accountCircle Lakshmi D

Not experienced any problems with the car as of now. It is very reliable car which runs smoothly. Highway driving is enjoyable.

accountCircle Lisa E

It is reliable and I haven't had any issues with it so far. It is a little more expensive to maintain as far as regular maintenance.

accountCircle Aaron C

Front right headlight has been replaced four times. At 60,000 miles it runs smoothly. Engine does seem to run loud.

accountCircle Lance S

I have found it to be very reliable and very good on mileage of gas and very comfortable to drive the only problem I have had is with some of the electrical malfunctioning but rarely.

accountCircle Kiah E

It is a reliable and durable car. It has had some minor problems such as the battery but overall is very dependable.

accountCircle Carolyn S

I think it is a very reliable car. No problems that I have had. I drive daly far distances and haven't had any problems.

What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?

Technology is average for a compact car, but the latest safety technology is missing.

  • Base technology includes a 4-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback, and AUX connectivity.
  • Upgrades include Bluetooth, navigation, 6 and 8-speaker stereo systems, and a 5-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
  • Standard safety features include airbags, antilock brakes, as well as stability and traction control systems.

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What Engine Options are Available?

Performance is weak for a compact car, taking 8.5 seconds to go from 0 to 60 miles per hour.

  • The first engine found on the Base and S models is a 2.0L 4-cylinder which has 115 horsepower.
  • An upgrade is the 2.5L 5-cylinder found on the SE and SEL models with 170 horsepower.
  • The TDI version has a 140 horsepower 2-liter 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine.
  • There’s a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo available in the GLI model which produces 200 horsepower.

What Color Options are Available?

How Big is the Jetta?

The 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is a compact sedan, but offers more passenger room than the competition. There’s plenty legroom in the back seats to comfortably fit adults. Cargo space is also excellent, with 15.5 cubic feet of room in the trunk, enough space for 4 suitcases.

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How Does the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Compare to Other Cars?

The 2013 Volkswagen Jetta ranks 21st out of 39 compact cars, based on owner reviews, and is in the lower half of the class.

A competitor is the Honda Civic, which is more expensive. The Civic has better reliability ratings, is longer lasting, and has a lower cost of ownership. Materials are better in the higher-end Jetta models, and the Volkswagen has more passenger space. Overall, the Civic is the winner since the engine is significantly more reliable.

Another competitor is the more expensive Toyota Corolla. Toyota comes out ahead with better long-term reliability, and has more up-to-date technology. Cabin space, materials, and styling are all better in the Jetta. Overall, the Corolla is a less problematic sedan and the better choice.

Ranks #21 Small Cars by Owners

1
car
4.74
2
car
4.68
21
car
4.28

Final Verdict: Is the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta a Good Car?

No, the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is not a good car based on 503 verified owner reviews, and information from 17 government and automotive websites. Positives include a comfortable and spacious cabin, as well as a fuel-efficient diesel engine option. The downsides are poor reliability, and higher ownership costs than other cars in the same price range. Overall, the Jetta is a car buyers should avoid since they do not last as long as the competition.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle Lindsay S on June 25, 2021
Black Jetta tdi Volkswagen 2013.
It's a black sedan that runs on diesel. Has about 58,000 which is good for a 2013. Has a sunroof and navigation. Good little car. Do dents or scratches. Just a few hard water spots. Good condition with lots of dog car. Sometimes there is a rattling sound from the plastic.
accountCircle Leigh B on June 25, 2021
Jetta, 2013 - good commuting vehicle.
Door locking mechanism malfunctioned so the back doors locked when one was open and was unable to disengage the locks. Overall, the vehicle has been reliable and has needed very little maintenance beyond normal wear and tear. Headlight bulbs do burn out frequently.
accountCircle Katherine S on June 25, 2021
Jetta: a fun car for everyone!
This vehicle is really fun to drive and feels very comfortable for the price. It has leather seats, Bluetooth music capabilities, alloy rims, adjustable sunroof and feels like a luxury car for a much lower price. The maintenance on the car is more expensive than it is comparable models, but is well worth it in the long term. The car does have oil issue and as the owner you need to maintain this with time. Overall, it is a fantastic car!
accountCircle Kev M on June 24, 2021
Jetta hybrid thoughts and reviews.
I have a Jetta hybrid and it is great it does on average 39 mpg. It is got heated seats and great trunk space. It is a great commuter car or even of uber or delivery’s. I have had the car for over four years and have had any major repairs or issues. I used it as my commuter car to and from work each day.
accountCircle Kris C on June 21, 2021
Needs cupholders in the back.
It is a nice car, we got it at 40,000 miles. We bought it second hand. We had to replace the spark plugs because it kept misfiring occasionally but otherwise it runs well. It is comfortable inside, nothing special but it does the job. There are cup holders for the driver and shotgun but not for the passengers.
accountCircle NICK S on June 20, 2021
2013 VW Jetta review, good, reliable vehicle.
I have had my 2013 Volkswagen Jetta for about 3 years now. I bought it used with about 45,000 miles on it. Since I bought it, I have had quite a few issues such as tire problems, issues with the brakes, and headlights. However, it has been pretty reliable and all around it is a good car.
accountCircle David B on June 12, 2021
I noticed my speaker system is incredibly advanced and works amazing!
I haven't had many the only problems I have found where my ac was not working but after a small fixing it started working better than ever. I have noticed that my shocks get a little freaky sometimes but it's not a problem with the car driving. I love my VW and always will.
accountCircle Virginia O on June 11, 2021
It has an amazing gas tank which I only have to fill about every week and a half.
Very reliable, drives well. Since owning it for a year, I have had no issues and I have had to complete no repairs on it. The a/c works great, however, the stock speaker system could be much better. I plan on putting in better speakers later on, as I plan on keeping this vehicle for a very long time.
accountCircle Marion L on June 10, 2021
I love the gas mileage, and the overall look of the car is good.
My Jetta is very reliable and I have enjoyed driving it for three years now. My favorite part about it is probably the mileage I get on my car. I can fill up a whole tank for about twenty to twenty five dollars and it is enough to last me up to one or two weeks, depending on how much I am driving. I enjoy that it is compact, sleek, and reliable.
accountCircle Ray M on June 7, 2021
The features that my Volkswagen has.
The car is pretty nice. It accelerates really fast from 0 to 60. The car has a nice audio system, however, it tends to freeze. I like the sunroof, it's a great addition to the car. Another important feature is the seat warmed. I love it and use it almost everyday.
accountCircle Nesh B on June 6, 2021
Very safe, reliable and heavy duty vehicle.
No issues, so far, just the air conditioning system could be better, the car was purchased used, but in very good condition, it is a very heavy vehicle, good on gas. It is for 4 individuals in the car to drive comfortably. It rides very smooth. It is a safe vehicle.
accountCircle Stacy K on June 3, 2021
Good, reasonably priced sedan.
The acceleration is a bit touchy causing the car to be a bit jerky from the get go. The braking is also a bit slow. I do not like that the vehicle does not have automatic lights either given its a newer vehicle and this feature is pretty standard on most cars.
accountCircle olivia D on May 17, 2021
Seats are great I really enjoy it.
Some problems, performance, reliability, comfort and features are pretty great. I love the seats, I have leather and the heated seats are great in the winter. The leather is easy ripped in the center council. Performance is great because it picks up speed very well.
accountCircle Erika C on May 16, 2021
Pros and cons car review for people purchasing VW Jetta tdi.
Its reliable, economy car. Good interior. Miles per gallon is superb. We just had a problem with combustion, exhaust needs to be clean once in a while. But overall it is a good reliable car. Performance has good torque and horsepower. The cons that some of the maintenance are expensive like oil for oil change, smog test, etc.
accountCircle cynthia C on May 16, 2021
Basics about my car likes and dislikes.
Gets great mpg, fairly roomy little wagon, carry grandkids and their stuff easily. Good stereo system, no navigational use my phone for that, no backup camera want to buy one. Other than that should last pretty much forever with proper maintenance, unfortunately it's black in color and in Florida that just makes it bake in the hot weather.
accountCircle Cathy C on May 15, 2021
Pros and cons to ownership of Volkswagen Jetta.
After having it for 6 years the door locks would go from locked to unlocked while driving. Headliner has fallen. Other than that I never had a problem out of my Jetta and would recommend it to anyone. It is very reliable, fuel efficient and has great pickup of speed to get out of quick situations.
accountCircle Rachel K on May 13, 2021
It is simple but still has all the technology we would expect from a car nowadays.
It drives very well and is easy to understand. It is very comfortable and looks stylish. I like the sport car mode feature. I previously had a 2009 Jetta and it look and drove much better than my friend’s cars that were also from 2009. In general, I feel that jetta’s are well made and very reliable. The only problems are that you have to manually switch on the headlights and if you leave them on, the battery will probably die. I have also had some trouble with the phone call Bluetooth setting. I love how easy it connects for music but for phone calls, I cannot understand if I am supposed to yell at the car or talk into my phone still. I usually undo the hands free phone setting when I get a call because it is annoying to figure out. Changing headlights has also been difficult. It took half my family trying and a youtube video for us to install a new headlight.
accountCircle Claire F on May 12, 2021
Volkswagen Jetta 2013 review.
This car is very good for a first time driver, and is known to be a safe car. It drives very smooth and I like its size. It has push to start and leather seats. I will say though since it is a German car, parts are expensive to replace. Overall, I am happy with it.
accountCircle An S on May 11, 2021
It needs a special gas cap.
It's a good car. Only problem is the gas cap. You have to order a special one because they do not carry them at normal auto parts stores. Also the check engine light comes on sometimes for no reason that the mechanic can figure out. Other than that it runs fine.
accountCircle Derrick M on May 5, 2021
Love my 2013 volkswagen jetta.
2013 volkswagen jetta has been very reliable so far. I have had it for a little over a year and no problems to report. The leather interior and heated seats are great and very comfortable. There is a jack to hook up an aux cord that makes listening to my playlists incredibly easy. The sounds system is great. I have driven it in the sun, rain and snow and never encountered problems in any weather. The trunk has a ton of space for the size of the car and there is a lot of room in the back seats as well. The drive will be comfortable for a ten minute commute to work or a long road trip, no matter how many people you have with you.
accountCircle Kudos U on May 2, 2021
Volkswagen jetta sportwagen!
I got my car off the used lot with low milage. The only problem I have had with the car was the ac but it was a quick fix. Everything is smooth and I couldn't live without it! Very spacious if you have a family and it runs on diesel so very reliable to get you from one point to another.
accountCircle Anthony O on April 29, 2021
Very comfortable and roomy car.
The car is over all a good reliable car. The seating is rather comfortable lots of space. The screen in the car is a very nice accessory speaker sound good, its okay in saving gas all depending on how much you drive it. The Jetta is a great car and will be able to last you if well taken care of.
accountCircle Amber L on April 17, 2021
Volkswagen Jetta 2013 need gone asap!!
The car doesn't have any problems at the moment but the car does have a check engine light on. I haven't had the time to get that check out but this Monday I am going. The car recently had an oil change and I've also had the brakes changed in November of 2020. The tires could use some changing they are still good but should be changed within the next two months at least. The car is very economic on gas because the car runs on diesel, I usually have to fill up the tank almost every two weeks because I only use the car to get to work other than that the car is a great buy.
accountCircle Haley M on April 16, 2021
Perfect first car buy with little to no reoccurring issues.
This is a very comfortable car. My biggest concern with the car is how often I have to change out the headlights and how difficult it is to do so. I wish it had a cruise control option and heated seats, but I would continue to buy this car in the future.
accountCircle Landon D on April 16, 2021
Jetta SportWagen tdi is great car.
The Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen tdi is a fantastic vehicle. It looks good it drives great. I am a big guy and it has plenty of legroom. I get 45 miles to the gallon in this diesel. I would recommend this vehicle to anyone. Do not get turned away by the “dieselgate” problems. If it is on the road it is had the repair done and you will have a great vehicle.
accountCircle Makenzie C on April 13, 2021
Affordable and reliable ride.
It is a great car! Super reliable and gets great gas mileage. I have had a couple maintenance issues but it is a used car so they were expected. You will have to pay a little more for oil changes and repairs, but the car is worth it! Newer versions have updated features, but all around good car.
accountCircle Elaine G on April 13, 2021
Economical and reliable driving.
I have had my car for 7 years and have not had any major issues with it. It is economical and very reliable. It is a base model so it does not have a great deal of 'technology', but I imagine a newer model might have updates. I would definitely consider purchasing a newer model next time I want to buy a new car.
accountCircle Diandra C on April 11, 2021
Great car with luxury features.
I have had no issues with it so far, drives wonderful and feels very safe. I love having a diesel and will probably never go back to anything else, I get great gas mileage. The navigation is accurate and the touch screen in the vehicle works perfectly. Easy to keep clean even though my interior is very light leather.
accountCircle Austin R on April 10, 2021
The very reliable and dependable car.
Love the car! Very clean inside with nice leather heated seats, Sirius XM radio, great speaker setup. The best perk of the car is the amazing gas mileage. This car is a diesel and I get 50 mpg which is great for me because I drive an hour to work. If you looking for a nice reliable car you can't go wrong with the Volkswagen Jetta.
accountCircle Pam E on April 4, 2021
Great things about the Jetta se sedan.
The car is really peppy. It has a five cylinder engine. So it acts like a turbo engine even though it is not one. The design of the car is basically the same as a brand new model. Volkswagen has not changed the design much in the past eight years.
accountCircle Jayla W on April 4, 2021
The Volkswagen Jetta is overall a great first car!
My vehicle is pretty average. It has a good amount of space for all of the passenger's. The Volkswagen Jetta also rides smooth when driving. However the transmission goes down too slowly. I have also not had any maintenance issues with my car. One thing I wish was different is how I have to manually turn on the headlights at night. Why? Because when you are done using them you have to turn them off or your car battery could die. The interior of this car looks nice as well. I personally have black leather on the inside and love the way it looks. This car is also good on gas. A full tank for me when I am on empty is about thirty dollars.
accountCircle Sonora S on April 1, 2021
Automatic or a 15 speed manual downshift rather than brake.
None! It is an awesome car! I have had no trouble with it and purchased it w dealer warranty. Oil changes once per year and she runs like a beaut! The SportWagen handles snow amazing well and I get 42 mpg year round. It is a comfortable ride, the heating system is bold, heated seats are marvelous!
accountCircle Madeline B on April 1, 2021
Perfect and smooth ride!
The car is very reliable and is a very smooth ride. However this vehicle is meant for longer trips more than short as it will clog the catalytic converter and may cause issues. This is not a constant problem though and I would highly recommend this to anyone.
accountCircle Jolene B on March 25, 2021
It is a tdi, that gets over 500 miles with a full tank of diesel.
The 2013, Volkswagen, Jetta, sport wagon. All leather interior, that is light tan leather. Has sync and Bluetooth. A diesel engine that gets over 500 miles with a full tank. Just serviced in April, where the break line was flushed. The exterior is gold, with silver trim.
accountCircle Missy W on March 25, 2021
Reliable and Dependable VW Jetta
Reliable comfortable vehicle. Initial battery lasted 7 years driving in Texas and Florida. Air conditioning still works well. I have kept car in a garage for security. I would purchase again for updated feature like back up camera and blind spot indicator.
accountCircle Kyle B on March 25, 2021
Drivetrain is weak
2013 Jetta, with 55,000 miles, Mechanic just called to say my transmission is junk, Booo. Back to Nissan...
accountCircle Chandler C on March 23, 2021
My vehicle is a white 2013 sel Jetta with no ac and a popeye headlight sometimes.
Air conditioning in the Jetta does not work and spits out a pungent smell faint but there just like most other models I've been in after too long. Headlights also go out very easy and always needing to tap it back in or replace it. These things I have slight but still unconventional.
accountCircle Evan G on March 23, 2021
Functional, reliable, and affordable.
The vehicle runs great. It has great gas mileage. It has a lot of room. I have taken it on 500+ mile trips and it has never given me any trouble. There is the ability to use a port to charge your phone and other electronics. I needed to get new brake pads after owning the vehicle for three years.
accountCircle Lydia N on March 22, 2021
Satisfied with the vehicle and would only change a few cosmetic features.
I wish there was a setting for automatic headlights instead of just an on or off switch. It would also be nice if the driver side seat had an electric switch for seat adjustment, instead of just the passenger side seat. I also wish there were air vents in the back seat.
accountCircle Li V on March 20, 2021
VW Jetta - basic but reliable.
The car is basic but comfortable and reliable. It gets good gas mileage and was inexpensive to purchase as a brand new car. It does not have some of the newer features like a backup camera or lane sensors but that means there are fewer things to break or to have to maintain.
accountCircle Daniel R on March 19, 2021
Reliable, affordable, and safe. This car is all three of those things. My only complaint is that it is a little slow to accelerate.
Reliable vehicle at a price that you can afford. No bells or whistles.
accountCircle Julia K on March 18, 2021
Put the key in the door & turn right for a few seconds they will all roll up.
Have had electrical problems with my car for 2 years now. The left side headlights/side mirror blinker light/daily running lights turn on and off whenever they want. Only complaint I have. Just hard to fix that type of problem on a Volkswagen. Very good looking car & very simple. Small and compact. Great gas mileage. I have never felt unsafe driving ever in this car. Not afraid of it breaking down or any other running issues. This is my second Volkswagen Jetta and my next car will be another.
accountCircle Richard F on March 15, 2021
The Jetta reliable, comfortable and great family car.
I have had exhaust problems and ignition switch problems with my Jetta other than that it is a reliable car. The headlights go out a bit too soon. I am a big man and my Jetta seats are comfortable which means a lot to me. My Jetta drives smooth but is too loud for my taste. It is been a reliable family car easy on my pockets when it comes to buying gas.
accountCircle Guy O on March 15, 2021
Buy something else not a Jetta.
It is very slow, it always needs a light replaced, it's expensive to fix and you always need special tools to do anything. The gas mileage is not great either for a 4 cylinder it could be a lot higher, the radio is stock and basic boring bumpy ride as well.
accountCircle riley H on March 14, 2021
It has sunroof and it amazing.
There are really no flaws. I have had a German car since I could drive (bug first) and upgraded to a Jetta when it was time. It is a beautiful car that I have had for 7 years with no problems at all!! It is worth the money, since it is a relatively inexpensive car, but it is also cute and gets great gas mileage and is roomy!
accountCircle Kelley M on March 14, 2021
A great car with just a few quirks
The car is great. Much quieter than my old car and runs very smoothly. The only issues with the car is that the radio's Bluetooth doesn't say the song name/artist and the car doesn't have much torque.
accountCircle Israel P on March 14, 2021
It is a quiet car and gets going pretty fast steering isn't super smooth.
Great gas mileage, comfortable seats, GPS navigation it has keyless start that it great for the winter.
accountCircle Jamie W on March 11, 2021
That getting it worked on is not cheap at all. You pay a lot
I love how well it handles. I love the look and styling of my car. I dislike the costly maintenance.
accountCircle Jason S on March 10, 2021
The sound system and leather interior is amazing.
The car is very comfortable and drives very smoothly. The main problem I have is that it has terrible air conditioning. I have taken it to many mechanics and they all say that nothing is wrong and has all its fluids. They said the ac just is not the best. I love the sound system the car has and also has a beautiful interior. The engine is quiet for the most part and has a quick up and go feel. The car also comes with a sport mode for the faster drivers out there. I have had very few problems with the car. The only thing I have noticed is the headlights go out often. Not a big deal at all though. Very reliable car for the most part.
accountCircle Ashley B on March 9, 2021
Solid car with a few issues.
I've had a few issues with my battery and needing to get a jump from someone around, even after getting a new battery put in my car so that was a little unnerving. The car drives well, the acceleration on it is pretty good so that can be fun. I wish the interior of the car was a little bit more luxurious, there could definitely be a back up camera or GPS system at least. Overall, a good car in my opinion.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.