Model-year record

2012 Volkswagen Jetta
See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.
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Complaints filed
526
Reports to NHTSA, 2012
Safety recalls
8
NHTSA campaigns on record
NHTSA crash test
Overall NCAP rating
Combined MPG
26.5
EPA estimate
Known issues
Electrical System issues lead owner complaints (23% of 526 reports), followed by unknown or other (15%).
+ 14 more component categories with fewer reports.
Share of all 526 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11308656, ODI 11283166, ODI 10896998, ODI 10789940, ODI 10715916.
Individual complaint reports(526)
Showing the 50 most recent reportsElectrical SystemJun 2026 · ODI 11744027Details +Close −
A microswitch malfunction. My car will not lock and while I am driving it there is clicking on the doors for locking and unlocking. My night lights will not shut off when I park the vehicle. There is a pinging noise when the vehicle is shut off and in park and the door is open with no lights on.
- Reported
- Jun 2026
- Incident date
- Mar 2026
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringJul 2025 · ODI 11675172Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that for the past eight months, the contact was unable to remove the key from the ignition. Several warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that to start the vehicle, the contact had to plug in the two fuse boxes and connect the battery cable. The contact feared the vehicle might catch on fire. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V615000 (Electrical System, Steering). The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the contact was informed that pre-existing repairs needed to be performed before the recall repair could be performed. The contact stated that the dealer had not provided an official repair estimate, however the total repair cost was provided. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The manufacturer confirmed that the pre-existing repairs needed to be performed prior to the recall repair. The failure mileage was approximately 131,260. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Reported
- Jul 2025
- Incident date
- Jul 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherMay 2025 · ODI 11662434Details +Close −
The ignition switch where the key is placed in the ignition and turned to start the car failed. The ignition would not turn with the key engaged inside the ignition switch. It will require a new ignition switch kit and new key in order for the car to function properly again.
- Reported
- May 2025
- Incident date
- May 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemMay 2025 · ODI 11658596Details +Close −
This is my 4th volkswagen jetta 2.5L I've own that has had the same issue with the charging system the car would just shut off while driving due to dead battery almost causing an accident this needs to be addressed 2011 to 2018
- Reported
- May 2025
- Incident date
- May 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainMar 2025 · ODI 11648429Details +Close −
I recently bought vehicle seen there is a recall
- Reported
- Mar 2025
- Incident date
- Feb 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemMar 2025 · ODI 11648430Details +Close −
Seller sold vehicle without a working horn and hasn’t fixed it
- Reported
- Mar 2025
- Incident date
- Feb 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsOct 2024 · ODI 11618327Details +Close −
Clock spring went out and would have failed to deploy the airbags if i was in an accident. there was no notification that said it went out. NHTSA campaign number - 15V483000
- Reported
- Oct 2024
- Incident date
- Aug 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel/Propulsion SystemSep 2024 · ODI 11614705Details +Close −
Cp4 high pressure fuel pump will self-destruct causing little pieces of metal to go throughout the fuel system and causing thousands in repair lots of manufacturers are doing recalls to this pump but nothing for Volkswagen I have contact the dealer no help if you go online thousands of people it's complaining about the CP4 high pressure fuel pump it has a design flaw from factory and needs to be corrected
- Reported
- Sep 2024
- Incident date
- Sep 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel/Propulsion SystemAug 2024 · ODI 11607161Details +Close −
I was looking at the GMC Duramax diesel and it has the same problem as the Volkswagen Jetta TDI fuel pump failure due to American Diesel in the pump is designed for foreign diesel which is very expensive to repair can we please have some help with this where they can come out with a replacement pump that can resist American diesel
- Reported
- Aug 2024
- Incident date
- Aug 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJun 2024 · ODI 11595644Details +Close −
I was driving on the road going up a hill and my fuel was just alittle low about 120 miles my car sputtered and died and didn't start back up stuck on the road with barley any gaurd rail so I'm partially in the lane and I got it looked at and my high pressure fuel pump failed and sent metal scrapes all throughout my fuel system so it's estimated around 10k to replace I got told it's because the pump barley lost fuel and it uses that to lubricate itself so somthing as simple as one of the pumps going out and this problem can occur or a slight short im just reporting because many others have had this issue with the pump and mine shouldn't have even had nothing going on at 120 miles 1/4 of a tank and I did look in my tank and confirmed I had fuel that I filled up at my local gas station in the middle of the city so it's not bad diesel I own a 2012 volkswagen jetta 2.0l tdi cjaa
- Reported
- Jun 2024
- Incident date
- Jun 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperMay 2024 · ODI 11590410Details +Close −
The contact's daughter owns a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving at undisclosed speeds in the rain, an abnormal popping sound was heard. The wipers were moving slowly and became inoperable. The contact stated that after turning on the windshield wipers, the wiper blades went into the down position. The driver was able to pull over. There were no warning lights illuminated. The owner called an unknown local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Reported
- May 2024
- Incident date
- May 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainMar 2024 · ODI 11577827Details +Close −
A bolt holding my CV Joint backed out causing the bracket between two of the bolts to come lose. The bracket then swung as I drove a created a hole in my transmission. This caused me to lose transmission fluid and damage my transmission. My car has only been serviced at VW certified dealers so I am very disappointed with this issue
- Reported
- Mar 2024
- Incident date
- Mar 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel/Propulsion SystemFeb 2024 · ODI 11573337Details +Close −
Everytime I fill with gas car will not start.i have to pump accelerator, then it will start.it starts normally on all other occasions. This has been happening for about 6 months or 5 thousand miles.
- Reported
- Feb 2024
- Incident date
- Aug 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringJan 2024 · ODI 11563924Details +Close −
I remember having my keys in my hand and my car was slowly reversing out the driveway. I panicked, i was stomping on my brakes for a while jerking back and it took me about 2 minutes to finally get the key back in and try to put in park again. I went to a shop the following weekend because all the jerking and jabbing to get my key back in seems to have caused my ignition switch to misfire or whatever the word he (mechanic) used, so now i cannot take my key out like a regular person, I have to flick my key a certain way out anytime i want to turn my car off.(even mechanics have a hard time taking it out. I was also given a qr code to scan and was brought the this exact recall of the situation with my car. I now have my engine light on and [XXX] gave me the fault code for my map sensor. I’m not sure if the two are related but this was following the incident. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Reported
- Jan 2024
- Incident date
- Dec 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringNov 2023 · ODI 11557111Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V615000 (Electrical System, Steering) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while using the key to start the vehicle, the key spun around in the ignition cylinder and failed to start the vehicle. The dealer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
- Reported
- Nov 2023
- Incident date
- Nov 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesNov 2023 · ODI 11553518Details +Close −
ABS module controlling the Anti-Lock brake system has failed. I am told there is a recall for earlier models of this car for the very same issue but not for 2012 model year. This is a safety issue that is very expensive to fix and primarily by the dealer requiring factory programming of a new expensive ABS module
- Reported
- Nov 2023
- Incident date
- Sep 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringOct 2023 · ODI 11549605Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagon Jetta Sportwagen. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, the accelerator pedal became inoperable and the vehicle did not accelerate. The engine and power steering had failed. The glow plug warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a dealer. The contact was informed that the failure was due to the high-pressure fuel pump which sent metal shards through the fuel line. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.
- Reported
- Oct 2023
- Incident date
- Oct 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemSep 2023 · ODI 11547246Details +Close −
Horn only occasionally works when honking and/or locking car, which increases the risk of a crash since I can’t always use my horn to alert other drivers of presence. One front headlight only occasionally works (lightbulb is not the issue), which increases the risk of a crash since other drivers may not be able to see me as well & I am not able to see the road as well in the dark. Cruise control does not work at all, which increases risk of speeding and therefore increases risk of crash. Dealer has inspected horn/headlight issue but could not determine cause. No warning signs. Issues first appeared a couple years ago.
- Reported
- Sep 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineAug 2023 · ODI 11536407Details +Close −
My DPF system failed after my warranty ran out, about 128,000mi. and VW charged me $3000 to replace the DPF, then two days later the Nox Catalyst failed and they wanted another $2500 out of me. I tried the regen like the manual says, and the car went in limp mode 75 miles from my house in the middle of the highway. The car is not safe to drive, and they would not tell me if replacing the Nox catalyst will fix my problem, or just reveal another multi thousand dollar problem. The car is parked for the past 6 months and is not drivable.
- Reported
- Aug 2023
- Incident date
- Dec 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJun 2023 · ODI 11527848Details +Close −
Cannot turn engine off. Key gets stuck in ignition when turning off the engine. Dealer confirmed it's an on-going and common issue. Replacement parts also fail. Only way to turn car off was to pull the fuel pump fuse.
- Reported
- Jun 2023
- Incident date
- Jun 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJun 2023 · ODI 11526835Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate properly. Additionally, the contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the vehicle was shuddering. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
- Reported
- Jun 2023
- Incident date
- Jun 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherMay 2023 · ODI 11520670Details +Close −
Key stuck in ignition, can't turn off
- Reported
- May 2023
- Incident date
- May 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesMar 2023 · ODI 11513169Details +Close −
The brakes randomly engage while driving and sometimes while parking, without touching the brake pedal. After this happens and you're driving for a while, there is a burning smell, likely from the brakes being engaged while driving and not applying the brakes.
- Reported
- Mar 2023
- Incident date
- Mar 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherFeb 2023 · ODI 11507560Details +Close −
The passenger mirror on my car was fine while I was driving to work and then when I went to change lanes I looked over in the mirror was black and had melted from it being a heated mirror I’m guessing but then I can’t see anything out of the mirror so it is a major safety issue but the mirror had melted and turned black thank you
- Reported
- Feb 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemFeb 2023 · ODI 11506811Details +Close −
The passenger side door actuator/wiring is not locking appropriately. Through the use of the key fob locking the car doesn't lock the passenger door and every time the vehicle is in motion at 10mph it tries to initiate the auto-locking but fails to lock the passenger door. This enables the passenger to open their door at any rate of speed without automatic safety protection. I have seen this be an issue with other Volkswagen Jetta cars online through car parts stores and online forums, but no recalls as of yet. As of right now, I have not had the vehicle inspected but will be looking to do so this week. There were no warning lights or messages that appeared. It just started two days ago and the only way I realized it was a problem is when I would stop and continue driving it would try to auto-lock when I hit 10mph. Concerns arose when I was driving my 8-month-pregnant wife around town.
- Reported
- Feb 2023
- Incident date
- Feb 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesJan 2023 · ODI 11504260Details +Close −
The ABS module has failed and caused lights in dash to illuminate for ABS, Traction control, and airbags. Requires full replacement and reconfiguration of ABS module
- Reported
- Jan 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel SystemJan 2023 · ODI 11502209Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated he smelled a strong odor of carbon dioxide inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for a diagnostic test however, no failure was found. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the vehicle did not have a diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was 100,000.
- Reported
- Jan 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemJan 2023 · ODI 11501646Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The mechanic linked the failure to an electrical failure. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V483000 (Air Bags) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Reported
- Jan 2023
- Incident date
- Dec 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemJan 2023 · ODI 11501319Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, he noticed a burning odor and smoke coming from the vents into the cabin of the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that he pulled apart the heater and noticed that the wiring had melted. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure however, the contact was only able to leave a voicemail. The call was not returned. The failure mileage was approximately 122,000.
- Reported
- Jan 2023
- Incident date
- Jan 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemDec 2022 · ODI 11497549Details +Close −
The locking system is hit and miss at this time. The automatic locks do not lock all the doors. Sometimes the trunk will not open, either using the fob, or the trunk release. The windows don't always work either. Child lock doors can be unlocked. I am planning on taking it in for service, however, VW charges $165 just to do a diagnostic check and cannot give me a range of what it could cost to repair. I am a senior on a budget. I have seen identical complaints on the internet for this vehicle and cannot understand why there hasn't been a recall. If I spend the money to get this repaired and then there's a recall, do I get my money back from VW?
- Reported
- Dec 2022
- Incident date
- Nov 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemDec 2022 · ODI 11496668Details +Close −
Unable to remove the key from the ignition to turn the car off, constantly getting stuck with the engine on other times hard to turn to get the car started. I see multiple recalls for this for some reason my car is not amongst them. 3VWDP7AJ1CM302229
- Reported
- Dec 2022
- Incident date
- Dec 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJul 2022 · ODI 11472561Details +Close −
HPFP fuel system failed while driving at speed causing car to stall on highway.
- Reported
- Jul 2022
- Incident date
- Jul 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionMay 2022 · ODI 11465875Details +Close −
Front driver strut coil spring snapped while driving.
- Reported
- May 2022
- Incident date
- May 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineMar 2022 · ODI 11454720Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the check engine light would remain illuminated. Additionally, the vehicle experienced hard starts and rough idling. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who replaced the spark plugs and decarbonize the engine however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was later taken to an independent mechanic who changed the coil pack and fuel sensor but the failure was not resolved. The manufacturer was not yet notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 98,000.
- Reported
- Mar 2022
- Incident date
- Oct 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesJan 2022 · ODI 11448810Details +Close −
The car it’s having severals issues such a fuel system injectors fuel ️ gas leak also breaks and battery alternador and much more this car was sold to me by a dealership looking for legal assistant that can help also it was on a accident but I don’t know when
- Reported
- Jan 2022
- Incident date
- Jan 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineSep 2021 · ODI 11433442Details +Close −
I’ve been having problems with this car every since I purchased it from carvana Epc and check engine light keeps cutting on I went to Volkswagen for them to fix and for them to claim they fixed it august 2019 for my light to still light up… they also broke my heater coil which prevents my heat from blowing hot or warm air only
- Reported
- Sep 2021
- Incident date
- Sep 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsSep 2021 · ODI 11431910Details +Close −
Unknown Car has been acting up First throttle body went now airbag, tire pressure, tracking, & other lights are on Cruise control won’t work when prompted etc.
- Reported
- Sep 2021
- Incident date
- Sep 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainSep 2021 · ODI 11431481Details +Close −
The car stop at the stop sign n in the traffic then push start n it worked 4times in a 2years I thought the vw made fir saving fuel. Today the car stop at highway n I almost got killed by sudden stopped. I got panicked couldn't think about anything then push the start it worked again. I Google myself, there are many same problems n reports for 2012 vw jetta. Please help me what I should do. Last year The vw dealer couldn't find anything wrong but there is some problem
- Reported
- Sep 2021
- Incident date
- Sep 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel/Propulsion SystemAug 2021 · ODI 11430924Details +Close −
It first started around May 2021. The first symptom was gas or exhaust fumes in my cabin of the vehicle. Apart believed to be a fact it was the canister purge solenoid so I changed it out myself twice. The symptoms did not seem to go away so I decided to take it to a Firestone; after a week and a half they decided they didn’t know what it was so I was refunded. After that I took it to “Checkered Flag Volkswagen” in Virginia Beach. When I was diagnosed with the charcoal canister needed to be replaced. After that was changed I had to move the very next day to Alton Illinois. So I use the vehicle to move to Alton Illinois vehicle seem to be running fine but after the day the check engine light came back on was the same code. Shortly afterwards I started smelling the fumes again and I developed a cough and I have occasional headaches come from the fumes coming from either gas or exhaust inside the cab another vehicle through the vents. Since I moved I cannot return to the same dealership to further resolve this problem and now I am expected to pay for further service being done and continue to pay for the service already done by the last dealership. This is a safety hazard to me to drive like the and I have to pay for an unfinished job. I would like my money back and have the service taken care of without further costs.
- Reported
- Aug 2021
- Incident date
- May 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainAug 2021 · ODI 11429399Details +Close −
Experiences rollaway issue but VIN not currently covered under recall.
- Reported
- Aug 2021
- Incident date
- Aug 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineAug 2021 · ODI 11427766Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that while driving at 15 mph, the vehicle made a clunking sound then loss motive power without warning. The crankshaft position sensor was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and diagnosed with code P0016 - crankshaft position sensor fault. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN and referred the contact to the NHTSA for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
- Reported
- Aug 2021
- Incident date
- Aug 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringJul 2021 · ODI 11426011Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated while turning into the parking lot at the residence, with a foot on the brake pedal, the contact was unaware that the vehicle was still in drive and turned off the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle rolled forward approximately 3-4 feet before the brake pedal was depressed and the vehicle was stopped. The vehicle was shifted into PARK and the contact restarted the vehicle and the vehicle operated as designed. The contact stated that a week later while at work, the vehicle failed to start-up. The vehicle remained at the contact’s place of employment. The contact reached out to a representative on at the Volkswagen website and was informed that the Vin was not under recall. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V615000 (Electrical System, Steering) as a possible solution to the failure however, the Vin was not included. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 155,000.
- Reported
- Jul 2021
- Incident date
- Jul 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesJul 2021 · ODI 11423750Details +Close −
The brake vacuum pump is leaking oil. As this component is related to brakes, it is considered a safety component. The leak was confirmed by the local VW dealer and a cursory google search shows that this issue is common amongst this engine (across many models/years).
- Reported
- Jul 2021
- Incident date
- Jul 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesJun 2021 · ODI 11419911Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that her husband was driving at an undisclosed speed, when the ABS, traction control, brakes and air bags warning lights were illuminated. The dealer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that she needed to pay for the diagnostic test. The VIN was not included in a recall. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with codes 16352, 01130 and related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 16V913000 (Service brakes, Hydraulic, Electronic stability control). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall however, if there was a recall later that included the VIN, the contact might be eligible for reimbursement. The failure mileage was 181,000.
- Reported
- Jun 2021
- Incident date
- May 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringMay 2021 · ODI 11416329Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, THE IGNITION KEY CEASED IN THE IGNITION SWITCH AND THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START IMMEDIATELY. ALSO, WHILE DRIVING THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED AND FAILED TO TURN. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT YET DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER AND LOCAL DEALER WERE NOT YET NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 125,000
- Reported
- May 2021
- Incident date
- Apr 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Service BrakesApr 2021 · ODI 11414557Details +Close −
VOLKSWAGEN KNOWS THEY HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THEIR ABS MODULE BUT REFUSE TO CORRECT IT. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR YEARS. CODES: 01130 ABS OPERATION NOT A PLAUSIBLE SIGNAL. THEY NEED TO RECALL!!!
- Reported
- Apr 2021
- Incident date
- Apr 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemMar 2021 · ODI 11402772Details +Close −
I WAS UNABLE TO TURN THE CAR OFF. THE KEY WERE STUCK IN THE IGNITION IN THE ON POSITION AND WOULD NOT COME OUT OR GO TO THE OFF POSITION. I WAS AT MY DESTINATION WHEN I TRIED TO TURN THE CAR OFF.
- Reported
- Mar 2021
- Incident date
- Mar 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SuspensionFeb 2021 · ODI 11397193Details +Close −
I HAD TO HAVE ALL FOUR SPRINGS REPLACED BECAUSE THEY WERE BROKEN. I'VE SEEN MANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SAME PROBLEM. THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH VW. WHY ARE THEY NOT ADDRESSING THIS? THE CAR HAD ABOUT 89 THOUSAND MILES ON IT.
- Reported
- Feb 2021
- Incident date
- Jul 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemJan 2021 · ODI 11387673Details +Close −
DPF LIGHT CAME ON AND WENT OFF AND THEN CAME ON
- Reported
- Jan 2021
- Incident date
- Dec 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsDec 2020 · ODI 11384613Details +Close −
AIRBAG CORROSION FOUND BY DEALER.
- Reported
- Dec 2020
- Incident date
- Dec 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.
Recalls(8)
Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.
Air BagsApr 2015 · 15V483000Details +Close −
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Volkswagen CC, and Passat, 2010-2013 Eos, 2011-2014 Golf, GTI, Jetta, and Tiguan, and 2012-2014 Jetta Sportwagen vehicles. In the affected vehicles, debris may contaminate the air bag clock spring, a spiral wound, flat cable that keeps the air bag powered while the steering wheel is being turned. This contamination may tear the cable and result in a loss of electrical connection to the driver's frontal air bag.
Risk: A loss of electrical connection to the driver's frontal air bag will prevent the air bag from deploying in the event of a vehicle crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install a protective cover over the steering wheel clock spring if the air bag light is off. If the airbag light is on and the steering wheel clock spring requires replacement, dealers will install a new steering wheel clock spring. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on January 15, 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Engine And Engine CoolingJul 2014 · 14E007000Details +Close −
The Gates Corporation (Gates) is recalling certain aftermarket Tru-Flow Water Pumps, part number TFW 41127, sold at certain NAPA Auto Parts and/or installed by automotive service technicians after November 1, 2013 (and manufactured August 2013 through October 2013) that have a black-colored pulley/sprocket or do not have 'US9377' stamped on the water pump housing. These service replacement parts were sold for use in model year 1999-2005 Audi A4, 2000-2006 Audi TT, 1998-2005 Volkswagen Beetle, 1999-2006 Golf, 1999-2008 and 2011-2013 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2000-2005 Volkswagen Passat. In the affected water pumps, the pulley or sprocket that turns the timing belt may develop microfractures causing the timing belt to fail.
Risk: A failure of the timing belt may cause the engine to shut down, potentially increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy: Gates will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pump, free of charge. The recall began during May 2014. Owners may contact The Gates Corporation at 1-303-744-1911.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Engine And Engine CoolingAug 2011 · 11E036000Details +Close −
VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING CERTAIN STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIPS, PART NUMBER 1K0 071 910 U, SOLD AS ACCESSORY EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON MODEL YEAR 2011-2012 JETTA SEDAN VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 18, 2010, THROUGH AUGUST 22, 2011. THESE EXHAUST TIPS MAY EXTEND BEYOND THE ORIGINAL LENGTH OF THE FACTORY-INSTALLED EXHAUST PIPES. IT IS POSSIBLE FOR INADVERTENT CONTACT TO OCCUR WITH A PERSON'S LEG.
Risk: IF THE TAILPIPE EXTENSION IS HOT DURING INADVERTENT CONTACT, A BURN COULD OCCUR.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST TIPS AS NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING NOVEMBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLKSWAGEN AT 1-800-822-8987.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Fuel SystemMar 2011 · 11V490000Details +Close −
VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL 2009-2012 JETTA AND JETTA SPORTWAGEN VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 2008 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2011, MODEL YEAR 2010-2012 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 2009 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2011, AND MODEL YEAR 2010-2012 AUDI A3 VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 2009 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2011, THAT ARE EQUIPPED WITH A 2.0L TDI COMMON RAIL DIESEL ENGINE/CLEAN DIESEL ENGINE. THE FUEL INJECTION PULSES COULD COINCIDE WITH THE NATURAL FREQUENCY OF THE INJECTOR LINE #2, IN SPECIFIC LOAD AND RPM CONDITIONS. THIS RESONANCE CREATES ADDITIONAL STRESS IN THE FUEL LINE.
Risk: DUE TO THE RESONANCE CONDITION, INJECTOR LINE NUMBER 2 COULD DEVELOP SMALL CRACKS WHICH COULD LEAD TO FUEL LEAKAGE. LEAKING FUEL IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, MAY LEAD TO A FIRE.
Remedy: VOLKSWAGEN WILL INSTALL AN IMPROVED FUEL INJECTOR LINE FOR THE NUMBER 2 CYLINDER ON CERTAIN VEHICLES AND WILL INSTALL VIBRATION DAMPERS ON ALL OF THE INJECTOR LINES. VOLKSWAGEN AND AUDI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS TO HAVE THE VEHICLES REPAIRED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING NOVEMBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLKSWAGEN AT 1-800-822-8987.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Suspension · 14V656000Details +Close −
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Jetta vehicles manufactured March 1, 2010, to November 30, 2012, and 2012-2013 Beetle vehicles manufactured March 1, 2011, to July 31, 2013. The durability of the rear trailing arms may be reduced in vehicles whose rear trailing arms have been previously deformed, such as a result of a rear or side-rear impact crash.
Risk: The reduced durability of the trailing arm may result in its sudden fracture, possibly causing loss of vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install a sheet metal inlay on the rear axle trailing arms designed to prevent a sudden loss of control in the event of trailing arm sudden fracture, free of charge. The recall began April 7, 2015. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Electrical System · 19V615000Details +Close −
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2019 GTI, 2015-2016 and 2018-2019 Golf, 2012-2019 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2017-2019 Golf SportWagen and 2011-2018 Jetta vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, manual handbrake and keyless entry. A build-up of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition when the transmission shift lever is not in "Park."
Risk: Removing the key while the shift lever is in a position other than "Park" increases the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional switch and circuit board, free of charge. The recall began November 19, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 37M2.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Unknown Or Other · 19V679000Details +Close −
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.
Risk: If the vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements, there could be an increased risk of a crash, fire, or injury.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners and repurchase the affected vehicles. The recall began November 6, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01D7. Note: This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 18V-329.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Service Brakes · 20E064000Details +Close −
Tenneco Automotive (Tenneco) is recalling certain Beck/Arnley Master Cylinders, part number 072-9831, sold as aftermarket or replacement parts for 2004-2018 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2012-2019 Volkswagen Beetle vehicles. The fluid seal crimp on the master cylinder may be insufficient, causing brake fluid to leak or the cylinder to come apart.
Risk: If there is a brake fluid leak, it can reduce braking ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Beck/Arnley will notify the distributors that sold the master cylinders and will work with the distributors to notify the end users. Affected master cylinders will be exchanged for a new master cylinder (part number 072-9990), free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2020. Owners may contact Tenneco customer service at 1-800-625-9319.
Open full NHTSA recall record →A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.
Investigations
5 NHTSA investigations on record
Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.
In August 2015, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) launched Safety Recall 15V-483 to address the loss of the protection provided by the front driver air bag in several models due to the failure of the clockspring.Debris entry into the steering wheel hub can result in contamination and ultimately failure of the clockspring in 2010-2014 Model Year (MY) CC, Passat, Eos, Golf, GTI, Tiguan, Jetta and Jetta Sportwagen models.Contamination of the clockspring can cause the ribbon cable to tear resulting in loss of the electrical connection to the front driver air bag and any steering wheel mounted controls.The loss of the electrical connection to the front driver air bag will result in illumination of the air bag warning light and will prevent operation of the front driver air bag in a crash of sufficient severity requiring a commanded deployment.In November 2017, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Recall Query (RQ17-009) after the agency received 90 complaints alleging failure of the clockspring in the subject models.Several of the complaints allege failure of the clockspring after receiving the recall remedy.The majority of the complaints allege the same failure mode without being included in the original recall, 15V-483.In its March 2018 response to ODI's Information Request under the Recall Query, Volkswagen provided approximately 700 consumer complaints and field reports on the recalled vehicles.These reports allege clockspring failure similar to the NHTSA reports described above.To date, NHTSA has received approximately 154 allegations of clockspring failure since the recall has launched.The total of 852 reports shown in the table above eliminates 6 duplicative reports received by ODI and the manufacturer.An Engineering Analysis has been opened to further evaluate the scope and effectiveness of the remedy associated with 15V-483 and perform a thorough review of the design changes implemented by Volkswagen and its suppliers to address this issue.The ODI complaints cited above can be viewed at www.NHTSA.gov under the following ODI identification numbers: 11080741, 11079877, 11079805, 11079124, 11076709, 11076645, 11076297, 11076249, 11076133, 11075756, 11075726, 11075358, 11075259, 11075055, 11074920, 11074565, 11073090, 11072745, 11072457, 11072089, 11071933, 11071880, 11071630, 11071592, 11067396, 11067061, 11066738, 11066601, 11066511, 11065909, 11065871, 11065262, 11064701, 11064564, 11064544, 11064531, 11063961, 11063501, 11063095, 11062772, 11062464, 11062353, 11062344, 11061463, 11061310, 11061311, 11060735, 11058154, 11057519, 11057477, 11057341, 11056793, 11056243, 11056063, 11055639, 11054279, 11052812, 11052678, 11052384, 11052228, 11051336, 11051155, 11051074, 11048803, 11047037, 11044226, 11043653, 11039142, 11033893, 11033330, 11032548, 11025475, 11025356, 11024647, 11023423, 11020570, 11020312, 11019415, 11019067, 11015441, 11015431, 11014595, 11014016, 11013709, 11013415, 11012596, 11011753, 11006668, 11006521, 11006307, 11006181, 11005301, 11003865, 11001780, 11001783, 11001334, 10994184, 10993360, 10993524, 10992490, 10985926, 10983678, 10981220, 10980831, 10980941, 10980549, 10979418, 10971152, 10967344, 10967155, 10959968, 10958624, 10957279, 10956488, 10949129, 10947562, 10945122, 10936498, 10936543, 10933950, 10927311, 10925421, 10924034, 10915612, 10915569, 10911171, 10902066, 10898733, 10896537, 10896510, 10895526, 10893938, 10891686, 10864967, 10863742, 10861984, 10851242, 10822505, 10821562, 10818403, 10795068, 10794402, 10788738, 10787804, 10782544, 10780725, 10780145, 10779145, 10776477, 10775448, 10763492, 10763423, 10763289, 10762670, 10760644, 10758777, 10749901, 10748922
In August 2015, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) launched Safety Recall 15V-483 to address the loss of the protection provided by the front driver air bag in several models due to the failure of the clockspring.Debris entry into the steering wheel hub can result in contamination and ultimately failure of the clockspring in 2010-2014 Model Year (MY) CC, Passat, Eos, Golf, GTI, Tiguan, Jetta and Jetta Sportwagen models.Contamination of the clockspring can cause the ribbon cable to tear resulting in loss of the electrical connection to the front driver air bag and any steering wheel mounted controls.The loss of the electrical connection to the front driver air bag will result in illumination of the air bag warning light and will prevent operation of the front driver air bag in a crash of sufficient severity requiring a commanded deployment.In November 2017, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Recall Query (RQ17-009) after the agency received 90 complaints alleging failure of the clockspring in the subject models.Several of the complaints allege failure of the clockspring after receiving the recall remedy.The majority of the complaints allege the same failure mode without being included in the original recall, 15V-483.In its March 2018 response to ODI's Information Request under the Recall Query, Volkswagen provided approximately 700 consumer complaints and field reports on the recalled vehicles.These reports allege clockspring failure similar to the NHTSA reports described above.To date, NHTSA has received approximately 154 allegations of clockspring failure since the recall has launched.The total of 852 reports shown in the table above eliminates 6 duplicative reports received by ODI and the manufacturer.This Recall Query has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA18-003) to further evaluate the scope and effectiveness of the remedy associated with 15V-483 and perform a review of the design changes implemented by Volkswagen and its suppliers to address this issue.The ODI complaints cited above can be viewed at www.NHTSA.gov under the following ODI identification numbers: 11080741, 11079877, 11079805, 11079124, 11076709, 11076645, 11076297, 11076249, 11076133, 11075756, 11075726, 11075358, 11075259, 11075055, 11074920, 11074565, 11073090, 11072745, 11072457, 11072089, 11071933, 11071880, 11071630, 11071592, 11067396, 11067061, 11066738, 11066601, 11066511, 11065909, 11065871, 11065262, 11064701, 11064564, 11064544, 11064531, 11063961, 11063501, 11063095, 11062772, 11062464, 11062353, 11062344, 11061463, 11061310, 11061311, 11060735, 11058154, 11057519, 11057477, 11057341, 11056793, 11056243, 11056063, 11055639, 11054279, 11052812, 11052678, 11052384, 11052228, 11051336, 11051155, 11051074, 11048803, 11047037, 11044226, 11043653, 11039142, 11033893, 11033330, 11032548, 11025475, 11025356, 11024647, 11023423, 11020570, 11020312, 11019415, 11019067, 11015441, 11015431, 11014595, 11014016, 11013709, 11013415, 11012596, 11011753, 11006668, 11006521, 11006307, 11006181, 11005301, 11003865, 11001780, 11001783, 11001334, 10994184, 10993360, 10993524, 10992490, 10985926, 10983678, 10981220, 10980831, 10980941, 10980549, 10979418, 10971152, 10967344, 10967155, 10959968, 10958624, 10957279, 10956488, 10949129, 10947562, 10945122, 10936498, 10936543, 10933950, 10927311, 10925421, 10924034, 10915612, 10915569, 10911171, 10902066, 10898733, 10896537, 10896510, 10895526, 10893938, 10891686, 10864967, 10863742, 10861984, 10851242, 10822505, 10821562, 10818403, 10795068, 10794402, 10788738, 10787804, 10782544, 10780725, 10780145, 10779145, 10776477, 10775448, 10763492, 10763423, 10763289, 107626
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an investigation based on consumer allegations of steering wheel clock spring/steering column control module (SCCM) failures in model year (MY) 2012 Volkswagen Passat and CC models.The SCCM is a module within the steering column that incorporates a spiral conductor (a ribbon cable) to electrically connect the steering wheel to the vehicle's electrical system while allowing for the turning of the steering wheel.Complainants alleged that that the clock spring failed while driving and without warning.When the SCCM fails electrically, an air bag warning light is illuminated on the dash of the vehicle.If a vehicle with a failed SCCM were to be involved in a crash of sufficient severity to require deployment, the driver air bag may not deploy properly, or deploy at all.As the result of an Information Request response from Volkswagen, ODI determined that the same SCCM was used in several vehicle models and MYs including: 2010-2013 CC, 2010-2013 Eos, 2011-2013 Golf, 2012-2013 Jetta and Jetta SportWagen, 2010 and 2012-2014 Passat and 2011-2014 Tiguan.ODI identified a total of 29 NHTSA complaints across all affected vehicles potentially indicating a failed SCCM.Drivers often indicated that an audible noise was heard from the steering column when the unit failed. Some drivers also mentioned that there was a noticeable but minor resistance to turning of the steering wheel after the failure with noises coming from the steering column.The average failure mileage is approximately 30,500 miles and failures often occur outside of the factory warranty.There were no reported crashes or injuries identified in either the NHTSA or Volkswagen data as a result of SCCM failures.On July 30th, 2015 Volkswagen notified ODI that it would conduct a safety recall (15V-483) to remedy the SCCMs in 415,825 MY2010-2014 vehicles.According to Volkswagen, the SCCM can become contaminated with human hair or similar fibers entering the unit between the steering wheel and steering column.Over time this can cause the electrical cable to tear and lose connection between the steering wheel and vehicle.Volkswagen will install a cover that attaches over the SCCM to help prevent contaminants from entering the unit.A new SCCM designed to reduce outside contamination intrusion was previously introduced into new vehicle production during the 2014 model year; accordingly vehicles equipped with the new design SCCM are not included in the recall.The recall action initiated by the manufacturer addresses the safety risks identified by the investigation.Accordingly, the investigation is closed.The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchSafetyIssues under the following identification (ODI) numbers: 10760644, 10758777, 10748922, 110734168, 10731545, 10721424, 10717651, 10715305, 10713742, 10713139, 10712295, 10711945, 10704830, 10704221, 10702926, 10702212, 10701406, 10691906, 10683944, 10682136, 10672715, 10670517, 10669312, 10628549, 10607240, 10575783, 10561143, 10552113, 10397670.
By letter dated October 3, 2011, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that it will conduct a safety recall to address a defect in approximately 168,275 model year (MY) 2009-2012 Volkswagen Jetta, Jetta Sportwagen, Golf, and Audi A3 vehicles equipped with the 2.0L TDI Common Rail Clean Diesel engine (NHTSA Recall No. 11V-490).The recalled Jetta and Jetta Sportwagen vehicles were built from May 2008 through September 2011, the Golf vehicles were built from May 2009 through September 2011, and the Audi A3 vehicles were built from September 2009 through September 2011.According to Volkswagen, in U.S. applications of the above cited TDI vehicles including engine codes CJAA and CBEA, the fuel injection pulses could coincide with the natural frequency of the injector line #2 in specific load and RPM conditions.This resonance creates additional stress on the fuel line which a small number of parts (based on the statistic spread of line strength) cannot withstand over its lifetime.As a contributing factor, VW indicated that a supplier used tube material with scratch marks from a grinding process during certain production periods.Lines manufactured in these periods were installed in vehicles produced in the following 10 months:December 2008, January-February 2009, October 2009, March-April 2010 and September-December 2010.Injector lines using this material exhibit a significantly higher failure rate.Dealers will replace injector line #2 in all vehicles built in these months.In addition, as a precautionary measure, all recalled vehicles will have vibration dampers installed on all four fuel injector lines.Analysis of NHTSA complaints, VW complaints, VW field reports and warranty claims found allegations of injector line leakage in 443 subject vehicles.The leaking line was not identified in 62 of the vehicles.For the 381 that did provide information about which injector lines were leaking and/or replaced, 358 (94%) involved an injector line #2 leak/repair.Almost three-quarters of the injector line #2 leak/repair incident vehicles were built in the 10 months identified by VW, which accounted for approximately one-quarter of the recalled vehicles.The failure rate for injector line #2 in vehicles built in the 10 months affected by the supplier line scratching issue is 6.0 incidents per thousand vehicles (IPTV).The failure rate for injector line #2 in other production months of recalled vehicles is 0.8 IPTV.The leak/repair rates for the other injector lines are all well under 1 IPTV.The action taken by Volkswagen is sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation. The agency will continue to monitor this issue and reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances. Accordingly, this investigation is closed.
The Office of Defects Investgation (ODI) opened EA11-003 on February 7, 2011, based on 160 complaints to ODI and Volkswagen involving high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures in model year (MY) 2009 through 2010 Volkswagen Jetta and Golf and Audi A3 TDI vehicles and questions regarding fuel sample results provided by Volkswagen as part of its response to PE10-034.During EA11-003, ODI analyzed design information, field experience and test data for MY 2009 through 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, Golf and Touareg and Audi A3 and Q7 vehicles equipped with TDI engines. Volkswagen has not identified any design or manufacturing defects in the subject TDI Clean Diesel pumps and has stated that the subject pumps were designed, tested and approved for use in the United States market, with substantial design margins for fuels that are out of specification.Volkswagen believes that misfueling with gasoline is the primary cause of HPFP drivetrain failures in the field.Only the Q7 vehicles were built with misfuel protection devices.In May 2013 Volkswagen initiated a service campaign to install misfuel protection devices in all MY 2009 through 2012 Jetta, Golf and A3 vehicles.Volkswagen implemented misfuel protection devices in all of the subject models beginning in MY 2013. ODI?s analysis of HPFP drivetrain failure incidents indicates that most failures do not result in engine stall while driving and, when pump drivetrain failure does result in stall while driving, it is usually preceded by numerous warning symptoms (e.g., glow plug warning lamp, chime, limp mode, and driveability symptoms).The failure data for the subject vehicles show relatively low stalling rates (less than one percent at three years in service) for each of the pump designs used in the subject vehicles.There have been no reports of crashes, injuries or fatalities related to the alleged defect. Based on these facts, this investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist.The agency will continue to monitor complaints and other information relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles and take further action in the future if warranted.For additional information, see the closing report in the document file for EA11-003.
Crash-test ratings
2012 Volkswagen Jetta 4 DR FWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Frontal
- Side
- Rollover
2012 Volkswagen Jetta SW FWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Not rated
- Frontal
- Not rated
- Side
- Not rated
- Rollover
Fuel economy by trim
| Trim | Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City | Hwy | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jetta | 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 29 | 39 | 32 |
| Jetta | 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 29 | 37 | 32 |
| Jetta | 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 5-spd | 24 | 34 | 28 |
| Jetta | 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 24 | 32 | 27 |
| Jetta | 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 22 | 33 | 26 |
| Jetta | 2.5L 5-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 5-spd | 23 | 33 | 26 |
| Jetta | 2.5L 5-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 24 | 31 | 26 |
| Jetta | 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 23 | 29 | 25 |
EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.
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2012 Volkswagen Jetta: frequently asked
What does the complaint record show for the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta?
Owners filed 526 NHTSA complaints about the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.
What are the most common problems on the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta?
The most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (23% of complaints) and unknown or other (15%).
How many recalls does the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta have?
8 recalls have been issued that affect the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, covering components such as air bags. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.
What gas mileage does the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta get?
The EPA rates the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta between 25 and 32 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.