Service Brakes owner reports: Volkswagen Jetta years in the records

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“the components that failed are the rear brakes and rotors. we no longer have the components as the vehicle would not pass inspection without having the work completed. The manufacturer sent a letter to customers affected by this issue as it is a known issue for this year/make/model. the inspection location advised that given the mileage on the vehicle there is no reason it should need this type of work performed, under 25k miles on vehicle. the only warning that was given was the letter sent by the manufacturer. we took our vehicle back to the dealership when the letter was received and were informed they would not complete the outlined work on our vehicle. now that the vehicle would not pass inspection, the brake work had to be performed so my daughter could get back and forth to work”

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“- Rear brake pads. They were replaced at 22,464 miles under warranty due to premature wear, and at just 34,170 miles (less than 12,000 miles later), they are already down to 4mm. Yes, the component is available for inspection upon request. - The rapid and premature wear of the rear brake pads reduces braking efficiency and increases stopping distance, particularly in emergency situations or adverse weather. If this wear continues unnoticed, it could lead to brake failure or reduced rear braking function, creating a serious safety hazard for myself, passengers, and others on the road. - Yes. The original issue was diagnosed and confirmed by Safford Brown VW in Richmond, VA in January 2024. The dealership replaced the rear pads under warranty at that time and stated the wear was premature. Those same pads are now down to 4mm after less than 12,000 miles. - Yes. Volkswagen authorized the original replacement under warranty due to premature wear. The issue has now recurred, and I contacted Volkswagen Customer Care directly, who declined to offer a solution and redirected me back to the dealership. - No warning lamps or messages appeared. The only symptom is the abnormal wear itself, confirmed by a technician upon routine inspection. The pads were previously found to be under 2mm in 2024, and now, less than 12k miles later, are already down to 4mm—far faster than what is typical for rear pads.”

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Have had the car to dealer numerous times for brake noise issues. Now front and rear brakes make a growling and squealing noise especially when they are cold . Squealing and growling sounds are severe especially when backing up and the brakes are cold. All four brakes make squealing noise Noticeable scraping sound to rear brakes when brakes are not being applied. Rear brakes replaced twice. Car has just over 24,000 mi.”

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“My car only had twelve thousand miles on it when the problem started with the rear brakes. They were at an eight and in less than two weeks time they started dragging not fully disengaging and went down to a one. Screeching. I looked it up and seems to be a common problem. If it is common and VW is aware of it not only affecting my specific model but other models as well. I believe it should be addressed and figure out a way to stop it. It messes with my fuel economy as well as goes thru pads way sooner than what they should. Which is gonna be costly over time.”

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“The rear brake pads needed to be replaced when the car only had 30,530 miles. The dealer stated the pads and rotors needed to be replaced. At a different shop, they turned the rotors and replaced the rear brake pads. The service tech said he had never seen a car with such worn pads with so few miles.”

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“The driver rear brake is sticking and locking up and has premature wear. Rear brakes and rotors have been replaced at 18,000 miles under warranty.. when driving rear brake does not release causing front tire to spin and create handling issues. The problem is worse and dangerous in wet conditions. Volkswagon calls it a wear and tear but it is a safety and handling issue. Case number 06285728”