2005.5 - 2010 Volkswagen Jetta review

Strengths

- Stylish look
- Well-designed interior
- Fuel economy in TDI models
- Performance in 2.0L Turbo
- Great handling and solid ride
- Spacious trunk
- Decent sound system

Weaknesses

- Expensive to maintain
- The 2.0L Turbo requires premium gasoline
- Rear visibility
- Rear seat headroom
- The plastic around the window controls and on the stereo scratches easily

Overall

The 2005.5-2009 Volkswagen Jetta offers excellent handling, classy interior and variety of powertrain choices. If you want something that is fun to drive, check sporty 2.0L Turbo model. A very economical TDI Diesel might be worth considering if you have a long daily commute. The 2.5L has simpler engine, it can run on a regular gasoline and the 2.5L 5-cylinder engine has a timing chain instead of a belt.
On the downside, the Jetta, similarly to other European vehicles, is expensive to keep. Both, parts and service are pricey and not every garage can handle the repairs, especially with electrical problems.
Overall, it's a better car than the previous generation Jetta, but Volkswagen still needs to improve long-term reliability of its products. Avoid early models with the DSG transmission, there are plenty of complains about it.

What to look for buying a used Volkswagen Jetta

As a first step, check used car history records. A history report may help you to uncover some of the problems the car might have in the past such as accidents, flood damage, rolled back odometer, rental use, etc. Follow this link: How to check used car history
- Check the service records if available - it's important to verify that the car was properly maintained.
- If the "check engine" light is on, have the problem assessed with your mechanic or a dealer before buying a car; in worst cases the repair might be very expensive.
- Blue smoke at start-up may indicate engine problems - avoid such a car.
- Low oil level may indicate oil consumption.
Learn more what to look for when buying a used car
- Prior purchase have the car inspected by a mechanic of your choice.
Shop wisely, check few cars to compare; it's worth to pay a little extra for a well-maintained vehicle in good condition. Check our step-by-step used car buying guide for more information.
Some models may be costly to insure. Get the insurance quotes first.
Consider an extended warranty to protect from unexpected repair costs.

Few maintenance tips

- Wash and wax your car regularly to protect the paint.
- If you live in the area with high humidity, rustproofing could help to protect the car body and chassis electrical components from corrosion.
- I'd recommend servicing your Jetta at Volkswagen dealer or VW-specialized shop - they are tricky to work on.
- Late Volkswagen cars require synthetic oil. Check your owner's manual and use only appropriate oil type.
- Regular oil changes are very important to keep your engine in good shape.
- Check engine oil level regularly - running the engine low on oil could lead to serious problems.
- If you have a Diesel engine, replace the fuel filter regularly.
- Use only original Volkswagen transmission fluid.
- Stick with original Volkswagen parts.
- Follow recommended maintenance schedule and keep all the fluids clean and topped up.
- Have your car inspected, at least once a year, in a garage on the lift (e.g. when doing tire rotation) to keep it safe. Many components (e.g. ball joints, brakes, steering) cannot be properly inspected by simple visual inspection at fast lube places; the vehicle must be on the lift.
Check more Car maintenance tips

2010 Volkswagen Jetta sedan specifications

Links

If you are looking for Service Manual

If you need a repair manual with diagnostic procedures, check engine codes description, wiring diagrams, maintenance schedule, component location, technical service bulletins, recalls, etc, follow this link: Where to find repair manual

by Vlad Samarin