NHTSA (USA)Critical
At a glance
What can fail
The fluid seal crimp on the master cylinder may be insufficient, causing brake fluid to leak or the cylinder to separate.
This page covers 7 recalls, 406 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2014 Volkswagen Jetta.
25–44 mpg combined
5.3–9.4 L/100km
Compact Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 9 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The 2014 Volkswagen Jetta draws the most complaints around the powertrain and engine, with electrical issues close behind. On the powertrain side, owners frequently report the transmission failing to engage or losing drive entirely, the car simply stops moving with no warning, requiring a tow. Several reports point to a mechatronics failure inside the transmission as the underlying event, leaving the vehicle unable to move forward or reverse. Engine complaints cover a range of performance issues, including sudden loss of acceleration while driving. On the electrical side, owners describe heating and defrost systems that stop working, with some reporting heater core failures that persist even after replacement. A smaller cluster of reports describes an auxiliary heater burning through components and allowing smoke or heat into the cabin. Door latch and lock assembly problems also show up in a handful of electrical-adjacent complaints.
406
Total Complaints
21
Crash-Related
2
Fire-Related
15
With Injuries
By System
The 2014 Volkswagen Jetta has 7 recalls, the most serious being a fuel rail defect that can leak gasoline near an ignition source and cause a vehicle fire, along with two separate transmission issues on Hybrid models that can cut drive power without warning.
On Hybrid trims, the dual-clutch gearbox control module can corrode and trigger a stall-like power loss, and hairline cracks in the transmission mechatronic unit can drop oil pressure until the clutch stops engaging entirely, both of which can leave the car without drive power in traffic. The brake system also has a concern: an aftermarket master cylinder sold as a replacement part may have an inadequate fluid seal that leaks brake fluid or allows the cylinder to come apart, reducing stopping power. On the electrical side, a keyless entry system fault on automatic-transmission models with a manual handbrake can allow the key to be removed while the car is not in Park, raising the risk of the vehicle rolling away. The driver's frontal airbag clock spring can also collect debris and lose its electrical connection, preventing the airbag from deploying in a crash. One additional recall covers a regulatory compliance matter with no specific mechanical defect described.
At a glance
What can fail
The fluid seal crimp on the master cylinder may be insufficient, causing brake fluid to leak or the cylinder to separate.
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Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
What the fix does
The affected master cylinder will be exchanged for a new master cylinder (part number 072-9990) at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Tiny cracks can form in the transmission control unit, allowing transmission fluid to leak out and reducing oil pressure inside the transmission.
What the fix does
Dealers will install a repair kit and replace affected parts at no cost to restore proper transmission function.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
During internal evaluation, modifications were made to these vehicles that may prevent them from meeting all applicable safety and emissions regulatory requirements.
What the fix does
Volkswagen will repurchase the affected vehicles. Owners will be notified and can contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Silicate buildup on the shift lever switch contacts can allow the key to be removed from the ignition even when the transmission is not in Park.
What the fix does
Dealers will install an additional switch and circuit board at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Debris may contaminate and tear the air bag clock spring—a spiral cable that powers the driver's front air bag during steering wheel turns—causing the air bag to lose electrical connection.
What the fix does
Dealers will install a protective cover over the clock spring if the air bag light is off, or replace the clock spring if the light is on. Repairs are free.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The sealing cap on the fuel rail may fail, allowing fuel to leak into the engine compartment.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the fuel rails with new parts at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The gearbox fluid contains additives that can corrode the control module inside the transmission. Corrosion deposits may short out electrical circuits, causing the vehicle to stall.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the gearbox oil with a non-corrosive version at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.