This page covers 3 recalls, 28 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta.
27–33 mpg combined
7.1–8.7 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 4 tested variants for this model year.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Complaints for the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta are spread across a modest total, with the powertrain drawing the most reports. Owners describe transmission failures resulting in the vehicle becoming immobile despite the engine running, often accompanied by loud banging noises and requiring full transmission replacement. A separate but recurring drivetrain complaint involves popping or clicking sounds near the rear of the car during acceleration and deceleration. The fuel system accounts for a cluster of reports describing fuel leaking from the underside of the vehicle, prompting owners to have the car towed. Airbag warning lights showing up after driving over bumps come up in several reports, sometimes alongside a broader loss of steering-column functions, horn, audio controls, and cruise control buttons going dark at the same time.
28
Total Complaints
1
Crash-Related
By System
The 2018 Volkswagen Jetta has 3 recalls, the most serious being fuel rail bolts that can loosen over time, allowing fuel to leak and raising the risk of a fire.
A second recall affects vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, manual handbrake, and keyless entry: the ignition system can allow the key to be removed while the shifter is not in Park, leaving the vehicle free to roll away without the driver intending it to. On a slope or in a busy area, an unattended rolling car can strike people or other vehicles. The third recall is a compliance-related filing covering a range of Volkswagen models across multiple years; the specific physical defect is not detailed in the regulator's filing, but the stated risk includes an elevated chance of a crash, fire, or injury if affected vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements.
At a glance
What can fail
The bolts securing the fuel rail may gradually loosen, potentially causing fuel to leak from the fuel system.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the fuel rail bolts and, if needed, replace the fuel rail itself.
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Driver Assistance
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 →
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.
