Once you’ve got the keys in your hand, forget setting out on the road until you’ve completed an exhaustive check of the vehicle’s interior. As it tends to go with used German cars, the Jetta was known for a variety of electrical and sensor-related problems that could show themselves in the form of numerous niggling issues.
Ensure all motorized features work as expected--including all windows, the sunroof, power seats and power locks. Be sure no ‘Check Engine’ lights are illuminated, test the stereo system on both radio and CD modes, and be sure the air conditioner blows cold shortly after it’s turned on.
Engine problems seem fairly infrequent, with the majority of those reported online being sensor-related and relatively easy to diagnose and fix. Regardless, finding a model with full service records to prove its maintenance is up to date is a good idea.
Several Jetta owners experienced with manual transmissions have reported premature clutch wear, so be sure to scrutinize any slippage or grinding you experience while test-driving a model with a stick-shift. If you’re not sure how to check for signs of a worn clutch, have a friend experienced in driving a manual transmission join you for the test-drive. Don’t take the seller’s word that the clutch isn’t on its last legs if you’re suspicious.
Ask the vehicles former owner if they’ve noted any sporadic or infrequent electrical problems like stalling, hesitation or failure to start the engine. If they have, or if you happen to experience any of the above on a test drive, moving to another model may be best.
Note that most owners who have taken to the internet report few problems, though a small minority report fairly lengthy lists of frustrating electronic and mechanical issues. It seems that many Jetta models exhibit trouble-free operation, though some don’t. Ensuring you don’t land on a model that’s destined to be a headache will require patience and careful shopping-- though Jetta remains far from the market’s least-expensive sedan to buy or run.
Be sure to check affordability of insurance before agreeing to purchase a used Jetta, and prepare for higher-than-average parts and maintenance costs. An extended warranty, if available, isn’t a bad idea either.
Note that where mechanicals are concerned, the Jetta and its hatchback derivative, the Rabbit, are mainly identical-- so the information in this story is largely relevant to both models.
If you can find a good price on a model you like, you’ll still likely be paying a premium-- though you’ll get a premium driving experience in exchange.
 |
| 2006 Volkswagen Rabbit (Photo: Volkswagen) |
Ensure all motorized features work as expected--including all windows, the sunroof, power seats and power locks. Be sure no ‘Check Engine’ lights are illuminated, test the stereo system on both radio and CD modes, and be sure the air conditioner blows cold shortly after it’s turned on.
Engine problems seem fairly infrequent, with the majority of those reported online being sensor-related and relatively easy to diagnose and fix. Regardless, finding a model with full service records to prove its maintenance is up to date is a good idea.
Several Jetta owners experienced with manual transmissions have reported premature clutch wear, so be sure to scrutinize any slippage or grinding you experience while test-driving a model with a stick-shift. If you’re not sure how to check for signs of a worn clutch, have a friend experienced in driving a manual transmission join you for the test-drive. Don’t take the seller’s word that the clutch isn’t on its last legs if you’re suspicious.
Ask the vehicles former owner if they’ve noted any sporadic or infrequent electrical problems like stalling, hesitation or failure to start the engine. If they have, or if you happen to experience any of the above on a test drive, moving to another model may be best.
Note that most owners who have taken to the internet report few problems, though a small minority report fairly lengthy lists of frustrating electronic and mechanical issues. It seems that many Jetta models exhibit trouble-free operation, though some don’t. Ensuring you don’t land on a model that’s destined to be a headache will require patience and careful shopping-- though Jetta remains far from the market’s least-expensive sedan to buy or run.
Be sure to check affordability of insurance before agreeing to purchase a used Jetta, and prepare for higher-than-average parts and maintenance costs. An extended warranty, if available, isn’t a bad idea either.
Note that where mechanicals are concerned, the Jetta and its hatchback derivative, the Rabbit, are mainly identical-- so the information in this story is largely relevant to both models.
If you can find a good price on a model you like, you’ll still likely be paying a premium-- though you’ll get a premium driving experience in exchange.
 |
| 2006 Volkwagen Rabbit (Photo: Volkswagen) |
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