Model year

2018 Volkswagen Jetta

Sedan, gasoline, FWD/Front-Wheel Drive, built in Mexico. Owner complaints on file from Feb 28, 2019 to Jul 16, 2026.

Recall campaigns covering this model year3897k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints312.6 times the median 2018 sedan
Severity index3.22018 sedans average 6.6
First 24 months3Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta peaked in 2024, with 7 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

02468201920202021202220232024720252026
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

26% of complaints about the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta name fuel system

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Fuel system
8
Airbags
6
Powertrain
5
Electrical system
3
Engine and cooling
2
Child seats
1
Seat belts
1
Brakes
1
Tires
1
Wheels
1
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

3 recall campaigns cover the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Recall campaigns for the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta
CampaignFiledSubjectComponentVehiclesRemedy
20V-648Oct 21, 2020Fuel rail bolts may become loose over time, allowing fuel to leakFuel system218,192Part replacement
20E-064Sep 23, 2020Fluid seal crimp on the master cylinder may be insufficient, causing brake fluid to leak or the cylinder to come apartBrakes38Not stated
19V-615Aug 22, 2019Build-up of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition when the transmission shift lever…Electrical system679,027Repair or modification
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta

The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.

31 complaints on file, page 1 of 2.

  1. Filed Jul 16, 2026Failure Jul 14, 2026Roanoke, VAFuel/propulsion system

    My vehicle has an active, federally mandated safety recall for a fuel rail leak (Recall 24Gi / 20V648000), which is a documented fire hazard. The vehicle now has an active "EPC" (Electronic Power Control) dashboard light and a fuel odor. When I called my local authorized Volkswagen dealership—Southern Team Volkswagen at 6520 Peters Creek Road in Roanoke, VA—to schedule the safety repair, the service department flat-out refused to take the vehicle. The representative stated that they "are not taking new clients" and "will not be repairing" the vehicle. They left me stranded with an active, dangerous safety hazard on my property and refused to comply with the federal recall mandate. When escalations were made to corporate, I was told my only option was to take the vehicle for an hour to Lynchburg, VA, at my expense. Because they don’t have a policy to pay for towing. I had to call the manufacturer and have them step in to “pull some strings” he said. Am currently waiting to hear back from them.

    NHTSA complaint 11750939
  2. Filed Jun 29, 2026Failure Jun 1, 2026Poughkeepsie, NYFuel/propulsion system

    Leaking gas. And charcoal canister problems. I’m not sure why this vehicle is not recalled but the vw gti is and same years as other vw models but not this one. There has to be a recall with this vin vehicle no one was harmed or injured yet since this problem is scary and leaks gas I am unable to drive car due to risk of fire and injury.

    NHTSA complaint 11747315
  3. Filed Jun 8, 2026Failure Jun 7, 2026Plainfield, ILChest clip, Buckle, Harness

    I buckled my 2.5 year old daughter into her carseat and secured the magnetic chest clip. It very easily popped back open WITHOUT pressing the buttons. I attempted to get it to securely close several times and with light pressure it opens back up. This is extremely unsafe as it would likely not stay clipped in a crash or a child could very easily open the chest clip. After a quick online search, it appears that several others have had this issue. I just noticed it yesterday but I have no idea how long this has been occuring and, unless checked thoroughly every time, could happen to anyone.

    NHTSA complaint 11742734
  4. Filed Apr 1, 2026Failure Mar 23, 2026Burlington, MAPower train

    My car made a loud banging noise and would not move even though engine was running. Had towed and was told car needs new transmission I brought to another mechanic for second opinion and was told the same thing code P073300

    NHTSA complaint 11728653
  5. Filed Feb 17, 2026Failure Feb 17, 2026Cookeville, TNFuel/propulsion system

    The car makes a loud popping/ clicking sound in the back of the car (near exhaust) whenever I accelerate or let off the gas.

    NHTSA complaint 11718601
  6. Filed Aug 22, 2025Failure Aug 18, 2025Spring Valley, CAEngine, Fuel/propulsion system

    On Monday [XXX] my 2018 VW Jetta S started gushing gas from the bottom of the car. I immediately pulled over and called AAA to have my car towed to my nearest VW dealer which was National City Volkswagen 3131 Mile of Car National City, Ca. The issue my car was having looked similar to a recall due to fuel rails coming loose. My car ended up having faulty gas rails which is part of a recall for my vehicle. I was told it was already corrected 4 years ago so i had to pay out of pocket for it. Yet the repairs or corrected recall are not on the carfax, for one. And for two, I did not own the car when said repairs were completed and I cannot find any record of it. I believe VW is still responsible for this as it is the same parts that were repaired for the recall. Plus, I missed a whole day at work because of this. ($30hr×8=$240) plus the $1438.26 I had to pay out of pocket. Thank you for your time and consideration. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

    NHTSA complaint 11682295
  7. Filed Jul 23, 2025Failure Feb 5, 2025Aubrey, TXAir bags

    Passenger airbag light is illuminated after hitting a bump in the road

    NHTSA complaint 11675689
  8. Filed Jun 7, 2025Failure Jun 6, 2025Hoquiam, WAAir bags, Unknown or other

    I was backing out of a parking spot, turned the wheel and the screen lit up staing error:airbag. Air bag light came on dash screen. Cruise control, steering wheel options for music control and menu and horn have stopped working. There is this nosie that comes from the steering column when making turns now as well.

    NHTSA complaint 11665499
  9. Filed Apr 10, 2025Failure Mar 2, 2025Black Mountain, NCAir bags

    Front passenger air bag light came on without provocation and remains on. Have noticed multiple recalls of similar situations with VW air bags being recalled. It appeared to start with the detection of weight change in the seat. It would not deactivate when a small child sat in the front seat. Now the passenger air bag light just continuously stays on regardless of adult, child, or nothing is the seat.

    NHTSA complaint 11653841
  10. Filed Mar 17, 2025Failure Mar 9, 2025Pittsburgh, PAFuel/propulsion system

    Engine stalled and car emitted fuel smell and leaked from engine area. Vehicle towed to shop. Mechanic found fuel leak near Cylinder #4. Removed intake manifold and found fuel rail loose and leaking from #4 injector. Left upper fuel rail retaining bolt was broken and left lower bolt was loose.

    NHTSA complaint 11648748
  11. Filed Oct 28, 2024Failure Oct 25, 2024Coquille, ORFuel/propulsion system

    Car's warning lights came on with initial start, followed by strong fuel smell. Shut off engine and walked around car to find large puddle of fuel coming from engine compartment under fuel rail.

    NHTSA complaint 11622261
  12. Filed Aug 30, 2024Failure Aug 28, 2024Cedar falls, IAElectrical system, Unknown or other

    Malfunction ignition switch, and ignition cylinder, 50,000 miles on car. Took it to the dealer for diagnosis. No warning lamps or lights showed. My car just stopped allowing my key to come out of the ignition to turn the car off. I have to struggle to get it out of the ignition for 10-20 mins every time I take my key out. My car could potentially not turn on or off when the pieces go out completely

    NHTSA complaint 11611846
  13. Filed Aug 25, 2024Failure May 13, 2024Black Mountain, NCAir bags

    Air bag light came on unprovoked. Remains on. We noted this announcement and feel it is the same problem. ((In April 2023, Volkswagen recalled some vehicles due to a faulty front passenger detection system that could deactivate the front passenger air bag. A deactivated air bag won't deploy in a crash, which could increase the risk of injury to the front passenger. Volkswagen is developing a remedy and will notify owners when it's available. In the meantime, owners shouldn't let anyone sit in the front passenger seat. ))

    NHTSA complaint 11610694
  14. Filed Jul 2, 2024Failure Jan 1, 2024Miami, FLWheels

    Front wheel bearing failure same as nhtsa campaign 19V879000

    NHTSA complaint 11598220
  15. Filed Jul 2, 2024Failure Mar 6, 2024Miami, FLUnknown or other

    ignition swith . Same as 2019 and up model recall.NHTSA campaign number: 23V604

    NHTSA complaint 11598216
  16. Filed Jun 13, 2024Failure Jun 7, 2024Madison, MSUnknown or other

    N/A

    NHTSA complaint 11594184
  17. Filed Apr 3, 2024Failure Apr 3, 2024Nolanville, TXUnknown or other

    the tunk lid fills with water and gets all the tail light components and wiring wet when it rains heavy or get a car wash.

    NHTSA complaint 11580868
  18. Filed Oct 18, 2023Failure Oct 18, 202290,782 milesMiami Lakes, FLElectrical system

    The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle suddenly stalled without warning. The contact shifted in neutral and attempted to restart the vehicle. The contact had to push the vehicle to the side of the road and made several attempts to start the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was made aware of a recall regarding the fuel rail. The mechanic was unable to determine the exact cause for the failure however, the mechanic linked the failure to a failure with the electrical system. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure persisted with the battery and EPC warning lights illuminated. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 90,782.

    NHTSA complaint 11550559
  19. Filed Sep 28, 2023Failure Apr 15, 2023Miami Lakes, FLFuel system, Gasoline

    The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that after entering the vehicle and attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start on the first attempt. Upon starting the vehicle and driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle suddenly lost motive power. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle seemed to return to normal functionality. However, the contact stated that the failure had since become a regular occurrence. The contact also stated that the infotainment system operated erratically, symptomatic of a possible electrical issue. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the fuel pump. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.

    NHTSA complaint 11547215
  20. Filed Mar 17, 2023Failure Mar 16, 202351,723 milesRancho Santa Fe, CAFuel system, Fuel rail

    The contact's mother owns a 2018 Volkswagen Jetta. The contact stated that her mother's vehicle had failed to start up with an abnormal fuel odor coming from the vehicle. Upon inspection, her mother discovered that an unknown fluid had leaked from the vehicle. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed with a leak in the fuel rail. The failure was linked to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V648000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the vehicle was not included in the recall. The manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was 51,723.

    NHTSA complaint 11512432
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year

Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins

656 manufacturer communications cover this model year

Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.

  • VOS-26-47 Aug 14, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a notice for software changes with the ODIS diagnostic program to correct the communication during vehicle programming function: A software fix is needed to correct the issue: Part number 3Q0-959-435N software version number 1307 has incorrect coding.
  • V4823022072282_3 Aug 3, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Clean and install an additional plastic "ring" to prevent ingress of dirt,hair. Foreign bodies into the clock spring.
  • V4622022067177_5 Aug 27, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Repair or Replace Information
  • V4015022033347_8 Aug 10, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Replacement instruction
  • V0026012081638_2 Aug 4, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Differences between a leak and seepage
  • TT 00-13-04_7 Aug 6, 2026 · Other
    Permission to change Daily Order upgraded to RED Order
  • SM 04-2026 Aug 11, 2026 · Other
    This special notice is to inform dealers to return the parts listed if it meets the criteria provided.
  • VOS-26-42 Jul 15, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a notice for software changes with the ODIS diagnostic program to correct the communication during vehicle programming function: A software fix is needed to correct the issue: DA 0019 - Hotfix 12-V battery test(s) – No battery diagnosis - Inconclus…
  • V1718062017813_24 Jul 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Oil Consumption Measurement and Electronic Oil Consumption Measurement
  • V6919012010479_17 Jun 11, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Inquiries
  • V1719012012855_81 Jun 4, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Volkswagen Engine Oil Standards
  • TT 13-20-01_3 Jun 18, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Instruction, how to lubicate engine before initial start.
  • TT 10-18-02_2 Jun 18, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Lubricating engine components before reassembly.
  • V0026012081638_1 May 19, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Difference between Component fluid leakage and seepage
  • VOS-26-21 Mar 27, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a notice for software changes with the ODIS diagnostic program to correct the communication during vehicle programming function: A software fix is needed to correct the error message ERP0204E could occur during perform initial operation, software …
  • V9419012011521_21 Mar 30, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Moisture Accumulation
  • V0018092053065_6 Mar 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Safety Related Inquiry and Reporting
  • V9422022066761_4 Mar 19, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Damage Inspection of Park assist sensors
  • VOS-26-15 Mar 6, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a notice for software changes with the ODIS diagnostic program to correct the communication during vehicle programming function: A software fix is needed to correct multiple test plans: All basic settings test for the following components - Fill an…
  • V5515032021354_9 Mar 5, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Paint color and/or finish of the engine compartment may not match the exterior paint color
  • DC_VW_CF_Airbag Mar 2, 2026 · Other
    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued an urgent warning regarding counterfeit replacement airbag inflators that are being installed in used vehicles.
  • VOS-26-01 Jan 6, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a notice for software changes with the ODIS diagnostic program to correct the communication during vehicle programming function: A software fix is needed to correct a test that is not reading any information from the battery data module (BDM) and w…
  • V2715032016076_13 Dec 8, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Diagnosis for Excessive Current Draw.
  • SM 67-2025 Dec 3, 2025 · Other
    This special notice is to inform dealers to return the parts listed and only order the successor parts going forward.
  • SM 60-2025 Nov 18, 2025 · Other
    This special notice is to inform dealers to return the parts listed if it meets the criteria provided.
  • V5718012042955_7 Nov 17, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Replace Door Lock and Cap.
  • V4016012043146_4 Nov 18, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    What is and what is not a leaking suspension strut.
  • V4622022067177_4 Nov 6, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Warranty Instruction and guidance
  • V4418012043620_8 Nov 3, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Alignment sheet submission.
  • WLA-25-11 Oct 17, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Coolant Bleed Procedure
  • V8718102043704_24 Oct 6, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    GFF Requirements regardless of concern plus System flush requirement
  • V3718022033975_14 Oct 14, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Cautions about using aftermarket transmission flush machines and aftermarket transmission fluids.
  • V3416022034406_8 Oct 9, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Diagnosing Manual Transmission Noise
  • V1917012022548_15 Oct 14, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    G12Evo can now be mixed with previous coolants.
  • V1718062017813_23 Oct 9, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    How to measure engine oil consumption.
  • V1718032037201_20 Oct 8, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Proper engine oil level before leaving the factory.
  • V0123022069588_3 Oct 14, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    EVAP and Leak Detection Pump replacement components.
  • V0116152014815_19 Oct 6, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    A list of suggested fuel stations
  • V0116132033805_11 Oct 14, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Engine misfire diagnostic aid.
  • V0017132033846_25 Oct 6, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Fuel Additive to prevent sporatic misfire
  • V0017132033846_24 Jul 22, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Fuel Additive
  • V4616012043146_3 Jul 14, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    How to identify and when to replace a leaking strut
  • V1719012012855_79 Jun 9, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Volkswagen Engine Oil Quality Standards (U.S. Only)
  • V8720022061094_9 May 12, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    How to check for HVAC system leaks using nitrogen.
  • V4418012043620_7 May 22, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Using Alignment Sheet Submission Form
  • VOS-25-34 Apr 22, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a notice for software changes with the ODIS diagnostic program to correct the communication during vehicle programming function: This hotfix is for the fill and bleed cooling system test funtion issue.
  • V1719012012855_78 Apr 21, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Volkswagen Engine Oil Quality Standards
  • V9124092076241_2 Mar 24, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    When making calls with an Apple device using Car-Play (Wired or Wireless Connection), an echo is heard on the receiving end (not from the incar caller) of the call. No related DTCs are present in the system.
  • V4622022067177_3 Mar 12, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Brake Repair or Replacement Information
  • VOS 25 18 Feb 12, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a notice for software changes with the ODIS diagnostic program to correct the communication during vehicle programming function: This hotfix is for multiple vehicles for airbag module programming issues.
  • V4015022033347_6 Feb 12, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    CV Boot replacement
  • V1917012022548_14 Feb 12, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Identifying and Mixing Engine Coolant
  • V0123022069588_2 Feb 13, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    EVAP Components replacement
  • V9419012011521_20 Dec 6, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Internal Moisture Accumulation
  • V9124092076241_1 Dec 2, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    When using hands-free call and Apple Car-Play an echo may be heard by call recipent
  • VOS-24-135 Nov 22, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This is a notice for software changes with the ODIS diagnostic program to correct the communication for the keyless start system. 00B7 - Interface for Access/Start: U101300: Control module not coded & Software Configuration – incorrect coding hotfix
  • V8718122005566_28 Nov 14, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    HVAC duct cleaning and deodorizing
  • V5515032021354_8 Oct 30, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Lack of paint under roof
  • V1719022012855_77 Oct 30, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Engine Oil Standards
  • V0018092053065_5 Oct 17, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Additional reporting
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.