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Volkswagen Jetta: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2026 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2022 (92/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2022 92 · 2018 90 · 2025 82 · 2021 80

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202696/100
Too New

3 complaints · 1 recalls

202582/100
Buy

21 complaints · 2 recalls

202292/100
Buybest year

41 complaints · 1 recalls

202180/100
Buy

65 complaints · 4 recalls

202064/100
Caution

51 complaints · 6 recalls

201951/100
Caution

537 complaints · 11 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201890/100
Buy

30 complaints · 3 recalls

201770/100
Buy

158 complaints · 7 recalls

201664/100
Caution

160 complaints · 5 recalls

201564/100
Caution

193 complaints · 8 recalls

201464/100
Caution

386 complaints · 5 recalls

201372/100
Buy

515 complaints · 6 recalls

201264/100
Caution

526 complaints · 8 recalls

201162/100
Caution

639 complaints · 10 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2022?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2022 Volkswagen Jetta’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Volkswagen Jetta as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.