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Last updated: 2026-03-14

2020 Volkswagen Jetta Reliability Report
The 2020 Volkswagen Jetta scores 75/100 ("Good"). With 6 recalls and 48 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
6
Complaints
48
Complaint Rate
5.3
per 10k sold
Est. Annual Cost
$609
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (14)
- POWER TRAIN (6)
- ENGINE (4)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2020 is year 3 of the Seventh generation (A7).
- Redesigned for the 2018 model year.
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- A refresh arrives in 2022.
- 7th generation Jetta (US).
What this means for buyers
Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.
2018: Seventh generation (A7) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2020: This Model Year
2020 is year 3 of the Seventh generation (A7).
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta?
The 2020 Volkswagen Jetta scores 75/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2020 is year 3 of the Seventh generation (A7).
With 48 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to electrical system (14). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta, which scored 1 points lower. See also the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (10%)
- +Below-average complaint rate for Sedan
Cons
- −Above-average repair costs for its class
- −Above-average recall count
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Ignition switch failures and electronic parking brake malfunctions (14 complaints)
Compare 2020 Volkswagen Jetta With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 6 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (14)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (8)
Recall Overview
6
recalls on record
The 2020 Volkswagen Jetta has 6 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
5.3
per 10k soldSegment avg: 18.8
Safety Incidents
1
Crashes
0
Fires
2
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2020 Volkswagen Jetta Recall Details
6 recalls have been issued for the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
Consequence
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Golf, Golf Alltrack, Golf Sportwagen, 2019-2020 Golf GTI, and Jetta vehicles equipped with a conventional ignition switch. The ignition switch may fail, especially in high temperature environments.
Consequence
Ignition switch failure can cause the electrical system to shut down and the engine to stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 1, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 28H7.
TIRES
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan LWB, Golf Sportswagen A7, Golf Alltrack, Golf R GP, Audi Q3, Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas, Golf A7, Audi A3, 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport, and 2021 Atlas FL vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system may not detect an air pressure loss in adequate time when deflating occurs among all four tires simultaneously. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
Consequence
An undetected sudden loss of pressure in all four tires increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the TPMS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 18, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audis customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are (Audi) 45J7, and (VW) 45J6 and 45J8.
2020 Volkswagen Jetta NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 13.1%
Safety Technologies
Volkswagen Jetta Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$609
vs $526 avg for compact cars
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
10%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2020 Volkswagen Jetta.
Inspect sunroof for signs of stress or damage
Test ignition switch for unexpected shutdowns
Check fuel door operation and fuel tank filling
Verify transmission shifts smoothly, especially into reverse
Ensure EPC light is off and turbo wastegate functions
Confirm electronic parking brake engages and releases properly
Buying a 2020 Jetta? Check Its History First
Every 2020 Volkswagen Jetta has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.
2020 Volkswagen Jetta Common Problems by Component
48 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
14 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta frequently report issues with the electrical system, particularly related to ignition switch failures and electronic parking brake malfunctions. Complaints describe scenarios where the vehicle shuts off unexpectedly while driving, often at highway speeds, with error codes displayed on the dashboard. Several reports indicate that these problems occur at varying mileages, with some owners experiencing them shortly after purchase and others around 65,000 miles. The sudden loss of power and electronic brake engagements pose potential safety risks, including loss of control. Additionally, issues with the telematics control unit and infotainment system malfunctions, such as incorrect navigation and Bluetooth connectivity problems, are also noted by multiple owners.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
8 complaintsOwners report that the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta frequently experiences issues with the sunroof spontaneously shattering, often while driving or after closing a car door. Complaints describe a loud noise similar to an explosion or firecracker, with glass shattering outward and sometimes falling into the cabin. These incidents typically occur at various mileages, with some vehicles having over 70,000 miles. Additionally, other complaints mention electronic issues such as "check starter system" warnings and emergency SOS module errors, which may require costly repairs. The reported failures, particularly the sunroof shattering, pose potential safety risks by causing distractions or injury from falling glass while driving.
POWER TRAIN
6 complaintsOwners report several power train issues with the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta. Commonly mentioned problems include transmission grinding when shifting into reverse and vehicle shaking during gear shifts, both without any warning lights. Some owners describe a complete vehicle shutdown after hitting a pothole, linked to a loss of communication between the ECM and PCM, which could pose a safety risk if it occurs in traffic. Another reported issue is a sudden loss of power when accelerating, sometimes causing near-miss rear-end collisions. These issues are reported shortly after purchase, indicating they may manifest early in the vehicle's life.
ENGINE (4 complaints)
ENGINE
4 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta report several engine-related issues. Commonly described problems include difficulties with the engine starting process, where the car's systems activate but the engine does not start until the ignition is pressed again. Another frequent issue involves the EPC light illuminating, often linked to a seized turbo wastegate, which may cause the vehicle to buck and stall. Some owners also mention a vent control valve malfunction, noted as a known problem by Volkswagen, with failures occurring around 60,000 to 80,000 miles. Additionally, there are reports of the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly while driving, even with warning lights appearing on the dashboard. These issues could potentially lead to safety concerns, such as loss of power while driving, particularly at higher speeds or on inclines.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (3 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
3 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta report several issues related to the fuel/propulsion system. Commonly, they describe problems with fuel not entering the tank properly, with fuel seeping or leaking, which resembles a known recall issue for similar models, though some owners state their VINs are not recognized under the recall. Another issue involves the fuel door failing to open, preventing refueling and requiring costly interventions to access the gas tank. Additionally, there is a report of a catastrophic fuel pump failure at approximately 14,000 miles, necessitating the replacement of both the fuel pump and its module. These issues can lead to significant inconvenience and potential safety concerns, particularly if the vehicle unexpectedly becomes inoperable due to a lack of fuel access or pump failure.
STEERING (3 complaints)
STEERING
3 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta report several steering-related issues. Multiple complaints describe the vehicle shaking at speeds over 60 mph, with some mentioning a warning light indicating insufficient engine power. Another common issue involves the steering wheel becoming difficult to maneuver, particularly when the vehicle loses acceleration unexpectedly. Additionally, some owners note the vehicle swaying to the right at highway speeds, even when the steering wheel remains straight, which can lead to unintentional lane departures. These issues suggest potential safety implications, such as difficulty maintaining control of the vehicle, particularly at higher speeds. Specific mileage ranges are not consistently noted in the complaints.
SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta report issues related to the service brakes, with complaints highlighting faulty brake calipers and unusual brake noises. One owner describes a grinding noise caused by a faulty brake caliper leading to metal-on-metal contact with the brake pad, resulting in a costly repair. Another owner notes multiple electronic warnings, including a "fault electronic parking brake" message, though this complaint also involves other vehicle systems. These issues appear to arise within the first few years of ownership, though specific mileage is not consistently reported. Safety implications include potential brake failure, which could affect stopping performance, though no accidents or injuries are mentioned in the complaints.
AIR BAGS (2 complaints)
AIR BAGS
2 complaintsOwners of the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta report issues related to air bag recall repairs. Complaints frequently mention that parts required for recall repairs are unavailable, leading to delays. One owner notes that the manufacturer has not provided the necessary parts in a reasonable timeframe, though no air bag failure has been reported. No specific mileage is mentioned, and there are no reports of crashes, fires, or loss of control linked to these complaints. Buyers should be aware of potential delays in completing air bag recall repairs due to parts availability.
SEATS (1 complaints)
SEATS
1 complaintThere is a spring that it out of place and when I turned to get out of the seat it scratched my back.
SUSPENSION (1 complaints)
SUSPENSION
1 complaintThe front strut spring broke. The dealer warned against driving it at all, since it could cut open the tire or damage other parts that would cause a lot of control. The vehicle is just past the three year warranty. But it is too new for aftermarket parts, so I had to replace it the same parts. The dealer said this is very common on this make/model and to expect these parts to consistently fail.
When Do 2020 Volkswagen Jetta Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Volkswagen Jetta Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Volkswagen Jetta Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Volkswagen Jetta year is 2024 with a reliability score of 82/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2025 (81/100) and 2023 (81/100).
Volkswagen Jetta Years to Avoid
The worst Volkswagen Jetta year is 2019 with a score of 58/100, primarily due to power train (157) issues.
Volkswagen Jetta Reliability Score Trend
Volkswagen Jetta reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 80/100 compared to 72/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 79/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 58/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2024 | 82/100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 81/100 | Excellent |
Volkswagen Jetta Reliability Compared to Other Years
| Year | Score | vs Prior Year | Rating | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 81/100 (predicted) | — | Predicted | 0 | 0 |
| 2025 | 81/100 | -1 | Excellent | 0 | 11 |
| 2024 | 82/100 | +1 | Excellent | 0 | 26 |
| 2023 | 81/100 | +4 | Excellent | 0 | 34 |
| 2022 | 77/100 | +3 | Good | 1 | 33 |
| 2021 | 74/100 | -1 | Good | 4 | 62 |
| 2020(selected) | 75/100 | +17 | Good | 6 | 48 |
| 2019 | 58/100 | -21 | Mixed | 11 | 519 |
| 2018 | 79/100 | — | Good | 3 | 27 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta?
How many recalls does the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta have?
Is the 2020 Volkswagen Jetta expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2020 Volkswagen Jetta without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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