2021 Volkswagen Jetta
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 0 |
| 1981 | 0 |
| 1982 | 0 |
| 1983 | 0 |
| 1984 | 1 |
| 1985 | 13 |
| 1986 | 14 |
| 1987 | 18 |
| 1988 | 19 |
| 1989 | 28 |
| 1990 | 22 |
| 1991 | 32 |
| 1992 | 30 |
| 1993 | 17 |
| 1994 | 120 |
| 1995 | 220 |
| 1996 | 173 |
| 1997 | 141 |
| 1998 | 192 |
| 1999 | 349 |
| 2000 | 439 |
| 2001 | 668 |
| 2002 | 702 |
| 2003 | 455 |
| 2004 | 231 |
| 2005 | 248 |
| 2006 | 580 |
| 2007 | 201 |
| 2008 | 188 |
| 2009 | 888 |
| 2010 | 852 |
| 2011 | 606 |
| 2012 | 499 |
| 2013 | 516 |
| 2014 | 386 |
| 2015 | 194 |
| 2016 | 161 |
| 2017 | 159 |
| 2018 | 31 |
| 2019 | 547 |
| 2020 | 52 |
| 2021 | 67 |
| 2022 | 42 |
| 2023 | 43 |
| 2024 | 43 |
| 2025 | 28 |
| 2026 | 5 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
39% of complaints: service brakes — 26 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
While traveling at the posted speed limit and approaching a signalized intersection, I attempted to brake for stopped traffic ahead.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260714
Also filed under FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
On 01/12/2023 at approximately 4:20 PM, I paid the cost to replace the rear brakes on my 2021 VW Jetta SEL. This included parts and labor. I found this very odd due to the vehicle being less than 2 years old.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231216
I do not feel safe with my Vehicle. I purchased new and at 16,550 Miles it needed new rear rotors and pads. Again at 38417 it needed new rotors and pads. I drive the car softly and am not heavy on the brakes.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231127
19% of complaints: electrical system — 13 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
Mid June 2026 infotainment update was over the air software update.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260902
Also filed under UNKNOWN OR OTHER
15% of complaints: forward collision avoidance — 10 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing automatic emergency braking and warnings.
CRASH INJURY13% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 9 distinct reports on file.
7% of complaints: engine — 5 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas Cross Sport, Tiguan LWB, Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas FL and Arteon vehicles.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.
Campaign 20V716000 — check if this car was fixed
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Long Wheelbase and Jetta vehicles. Bolts may be missing from the front seat tracks.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front seat tracks and, as necessary, install the bolts, free of charge. The recall began February 18, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.
Campaign 21V038000 — check if this car was fixed
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Jetta and Jetta GLI vehicles. The air bag control module was welded in the incorrect position.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the air bag control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 28, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69CK.
Campaign 21V492000 — check if this car was fixed
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Golf GTI, Jetta GLI, Jetta NF, Arteon FL, Tiguan LWB, 2022 Taos, Jetta PA, Tiguan PA, 2021-2022 Atlas Cross Sport, and Atlas FL vehicles.
Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298.
Campaign 22V514000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Volkswagen Jetta — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (26 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (13 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for forward collision avoidance issues (10 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 20V716000 (back over prevention) has been completed.
- Verify recall 21V038000 (seats) has been completed.
- Verify recall 21V492000 (air bags) has been completed.
- Verify recall 22V514000 (back over prevention, equipment) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta?
The most-reported component is service brakes, accounting for 39% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Volkswagen Jetta have?
4 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.