2013 Volkswagen Jetta Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Powertrain and Engine Issues: A high volume of complaints and recalls related to the engine and powertrain, including sudden power loss and stalling, are the primary reliability concerns.
- Electrical System Vulnerabilities: The electrical system is a frequent source of trouble, with numerous complaints indicating potential for intermittent power loss and non-responsive controls.
- Safety First: While overall safety ratings are solid, verify that all seven recalls, including those for airbags, brakes, and rear trailing arms, have been completed.
- Thorough Inspection is Crucial: Given the documented issues, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection focusing on the engine, transmission, and electrical components is non-negotiable.
2013 Volkswagen Jetta
Critical Failure Risk
Frequent issues include intermittent power loss, non-responsive controls, dimming lights, and battery drain. These can stem from faulty alternators, wiring harness corrosion, or failing control units.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Savvy used car shoppers who prioritize a spacious interior and good fuel economy, and who are prepared for potential mechanical issues.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or those on a tight budget for unexpected repairs.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 25
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Most Common Issues
1. Electrical System
Most reportedUsage: 142 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 139 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (VW 502 00 spec), Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Pressure Check - Inspect Brake Pads and Discs - Inspect Airbag System - Inspect Headlight Cleaning System and Wiper Blades - Reset Service Interval Display
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is 5.0/10. Reliability score is 5.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 7. Owner complaints: 733.
How practical is the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.5/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Tuning 6.0/10. Practicality 4.5/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Volkswagen Jetta?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil (VW 502 00 spec), Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Pressure Check - Inspect Brake Pads and Discs - Inspect Airbag System - Inspect Headlight Cleaning System and Wiper Blades - Reset Service Interval Display at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $652. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System Components (Alternator, Battery, Control Modules) (typical at 60,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1000+).
What engine is in the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta?
EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 6/10. The 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (US market) presents a mixed bag for enthusiasts. While aftermarket support for performance tuning, especially for... Popular platforms: 2.0T TSI.
What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta?
Top complaint category: electrical system (142 reports, 19.4% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta?
This model year has 7 official safety campaigns listed.