2008 Volkswagen Jetta engine problems
20 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2008 Volkswagen Jetta — 11% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Tl* the contact owns a 2008 volkswagen jetta. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the safety anti-lock warning light illuminated and the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that after several attempts, the vehicle started however, the contact was then unable to…”
filed Jun 30, 2020
“This vehicle will need $1500. Of work to pass nys inspection.the rear main seal has failed which causes a vacuum leak that results in an emissions failure. Cel. My research has informed that this is a very common failure.”
filed Sep 1, 2019
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
VW Engine oil quality standards
V171901201285567 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Oct 30, 2023Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards
V171901201285565 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Aug 21, 2023Volkswagen Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.
V171901201285564 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions · issued Jul 10, 2023
Engine problems in other Jetta years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Jetta | 1 | 4% |
| 2024 Jetta | 11 | 29% |
| 2023 Jetta | 11 | 26% |
| 2022 Jetta | 11 | 27% |
| 2021 Jetta | 5 | 8% |
| 2020 Jetta | 12 | 24% |
| 2019 Jetta | 146 | 27% |
| 2018 Jetta | 2 | 6% |
| 2017 Jetta | 32 | 20% |
| 2016 Jetta | 43 | 27% |
| 2015 Jetta | 43 | 22% |
| 2014 Jetta | 108 | 28% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.