The 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is a compact sedan, part of the Jetta's fifth generation (2005-2010). Key trims included the S, SE, SEL, TDI (diesel), and GLI (sport). Known for its German engineering and available TDI engine offering excellent fuel economy, it was a popular choice. Pricing ranged from approximately $16,000 to $25,000 new. Its European driving feel set it apart from many competitors. The Jetta offers a blend of practicality and a touch of premium feel.
The Good
The 2009 Jetta offered a comfortable ride and a relatively upscale interior for its class, appealing to those seeking a refined driving experience. The TDI engine provided excellent fuel efficiency, attracting practical buyers. Its German-engineered performance and responsive handling offered an engaging driving experience, fulfilling an emotional need for a fun-to-drive car. Good value was offered, particularly with the TDI.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2009 Jetta include possible electrical issues, particularly with power windows and door locks. Some models experienced premature wear of timing belts (especially on the 2.5L engine). Check for oil leaks, especially on higher-mileage vehicles. The cost of parts and labor can be higher compared to some competitors.
2009 Volkswagen Jetta: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L Inline-4 (Base): Approximately 115 horsepower
- 2.5L Inline-5: 150-170 horsepower (depending on the specific year and tune)
- 2.0L TDI Diesel: 140 horsepower
- 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (GLI): 200 horsepower
- Horsepower: Ranging from 115 to 200 hp, as noted above.
- Fuel Economy:
- 2.0L: Around 22 MPG city / 30 MPG highway
- 2.5L: Around 20 MPG city / 29 MPG highway
- 2.0L TDI: Excellent fuel economy, around 30 MPG city / 41 MPG highway (a major selling point)
- 2.0L Turbo (GLI): Around 22 MPG city / 30 MPG highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.0L: ~10-11 seconds
- 2.5L: ~8-9 seconds
- 2.0L TDI: ~8.5-9.5 seconds
- 2.0L Turbo (GLI): ~7 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not generally recommended or advertised for towing. Very limited if any.
- Trim-Level Features:
- S: Base model, typically with basic features like air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system.
- SE: Upgrades over the S, potentially including alloy wheels, upgraded audio, and more comfortable seating.
- SEL: Leather seats, sunroof, premium audio system, and more advanced features.
- TDI: Similar features to the SE or SEL, but with the TDI diesel engine.
- GLI: Sport-tuned suspension, sporty exterior styling, sport seats, and other performance-oriented features. Essentially the performance trim.
2009 Volkswagen Jetta Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | City Jetta |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | PUEBLA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1490.05 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1961.33 kg |
| Overall Height | 145.8 cm |
| Overall Length | 455.42 cm |
| Overall Width | 178.05 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 257.81 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0-L L-4 DOHC 16V Turbo |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $22,270 USD |
| Invoice Price | $21,004 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $700 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta include issues with the electrical system, such as malfunctioning power windows, door locks, and sensor failures. The 2.5L engine is known to experience issues with the timing chain tensioner, potentially leading to costly repairs if not addressed. Oil leaks are also a common concern, particularly as the vehicle ages. The TDI models, while generally reliable, require specific maintenance related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and other diesel-specific components. Some owners have reported problems with the automatic transmission, particularly with rough shifting or premature failure.
Recalls for the 2009 Jetta have included issues related to fuel pump failures and potential problems with the brake light switch. It's essential to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to determine if any outstanding recalls apply.
Long-term reliability concerns center around the potential for higher maintenance costs compared to some of its Japanese competitors. Parts and labor can be more expensive. Preventative maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity of the vehicle. Rust can also be a concern in areas with harsh winters or heavy salt use on roads.
Recalls for the 2009 Jetta have included issues related to fuel pump failures and potential problems with the brake light switch. It's essential to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to determine if any outstanding recalls apply.
Long-term reliability concerns center around the potential for higher maintenance costs compared to some of its Japanese competitors. Parts and labor can be more expensive. Preventative maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity of the vehicle. Rust can also be a concern in areas with harsh winters or heavy salt use on roads.
How long will the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta last?
With proper maintenance, a 2009 Volkswagen Jetta can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report vehicles lasting well beyond 15 years. However, consistent maintenance is key. Neglecting oil changes, failing to address minor issues promptly, or skipping scheduled maintenance can significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan. Long-term durability can be affected by rust, particularly in regions with harsh winters. The electrical system and plastic components may become brittle and prone to failure over time. The timing chain (2.5L) requires attention to avoid major engine damage. Regular inspection and timely repairs are vital.
Positive Owner Reviews
Agent 777
I use this car as my second car for daily city excursions. I love the peppy engine - great on gas. Good used second car to have. Mint condition. Scored big with only 48,000 miles in 2014. I'll never get rid of it. Love Love this car !
esteban
As a current owner of one lemme tell you that the 2009 jetta is perfect to swing around corners! I inherited the car from my family 5 years ago and for the longest time i thought it was a boring economy car. Boy was i wrong! Mines an auto with a manual mode and lemme tell you just turn traction control off and get some handbrake action and youll be fellin like ken block any day of the week. sure it has dings and scratches, sure the interior could be better, sure its got some electrical and computer issues from time to time, but lemme tell you that she'll start right up everytime and can handle a good time like no other car in its class. ive never felt more comfortable going sideways in a car than i have in my jetta and thats coming from someone whos driven subarus on loose gravel!!!!
BIG LEAGUER
It's not fast, it's not luxurious, but for what it is I love it, very practical Sportwagen.. the biggest sunroof I have seen, panoramic sunroof option. Comfortable seats, decent radio.. good performance and gas mileage. Reliable 2.5 5cyl engine.. manual transmission.. I love this car..
Negative Owner Reviews
NatashaNatasha
This is the most unreliable car I have ever owned. The engine shuts off while driving, the electrical problems are frequent, and vw doesn’t issue recalls for huge problems that many are experiencing with this garbage car. This car is not safe. VW’s are terrible and these serious mechanical and electrical issues are going to kill people if they haven’t already done so. Don’t let anyone you love buy a Volkswagen Jetta because driving it is likely to kill them.
kjw738
It's a wonderful machine that sucks on gas but is extremely sexy to look. It's a waste of German engineering but the drive tran is amazing. I would buy it again. Love at first sight and the design.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2009 Volkswagen Jetta came standard with basic tech and safety features for its time. Standard features included an AM/FM radio with CD player, power windows and locks, and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Higher trims offered upgraded audio systems, including satellite radio and an auxiliary input for connecting external devices. Some trims featured a sunroof and heated seats.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) was available, enhancing vehicle control in slippery conditions. Cruise control was also available on some trims. Parking sensors were an optional feature on higher trims.
Safety features included front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags for head protection.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) were generally good. The 2009 Jetta received good ratings in most crash tests, indicating a relatively safe vehicle for its class and era. It's important to note that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2009, and newer vehicles offer more advanced safety technologies. For precise crash-test data, consult the IIHS and NHTSA websites.
Optional features included leather seats, a premium sound system, a sunroof, and alloy wheels. Navigation was not commonly offered as a factory option at this time, and aftermarket systems were often used.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) was available, enhancing vehicle control in slippery conditions. Cruise control was also available on some trims. Parking sensors were an optional feature on higher trims.
Safety features included front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags for head protection.
Crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) were generally good. The 2009 Jetta received good ratings in most crash tests, indicating a relatively safe vehicle for its class and era. It's important to note that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2009, and newer vehicles offer more advanced safety technologies. For precise crash-test data, consult the IIHS and NHTSA websites.
Optional features included leather seats, a premium sound system, a sunroof, and alloy wheels. Navigation was not commonly offered as a factory option at this time, and aftermarket systems were often used.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black
Candy White
Reflex Silver Metallic
United Gray Metallic
Graphite Blue Metallic
Interior Colors
Black Cloth
Gray Cloth
2009 Volkswagen Jetta Prices and Market Value
The 2009 Volkswagen Jetta had a starting MSRP of around $16,000 to $25,000 depending on the trim and options. Current used market prices range from approximately $3,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. Depreciation has been significant due to the vehicle's age. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, overall condition (mechanical and cosmetic), maintenance history, and the specific trim level. TDI models often command a premium due to their fuel efficiency. Jettas with a clean title and documented service history will fetch higher prices.
2009 Volkswagen Jetta Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 2009 Volkswagen Jetta are typically moderate. Fuel costs vary depending on the engine, with the TDI offering the best fuel economy. Maintenance and repair costs can be higher compared to some Japanese competitors. Parts and labor can be more expensive. Long-term ownership costs are generally moderate, but can increase if preventative maintenance is neglected. The 2.5L engine's timing chain issues and potential electrical problems can contribute to higher repair bills. Overall, it's not the most economical car to own, but not the most expensive either.
2009 Volkswagen Jetta Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Diesel
Fuel Capacity
54.89 liters
City Mileage
12.33 km/l
Highway Mileage
17.01 km/l
2009 Volkswagen Jetta Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2009 Volkswagen Jetta Recalls & Defects
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Recall date
2009-08-20
Recall no.
09v333000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009 and 2010 Passenger Cars Manufactured Between September 2008 and August 2009. THE Wiring Harness OF A Temperature Sensor IN THE Direct Shift Gearbox (Dsg) MAY Have Connector Wires That Were Insufficiently Crimped. With Insufficiently Crimped Connector Wires, A Temperature Sensor HAS THE Potential TO Falsely Detect A High Gearbox OIL Temperature, Causing THE Transmission TO Abruptly Shift TO Neutral. IF This Happens, THE Selector Lever Position Indicator Within THE Instrument Panel Will Flash. IN Addition, THE "depress Brake Pedal" Indicator Light Will BE Illuminated, Alerting THE Driver TO Apply THE Brakes.
Consequence
THE Abrupt Shift TO Neutral Could Lead TO A Crash Without Warning.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Reprogram THE Transmission Control Module With Updated Software Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 20, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen AT 1-800-822-8987.
Notes
VW Recall No.37e3/S7 & Audi Recall NO. 37e5/J7.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
2010-12-10
Recall no.
10v621000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2010 Jetta, NEW Beetle, NEW Beetle Convertible, Model Year 2009 Jetta Sportwagen and Model Year 2007-2009 Rabbit Vehicles Equipped With 2.5l Engines. THE Jetta, Jetta Sportwagen, and Rabbit Vehicles MAY Have A Small Plastic TAB Located ON THE Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir That MAY Chafe Against AN Underhood Fuel Supply Line. THE NEW Beetle and THE NEW Beetle Convertible Vehicles MAY Have A Fastening Clamp ON A Hydraulic Hose OF THE Power Steering System That MAY BE Located IN AN Improper Position Which Could Cause Chafing Against AN Underhood Fuel Supply Line.
Consequence
IF Chafing Occurs, There IS THE Potential FOR A Fuel Leak TO Develop. Fuel Leakage, IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, Could Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect and IF Necessary Replace THE Underhood Fuel Line. Additionally, Depending ON THE Vehicle Model, Dealers Will Either Remove THE Plastic TAB From THE Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir, or Inspect THE Position OF THE Fastening Clamp and Adjust THE Related Fastening Clamp Into THE Correct Position. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall IS Expected TO Begin ON or Before January 31, 2011. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen AT 1-800-822-8987.
Notes
Volkswagen Safety Recall NO. 20i4/U1.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Power Train:driveline:driveshaft
Recall date
2009-05-19
Recall no.
09v164000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen IS Recalling 25,594 MY 2006-2009 Jetta 5TH Generation Equipped With 2.01 Engine. THE Fastening Screw Contact Surfaces ON THE Driveshaft Cover Plate MAY NOT Have Been Manufactured TO Factory Specifications. Some Screws MAY NOT Have Been Torqued Properly During Assembly and Could Loosen Over Time, Causing A Knocking Sound When THE Vehicle IS IN Motion. THE Driveshaft Screws Could Loosen TO THE Point Where THE Driveshaft Detaches From THE Gearbox.
Consequence
IF THE Vehicle IS Moving When This Happens, THE Detached Driveshaft Could Cause Damage THE Gearbox Housing. A Damage Gearbox Housing Could Leak Gearbox OIL Onto THE Street and Create A Risk OF A Vehicle Crash FOR Both THE Driver and Other Motorists.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Driveshaft Screws and Replace THE Screws Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON June 24, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen AT 1-800-822-8987.
Notes
Volkswagen Recall NO. 40j2/S4.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Fuel System, Diesel
Recall date
2011-10-03
Recall no.
11v490000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen IS Recalling Certain Model 2009-2012 Jetta and Jetta Sportwagen Vehicles, Manufactured From MAY 2008 Through September 2011, Model Year 2010-2012 Volkswagen Golf Vehicles, Manufactured From MAY 2009 Through September 2011, and Model Year 2010-2012 Audi A3 Vehicles, Manufactured From September 2009 Through September 2011, That ARE Equipped With A 2.0l TDI Common Rail Diesel Engine/Clean Diesel Engine. THE Fuel Injection Pulses Could Coincide With THE Natural Frequency OF THE Injector Line #2, IN Specific Load and RPM Conditions. This Resonance Creates Additional Stress IN THE Fuel Line.
Consequence
DUE TO THE Resonance Condition, Injector Line Number 2 Could Develop Small Cracks Which Could Lead TO Fuel Leakage. Leaking Fuel IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, MAY Lead TO A Fire.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Install AN Improved Fuel Injector Line FOR THE Number 2 Cylinder ON Certain Vehicles and Will Install Vibration Dampers ON All OF THE Injector Lines. Volkswagen and Audi Will Notify Owners TO Have THE Vehicles Repaired Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall IS Expected TO Begin During November 2011. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen AT 1-800-822-8987.
Notes
Volkswagen Recall Campaign Number IS 23j9/V5 & 23j8/K5.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip
Recall date
2016-12-20
Recall no.
16v913000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2010 Volkswagen Jetta A5 Sedan, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen, Eos, Gti, Rabbit and Audi A3 Vehicles, and 2010 Volkswagen Golf A6 Vehicles. THE Antilock Brake System (Abs) Control Unit MAY Fail During ABS or Electronic Stability Control (esc) Activation, Possibly Causing A Loss OF Vehicle Control.
Consequence
A Loss OF Vehicle Control CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE ABS Control Module Software TO Improve THE Module's Self-Testing Abilities. ANY Module That Fails THE NEW Diagnostic Test Will BE Replaced. These Repairs Will BE Made Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 2017. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)
Recall date
2016-12-20
Recall no.
16v913000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2010 Volkswagen Jetta A5 Sedan, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen, Eos, Gti, Rabbit and Audi A3 Vehicles, and 2010 Volkswagen Golf A6 Vehicles. THE Antilock Brake System (Abs) Control Unit MAY Fail During ABS or Electronic Stability Control (esc) Activation, Possibly Causing A Loss OF Vehicle Control.
Consequence
A Loss OF Vehicle Control CAN Increase THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE ABS Control Module Software TO Improve THE Module's Self-Testing Abilities. ANY Module That Fails THE NEW Diagnostic Test Will BE Replaced. These Repairs Will BE Made Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began February 2017. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Unknown or Other
Recall date
2019-09-25
Recall no.
19v679000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Volkswagen Group OF America, Inc. (Volkswagen) IS Recalling Certain 2017 Volkswagen Passat, 2018 Tiguan Lwb, 2007-2009 Jetta Sedan, 2011-2013, 2015 and 2019 Jetta, 2013 Jetta Hybrid, 2008-2009 Jetta Sportwagen, 2015 Golf Sportwagen, 2013 Golf, 2008-2010 and 2012-2013 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2008-2010 Beetle, and Beetle Convertible Vehicles. Modifications Made While THE Vehicles Were IN AN Internal Evaluation Period MAY Cause THE Affected Vehicles TO NOT Comply With All OF THE Applicable Regulatory Requirements.
Consequence
IF THE Vehicles DO NOT Meet All Regulatory Requirements, There Could BE AN Increased Risk OF A Crash, Fire, or Injury.
Remedy
Volkswagen Will Notify Owners and Repurchase THE Affected Vehicles. THE Recall Began November 6, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Volkswagen Customer Service AT 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's Number FOR This Recall IS 01d7. Note: This Recall IS AN Expansion OF Nhtsa Recall Number 18v-329.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Recall date
2020-09-23
Recall no.
20e064000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Tenneco Automotive (Tenneco) IS Recalling Certain Beck/Arnley Master Cylinders, Part Number 072-9831, Sold AS Aftermarket or Replacement Parts FOR 2004-2018 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2012-2019 Volkswagen Beetle Vehicles. THE Fluid Seal Crimp ON THE Master Cylinder MAY BE Insufficient, Causing Brake Fluid TO Leak or THE Cylinder TO Come Apart.
Consequence
IF There IS A Brake Fluid Leak, IT CAN Reduce Braking Ability, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Beck/Arnley Will Notify THE Distributors That Sold THE Master Cylinders and Will Work With THE Distributors TO Notify THE END Users. Affected Master Cylinders Will BE Exchanged FOR A NEW Master Cylinder (Part Number 072-9990), Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began October 30, 2020. Owners MAY Contact Tenneco Customer Service AT 1-800-625-9319.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2009 Volkswagen Jetta Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
144 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2009 Volkswagen Jetta Insurance
Insurance for a 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta Compare to Other Sedan?
Key rivals of the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta included the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, and Ford Focus. In terms of performance, the Jetta (especially the GLI) offered a more engaging driving experience than the Corolla and Civic, but the Mazda3 was also a strong contender. Features were comparable across the class, although the Jetta's interior design and materials often felt more upscale.
Reliability is where the Jetta fell slightly behind. The Civic and Corolla are known for their exceptional reliability, while the Jetta has a higher potential for maintenance issues. The Mazda3 also had good reliability ratings. The Ford Focus offered similar performance to the Jetta, but often lagged in terms of interior quality and long-term durability.
In terms of price, the Jetta was typically slightly more expensive than the Corolla and Civic, but comparable to the Mazda3 and Focus.
Alternatives to the 2009 Jetta include the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla for buyers prioritizing reliability and fuel economy. The Mazda3 is a good alternative for those seeking a balance of performance, features, and reliability. If a sportier experience is desired, the Acura TSX from the same era might be considered. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities and budget.
Reliability is where the Jetta fell slightly behind. The Civic and Corolla are known for their exceptional reliability, while the Jetta has a higher potential for maintenance issues. The Mazda3 also had good reliability ratings. The Ford Focus offered similar performance to the Jetta, but often lagged in terms of interior quality and long-term durability.
In terms of price, the Jetta was typically slightly more expensive than the Corolla and Civic, but comparable to the Mazda3 and Focus.
Alternatives to the 2009 Jetta include the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla for buyers prioritizing reliability and fuel economy. The Mazda3 is a good alternative for those seeking a balance of performance, features, and reliability. If a sportier experience is desired, the Acura TSX from the same era might be considered. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities and budget.
Ranks #1815 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1815 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta a Good Sedan?
The 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is ideal for buyers who appreciate German engineering, a comfortable ride, and a relatively upscale interior in a compact sedan. It's worth buying *used* if you find a well-maintained example with a comprehensive service history. The TDI models offer excellent fuel economy, making them a desirable choice if available and properly maintained.
However, buyers should be aware of the potential for higher maintenance costs compared to some competitors. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended. Avoid examples with significant rust or signs of neglect. If reliability is your top priority, consider a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla instead. But if you want a bit more driving enjoyment, the Jetta is a solid choice.
However, buyers should be aware of the potential for higher maintenance costs compared to some competitors. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended. Avoid examples with significant rust or signs of neglect. If reliability is your top priority, consider a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla instead. But if you want a bit more driving enjoyment, the Jetta is a solid choice.
Agent 777 on January 7, 2023
Best Used Car I PurchasedI use this car as my second car for daily city excursions. I love the peppy engine - great on gas. Good used second car to have. Mint condition. Scored big with only 48,000 miles in 2014. I'll never get rid of it. Love Love this car !
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esteban on November 7, 2022
BEST FWD CAR TO DRIFTAs a current owner of one lemme tell you that the 2009 jetta is perfect to swing around corners! I inherited the car from my family 5 years ago and for the longest time i thought it was a boring economy car. Boy was i wrong! Mines an auto with a manual mode and lemme tell you just turn traction control off and get some handbrake action and youll be fellin like ken block any day of the week. sure it has dings and scratches, sure the interior could be better, sure its got some electrical and computer issues from time to time, but lemme tell you that she'll start right up everytime and can handle a good time like no other car in its class. ive never felt more comfortable going sideways in a car than i have in my jetta and thats coming from someone whos driven subarus on loose gravel!!!!
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bspano17 on April 22, 2021
Really nice vehicleI really enjoyed having this car. It had high mileage but it got me from point a to point b with no issues. I loved the speed would have just added a turbo to It
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Gladys l on February 25, 2021
Most fun car i ever ownVery good car for the money. Enjoy driving it For the price. Good on gas. Very comfortable for the size of me.thank you for asking
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BIG LEAGUER on November 18, 2020
Such a great carIt's not fast, it's not luxurious, but for what it is I love it, very practical Sportwagen.. the biggest sunroof I have seen, panoramic sunroof option. Comfortable seats, decent radio.. good performance and gas mileage. Reliable 2.5 5cyl engine.. manual transmission.. I love this car..
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NatashaNatasha on September 22, 2020
Worst, most unsafe, and unreliable car, ever.This is the most unreliable car I have ever owned. The engine shuts off while driving, the electrical problems are frequent, and vw doesn’t issue recalls for huge problems that many are experiencing with this garbage car. This car is not safe. VW’s are terrible and these serious mechanical and electrical issues are going to kill people if they haven’t already done so. Don’t let anyone you love buy a Volkswagen Jetta because driving it is likely to kill them.
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connkilkenny on April 29, 2020
most relieable car i ever ownedThis car met all my needs each and everyday i drove it. From work to school it was my dependable car. Please buy my car and pass on the comfort and demands of my wife....
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JettaFan on March 30, 2020
Best Car For A StudentThis car met all of my qualifications and exceeded some. It was very comfortable and easy to drive. My gas lasted me almost two and half weeks for under $30.
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RK on February 15, 2020
Great value and performance - perfect for studentEasy to drive, fun, practical, comfortable, good set of features for convenience, storage, entertainment, and safety. I am 6 '3" and fit comfortably. Love the manual shift option. It has a versatile trunk with releases on the fob and driver door, foldable seats for big items, pass-thru for long items such as skis. 6-disc changer and aux cable for mobile device offer music options, and is satellite-radio ready
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VW-Dubber. on February 4, 2020
Awesome Wagonin 2009 VW introduced us to a Jetta SportWagen. While many do not know, they also had a pretty sweet 2.0T version of it with basically the GTi drivetrain under the hood. It was fully loaded with every known option, but expensive. They did not advertise this model at all, and only built 1200 in manual and 1800 in DSG trim. This car can make a A4 Avant jealous with the amount of toys you get for your money. Seats are superb for long distance driving, and engine is a eager little xxxxxx which likes to pull from any RPM. MPG has been great and in all these years I had just one random fuel pump issue out of the blue one day and 2 intake manifolds (under warranty) replaced. Everything else has been maintenance (some preventative) and thats it. Car looks great and drives great. Change the oil every 3K miles and you will too put a ton of miles on a TSi.
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Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.