The Good
The 2005 Jetta offered a comfortable ride and a stylish, understated design (appealing to emotional buyers). Its available TDI engine provided excellent fuel efficiency and longevity. For practical buyers, the Jetta delivered solid reliability (when well-maintained) and decent value for the money. The GLI trim offered a sporty driving experience.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2005 Jetta include potential electrical issues, particularly with window regulators and door locks. Some owners reported problems with the automatic transmission. Rust can be an issue in colder climates. The plastic components in the interior are prone to wear and tear. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent major repairs.
2005 Volkswagen Jetta: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.0L Inline-4: 115 hp
- 1.8L Turbo Inline-4: 150 hp (later 180 hp)
- 1.9L TDI Diesel Inline-4: 90 hp (later 100 hp)
- 2.8L VR6: 200 hp (GLI)
- Horsepower: Ranging from 90 hp to 200 hp depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy:
- 2.0L: Around 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- 1.8T: Around 23 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
- 1.9L TDI: Around 38 mpg city / 46 mpg highway
- 2.8L VR6: Around 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: Varies significantly based on engine:
- 2.0L: Around 10-11 seconds
- 1.8T: Around 7.5-8.5 seconds
- 1.9L TDI: Around 12-13 seconds
- 2.8L VR6: Around 6.5-7.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not generally recommended for towing. Maximum unbraked towing capacity is minimal.
- Trim-Level Features:
- GL: Base model with standard features like air conditioning, power windows, and basic stereo.
- GLS: Added features like alloy wheels, upgraded stereo, cruise control, and keyless entry.
- GLI: Sport-tuned suspension, sport seats, unique exterior styling, and more powerful engine options (1.8T or VR6).
- Jetta Wagon: Available in GL and GLS trims, offering increased cargo space.
2005 Volkswagen Jetta Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2005 |
Make | Volkswagen |
Model | Jetta |
Trim | - |
Style | 2.5-Liter |
Type | Sedan |
Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
Made In | Mexico |
Manufacturing City | NECKARSULM |
Dimensions
Doors | 4-Door |
Curb Weight | 3285 pounds |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 4324 pounds |
Overall Height | 57.50 inches |
Overall Length | 179.30 inches |
Overall Width | 69.30 inches |
Wheelbase Length | 101.50 inches |
Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
Engine | 2.5-L |
Engine Size | 2.5L |
Engine Cylinders | 5 |
Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
Transmission Type | Automatic |
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) | $20,390 |
Invoice Price | $19,852 |
Delivery Charges | $615 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 Volkswagen Jetta Have?
Rust, particularly in areas with road salt, is a long-term concern. Check the undercarriage, fenders, and around the fuel filler door for corrosion. Coolant leaks from plastic parts of the cooling system are another potential problem. The TDI engine, while durable, can suffer from turbocharger issues if not properly maintained. Recalls for the 2005 Jetta were issued for various safety concerns, including potential airbag malfunctions. Always check the NHTSA website for the latest recall information specific to your VIN. Long-term reliability hinges heavily on consistent maintenance. Neglecting scheduled services can lead to a cascade of problems, making the Jetta more costly to own in the long run.
How long will the 2005 Volkswagen Jetta last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) vary depending on the specific test and model year of the Mk4 Jetta. Generally, the Jetta performed reasonably well in frontal crash tests. However, side-impact protection was not as strong, particularly in models without side airbags. Checking specific model year ratings on the NHTSA and IIHS websites is crucial for accurate information.
Compared to modern vehicles, the 2005 Jetta lacks advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Its technology is more focused on basic functionality and comfort than cutting-edge innovation. The lack of modern driver-assistance features is a significant difference compared to contemporary vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2005 Volkswagen Jetta Prices and Market Value
2005 Volkswagen Jetta Cost of Ownership
2005 Volkswagen Jetta Fuel Efficiency
2005 Volkswagen Jetta Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2005 Volkswagen Jetta Recalls & Defects
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch
Fuel System, Diesel
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Engine and Engine Cooling:engine
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:master Cylinder
2005 Volkswagen Jetta Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2005 Volkswagen Jetta Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 Volkswagen Jetta Compare to Other Sedan?
Price-wise, the Jetta was typically slightly more expensive than the Civic and Corolla when new. In the used market, prices are now fairly similar. If reliability is a top priority, a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla might be a better choice. If driving enjoyment is paramount, the Mazda 3 is a strong contender. However, if you prefer German engineering and are willing to perform regular maintenance, the Jetta can be a worthwhile option, especially the TDI model for its fuel efficiency.
Ranks #1955 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★) |
1955 | 2005 Volkswagen Jetta | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 Volkswagen Jetta a Good Sedan?
VWguy on December 13, 2020
Very easy to work on and very reliable.This car is peppy, met all my needs, got very good gas mileage. corners well. Easy to see around and make lane changes. Very fun to drive and has a sporty look and comfortable interior.
paul pa on April 20, 2020
its ok but i would buy neweri like the car but there are some problms its a 2005 jetta it needs heater core witch is over 500 to rep lace the tranny shifts little hard but its fun to drive handling is great and smoooth id recamend the car
Lori Lorenz on November 14, 2019
Great carI was in am accident and needed a new vehicle in a hurry. We found this Jetta online and purchased it from a dealer. It is simple, nothing fancy, but it is a cute, reliable, fun to drive car. Very happy with it.
dmm on September 2, 2019
Great car. Super gas mileageThe car drives nice and is comfortable. Has always been dependable. Its good in the snow. I do a lot of highway driving. Has a really good radio.
Chrisjmelton on June 11, 2019
Very reliable, pretty comfortable and good value!It’s definitely did it’s job and lasted as long as I needed and longer. I would highly recommend this car to any friend or just anybody!
JettaOwnerDisappointed on April 23, 2019
Braking System Very DisappointingBought the car for my wife new and she loves it still! Myself on the other hand..not so much. As indicated in above scores for the most part its a good car. But, the Volkswagen braking system is a joke! The dealer explained that unlike most cars, Volkswagen front/rear braking system balance applies more pressure to the REAR brakes than the front like most cars on the road. Although this works OK, it is warping rear rotors and eating brake pads like candy! I've looked and asked in forums, etc., no comments to the contrary so..... Just beware. Most likely even new models will be like this. Gets very expensive!!
V W FIX THE ELECTRICAL ISSUES PLEASE on April 16, 2019
Ok starter car but wouldn’t recommend long term!!!I bought the 05 vw New Jetta car as a starter car with 190,000 miles for my 16 yr old it is very stylish, comfortable, drives great, very roomy and perfect for just about anyone except for the electrical problems!!! I probably should’ve done more research on the car before buying it for my child because the electrical problems are severe and keep getting worse. Passenger headlight keeps blowing out got new after market lights and light fixtures to try and solve the issue well needless to say the passenger headlight still keeps blowing out. Then the horn stopped working then the radio so replaced the radio with a Bluetooth CD player which thankfully that is going well so far. The door locks act up when locking the door with the pad all doors lock except the driver side ones sometimes the driver back door will lock but rarely so the driver door we have to manually lock with the key then last week the driver window was put down just about a forth the way then when we returned home and went to put the window up it wouldn’t go up or down it finally went up after 4 days of us trying the button every so often and no window lock wasn’t on. It also burns a good bit of gas and goes through brake pads like crazy nearly a pair a month had the rotors checked and turned they’re fine and my child rarely drives and when he does he only drives 6 miles a day to and from school. as for the gas mileage maybe it has to do with the miles that it has on it because maintenance is very well up kept on the car since my 16 yr old is driving it. I would have to say the worse thing about this car is all the electrical problems and obviously at least 75% of owners of this exact car has made complaints and they have yet to recall the electrical issues. How do we as owners get through to them to fix the electrical problems that everyone is complaining about?
VWfan on December 27, 2018
Best car I ever droveReliable, comfortable, lots of room, big trunk, good on gas, safe, air bags on driver & passengers sides plus side air bags. Meet all my need for a car.
Tommy two tone on November 13, 2018
Good carDependable, sounds like a boat motor when it starts up, only when cold then goes away after 10 seconds. Most all interior plastic buttons seem to "melt" even the radio buttons. A few other problems, nothing terrible.
Cmf1991 on October 21, 2018
Great commuter car!This vehicle does the job! Reliable It?s up to you how you treat your vehicle. Cute style, jettas are great cars. It?s a 4 cylinder engine that takes natural gas regular so it helps saving at the pump when prices are very high.