2007 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is a compact sedan known for its German engineering and comfortable ride. Engine options included a 2.0L inline-4, a 2.5L inline-5, and a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 (TSI). The 2.0L turbo engine produced 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, and a 6-speed automatic. Many owners appreciate the Jetta’s solid feel and European driving dynamics, while some common complaints revolve around reliability issues and the cost of maintenance.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (TSI)

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise on startup, especially when cold. Can lead to catastrophic engine damage if the timing chain jumps.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioner, guides, and potentially other related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diverter Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of boost pressure, reduced acceleration, possible check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the diverter valve. Often upgraded to a stronger aftermarket valve to prevent future failures.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cam Follower Wear/Failure (High-Pressure Fuel Pump)
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, potential for fuel delivery issues, and check engine light. If failure occurs, it can damage the camshaft.
  • Solution: Replace the cam follower and potentially the camshaft and high-pressure fuel pump if damaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Inline-5

• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, reduced power, and check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s). Replacing all five coils at once is often recommended.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 per coil
  • Recalls: None Found
• PCV Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, oil leaks, potential for vacuum leaks and check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the PCV valve assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, erratic shifting behavior.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. Some shops offer remanufactured valve bodies as a cost-effective solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Whining noise coming from the transmission.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and steering feel.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noises from the front suspension, especially when turning the steering wheel. Excessive play in the strut assembly.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts and potentially the struts themselves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per pair
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window falling into the door, slow or erratic window movement, motor noise but no window movement.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking properly, remote keyless entry not working on a specific door.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Drain Clogs
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, especially in the headliner or around the sunroof.
  • Solution: Clear the sunroof drain tubes. This may involve using compressed air or a flexible wire.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Glove Box Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Glove box not staying closed or not opening properly. Latch mechanism broken.
  • Solution: Replace the glove box latch or the entire glove box assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The fabric on the headliner detaching and sagging down from the roof of the car.
  • Solution: Replace or re-glue the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Volkswagen Jetta, while praised for its driving experience, is susceptible to a range of issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 2.0L TSI (timing chain tensioner, diverter valve, cam follower), can be costly. Transmission issues with the 6-speed automatic (valve body, torque converter) are also common. Suspension and electrical problems, while less severe, contribute to the overall cost of ownership. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs. Overall, the severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major engine failures. Repair costs vary widely depending on the issue, but can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.