In other parts of the world, the Volkswagen Jetta is regarded as simply another compact sedan. But in the United States, this suave little VW has an upscale image. Mainly because of it’s Germanic refinement, eager engines, and balanced handling. Since its introduction in 1980, over 14 million Jetta’s have been sold around the world. The VW Jetta is the marque’s best-selling model, but it has had some drivetrain-related recalls and service bulletins.
What Transmission Do I Have?
Does something seem wrong with your Jetta? Let’s look at some of the most common VW Jetta transmission problems, and see what you can do to get your car back on the road.
Common Problems with the Volkswagen Jetta 09G Valve Body
Two of the main causes of 09G valve body problems are electrical issues and pressure control problems that lead to leaks and premature wear/failure. Some of the issues attributed to these design flaws include:
- Unusually harsh 1-2, 2-3, 3-4 shifts
- Harsh downshifts
- Slipping
- Flared shifts
- Shuddering and shaking
- Overheating
All of these symptoms are usually caused by the following 09G valve body problems:
- Failed Linear Solenoid
- Excessive bore wear
- Pressure Control Issues
- Leaks
- Stuck Valves
- Warped Valve Body
In order to properly fix a 09G valve body, it will have to be modified beyond it’s stock form, to compensate for the design flaws that cause all of these problems. Companies like Street Smart Transmission do a good job of modifying the 09G valve body (they do things like modify the bores to improve fluid flow and eliminate premature solenoid failure), that way the whole transmission can function the way it was actually intended. To learn more about their remanufactured 09G valve body, click here.
Common Volkswagen Jetta 09G Transmission Problems
Dragging sensation or partial bind on 1st gear take-off
Problem – Drivers may experience a dragging or binding feeling when they try to take off from first gear.
Solution – One of the common 09G valve body problems is internal fluid control, which may have led to ATF contaminating the internal harness connector, causing one of the solenoids to partially apply a clutch or brake, resulting in the dragging sensation. This solenoid, clutch or brake will also be subjected to premature wear. To fix this issue, the internal wiring harness will have to be replaced.
Volkswagen Jetta Transmission Recalls
2014 Volkswagen Jetta – 14V182000 / 38B9/9V
Summary
Volkswagen is recalling certain 2014 VW Jetta models equipped with the 1.8T engine and torque converter automatic transmission. In the affected vehicles, the O-ring seals between the oil cooler and the transmission may leak fluid.
Consequence
The leaking transmission fluid could come in contact with a hot surface, resulting in a vehicle fire.
Remedy
Volkswagen dealers will replace the O-ring seals in the transmission oil cooler, free of charge. Owners can contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987. Refer to Volkswagen’s recall number 38B9/9V
2013-2014 Jetta Hybrid – 13V568000 / 34F6/4V
Summary:
Volkswagen recalled 2013-2014 VW Jetta Hybrid models that were manufactured October 2012 through October 2013, and were equipped with a DQ-200 direct-shift gearbox. It seems that fluid additives used in the transmission may cause internal components to corrode. The deposits from this corrosion could then cause an electrical short, resulting in a stall-like condition.
Consequence:
If stalling occurs, the sudden loss of power while driving can significantly increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy:
Volkswagen dealers have been instructed to replace the gearbox oil with a non-corrosive version, free of charge. This recall began on December 6, 2013. Owners may contact Volkswagen at 1-800-893-5298. Refer to Volkswagen’s recall number: 34F6/4V
2009-2010 Jetta – 09V333000 / 37E3/S7
Summary
Volkswagen recalled 2009-2010 VW Jetta & 2009-2010 VW Jetta TDI models that were equipped with the DSG transmission. It seems that the wiring harness of a temperature sensor may have connector wires that were inadequately crimped. This could cause the sensor to falsely read a high transmission temperature, which can cause the gearbox to suddenly shift into neutral. The transmission position indicator on the dash will begin to flash, and the “Depress Brake Pedal” light will illuminate.
Consequence
The sudden shift into neutral can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
This VW recall was issued on October 20, 2009. To fix the issue, Volkswagen dealers were instructed to reprogram the transmission control module (TCM). Owners can contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987, referring to recall number: 37E3/S7
Volkswagen Jetta Technical Service Bulletins (TSB)
TSB 30-14-01 – 2009-2012 Volkswagen Jetta
Problem – This Technical Bulletin is for fault code P2711 ONLY, if any other faults appear with this code, perform normal diagnostic procedures. If this is the single fault code, the condition may lead to shifting concerns and/or a lack of mobility upon initial startup. For example, the selector is moved to Drive or Reverse and the transmission does not engage the selected gear. This problem is caused by debris in the clutch assembly causing too much drag torque from the multiple clutch.
Solution – New Jetta’s made after March 12, 2010 received a revised clutch. If the Transmission Control Module has fault code P2711 (only) and the vehicle has more than 19,000 miles, replace the multiple clutch and cover. If more than the P2711 error code is stored in the Transmission Control Module, or the vehicle has less than 19,000 miles, the faults need to be diagnosed using normal GFF processes.
TSB 30-14-01 – 2009-2012 Volkswagen Jetta
Problem – Transmission noise while driving, possibly coming from the differential area. It may sound like a whistle or whine, and be more distinguishable at 55 mph to 65 mph in the upper gear range. Technical background noise may appear to be coming from the transmission counter gear, when in actuality; the shifter cable may transmit noise (high frequency) into the passenger compartment.
Solution – Install updated shifter cable bracket components to reduce shifter cable noise.
TSB 37 07 18 – Transmission knocking noise under load – 09G transmission
2005 – 2007 Volkswagen Jetta – 2006 – 2007 Volkswagen Passat – 2006 – 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit – 2006 – 2007 Volkswagen Golf GTI – 2006 – 2007 Volkswagen Eos
Problem – Drivers may notice a pronounced knocking noise coming from the transmission when the engine is under load.
Solution – The connection/bolts between the pendulum support and the gearbox may have come loose because of engine vibrations.
Solving Volkswagen Jetta 09G valve body problems
The problem with repairing a 09G valve body is that you don’t really know what kind of stress and extreme temperature changes they have been subjected to. This is why many people simply install a remanufactured 09G valve body, to eliminate the threat of the unknown. Companies like Street Smart Transmission use state of the art equipment to completely remanufacture the valve body. This is not like rebuilding, where new components are simply installed into the existing valve body. They use specialized equipment to analyze each valve body to see if it has been cracked or warped. A mechanic does not just simply eyeball it, a machine does the inspection, and even checks the tensile strength of the metal to make sure that it meets the original OE specification.
Once a casting has been selected for the build, all of the bores are modified, to make sure that the valves will function the way they were intended to. Then every single component from the check balls, to the valves, pistons and springs are tested and/or replaced. After that process is complete and quality inspected, they install all new solenoids (they also bench test them prior to installation), speed sensors and pressure switches. The finished product is then put on a Superflow AXILINE Valve Body Tester, which can simulate actual road conditions. This allows their ASE certified techs to verify the functionality, and make any adjustments or fixes before they ship it out to the customer. Street Smart Transmission also gives it a 1-Year/No Hassle Warranty, which makes getting a remanufactured 09G valve body almost a no-brainer. To learn more about the remanufactured 09G valve body and the remanufacturing process that Street Smart Transmission uses, click here, or give them a call at 1-866-812-7560
What Transmission Do I Have?
How to Diagnose & Fix
- Check the OBD Codes
- Check the fluid level
- Test transmission pressure
- Drop the transmission pan
- Repair, replace or rebuild
What to Read Next
What Problem Does Your Jetta Have?
Let us know the year, mileage and problem you’re having as well as any trouble (OBD) codes you’ve found. If you’ve been given a quote or paid for a repair, we’d like to hear about that too!
I have a 2011 vw Jetta with 2.5 5speed transmission. When in 4th and 5th gear I get a very loud whining noise. When I push the clutch in or put it in neutral it goes away. I add new gear oil but problem still exists. Any idea what it could be?
I have a Jetta 2012 the car holds back over 41km/h. I have changed both back wheel sensors but same problem. The mechanic advised that the clutch transmission is going and needs to be replaced. I have a quote for parts and labor of $2000
I have a 7 month old 2019 Jetta and I also have the scraping or grinding noise. Apparently, this is more of an issue than I realized as I am learning that the potential for breakdown, future costs (once out of warranty) and resale value will be affected. When reported to the dealer, they skirted around my express wording and pretty much dismissed the problem. They told me that the 37L7 update (which I specifically mentioned) was done to the car before they sold it to me but I learned at VWVortex blog that these updates weren’t done until Nov 2018 which is after I purchased my car. Half of the things I requested to be looked at last week while I was in for my 10k service were not addressed and now the service rep is texting me asking me to give a “10” on the email survey concerning my recent visit.
You are under warranty. Claim it direct from VW Canada/USA
2019 Jetta se 8 speed transmission . Noticed a growling nice after owning it for 3 weeks dealership said it was normal and they all do that. It is not a okay noise for a car to make just because only a handful of people have noticed it!
So we have a 2003 Jetta (automatic) that is having an interesting transmission problem. It won’t shift past 3 gear until the car has been running for a few minutes to warm up (temp gauge goes about 1/3 up from cold) Then runs perfectly fine. Any ideas?
i was going to purchase a 2008 jetta when i had paid for it the garage owner wanted to take me for a ride to show me the shifting of the standard, well it totally lost all gears but first,it was so loose you could have pulled the stick out. he said he would fix it. should i just get my 5000.00 back. its beatiful 1500 thousand miles, and has been sitting thru the summer.
Get your money back. A 10 year car would not do 1500 total miles under normal use. Something is wrong with this car.
No.leave that jetta alone.
2012 volkswagon automatic transmission. While driving 60 plus mph the car downshift into 4th. Taken to dealer and no code appeared. Dealer unable to diagnose.
2012 volkswagon automatic transmission. While driving 60 plus mph the car downshift into 4th. Taken to dealer and no code appeared. Dealer unable to diagnose.
I have a 2004 Jetta automatic transmission…stuck in 3rd gear..and the engine repair light came on at the same time..150000 miles..
Goes in park and reverse…gear works…thanks for your help..
Hi Tony, need a new transmission. Sorry to advise.
I would change the fluid one or two cycles. This happened to me exactly as you described. After one fluid change using Valvoline ATF, call Valvoline to verify for your car, my VW Beetle 2013 with 153K miles now is working perfectly like new. When I bought the car, only 1quart drained out of transmission. I replaced it with 4.5 quarts and did not change filter and did not drop the pan. works great.. good luck
I have a jetta 2013 hybrid. It is having the same problem as the recslled ones but vw wont fix it for free because say not under warranty
I am having the same problem.
Same issue with me. I took it to the dealership today and am waiting for them to call me.
Have same problem. Dealer said transmission would cost $6000.00. Only 74,000 miles on it. Gets over 50 mpg. Not sure what to do!
have you changed fluid?
Sell it and buy a Honda
Same issue. Was told my VIN # wasn’t included in recall even though my error codes are the same. 8600 for new transmission :-/
I have a 97 jetta non turbo 4cyl. It has about 150k miles. Its always made a clicking niose when in reverse, but my son hit a deer in it. Not too much damage was done. Replaced the front nose clip and grill. But a couple weeks later the tranny just gave up. We thought it was the tranny, but upon removal, the clutch fell out in pieces. So we replaced the clutch, but the tranny does not engage. Everything is aligned properly and transmission checks out good, but still has neutral – like conditions. We even pulled it back out to make sure everyhing was done properly. We are just baffled as to what it could be. Even testing the tranny, the reverse gear still clicks.
I have a jetta vr6 2001 the transmision was rebuilt due to it started to not engaging 2nd shift.i came driving once it was fixed and in a high mountain road started to do the same failure.once i arrived the city came to normal.but now reverse started to not engage.doenst work anymore the rest of gears seeems to be ok.please help.me why is doing that if it was rebuilt even changed the valve box.im sick of this transmision.what is the problem
We have 2012 jetta 2.5, we replaced automatic transmission and the new one is making grinding and high pitch noise, and will not engage?
when I move from parking to drive the engine goes off.the car is vw
Not responding in any gear position.
I have a problem with my 2012 VW Passat 1.8TSI DSG. Initially it started flashing the spanner symbol, inbetween the gear indicator. Later the gear position indicator started changing erratically and randomly.
The vehicle failed to respond to pressure applied on the accelerator. The vehicle is not responding in any gesr position (including reverse).
I need assistance please.
I have 2015 VW Jeta 2.0 4 Zylinder. When driving off it does not accelerate the way it should – very slow!
Shifting is not a problem at all. I got a quote from a VW Dealer to replace the manuel Transmission for $2100.00.
I have a 2015 that makes noise and I think it is from the transmission
I have a 2013 jetta 2.5 and i had a new double din stero installed then i went to start it and leave and the car is stuck in park and all my lights are on on the dash everything from check engine to airbag and seatbelt.
I have a 91 jetta that is shifting fine, never slipt,and clutch wires arent lose. But when i shift it wont go into gear and drive.. I heard something about a flywheel??? What could be the problem
I have a 2009 volkswagen jetta manual transmission. Transmission was rebuilt 8 months ago and is now out of warranty grinds into 2nd gear now almost everytime you Shift into it and sometimes pops out of reverse.
Hi, I have 2004 Jetta 1.8 turbo that suddenly down shift while running at any speed. It happens so quick like a second and goes back to normal. When that happens the RPM goes up automatically in a second but of course the car slow down during that time. It runs and drive great until that happens again. Is that a solenoid problem? I also noticed that it happens when the car is warmed up after 15-20 minutes of running.