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!
Changed throw out bearing fly wheel and pressure plate on my 2005 vw 2.5 jetta and now I dont have 3 4 or 5 gear
I changed throw out bearing fly wheel pressure plate and now I dont have 3 4 or 5 gear
I just want to get it serviced I have a 2004 Volkswagen jetta
Please forgive me I had an oversight pertaining to the 2005 Volkswagen Jetta 2.0 The check engine light is on and the airbag light is on as well. I tried disconnecting the battery for 15 minutes and same outcome
Transmission only engages into Park, reverse, neutral. Take off and drive it automatically takes off from second gear and stays at second gear and it’s an automatic transmission. I can only go 35 40 miles an hour tops when I try to do it manually by shifting it into one and then putting it into number two it shifts and then when I try to put it into three it’s slams but it stays at the second gear it’s a Volkswagen Jetta 2005 72,000 miles in the beginning nothing mechanically wrong with it whatsoever. Secondly and importantly all of the windows do not go up and down the locks do not go up and down the interior lights don’t work I checked all of the fuses which are all fine I am sincerely at a loss of what to do please help me thank you so much
2011 VW Jetta 2.5 SE, I’m experiencing harsh shifting from 1st – 2nd and also harsh downshifting.
CTV transmission on 2013 Volkswagen Jetta hybrid
Looses power while driving
Shutting engine off restarting fix it happens while stopping or going down hill and has only 100000 kms
Have a 2013 VW Jetta Hybrid SEL with 55,500 miles that for the past year or two has been having intermittent harsh shifting between 1st and 2nd and, more disturbingly, occasionally fails to engage in Drive or Reverse from a parked position. It acts as though it is in neutral, one time allowing the car to roll forward as I was trying to reverse from a nose-down parking spot. Still under a CPO warranty until the end of August 2020 and with the December 2019 NTSHA 34J6 Transmission safety recall still unaddressed (July 2020).The recall in part reads:
” Due to a manufacturing deviation at a sub-supplier, hairline cracks may develop in the accumulator housing of the transmission (mechatronic unit). Once a crack has developed over a certain point, it may lead to an internal leak and impact transmission oil pressure, which, in turn, activates a warning light. In some cases the clutch cannot be engaged any longer due to insufficient oil pressure.Reduced oil pressure leads to an illuminated warning light on the instrument panel. Vehicle drivability is typically maintained in such cases but if the warning light is ignored it can lead to a situation where the clutch cannot be engaged any longer due to insufficient oil pressure.”
I am concerned that VW is simply trying to run out the clock on this faulty or failing transmission. Suggestions as to how to get VW Care to act under the VW CPO warranty are welcome.
Thanks!
Steve
I just bought a 2014 jetta hybrid car was running fine till all of a sudden it would not shift in any gear engine ran fine smooth as butter now car seems to be stuck in parking even when its in gear tires wont even rotate while in neutral it seems to have seized engine wont even turn now a d only recall is a software update thats dumb vw problem is our problem to pay
My ’08 Jetta 2.5L automatic transmission reverse idler gear needs
Replacing how much for the gear?
I have a 2014 VW Jetta TDI right about 99000 miles, Never had an issue with this car from the day I bought it New. My check engine light came on so I took it to the dealershio to be diagnosed. With it being a diesel it was involved in that big scandal and had to be modified the year prior. So I was told it was the filters clogged so they fixed it>>>> I drove it home 66 miles then drove it appro another 50 miles when I was traveling 76 miles an hour hear a snap noise my car shifted in a lower gear and would never shift back up. I called for a tow truck and took it back to the dealership. Was told it was not covered and needs a new tranny $6000. How is this possible never having a slight issue of any kind. So i brought the car home and drive it around the block once a week it still does not shift out of low gear!!! Could this be limp node do to false computer reading do to the clogged emission filters?
2005 Jetta 1.9L TDI automatic. At start up, with engine cold, transmission will not engage in reverse. Once engine warms up, reverse does engage. The rest of the transmission functions normally.
I have a 2014 Jetta SE 1.8. I bought the car with 95,000 miles. I now have 119,000 miles. About 2 months after buying it. It started shaking very abruptly at idle. This causes the engine light, trac light, and tire pressure light to illuminate. The problem would come and go. Then one day it just always did it. I’ve replaced a coil pack. All the spark plugs. And the camshaft position sensor twice. After I recently replaced the camshaft sensor the seccond time, the problem seemed to play out. Now 3 weeks later, its starting to do it all over again. I’m honestly tempted to just get a new car.
I have a 2002 Jetta 1.8 Turbo with an eyn transmission I’m looking for used transmission or rebuilt ones cheap also want to know how much I can sell it for the transmission isn’t working but the engine runs good it doesn’t want to go anywhere
I have a 2013 Jetta Hybrid with a little over 44000 miles. The hybrid engine will not engage (so it is running strictly on gasoline engine. The dealer says the only repair is to replace the entire transmission at a cost of $7,000. I feel a transmission should not fail at this mileage.
My transmission light came on ladt week for my 2015 Jetta
2015 transmission light came on lady week
I have a 2012 Jetta 2.5L manual transmission with 99,000 miles. Since I bought it, occasionally it would grind for a second before it went into reverse. As I was leaving work today I put it into reverse and it felt like it was jumping and it wasn’t getting enough power to move (it only moved back a few feet). I then put it into first gear and had the same problem. Turned my car off and then tried again and the problem seemed to be gone for the most part. It had a little bit of grinding in first gear at a stop light on the same trip. Haven’t driven it since. Any ideas?
I own a 2010 VW Jetta. While driving my wife heard a “winning: and the car was rolling as in “neutral”. She stopped the car. Shifted to “Park” then “Drive” and the vehicle continued. Shortly after, the “whine” was heard again and the car was in neutral. This time it just stopped dead. The dealer said it needs a whole new transmission system with parts imported from Germany? How come mechanics cannot simply take out a faulty part in the transmission, and repair? Any suggestions?
I have a 2019 jetta manual transmission with 419 miles, just brought it home. When parked, turned off, and in 1st gear, it slips out of gear and slides downhill. This has happened in my driveway and on anything with even the slighted incline. Only the emergency (“P”) brake engaged stops the roll. The dealer says this is normal aspect of the vehicle’s construction, but seems unsafe to me. What’s going on?
I own a 2014 jetta S 2.0 l. It has 40000 miles and when in low rpm Almost stops And slows. When accelerated over 25 miles per hour It does not hesitate And Drives normal. VW dealer Mechanic unsuccessfully diagnosed as needing Ignition coil, spark plugs and wires, fuel Filter. Test drive shows Problem still unresolved.Still waiting after5 days for answer.