I got this vehicle at 36,000 miles and I have put 23,000 on it in one year. There have been no warning messages. I was in idle and my RPMs started jumping I put it in reverse ( jumping stopped) , then drive to have the vehicle get a mile or two down the road and completely die. I was rear ended . Got it into a repair shop to be told by a certified mechanic it was throwing codes for the camshaft …
2016 volkswagen Jetta engine problems
severe 16 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $3,100
Complaints
16
Recalls
0
Crashes
1
Avg fix
$3,100
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
SHORTLY AFTER I PURCHASED MY VEHICLE (USED AT AROUND 73K MILES) THE TURBO FAILED. I THOUGHT THAT WAS ODD AT THE MILEAGE SO I ATTEMPTED TO SUBMIT A CLAIM TO VOLKSWAGEN. I WAS DENIED. MY HUSBAND WAS ON THE FREEWAY WHEN THE TURBO FAILED AND THE CAR BEGAN TO SLOW AND LAG WHEN HE ATTEMPTED TO ACCELERATE. HE PULLED OVER AND CALLED TGE TOW TRUCK AND WHEN I TOOK IT IN TO VOLKWAGEN THE SERVICE MANAGER SUGG…
Common questions
How serious is the engine problem on the 2016 volkswagen Jetta?
It's a meaningful issue. 16 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $3,100.
At what mileage does the engine typically fail?
Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $3,100 for engine repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to engine?
No active recalls currently cover engine issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Other problem areas on this vehicle
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities.
Repair cost estimates are independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area.
Some links on this page are affiliate links.