VOLKSWAGEN JETTA (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,074 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
78%
Total Tests (2024)
2,074
Avg Mileage
113,174 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,595
Is the 2012 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It falls below the VOLKSWAGEN brand average of 85%.
At 12 years old, 78% of VOLKSWAGEN JETTAs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,074 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 113,174 miles.
How does the 2012 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA has 113,174 miles on the clock, which is above the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car. Higher-mileage cars often have more motorway miles, which is generally less harmful than stop-start urban driving.
Best year to buy a VOLKSWAGEN JETTA?
The most reliable year is the 1991 model with a 87% MOT pass rate, while the 2005 model has the lowest at 62%. The 2012 sits between the two at 78%.
How much does a 2012 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
VOLKSWAGEN JETTA by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 90% | 40 | 62,425 mi |
| 2017 | 81% | 593 | 59,639 mi |
| 2016 | 82% | 1,321 | 75,513 mi |
| 2015 | 80% | 2,021 | 83,208 mi |
| 2014 | 78% | 1,754 | 96,885 mi |
| 2013 | 77% | 1,876 | 100,152 mi |
| 2012 | 78% | 2,074 | 113,174 mi |
| 2011 | 78% | 1,645 | 116,779 mi |
| 2010 | 79% | 1,138 | 113,968 mi |
| 2009 | 77% | 1,967 | 118,308 mi |
| 2008 | 72% | 3,010 | 130,113 mi |
| 2007 | 74% | 3,885 | 133,468 mi |
| 2006 | 74% | 3,004 | 135,613 mi |
| 2005 | 62% | 66 | 148,664 mi |
| 1991 | 87% | 217 | 126,890 mi |
| 1990 | 82% | 157 | 126,764 mi |
Checking a specific VOLKSWAGEN JETTA?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
The 2012 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA is a small family car with a 1598cc diesel engine. 2,074 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 113,174 miles at 12 years old, VOLKSWAGEN JETTA owners cover more miles than the average driver.
2012 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA Fuel Costs
The 1598cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2012 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,595 (£133/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 78% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLKSWAGEN JETTA Reliability Trend
Newer VOLKSWAGEN JETTAs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
At 12 years old, the VOLKSWAGEN JETTA is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 1991 model has the highest pass rate at 87%.
Alternatives to the 2012 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2013) 77% pass rate (-1%) from 211,536 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2014) 87% pass rate (+9%) from 120,417 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (+1%) from 101,969 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2014) 80% pass rate (+2%) from 81,831 tests