Volkswagen Jetta 1990

Model Jetta made in 1990 by Volkswagen got 30 consumer complains, 4 investigations there are 7 recalls as well as 3 service bulletins. Consumer complaints with reference, among others things, to electrical system, engine and engine cooling and fuel system, gasoline. Technical service bulletines regarding engine and engine cooling, seats and structure. The car had some investigations: engine and engine cooling, structure and visibility. There were some recalls concerningexterior lighting, fuel system, gasoline and service brakes, hydraulic. The car has 3 modeles with engines 1.6l, 1.8l and 2.0l.

Model 1990

Engine [L]CylindersTransmissionDriveEstimate MPG (city/highway/combined)Unadjusted MPG (city/highway/combined)FuelFuel costClassRelease date
( 1.6L) 4Manual, 5 gearsFWD37/43/4042/56/47D$ 3384890901
( 1.8L) 4Automatic, 3 gearsFWD23/28/2526/35/29Regular$ 6304890831
( 1.8L) 4Manual, 5 gearsFWD25/32/2827/41/32Regular$ 5624890831
( 2.0L) 4Manual, 5 gearsFWD22/28/2424/36/28Regular$ 6574890821

Recalls


CampaignManufacturerManufacturing dateType# of units affectedDate Owner notified MfgRecall Initiated byManufacturers of recalled vehicles/productsReport Recieved DateRecord Creation DateRegulation Part NumberFMVSS Number
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
09E012000SABERSPORT E (Equipment)1627005/11/2009OVSCVOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC04/07/200904/07/2009571108
Defect SummarySabersport is recalling 16,270 combination corner and bumper lamp assemblies of various part numbers sold for use as aftermarket equipment for various passenger vehicles. these headlamps fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment. these lamps do not contain the required amber side reflectors.
Consequence SummaryDecreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.
Corrective SummarySabersport will notify owners and offer a full refund for the noncompliant combination lamps. the safety recall began on may 11, 2009. owners may contact sabersport at 1-909-598-7589.
NotesThis recall only pertains to aftermarket replacement equipment and has no relation to any original equipment installed on vehicles produced by the vehicle manufacturer.in order to determine if your aftermarket lamp assembly is affected by this noncompliance, please review the list of model numbers provided to us by sabersport.the list can be found under document search located at the bottom of your screen.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov .
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - DELIVERY - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
92V058000VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INCfrom 07/01/1985 to 06/01/1992V (Vehicle)35800005/22/1992MFRVOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC04/14/199204/24/1992
Defect SummaryThe fuel hose attached to the fuel distribution rail on the engine may shrink beyond the clamp force of the fuel hose clamps, allowing fuel to leak.
Consequence SummaryFuel leakage in the engine compartment can cause an underhood fire if the fuel comes in contact with a source of ignition.
Corrective SummaryReplace the fuel hose attached to the fuel rail and install a new spring type self-tightening clamp.
NotesSystem: fuel lines.vehicle description:passenger cars.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
06E018000FOREIGN PARTS DISTRIBUTORS, INC. E (Equipment)26603/30/2006OVSCVOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC03/01/200603/01/2006571106
Defect SummaryCertain hydraulic brake hoses, p/n 171.611.107b, sold as replacement equipment for 1975-1985 volkswagen (vw) rabbit; 1985-1992 vw golf; and 1980-1992 vw jetta passenger vehicles. possible brake hose rupture could occur which fails to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 106, brake hoses.
Consequence SummaryBrake hose rupture could result in loss of braking ability, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Corrective SummaryForeign parts distributors will notify owners and replace the brake hoses with compliant brake hoses. the recall began on march 30, 2006. owners may contact foreign parts distributors at 305-885-8646 ext. 11.
NotesCustomers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - CALIPER
90V142000VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INCfrom 02/01/1990 to 06/01/1990V (Vehicle)1100008/23/1990MFRVOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC08/06/199008/22/1990
Defect SummaryOmission of air ducts intended to guide flow of cooling air to left and right front brake calipers could allow brake fluid to exceed allowable operating temperature under certain operating conditions.
Consequence SummaryIf brake fluid boils, this could result in reducedbraking pressure with potential for an accident.
Corrective SummaryInstall missing left and right front air ducts.
NotesSystem: brake caliper air ducts.vehicle description: passenger cars.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
93V129000VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INCfrom 08/01/1987 to 07/01/1991V (Vehicle)7600009/24/1993MFRVOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC08/02/199308/13/1993
Defect SummaryAn engine preheating tube may not be properly supported due to a missing support bracket, causing the preheating tube to chafe against the right front metal brake line. this can damage the hydraulic line, causing brake fluid leakage and diminished braking in one brake circuit.
Consequence SummaryDiminished braking can result in increased stoppingdistances and a possible accident.
Corrective SummaryDealers will install a preheating tube support bracket to ensure proper positioning relative to the right front metal brake line.
NotesSystem: brakes; hydraulic lines.vehicle description: passenger cars equipped with digifant engine managementsystems.
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
90V007000VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INCfrom 08/01/1989 to 11/01/1989V (Vehicle)22503/22/1990MFRVOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC01/22/199001/31/1990
Defect SummaryPower steering pump bracket is subject to breakage due to excessive tension caused by a lack of clearance between the pump mounting bracket and sealing flange edge of the oil pan.
Consequence SummaryBracket breakage could allow power steering pump to loosen and drive belt to slip, resulting in the need for unexpected increased steering force with the potential for an accident.
Corrective SummaryReplace power steering pump bracket.
NotesSystem: steering power assist.vehicle description: passenger cars.
VISIBILITY - DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM - WINDSHIELD - HEATER CORE
92V050000VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INCfrom 08/01/1984 to 01/01/1990V (Vehicle)65000005/29/1992ODIVOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC04/14/199204/20/1992
Defect SummaryThe end cap connecting the heat exchanger's core to the engine cooling system could rupture and allow hot coolant to escape into the passenger compartment.
Consequence SummaryThe coolant escaping into the passenger compartment couldcontact the driver's feet and injure the driver. also, steam from the heatedliquid will cloud on the window surfaces and impair the driver's vision andcould result in a vehicle accident.
Corrective SummaryReplace the heater core with an improved heater core.
NotesSystem: water heater; heater core.vehicle description: passenger automobiles.

Bulletins


BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
201583108/28/200810026848Volkswagen: exhaust heat shield, replacement guidelines. heat shields are to be inspected after completion o any type of repair to the underbody (exhaust system transmission, etc.), and if damaged, replaced. *pe12/29/2008
SEATS
010106/12/2001621613Subject regarding latch system lower anchors and tethers for children, installing / retrofitting. *tt09/27/2001
STRUCTURE - FRAME AND MEMBERS - UNDERBODY SHIELDS
201583108/28/200810026848Volkswagen: exhaust heat shield, replacement guidelines. heat shields are to be inspected after completion o any type of repair to the underbody (exhaust system transmission, etc.), and if damaged, replaced. *pe12/29/2008

Investigations


NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
PE91030VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC01/14/199105/31/1991UNSTABLE HIGH ENGINE IDLE
 There is no summary currently available
STRUCTURE
EA93008VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC03/03/199309/17/1993DETACHMENT OF BUMPER COVER
 There is no summary currently available
PE92089VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC12/17/199203/03/1993DETACHMENT OF BUMPER COVER
 There is no summary currently available
VISIBILITY - DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM
EA91054VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC12/09/199106/12/1992HEATER CORE FAILURE92V050000
 There is no summary currently available

Consumer Complaints


Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION
 Distributor located below engine; if this area gets wet vehicle stalls shutting down all other engine related functions. on road several times w/no warning. tt
 Auto loses power at high speeds-while driving on highway. tt
02/11/19951
 Vehicle won't start, also when vehicle does start it makes grinding noise. *skd
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - STARTER ASSEMBLY
09/01/1995
 Faulty starter system too close to the engine, continues to overheat and shorts out, replacement 3 times. *ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
08/24/20041300001
 Vehicle leaked hot antifreeze inside passenger and driver sides. vehicle was towed, and manufacturer was notified and stated there would be a charge to consumer to have them analyze the vehicle.*ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM
03/03/2007105102106/10/2006
 Auto recall date: 19920414 vehicle component: visibility:defroster/defogger system:windshield:heater core estimated vehicles affected: 650000 1990 volkswagen jetta defect summary: the end cap connecting the heat exchanger's core to the engine cooling system could rupture and allow hot coolant to escape into the passenger compartment. defect consequence: the coolant escaping into the passenger compartment couldcontact the driver's feet and injure the driver. also, steam from the heatedliquid will cloud on the window surfaces and impair the driver's vision andcould result in a vehicle accident. remedy: replace the heater core with an improved heater core. notes: volkswagen of america,inc,
04/11/2005120000111/22/2004
 While my son was operating his 1990 volkswagen jetta there was an explosion in the dashboard area which resulted in hot coolant pouring and spraying into the passenger compartment. after contacting a local service station i learned this defect was actually recall 92v050000. the dealer where vehicle was purchased claimed there was never a recall based on the search of my vin. my search stated the manufacturing date for the recall was january 1990. apparently, my vehicle was manufactured in april of 1990. i desired to discuss this identical problem in my vehicle , and was hoping to have it included in the recall as well as all others who might be harmed with similar failures. i look forward to your response .*ak sincerely, jeff filosa
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - RADIATOR ASSEMBLY
04/11/2005120000111/22/2004
 While my son was operating his 1990 volkswagen jetta there was an explosion in the dashboard area which resulted in hot coolant pouring and spraying into the passenger compartment. after contacting a local service station i learned this defect was actually recall 92v050000. the dealer where vehicle was purchased claimed there was never a recall based on the search of my vin. my search stated the manufacturing date for the recall was january 1990. apparently, my vehicle was manufactured in april of 1990. i desired to discuss this identical problem in my vehicle , and was hoping to have it included in the recall as well as all others who might be harmed with similar failures. i look forward to your response .*ak sincerely, jeff filosa
05/15/2001
 Was in drive through line when suddenly inside of vehicle filled with steam and hot water on driver's side. contacted manufacturer , and informed consumer no recalls. will be taking vehicle to dealership's mechanic to check it. *ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
04/11/2005120000111/22/2004
 While my son was operating his 1990 volkswagen jetta there was an explosion in the dashboard area which resulted in hot coolant pouring and spraying into the passenger compartment. after contacting a local service station i learned this defect was actually recall 92v050000. the dealer where vehicle was purchased claimed there was never a recall based on the search of my vin. my search stated the manufacturing date for the recall was january 1990. apparently, my vehicle was manufactured in april of 1990. i desired to discuss this identical problem in my vehicle , and was hoping to have it included in the recall as well as all others who might be harmed with similar failures. i look forward to your response .*ak sincerely, jeff filosa
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE
11/05/200107/01/2001
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
08/13/1998108/01/1995
 The engine block has rusted through to the water jack and oil feed line at the front of the block just below the cylinder head and cannot be repaired.
03/20/1998106/25/1990
 While starting vehicle it suddenly caught on fire. vehicle was totalled. *ak
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - DELIVERY - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
09/01/199912/01/1998
 Received notice 92v058001/ fuel line: metallic and contacted dealership. was informed that parts were not available, and were on national back order. contacted another dealership who had parts & vehicle was repaired. *ak
10/01/19941
 Fuel line line failed, emitting gas fumes into vehicle, causing driver/passengers to become dizzy prior to recall (92v-058). *ak
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE - STORAGE - TANK ASSEMBLY
3
 Consumer contacted dealer on several occasions in reference to recall 92v058001/manufacturer's recall sk/ca/ fuel line:hose metallic. dealer stated parts were not available. *ak
POWER TRAIN - AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
02/19/19959
 Grinding noise in transmission when shifting from low to high gears.
SEAT BELTS - FRONT
 Vehicle has no front lap seat belts. has knee bolsters which driver's knees do not reach because of his height, 6' 5 inches. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
08/05/200108/01/1999
 Stopped for ice cream after about 60 mile drive. did not leave vehicle. started car and when i went from park to reverse, the rpm's soared (i had not taken my foot off the brake) causing the car to accelerate in reverse at a high rate of speed. i put both feet on the brake to attempt to stop it & the brakes did nothing. so i put car into park & still continued to accelerate in reverse at a high rate of speed. with divine driving, the car backed through an empty handicapped parking space when it got caught up on the cement parking space barricade. with the rpm's still racing, the car hit a sign, proceeded across the front lawn of the establishment, hit an octagonal picnic table, and finally hit another car parked at an business on the other side of the building. i was braking with both feet the entire time with the car in the park position through most of the ordeal. a witness verified he could hear the rpm's soaring..*ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - PEDALS AND LINKAGES
02/29/1996
 There was a failure in the brake pedal linkage. please describe . *ak
TIRES - TREAD/BELT
05/05/2003308/18/1990
 I purchased 4 toyo ultra 800 tires in october 1998. since that time i have had to replace three of the tires due to tread separation. i drive appx 5,000 miles or less per year. *nlm
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
12/25/20041
 The gas pedal falls to the floor causing the vehicle to experience sudden acceleration. owner has to stomp on brakes in order to stop the vehicle. owner will contact manufacturer. *nm
08/05/200108/01/1999
 Stopped for ice cream after about 60 mile drive. did not leave vehicle. started car and when i went from park to reverse, the rpm's soared (i had not taken my foot off the brake) causing the car to accelerate in reverse at a high rate of speed. i put both feet on the brake to attempt to stop it & the brakes did nothing. so i put car into park & still continued to accelerate in reverse at a high rate of speed. with divine driving, the car backed through an empty handicapped parking space when it got caught up on the cement parking space barricade. with the rpm's still racing, the car hit a sign, proceeded across the front lawn of the establishment, hit an octagonal picnic table, and finally hit another car parked at an business on the other side of the building. i was braking with both feet the entire time with the car in the park position through most of the ordeal. a witness verified he could hear the rpm's soaring..*ak
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL - ACCELERATOR PEDAL
02/19/19959
 Accelerator pedal sticks.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL - CABLES
 Fuel throttle cables have been replaced five different times. tt
VISIBILITY - DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM - WINDSHIELD - HEATER CORE
07/24/2007219200106/01/2007
 Tl*the contact owns a 1990 volkswagen jetta. while driving approximately 25 mph, the contact heard a strange noise coming from the vehicle. his windows steamed up and he slammed on the brakes, nearly crashing into a wall. he discovered coolant on the inside and outside of the vehicle. he has not taken the vehicle to the shop. after purchasing the vehicle six weeks ago, the contact just found recall number 2v050000 (visibility:defroster/defogger system:windshield:heater core). the manufacturer stated that his vehicle was not included in the recall. the contact believes that it should be included because the vehicle is experiencing the same failure. the vin was unknown. the current mileage was 220,000 and failure mileage was 219,200.
03/03/2007105102106/10/2006
 Auto recall date: 19920414 vehicle component: visibility:defroster/defogger system:windshield:heater core estimated vehicles affected: 650000 1990 volkswagen jetta defect summary: the end cap connecting the heat exchanger's core to the engine cooling system could rupture and allow hot coolant to escape into the passenger compartment. defect consequence: the coolant escaping into the passenger compartment couldcontact the driver's feet and injure the driver. also, steam from the heatedliquid will cloud on the window surfaces and impair the driver's vision andcould result in a vehicle accident. remedy: replace the heater core with an improved heater core. notes: volkswagen of america,inc,
08/15/1998104/20/1994
 Hot steam and hot water came through vents and from under dash, causing the windows to become fogged over.
05/18/199701/21/1996
 Heater core failure. *ak

Car dealers selling


StateCityZipNamePhone
SCMOUNT PLEASANT29464LOW COUNTRY VOLKSWAGON843-881-8555
WAVANCOUVERHANNAH VW