Volkswagen has produced two really world-changing cars: the original Beetle, and the Golf hatchback. That's no coincidence, since the original Beetle practically created the mass-market, fuel efficient, small-car niche, and the Golf -- marketed in the U.S. as the Rabbit -- came in as its intended replacement in the 1974 model year. At the time, the Golf's front-wheel-drive configuration was a definite advantage, allowing the rear hatch to open for a cargo area that the Beetle never had. But customers soon demanded even more storage. So, after tacking a trunk onto the back of the Golf's hatch, VW finally landed on a truly versatile world car for a new generation: the Jetta.
Volkswagen offered several different engines in this chassis, including a diesel, two V-6 engines, the W-8, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and the 1.8-liter turbo. The two four-cylinder gas engines have identical maintenance requirements insofar as oil changes and plugs are concerned. Volkswagen recommends that you replace the oil and filter every 5,000 miles, and the spark plugs every 40,000 miles. At the 40,000 mile plug change, you should inspect the accessory drive belt for cracking, splitting, excessive wear and other damage, and replace it every 80,000 miles. The turbo engine does not require a timing belt and tensioner change at 105,000 miles as the 2.0-liter does.
From here out, the regular service items are the same for all Jettas, regardless of engine. Every other oil change, or every 10,000 miles, VW recommends that you rotate the tires -- that's especially important for a powerful, somewhat heavy front-drive car. Check the battery electrolyte level and top up as necessary. Check the brake system for leaks, check the fluid level, and inspect the brake rotors for damage, and that the pads have at least 3/16 inch pad material left on them. Volkswagen also recommends running a diagnostic check on the airbag system, but that's not something you can do at home without a VW factory scan tool.
For the most part, the 20,000 mile service consists of thorough inspections of the engine and chassis. Start by inspecting the engine and transmission for oil, coolant, power steering fluid or transmission fluid leaks. Check the levels of all of your fluids, and inspect them for condition. Fluids should be clear, and non-coolant fluids should feel slick when rubbed between your fingers, should be free of debris and not have a burned smell to them. Check your spare tire for condition and air pressure, and inspect the CV joint boots for grease leaks. Check the exhaust system for leaks. Lubricate all of the hinges on the doors, hood and trunk lid with penetrating oil, clean and condition all the weatherstripping, adjust the headlights if necessary, and use a scanner to check your computer for stored trouble codes.
Every 40,000 miles, you should check the condition of your timing belt; while the 1.8 Turbo doesn't have a set timing belt replacement interval, you should check yours for stretching, dry rot, worn down teeth or other signs of impending failure. Check all of the cars fluids, including those in the transmission and differential, and check the ball joints and tie rod ends in the suspension for signs of grease boot leakage, damage or excessive wear. VW recommends replacing the automatic transmission and differential fluid on the Passat-based Eurovan at 40,000 miles -- likely, because the heavier van puts more stress on the transmission. Even so, you might consider replacing the transmission fluid in your Passat sedan at this interval, just to stay on the safe side and extend the life of your transmission.
