VIN REPORT

3VWD17AJ4FM3177962015 VOLKSWAGEN JettaSE, Sport

27of 100
Moderate Risk
Buyer Risk Score
Recalls
Clear
No open recalls
Safety Grade
B-
80/100 composite
Complaints
None
Clean record
Vehicle Age
11 yrs
Made in MEXICO
CAUTIONPurchase Verdict

2015 VOLKSWAGEN Jetta was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. No open recalls, complaints, or auction appearances were found — a clean result.

29 MPG
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2015 VOLKSWAGEN Jetta

2015 VOLKSWAGEN Jetta was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. No open recalls, complaints, or auction appearances were found — a clean result.

  • Active or settled class action lawsuit on record for this model — VW/Audi TDI Dieselgate Emissions Defeat Device (2009–2016)
  • Manufacturer extended warranty program exists: VW Dieselgate settlement offered buybacks or extended emissions warranty. Most settlement programs have closed — verify status at vwcourtsetlement.com.
  • Volkswagen Dieselgate: TDI engines equipped with defeat device software to cheat EPA emissions tests
27
of 100
Moderate Risk
2 moderate risk signals detected. Negotiate accordingly and verify service history.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
2 Contributing Risk Factors
Known manufacturer defect on record for this model
+19
Active or settled class action lawsuit
+8
Critical Alerts

Title Brand Check

Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle

Vehicle Specifications

Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database

Make
VOLKSWAGEN
Model
Jetta
Year
2015
Trim / Series
SE, Sport
Body Style
Sedan/Saloon
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
4-cyl 1.798000L 170 hp
Transmission
Automatic
Doors
4
Manufacturer
VOLKSWAGEN DE MEXICO SA DE CV
Assembly
PUEBLA, MEXICO
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)

Assembly Plant Quality

Volkswagen de México (Puebla)

BQuality61/100
Standard📍 PUEBLA, MEXICO

Builds Jetta and Taos for North America. Average quality; some Jetta recall campaigns.

Safety

Safety Intelligence

Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data

B-
Score: 80/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety30/30
Complaint History30/30
0/100Clear

✓ No high-risk recall components found

2/100
Basic
1 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian AEB, Forward Collision Warning, Electronic Stability Control

Driver Assistance Features

ADAS equipment data from NHTSA vPIC database

Forward Collision Warning?Unknown
Automatic Emergency Braking?Unknown
Pedestrian AEB?Unknown
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure Warning?Unknown
Lane Keep Assist?Unknown
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot Monitoring?Unknown
Rear Cross Traffic Alert?Unknown
Adaptive Cruise Control?Unknown
Adaptive Headlights?Unknown
Auto High Beam?Unknown
Parking Assist?Unknown
Backup Camera?Unknown
Electronic Stability Control?Unknown
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Indirect
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash Notification?Unknown
Dynamic Brake Support?Unknown
Keyless Ignition?Unknown
Recalls

Deferred Failure Risk

Vehicle-specific risks from this model-year's complaint record, known defects, and service milestones

20/100
Monitor Deferred Risk
The 2015 VOLKSWAGEN Jetta has a documented systemic defect. Confirm it was addressed and inspect thoroughly before purchase.
No odometer data on record. Items marked VERIFY below are age-based maintenance reminders — general guidance, not confirmed findings for this specific vehicle. Confirm actual mileage and service history with the seller.
KNOWN DEFECTCriticalKnown Model Defect
Failure timing unpredictable — defect may already be active
Volkswagen Dieselgate: TDI engines equipped with defeat device software to cheat EPA emissions tests
Documented systemic defect with class action or NHTSA investigation. These issues are often unrepaired at point of sale.
VERIFYCriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Typical interval: 120,000 mi / 10 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify timing chain tensioner service history with the seller
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
VERIFYCriticalWater Pump
Typical interval: 100,000 mi / 8 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify water pump service history with the seller
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
VERIFYHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Typical interval: 60,000 mi / 5 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify transmission fluid / service service history with the seller
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
VERIFYHighCoolant Flush
Typical interval: 100,000 mi / 5 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify coolant flush service history with the seller
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
VERIFYModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Typical interval: 100,000 mi / 8 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify spark plugs (iridium/platinum) service history with the seller
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
VERIFYModerateFuel Injectors
Typical interval: 120,000 mi / 10 yr · Verify service records (no odometer on file)
Verify fuel injectors service history with the seller
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.

NHTSA Safety Recalls

CLEAR
0found
No Recall Campaigns Found
NHTSA has no active or historical recalls for this 2015 VOLKSWAGEN.
Complaints

Manufacturer Extended Warranties & Special Coverage

1 known program match this vehicle — verify current eligibility with dealer using your VIN

VERIFY WITH DEALEREXTENDED WARRANTY
VW/Audi DSG 7-Speed (DQ200) Extended Warranty Program
Transmission – DQ200 7-Speed Dry DSG
COVERAGE:5 years / 60,000 miles (extended program — verify with dealer)

The DQ200 dry 7-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission exhibits shuddering, jerking, bucking at low speeds, and mechatronic unit failures. VW acknowledged widespread issues and extended coverage on the mechatronic unit and clutch pack under a customer satisfaction program.

HOW TO CLAIM: Visit a VW or Audi dealer and request mechatronic unit inspection and DSG software update 0AM. If shuddering or harsh engagement persists after the software update, the mechatronic unit or clutch pack should be replaced under warranty.

Coverage eligibility depends on your VIN, original sale date, and current mileage. Always verify with an authorized dealer or manufacturer customer service — programs may have been updated since this database was compiled.

Details & Analysis
Financial

Repair Cost Intelligence

Estimated repair costs for known VOLKSWAGEN Jetta defects — quantify your risk in dollars

EmissionsHigh
$0–$2,500
2–8 hrs labor

TDI diesel Dieselgate

VW/EPA consent decree buyback and fix program concluded in 2019. Affected 2.0L vehicles were either bought back or received the approved emissions modification. Verify fix was applied before purchase.

Estimates based on RepairPal averages, ASE mechanic surveys, and NHTSA investigation data. Actual costs vary by region and shop.

5-Year Ownership Cost Estimate

Based on EPA fuel data, standard depreciation, and US average insurance/maintenance costs

$2,100
Annual Fuel
EPA estimate
$1,800
Annual Insurance
US average
$2,400
Annual Maintenance
11-yr-old vehicle avg
$0
Annual Depreciation
Current period
Estimated 5-Year Total Cost
Fuel + Insurance + Maintenance + Depreciation
$31,500

Estimates use EPA fuel economy data, AAA 2024 national averages for insurance and maintenance, and a standard depreciation curve. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.

5-Year Total Cost of Ownership

Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation

$35,114
~$585/mo over 5 yrs
$0.3/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,500
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$9,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$3,000
Depreciation
$5,114

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $35,114 (~$585/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

Negotiation Ammunition

Use these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down

Active or settled class action lawsuit for this model−$1,800
Total recommended deduction−$1,800

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Tailored for the 2015 VOLKSWAGEN Jetta — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list

1 critical inspection item must be resolved before purchase. Do not skip these checks.
CRITICAL
Verify this vehicle has received the EPA-approved emissions fix or was bought back
VW TDI Dieselgate vehicles without the EPA fix may fail emissions in California, NY, and other CARB states. Confirm modification was performed at a VW dealer and obtain written documentation.
HIGH
Have a specialist inspect: Volkswagen Dieselgate
Volkswagen Dieselgate: TDI engines equipped with defeat device software to cheat EPA emissions tests
HIGH
Have a specialist inspect: VW settled with US owners for $14.7 billion — one of the largest auto class action settlements in history
VW settled with US owners for $14.7 billion — one of the largest auto class action settlements in history
HIGH
Have a specialist inspect: Affected owners received buyback offers and extended emissions warranty
Affected owners received buyback offers and extended emissions warranty
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.

Recall Probability Forecast

Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals

17%
18-month
31%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 31%

17% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.

  • Active class action lawsuit — legal pressure often accelerates recalls

Maintenance Schedule

OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions

Auction History

Public sale records from Copart, IAAI, and auction aggregators

Searching Public Auction Records

Checking Copart, IAAI, BidFax, and other sources for 3VWD17AJ4FM317796. Results appear automatically when found.

Insurance Cost Estimate

Estimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings

Full Coverage
$1,450–$1,850/yr
~$121–$154/mo
Liability Only
$560–$710/yr
~$47–$59/mo
Category: Standard Vehicle
11-year-old vehicle: −18% (depreciated ACV lowers full-coverage cost)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

Manufacturer NHTSA Penalty History

Federal fines issued for recall delays and safety violations

VOLKSWAGEN has been fined $19000M+ by NHTSA. Most recently in 2017: Criminal plea agreement related to Dieselgate.

2016$14700MDieselgate settlement — defeat device software in TDI engines to cheat EPA emissions tests
2017$4300MCriminal plea agreement related to Dieselgate

State-Specific Legal Protections

What consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Complete Data Table

All decoded fields in a single flattened view

Vehicle Identity

VIN3VWD17AJ4FM317796
Model Year2015
MakeVOLKSWAGEN
ModelJetta
TrimSE, Sport
Vehicle TypePASSENGER CAR

Body & Configuration

Body StyleSedan/Saloon
Doors4
Fuel TypeGasoline
TransmissionAutomatic

Engine

Engine Cylinders4
Displacement (L)1.798000
Horsepower170

Manufacturer

ManufacturerVOLKSWAGEN DE MEXICO SA DE CV
Assembly CityPUEBLA
Assembly CountryMEXICO

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)3VW
Check Digit (Char 9)4
Model Year Code (Char 10)F
Plant Code (Char 11)M
Sequence (Chars 12–17)317796

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count0
NHTSA Complaint Count0

VIN Structure Decode

ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number

3
1
V
2
W
3
D
4
1
5
7
6
A
7
J
8
4
9
F
10
M
11
3
12
1
13
7
14
7
15
9
16
6
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
3
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
V
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
W
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
D17AJ
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
4
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
F
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
M
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
317796
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
Mexico
From VIN position 1 (3)
Model Year Character
"F" → 2015
Could also be 1985
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm
Research This Model

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 8/2/2026, 7:28:54 AM.