Problems · by component
2012 Volkswagen Jetta service brakes problems
38 owner complaints to NHTSA about the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta cite service brakes, 7% of all 527 complaints for this model year.
Complaints
38
7% of all complaints
Crashes
6
Reported by owners
Fires
1
Reported by owners
Injuries
0
Reported by owners
What owners say about the service brakes
Verbatim from NHTSA complaints, newest first
“ABS module controlling the Anti-Lock brake system has failed. I am told there is a recall for earlier models of this car for the very same issue but not for 2012 model year. This is a safety issue that is very expensive to fix and primarily by the dealer requiring factory programming of a new expensive ABS module”
“The brakes randomly engage while driving and sometimes while parking, without touching the brake pedal. After this happens and you're driving for a while, there is a burning smell, likely from the brakes being engaged while driving and not applying the brakes.”
“The ABS module has failed and caused lights in dash to illuminate for ABS, Traction control, and airbags. Requires full replacement and reconfiguration of ABS module”
“The car it’s having severals issues such a fuel system injectors fuel ️ gas leak also breaks and battery alternador and much more this car was sold to me by a dealership looking for legal assistant that can help also it was on a accident but I don’t know when”
“The brake vacuum pump is leaking oil. As this component is related to brakes, it is considered a safety component. The leak was confirmed by the local VW dealer and a cursory google search shows that this issue is common amongst this engine (across many models/years).”
“VOLKSWAGEN KNOWS THEY HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THEIR ABS MODULE BUT REFUSE TO CORRECT IT. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR YEARS. CODES: 01130 ABS OPERATION NOT A PLAUSIBLE SIGNAL. THEY NEED TO RECALL!!!”
Showing 6 of 38 reports. Read every report on NHTSA.gov.
Data from NHTSA Complaints API (owner reports, unverified) · synced Nov 3, 2026NHTSA vehicle page
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.