One problem related to service engine light on has been reported for the 2005 Volkswagen Jetta. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2005 Volkswagen Jetta based on all problems reported for the 2005 Jetta.
Vehicle had a sudden loss of power (misfiring very badly) and would not maintain speed. The service engine light never came on, and there were no trouble codes stored. Vehicle was brought into vw dealership for diagnosis and they confirmed the camshaft was completely worn and "several lifters had caved in. " internet searches confirm this model vehicle (tdi with a brm engine) has a known history of camshaft failure. Aside from the cost of replacement ($2900 at the dealer), this could have caused a potentially life threatening crash.