Volkswagen Jetta Drive Shaft Replacement Parts

The sixth-generation Jetta (Mk6) ran from 2011 to 2018, so both years sit within the same generation, which is a good starting point. However, fitment of a drive shaft depends primarily on the engine code and gearbox type rather than the year alone, so you should confirm your engine code from your V5 or a VIN check before ordering. Bring that code to the breaker and they can match it against the donor car.

The Mk5 Jetta ran from 2005 to 2010 and the Mk6 from 2011 to 2018, so these are different generations with different subframe and driveline geometry. Parts crossing that 2010–2011 boundary are unlikely to interchange, but confirm with the breaker against your registration as ancillary mounting details can vary mid-production even within a generation. Never assume cross-generation compatibility without a direct check.

For a mechanical component like a drive shaft, trim level does not affect fitment — S, SE, and SEL are specification packages covering interior and technology features, not driveline differences. What actually matters is the engine code, fuel type, and whether the car has a manual or automatic gearbox. Tell the breaker your engine code and gearbox type and the trim name can be ignored for this purpose.

Yes, fuel type matters because petrol and diesel variants within the same generation typically use different engines and gearboxes, which can affect drive shaft length, spline count, and CV joint specification. The most reliable way to ensure a match is to supply your engine code to the breaker rather than just stating petrol or diesel. Your engine code appears on your V5 logbook or can be obtained through a VIN check.

The Mk6 Jetta received a facelift in 2014, so a 2014 car could be either pre- or post-facelift depending on its build date. The facelift was primarily cosmetic, but whether any driveline changes were made at that point is something you should confirm with the breaker against your specific registration number. Supplying your engine code and VIN gives the breaker the best chance of identifying the correct shaft.

Yes, nearside (NS, left, driver's side on UK roads) and offside (OS, right, passenger's side) drive shafts are not interchangeable and are different lengths on most front-wheel-drive layouts. Make sure you know which shaft has failed before contacting a breaker, as ordering the wrong side is a common and avoidable mistake. If you are unsure which side is which, your garage or the breaker can help you identify it from the car's registration.