2016 Volkswagen E-golf problems
The Volkswagen Golf is a compact car/small family car (C-segment) produced by the German automotive manufacturer Volkswagen since 1974, marketed worldwide across eight generations, in various body configurations and under various nameplates – including as the Volkswagen Rabbit in the United States and Canada (Mk1 and Mk5), and as the Volkswagen Caribe in Mexico (Mk1).
The original Golf Mk1 was a front-engined, front-wheel drive replacement for the air-cooled, rear-engined, rear-wheel drive Volkswagen Beetle. Historically, the Golf is Volkswagen's best-selling model and is among the world's top three best-selling models, with more than 35 million units sold as of 2019.
Initially, most Golfs were 3-door hatchbacks. Other variants include a 5-door hatchback, estate (Variant, from 1993), convertible (Cabriolet and Cabrio, 1979–2002, Cabriolet, 2011–present), and a Golf-based saloon, called the Jetta, Vento (from 1992) or Bora (from 1999). The Golf covers economy to high-performance market segments.
The Golf has won awards, including the World Car of the Year in 2009, with the Mk6 and in 2013 with the Mk7. Along with the Renault Clio and the Vauxhall Astra, the Golf is one of only three cars to have won European Car of the Year twice, in 1992 and 2013. The Golf has made the annual Car and Driver 10Best list multiple times. The Mk7 won the Motor Trend Car of the Year award in 2015, and the Mk1 GTI also won the award in 1985. The Mk4 won for the best-selling car in Europe in 2001.
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Common 2016 Volkswagen E-golf problems
The Volkswagen e-Golf, a fully electric vehicle produced by Volkswagen, has been a popular choice among car buyers looking for an efficient and reliable electric vehicle. However, some model years, including the 2016 e-Golf, have faced common issues that have been reported by owners. These problems are detailed below:
- Charging Equipment Problems: Some owners of the 2016 e-Golf have reported difficulties with the onboard charging system, including slow charging or charging failure.
- Infotainment Glitches: The e-Golf's infotainment system has occasionally shown signs of malfunction, such as freezing or failure to boot up.
- Brake System Concerns: A few reports have mentioned problems with the brake system, including noise and less responsive braking.
- Navigation/Entertainment System: Some owners have criticized the navigation and entertainment system, citing slow boot-up times, a small and slow screen, and issues with USB power and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Air Bag Deployment: A recall was issued for certain 2016 Audi TT Roadster, TT Coupe, S3 Sedan, R8 Coupe, A3 Sedan, A3 Etron, A3 Cabriolet, 2016 Golf Sportwagen, Golf R, Golf GTI, Golf A7, and E Golf vehicles due to the front passenger air bag potentially deploying improperly during air bag deployment.
- Non-compliance with Regulatory Requirements: Volkswagen issued a recall for certain 2012-2016 Eos, 2012 Passat, 2012-2016 CC, 2015 e-Golf, 2011-2015 Touareg, 2012-2015 Tiguan, and 2011-2016 Golf and 2011-2013 GTI vehicles due to modifications made during the internal evaluation period that may cause the affected vehicles to not comply with all regulatory requirements.
- Driver Frontal Air Bags, Passenger Frontal Air Bags, or Head Air Bags: Volkswagen issued a recall for certain model year 2017 Audi A7, A4, A6, Volkswagen Golf and Tiguan vehicles and 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf vehicles for driver frontal air bags, passenger frontal air bags, or head air bags that may not deploy properly.
These issues, while not necessarily common to all 2016 e-Golf models, should be taken into account when considering the purchase of a used e-Golf from this model year. Proper maintenance, adherence to manufacturer guidelines, and sensible driving habits can help prolong the life of the e-Golf and minimize potential problems.
How reliable is the VW e-Golf?
Reliability Survey, the e-Golf managed an impressive third-place finish out of 14 cars in the electric car category. As a brand, Volkswagen came 22nd out of 32 manufacturers featured.
How much is a battery for a 2016 e-Golf?
The average cost for a Volkswagen e-Golf Battery Replacement is between $319 and $333. Labor costs are estimated between $53 and $67 while parts are typically priced around $266.
Why did Volkswagen stop making the e-Golf?
At the time, VW also confirmed that it wasn't looking into coming out with a new version of the e-Golf with the Mk 8 Golf, as the brand was looking to expand on its ID lineup of EVs. While VW was quick to discontinue the e-Golf to switch its focus to ID-badged EVs, the model could be making a comeback in the future.
How long does an e-Golf last?
Volkswagen e-Golf Economy and Emissions
A real-life range of 150 miles rather than 100 miles makes an electric car so much more useable, especially if your driving takes in occasional motorway journeys. You can charge the e-Golf from a standard household three-pin socket, but a full charge takes 17 hours.
How reliable is Volkswagen e-Golf?
The Volkswagen e-Golf has generally proven to be a reliable electric vehicle, especially in the later model years. With improvements made over time, Volkswagen has addressed earlier issues, leading to a more dependable and well-rounded vehicle. However, vwproblems.com only ranks the e-Golf as 6th out of 28.
How much is a battery for a 2016 e-Golf?
The average cost for a Volkswagen e-Golf Battery Replacement is between $319 and $333. Labor costs are estimated between $53 and $67 while parts are typically priced around $266.
Is the e-Golf worth it?
Overall verdict on the Volkswagen e-Golf. "The Volkswagen e-Golf is the ideal introduction to electric cars. It feels just like a more refined version of the (already ultra-refined) Volkswagen Golf. It doesn't shout about its electric credentials, but it's superb to drive and comes well kitted out for the money.
How long does an e-Golf last?
Volkswagen e-Golf Economy and Emissions
A real-life range of 150 miles rather than 100 miles makes an electric car so much more useable, especially if your driving takes in occasional motorway journeys. You can charge the e-Golf from a standard household three-pin socket, but a full charge takes 17 hours.
2016 Volkswagen E-golf complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Volkswagen E-golf.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2016 Volkswagen E-golf recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2016 Volkswagen E-golf.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2016 Audi TT Roadster, TT Coupe, S3 Sedan, R8 Coupe, A3 Sedan, A3 Etron, A3 Cabriolet, 2016 Golf Sportwagen, Golf R, Golf GTI, Golf A7, and E Golf vehicles. During air bag deployment, the front passenger air bag may explode or deploy improperly.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking occupants, resulting in serious injury or death. An improper air bag deployment may not properly restrain the occupant, increasing their risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the front-passenger air bag module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 16, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69DY and 61C1.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Eos, 2012 Passat, 2012-2016 CC, 2015-2016 e-Golf, 2011-2015 Touareg, 2012-2015 and 2017 Tiguan, and 2011-2016 Golf and 2011-2013 GTI vehicles. Modifications made while the vehicles were in an internal evaluation period may cause the affected vehicles to not comply with all of the applicable regulatory requirements.
- Consequence: If the vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements, there could be an increased risk of a crash, fire, or injury.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles to make them fully compliant or Volkswagen will repurchase them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 29, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2017 Audi A7, A4, A6, Volkswagen Golf and Tiguan vehicles and 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf vehicles for driver frontal air bags, passenger frontal air bags or head air bags that may not deploy properly. Additionally, certain 2017 Audi Q7, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, and 2018 Audi Q5 vehicles are being recalled because the seat belt pretensioners may not activate properly.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash, if the air bags and/or the seat belt pretensioners do not inflate or function properly, the vehicle occupants have an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: Volkswagen and Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected air bags and seat belt pretensioners, free of charge. The recall began April 2017. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2016 CC vehicles manufactured January 12, 2016, to February 3, 2016, Golf R and Tiguan vehicles manufactured November 25, 2015, to January 28, 2016, and e-Golf vehicles manufactured November 25, 2015, to January 11, 2016. Vibrations, such as those created by opening and closing a vehicle door, may cause the rear child door locks to disengage, allowing a child to open a rear door while inside the vehicle.
- Consequence: If an unrestrained child unexpectedly opens a door, they may fall from the vehicle increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the child lock(s), free of charge. The recall began on August 22, 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 58C9.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 e-Golf vehicles manufactured May 21, 2014, to March 1, 2016. Oversensitive diagnostics for the high-voltage battery management system may falsely detect an electrical surge resulting in the vehicle's electric drive motor shutting down unexpectedly.
- Consequence: An unexpected vehicle shutdown can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Volkswagen has notified owners, and dealers will update the battery management software, free of charge. The recall began March 15, 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 93B4.
Negative 2016 Volkswagen E-golf car reviews
Positive 2016 Volkswagen E-golf car reviews
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I purchased this car about a year and a half ago and I have absolutely fallen in love with it. It handles incredibly well around corners and the acceleration is impressively fast, giving me tons of confidence when making turns on busy roads. Using this car for all of our local trips has saved us thousands of dollars. I can honestly say that driving any gas-powered car is now a disappointment. However, there are a few points to keep in mind. Firstly, this car is a commuter car and is not designed for long journeys. We use it to commute to work every day, run errands, and for weekend fun around town. Think of it like a pair of comfortable everyday shoes: you can wear the same pair every day, they are comfortable, they do their job, they are stylish, but you might not want to wear them for everything. Let them be your everyday shoes that you love, but don't get mad when you realize they don't work for running marathons or climbing mountains. Secondly, you have to get used to the EV lifestyle. You need to get used to plugging in your car pretty much every night (depending on your commute) to make sure you have enough charge to go wherever you need to go. However, planning ahead can save you tons of pain. Know what you're doing the next day so you can map out how far you're going. What is the distance to and from? Does your destination have a charger? Should you throw your charger in the trunk to plug in? Did you plug in the distance into Google maps before heading out? Are there any fast chargers near my destination in case I need a little more juice? Little things like that have saved me a lot of trouble. And stopping for a quick charge really isn't a huge nuisance if you factor in all that time you don't spend at the gas pump anymore. I would say that 90% of my trips I don't even need to think about charging, I can go and come back without even thinking; I can go about 130-150km on a full charge.However, planning ahead can make all the difference when it comes to taking advantage of charging stations and going a little further. By doing a few minutes of research the day before, you can save yourself hours. It's important to appreciate the car for what it is: an affordable EV. While the range may not be as good as the Teslas or newer EV models coming out, this car was a fraction of the price of any other EV. At the time of purchase, it was about 60% cheaper than a used Tesla. It's also important to have access to a gas-powered car. By getting a more affordable EV, you are sacrificing range and the convenience of being able to fill up a gas tank and continue on. If you want to do a road trip, consider trading with someone who has a gas car or make sure one of your family's cars is gas-powered. Car maintenance is next to none, with only a few things to keep an eye on, such as your tires, windshield wiper fluid, wipers, air filter, and brakes. All of which are easily done by yourself. This car saves you time and money in more ways than most people realize.There are routine inspections that you can do with a VW dealership every 10,000km. Although it costs $200-300, it is still a fraction compared to the maintenance costs of any gas car (oil changes, brakes, belts, tubes, clips, fluids, anything else that breaks down, etc). The regenerative braking system is amazing. Once you get used to what VW calls 'B Mode', which is the strongest version of this car's regenerative braking modes, you won't be able to go back. This car can stop/slow down much quicker than most cars which is not only safer, but makes driving a whole new experience. The second you take your foot off the accelerator, the car starts slowing down quite rapidly. I've actually driven a Tesla before and I like the e-golf version better, I find it less aggressive and more smooth. This has saved me from accidents and also just becomes a new, natural, smoother way to drive. No more head bobs from pressing the brake too soft or heavy. The fact that it absorbs the energy and puts it back into the battery is just a bonus. Overall, I love this car.
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I have never loved a car until this one. It's so quiet and fast off the line, and it doesn't compromise on utility. Plus, it's great to charge overnight and skip trips to gas stations!
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I was looking for a second car for electric commuting to supplement my old Subaru. After extensive research, I found that the e-Golf was the best option for my twisty Highway 17 commute, and it turned out to be the right decision. The design is solid, the ride is quiet and comfortable, and the handling is good. Although, the front tires may spin if the accelerator is hit hard. The range is generally 80 miles, even with mostly highway driving using the A/C. I usually charge it at home on a standard outlet and recover the 60 miles used in about 15 hours. The updated infotainment system on the 2016 models is really nice and does CarPlay. However, I was disappointed to realize that the base SE has no steering wheel button to activate Siri, and it also lacks cruise control.
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I purchased this car in January 2015 with the intention of it being our secondary vehicle. However, it turned out to be so enjoyable to drive that we now use it as our primary car. We only use our Honda Odyssey when we need the extended range for vacations, more than 5 seats, or to transport bikes, or when the second adult commutes to the nearby train station. We are putting about 12k miles per year on the car, so I am glad I did not lease it. In May 2016, we replaced our Honda Odyssey with a Tesla Model X, and now the VW eGolf is our secondary car again. Nonetheless, we have still put 25,000 miles on the eGolf in the last two and a half years, and it is still a lot of fun to drive. Gas cars are still revving up behind me at the light when the immediate electric torque propels me forward continuously accelerating. My only complaint is that Volkswagen sold me the car with three years of remote phone access car-net service included, but then two years later, their salespeople started harassing me, Comcast/SiriusXM style, to start paying $15/month for it. They are lying and harder to get rid of than toilet paper stuck to your shoe. Since the Tesla Model 3 comes out this July and has more range and a more honest business model, I will probably trade the car in for that.
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I got this car when my employer started offering free level 2 charging at work. I was able to purchase it used at a great deal in 2019. Later that year, I had a 10K solar array installed, so I can basically charge the car at home for free as well. I use it for a 50-mile radius from home and never have to deal with charging stations, which are either Tesla or not working or being used. For longer trips, we use our Impreza. I love the regenerative braking, which allows for basically one-pedal driving, and the brakes barely get used. The steering is tight, and the tracking is excellent, even with 235 snow tires. The handling reminds me of my 2093 GTi. This is my 7th VW, and I have had zero issues with the car, other than once it did not charge. During the winter, I always bundle up and use the seat heat, and only use the car's heater while it is charging, which you can program on the e-manager, so I always get into a warm car. I use the Normal setting almost exclusively because it is so much fun to blow off the stop lights. The real-world range is about 110 miles if driven reasonably and maximizing regenerative braking. I have gotten close to 122 miles with 1 slow mile remaining before I got home, so planning a max range round trip is essential, as non-Tesla charging is not locally available in my rural NH area. I do recommend a level 2 charger because the stock VW charger is slow. I use a Clipper Creek level 2, and all I have to do is plug it in, and the car charges automatically, no fussing with apps or charging screens unless you want to program in the time you are leaving for a warm car in the winter.
Other years of Volkswagen E-golf
Are you having problems with your 2016 Volkswagen E-golf?
Lucio Hettinger 2025-02-25
Hello! We recently purchased an e-golf that unfortunately stopped driving. Although the car was charged and the electrical system was working, it would not drive while in gear. We had it towed to the dealer (Capital VW in San Jose, CA) and the service department reported that the diagnostic showed that the 'power button was pressed', which was not the case. Even so, it should not have stopped functioning. After a couple of days, we were informed that the 'firmware was updated' and that the car was ready to be picked up. Unfortunately, there was no explanation of what had actually gone wrong. We were advised to open a case with VW service. It is important to note that this is a newly introduced car with potential bugs. Please be aware of this before making a purchase.
Dale Satterfield 2025-02-15
I really enjoyed driving the e-Golf! It exceeded my expectations with its handling and acceleration, making it a cute and agile option for both city roads and highways. Plus, the prospect of only paying $1.4 for my 45-mile daily commute is very promising. However, I wouldn't recommend this model year to others due to a few pain points. Firstly, the CarNet service, which allows you to lock/unlock the car, activate A/C, and manage charging schedules, has never been able to communicate with my car. This renders the service completely useless. Secondly, the delay charging feature, which is essential for utilizing the low electric rate in California, often fails to work. This has resulted in me waking up to an uncharged battery and having to drive with ECO+ mode, which turns off the AC/Heater and can be quite uncomfortable. Despite these issues, I still think the e-Golf is a great car.
Ewald Hodkiewicz 2025-01-26
Congratulations on your new car! Although it may not have the best gas mileage for Los Angeles, it handles beautifully and can easily go over potholes and bumps. I understand your concerns about the distance and charging, but I'm sure with regular charging you'll be able to make it to work and back. Thank you for sharing your experience and I hope you continue to enjoy your car!
Gaetano Schuster 2024-07-12
Before I begin my review, I want to say that I am in the Navy and this is the first time I am writing a negative review about anything that I have bought in my life. Recently, I leased one of those 2015 Golf-e models. It looks and feels great, but unfortunately, it did not meet my expectations when it came to highway driving. The mile estimate on the sticker is not nearly accurate, and I found myself running out of juice much faster than anticipated. If you primarily commute on the highway, I would recommend avoiding this car. However, if you mainly drive in town and less than 40 miles a day, this car could be a great fit for you. I experienced some range anxiety due to the battery running out quickly when I didn't have the break regenerating, but if you enjoy driving in traffic, this car could still be a good option. I will be posting a video on YouTube to show the true performance of the Golf-e on the highway. Overall, I would recommend this car for city driving, but not for long commutes on the highway. Unfortunately, I am now stuck with a vehicle that does not meet my needs for the next three years.
Eusebio Ullrich 2024-07-08
I recently purchased a car in California and informed the dealership that I would be relocating to Georgia within the year. Unfortunately, I was not informed that the car would not be serviceable in Georgia. I had the car shipped to Georgia and when it was time for its first maintenance, I discovered that no dealerships in the area were trained to service the car. I was informed that having the car serviced by a non-dealership mechanic could potentially void my warranty. When I contacted VW to inquire about the possibility of having someone trained in the area, I was informed that it was my responsibility to know whether or not they service the vehicle in other states. It is quite surprising that a car made by a major manufacturer cannot be serviced by at least one local dealership. This experience has been quite frustrating and has left me feeling disappointed with the level of customer service. If you are considering purchasing this car and anticipate moving to another state during the time you own it, I would recommend considering another vehicle instead.