2019 Volkswagen E-golf problems

volkswagen logo

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.

2019 Volkswagen E-golf

Social links

Common 2019 Volkswagen E-golf problems

The Volkswagen e-Golf, a fully electric vehicle produced from 2014 to 2020, has faced several common problems, particularly in earlier models. Here are the most serious issues reported by owners:

  • Charging Equipment Problems: Some owners have reported difficulties with the onboard charging system, including slow charging or charging failure. This issue can be inconvenient and potentially hinder the vehicle's usability, especially for those who rely on the e-Golf for daily commuting.
  • Infotainment Glitches: The e-Golf's infotainment system has occasionally shown signs of malfunction, such as freezing or failure to boot up. While not a critical safety issue, these glitches can be frustrating for drivers and passengers alike.
  • Brake System Concerns: A few reports have mentioned problems with the brake system, including noise and less responsive braking. This issue can affect the overall driving experience and potentially compromise the vehicle's safety.
  • Front Assist Problems: Volkswagen's collision avoidance technology, Front Assist, has been detected to falsely detect objects that don't exist, causing the system to suddenly apply the brakes.
  • Recall Issues: The standard Golf of this period, which could also affect the e-Golf, has had three recalls issued for issues such as a programming issue with the On-Board Supply Control Unit, door child locks disengaging without driver knowledge, and front-wheel bearing housings with insufficient hardness. These recalls address safety concerns and should be rectified before purchasing a used e-Golf.

Despite these issues, the Volkswagen e-Golf has generally proven to be a reliable electric vehicle, especially in later model years. With improvements made over time, Volkswagen has addressed earlier issues, leading to a more dependable and well-rounded vehicle. However, it is essential to be aware of these potential concerns when considering one of the Volkswagen e-Golf years to avoid.

2019 Volkswagen E-golf engine

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.

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.

What is the battery life of the 2019 e-Golf?

125 miles

The 2019 Volkwagen eGolf, now in its second generation, is offered in two trims: SE and SEL Premium. Both models are powered by a 134-horsepower equivalent (100kW) electric motor that draws from a 35.8 kilowatt lithium-ion battery pack. When fully charged it can travel 125 miles.

What is the battery warranty on the 2019 e-Golf?

The battery has a limited warranty that covers eight years or 100,000 miles (whichever occurs first).

2019 Volkswagen E-golf car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen E-golf problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Unknown or other problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2019 Volkswagen E-golf vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2019 Volkswagen E-golf complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2019 Volkswagen E-golf.

2024-02-28

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-25
  • VIN: WVWKR7AU6KW
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The charging pin actuator fails, preventing the vehicle from charging. This was confirmed by the dealer. I had brought the vehicle in multiple times before for the same symptoms.
2023-07-11

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-06
  • VIN: WVWKR7AU7KW
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Car would not start and gave a "Error: Electrical system. Stop!" Warning in the dash. Volkswagen tells me it needs a battery replacement.
2020-09-18

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-09-17
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: WVWKR7AU8KW
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE CAR WAS LAST DRIVEN 9/16/2020 AROUND 5:30PM. IT HAD APPROXIMATELY 90 MILES LEFT AS AN ESTIMATED BATTERY CHARGE. IT WAS PARKED IN MY DRIVEWAY. ON 9/17 3:20PM OR SO I WALKED OUT OF MY HOUSE AND SMELLED SOMETHING BURNING. I OPENED THE CAR DOOR AND HEARD AN ALERT AND THE DISPLAY SAID ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ERROR. I TRIED TURNING THE CAR ON AND OFF A FEW TIMES, NOTICED A LIGHT SMELL INSIDE THE CAR. I CONTINUED TO GET THE ELECTRICAL ERROR MESSAGE. I CALLED FOR VW ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE, TOOK THE CAR SEATS OUT, AND WHILE WAITING TO BE CONNECTED TO ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE I HEARD A SMALL POP SOUND AND A LITTLE SMOKE COME FROM THE HOOD AREA. MY HUSBAND CALLED 9-1-1. WITHIN ABOUT 5 MINUTES, WE HEARD MORE POPPING, SAW MORE SMOKE, AND THEN SAW FLAMES COMING FROM BENEATH THE CAR. A FIRE ENGINE ARRIVED AND WORKED ON PUTTING OUT THE FIRE. THE BATTERY HEATED/SMOKED/FLARED UP FOR ABOUT 3 HOURS UNTIL IT WAS DEEMED SAFELY OUT, AND FIREFIGHTERS LEFT. AS OF NOW, 3:30PM ON 9/18/2020, THERE ARE STILL FLARE UPS ON THE BATTERY AND IT IS UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. PLEASE HELP WITH THIS INVESTIGATION AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. THIS CAR IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS.

Negative 2019 Volkswagen E-golf car reviews

  1. Freddie Johnston 2025-03-18

    I purchased an e-golf in 2016 as an early adopter. While the reviews were accurate in that it has limited range, it is still a good drive. I had confidence in the quality of the manufacturer, but unfortunately, I experienced several charging issues over the years. Thankfully, my local dealership resolved the problems under warranty after several visits. However, just after the 5-year warranty expired with only 30,000 miles on the clock, my e-golf stopped charging and the dealership recommended a $4,000 fix. Unfortunately, even after the fix, the car still won't charge. While electric cars are known for requiring little maintenance, it seems that they are not very serviceable. If you encounter problems, the dealerships may not know how to fix them and may ask you to pay for expensive replacement parts that may not even solve the problem. VW of America may not stand behind the quality of their vehicles, and if you have a problem car (even after just 5 years), you may have to keep throwing money at it or scrap it. It's important to be aware of these issues before purchasing an electric vehicle.

  2. Sidney Spinka 2025-02-01

    Despite encountering some issues with my car, I am confident that it will be resolved soon. After experiencing an electronic error, I had to have it towed to a dealership 3 miles away. Although the only person who could work on it quit, I remained optimistic and took it to a dealership in Denver. While they were unable to diagnose the issue, they sent it to Oxnard for further inspection. Although I am still waiting for updates on my car's status, I am confident that it will be resolved soon. I have come across similar complaints on forums, but I trust that my car will be fixed and I will be able to sell it.

  3. Jessie Rempel 2024-11-08

    When we received the e-Golf, the company promised a range of over 100 miles on a full charge. However, after a software update, we experienced some issues with the car. The range dropped to just 54 miles, and the charger caused some problems in our home. We also had some difficulties during the winter months, as the car did not have heating and we had to pull over a few times due to running out of battery. Unfortunately, attempts to fix the problem were unsuccessful, and the VW Co and Financial office refused to take the car back. Instead, they charged us a $2500 early return fee.

  4. Orion Deckow 2024-09-27

    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.

  5. Braxton Herzog 2024-08-11

    I have been experiencing some issues with my car's high voltage battery and charging system for the past 11 weeks. Unfortunately, VW did not cover the charging issue as my car was just over 5 years old. Since my local VW dealership did not have trained technicians on site, my car was sent to Colonial VW in Massachusetts. Although the repair took longer than expected, I was able to get in touch with Sylvia at VW of North America customer care who has been very helpful in finding a way forward. After several calls, I suggested that VW offer to buy the car back and Sylvia immediately provided me with a process for VW to consider an offer. Although it has been frustrating not having my car for 11 weeks, I am grateful for the support I have received from Sylvia and the team at VW of North America. It's going to be 12 weeks next week without a car. I wouldn't recommend buying a Volkswagen, their service is terrible.

Positive 2019 Volkswagen E-golf car reviews

  1. Arden Goodwin 2025-03-25

    I've had the car for three weeks and it's been a super fun daily driver. The car really shines in stop and go traffic and when you go around a curve or make a turn, the center of gravity is such that you feel like you're driving a go-kart. Overall, I'd give it an A plus as a daily driver. Although, I do wish it had a few extra features like memory seating, a little more range, a heated steering wheel, heated back seats and a couple of extra USB ports. But, I'm still looking forward to many miles of gas-free driving. Plus, I get to drive in the HOV lanes in the DC area, saving me a lot of time on the roads each and every day. Great job, VW!

  2. Matteo Feil 2025-03-05

    The eGolf by VW was designed to be almost identical to the gas version of the car. It's not one of those cheap feeling, light vehicles that drive like a shopping cart, as some e-Cars do. With greater acceleration than the GTI from 0 to 30 mph, it gives you a great sense of driving confidence when you pull out of an intersection to oncoming traffic. The handling is superb, and the entertainment system and driver controls are nicely configured. In warm weather, I get over 100 miles on a charge while going less than highway speeds. Although in cold weather with lots of highways, this can drop considerably to say 70 miles per charge, it still works great for me since my commute is less than 50 miles per day. I've heard that the 2018 model will add about 30% to the range, which is good news. However, I find that most of my driving is well within the range of this car. Even though VW will need to compete with other electrics that promise 200+ miles, I still think that the eGolf is just a really fun car to drive and has given me no problems in 2 years. I'm even thinking of buying it when the lease ends next year!

  3. Rick Heaney 2025-03-03

    I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with the car I recently purchased a couple of weeks ago. I must say, it's a very nice car! The initial torque and handling are amazing, and it responds very well on the road. Initially, I thought it was a small car, but with the folded seat, there is equivalent space to my SUV. With a lot of discounts from the dealer, plus Federal and State rebates, this is a really good bargain. I highly recommend it! Also, I'm still getting 150 miles with a 90% charge on the car, which is a really good distance. Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts!

  4. Sylvan Emmerich 2025-02-23

    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.

  5. Antwan Rau 2025-01-11

    The car drives great and has good handling. It's a gas saver and perfect for driving around town. The only issue I've noticed is a clicking noise during braking, but I'm not sure if that's normal or not.

Leave your review of 2019 Volkswagen E-golf

Other years of Volkswagen E-golf

volkswagen e-golf 2015 photo
E-golf 2015
Volkswagen

28

3

9

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen e-golf 2016 photo
E-golf 2016
Volkswagen

0

5

27

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen e-golf 2017 photo
E-golf 2017
Volkswagen

1

1

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen e-golf 2018 photo
E-golf 2018
Volkswagen

1

1

24

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen e-golf 2019 photo
E-golf 2019
Volkswagen

3

0

30

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 2019 Volkswagen E-golf?

Add car complaint
2019 Volkswagen E-golf photo