2019 Volkswagen E-golf problems

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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

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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. Junior Feest 2025-07-12

    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.

  2. Torey Yost 2025-06-22

    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!

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

Positive 2019 Volkswagen E-golf car reviews

  1. Braxton Marvin 2025-08-22

    Congratulations on your new car! I'm glad to hear that you're adjusting well to your first electric vehicle. Charging can be a bit of a learning curve, but it sounds like you're getting the hang of it. It must be a relief to not have to go to the gas station anymore! I understand your initial concerns about the car being discontinued, but it's great that you were able to take advantage of the mark downs and tax credits. Plus, since it shares many parts with other Golf models that will still be in production, you can rest assured that you'll be able to find replacement parts if needed. And with amazing torque, it sounds like you're in for a fun ride! Enjoy your new car!

  2. Rod Nicolas 2025-08-21

    Great value! It's comfortable, economical, and feels very solid. The acceleration is incredible and the visibility is great. Plus, the sound system is really nice.

  3. Jed Larson 2025-08-20

    Regarding the two single-star reviews from other owners, I would like to share some thoughts. Firstly, if the software to time the charging is unreliable, it might be helpful to check on the car once during the night to ensure it is charging. Making it a routine, just like taking the dog or cat outside, could be a solution. While driving the car without heat in 45F is chilly, it is definitely not

  4. Norris Terry 2025-08-14

    Hi there! I noticed that you mentioned setting the battery to charge to 90%, but you're still only getting about 151 miles of range. Have you considered adjusting the charging settings or checking for any other factors that might be affecting your range? Let me know if you need any help troubleshooting!

  5. Delmer Parker 2025-07-23

    I test drove the new 2020 e-Golf and was pleasantly surprised. Both the Leaf and the Golf have impressive torque that will sink you into the seat off the line, but what sets the Golf apart is its exceptional handling in the corners. However, I must note that the interior feels low quality for a 32,000 dollar vehicle, which is the only reason I gave this car 4 instead of 5 stars. Additionally, I wish the warranty was longer, as VWs are not traditionally the most reliable vehicles in my experience.

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Other years of Volkswagen E-golf

volkswagen e-golf 2015 photo
E-golf 2015
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28

3

13

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

0

5

35

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

1

1

22

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

1

1

28

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

3

0

42

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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2019 Volkswagen E-golf photo