Volkswagen 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.
Social links
Volkswagen Golf model years
Common Volkswagen Golf problems
The Volkswagen Golf is a popular car model, but like any other vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from owners of this car:
- Rattling Sound from Engine: Another common problem with the Volkswagen Golf is a rattling sound that can be heard when starting the engine. This sound usually disappears after driving for a few miles but may reappear at random intervals. The cause of this problem is a notorious issue with the car's camshaft-driven high-pressure fuel pump. It is recommended to replace the fuel pump every 20,000 miles to prevent this issue.
- Limp Mode: The Volkswagen Golf may suddenly go into limp mode while driving. This problem is often caused by a faulty water pump, which can cause the car to overheat. In some cases, the issue may be misdiagnosed as a faulty supercharger, but the root cause is the water pump's connection to the supercharger. Replacing the water pump can solve this issue.
- Rough Gear Changes (Automatics): Volkswagen Golf owners have reported rough gear changes, especially in automatic transmission models. This problem is often caused by a faulty gearbox unit, which may need to be replaced completely. However, before replacing the gearbox unit, it is recommended to check the timing chain for any damage or wear.
- Rear Boot Locking Problems: The rear boot locking mechanism on the Volkswagen Golf can be prone to faults. This problem is often caused by a cracked brake servo pipe, which can leak brake fluid. Replacing the faulty brake servo pipe can solve this issue.
- Hot ABS Unit: The ABS unit on some Volkswagen Golf models built between 1997 and 2004 can overheat, even during short journeys. This problem is caused by an electrical fault in the ABS control unit, which can eventually cause a fire if left untreated. Replacing the faulty ABS unit can solve this issue.
- Grinding from Rear: A grinding noise coming from the rear of the car while driving can be a common problem in some Volkswagen Golf models built between 1997 and 2004. This problem is caused by faulty rear axles, which can allow moisture to enter the ball joints, causing them to corrode and seize. Replacing the entire rear axle can solve this issue.
- Faulty Seat Belt Pre-Tensioner: The seat belt pre-tensioner in some Volkswagen Golf models built between 1997 and 2004 can discharge excessive heat when put to use, posing a risk of fire. Replacing the faulty seat belt pre-tensioner can solve this issue.
- Struggle to Get Fifth Gear: Some Volkswagen Golf owners have reported difficulty getting into fifth gear, while other gears are unaffected. This problem is often caused by low gearbox oil levels or faulty or broken gear linkage or cables. Checking the oil levels and replacing any damaged linkages or cables can solve this issue.
- Touchscreen Infotainment System Failure: The touchscreen infotainment system in some Volkswagen Golf models built from 2020 onwards can fail to respond quickly or even fail completely. This problem is often caused by software issues, which can be resolved with a software update from the manufacturer.
- Glitches and Failures with the Automatic Gearbox: Some Volkswagen Golf Mk7 owners have reported glitches and failures with the automatic gearbox. This problem is often caused by leaking dampers, faulty electric handbrakes, broken timing chains, and malfunctions with the optional adaptive cruise control. These issues can be resolved by replacing the faulty components.
- Recall Issues: The Volkswagen Golf has been subject to a number of recalls, some for serious safety problems. These issues include faulty airbags and seat belt pre-tensioners, substandard front brake discs, disintegrating rear wheel hub carriers, defective front wheel bearing housings, weak welds on rear headrests, fuel leaks, faulty child locks, and more. It is important to check that any recall works have been carried out before buying a used Volkswagen Golf.
In summary, the Volkswagen Golf is a reliable car, but like any other vehicle, it has its share of common problems. These issues include engine misfires, rattling sounds from the engine, limp mode, rough gear changes, rear boot locking problems, hot ABS units, grinding from the rear, faulty seat belt pre-tensioners, struggle to get fifth gear, touchscreen infotainment system failure, glitches and failures with the automatic gearbox, and recall issues. However, most of these issues are easily fixed, and a full service history is crucial when buying a used Volkswagen Golf.
Is a Volkswagen Golf a reliable car?
The Volkswagen Golf is generally a reliable car. In our 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey, petrol models came 18th out of 29 cars in the family car category, while diesel ones actually ranked higher – 14th. Petrol models received a reliability rating of 90.4%, while diesel ones 92.5%.
How long will a VW Golf engine last?
Most Volkswagen vehicles will last between 100,000 and 200,000 miles, although well-kept models can last even longer than that. All VWs are remarkably reliable vehicles. When it comes to longevity, the Golf, Passat, Jetta, and Beetle are known to be particularly long-lasting.
What are common faults with VW?
Some of the most prevalent VW problems include coil failure, overheating, coolant leaks, ABS control module failures, electrical issues, timing belt problems, and oil leaks/consumption. Understanding the root causes and warning signs of these common problems can help you address them promptly.
Do VW Golfs have transmission problems?
Over time, the gearbox in automatic Golf models can wear out and start to judder intermittently. This is a sign of failure in the mechatronic unit, also known as the control centre of the gearbox. Look out for the following symptoms: Loss of power when changing gear.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Golf years
We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Golf cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen Golf model years:
- Volkswagen Golf 2017
- Volkswagen Golf 2001
- Volkswagen Golf 2015
- Volkswagen Golf 2011
- Volkswagen Golf 2000
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Golf model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Golf years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volkswagen Golf car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Golf , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Golf vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Golf model years
A total of 63 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Golf model years
There were a total of 35 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Golf model years
There were a total of 77 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Golf model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1625 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Golf . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Golf vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volkswagen Golf 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 3VW217AUXFM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: When I turn on the ignition it says on the screen Starting system fault please service the vehicle.
Volkswagen Golf 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 3VW6T7AU9LM
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: While driving with the cruise control set to 55 mph, the car began an uncommanded acceleration. When I looked down on the dashboard display I noticed that the cruise control target speed was set to 95 mph. I switched of the cruise control and resumed manual control of the speed. When I switch the cruise control back on I observed the target speed rapidly increase from the intended 55 mph to 95 mph accompanied by moderate vehicle acceleration. I again switched off the cruise control and resumed manual control of the speed. Sometime later during the drive a cruise control error message appeared on the dashboard. Subsequently the problem was identified as a faulty cruise control switch (part number 5G0-959-442-AE-ICX). The switch was replaced and the fault has not reoccurred over a few hundred miles of driving. While this malfunction can be overridden using the normal cruise control disconnect procedures, uncommanded acceleration poses a safety risk to driver and other motorists or pedestrians.
Volkswagen Golf 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-28
- VIN: 3VW6T7AU7LM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The sunroof exploded while driving without warning and with no impact. The sliding cloth cover was closed at the time, so thankfully little to no glass entered the car, but it was very loud and, had the cover been open, would have filled the car with glass. The sunroof has since been fixed through my insurance, but it took 8-9 months to get completely fixed, and the local VW dealership refused to work on it and had no recommendations.
Volkswagen Golf 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-23
- VIN: 3VW4T7AU2HM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I had a suction jet pump recall due on the car. I took it to the dealer to fix. Mind you, I have never had an issue with this car ever. Now about a week later from the car being in the shop I get an engine malfunction light that comes on due to the evap system. Vw dealership of cool springs has not worked with me on this at all and it is frustrating to say the least.
Volkswagen Golf 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
- VIN: 3VW5T7AU5HM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The water pump in these vehicles are known defects, with class actions resulting. My water pump has failed at less than 70k miles. This results in engine overheating and possible failure. Luckily I was able to get the car off the road.
Volkswagen Golf 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-29
- VIN: 3VW4T7AU1HM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Car has been leaking fuel for over a year. Had to pay out of pocket to get it fixed and VW refused to refund cost of repairs even though there is now a recall over a year later acknowledging the issue.
Volkswagen Golf 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 3VW217AU3HM
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: Failure of wheel speed sensor in front right wheel. This is the THIRD time I have had a wheel speed sensor fail on this car, which has 35,000 miles on it. Failure caused loss of power steering, airbags, abs, etc.
Volkswagen Golf 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-20
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 3VW5T7AU5HM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have gear shift trim that has peeled and is extermely sharp in my vehicle. This had led to cutting my hands multiple times while accessing the center storage compartment. This is a known issue with GTIs and other Volkswagen trim manufacturing, yet Volkswagen refuses to replace the part in my VIN. The relevant Service Action Code is 34J7.
Volkswagen Golf 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
- VIN: 3VW917AU0FM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: I was driving to my grandparents house and once i got to the house there was gasoline dripping from the back of car, from the area of the tank. "61821 SE VERIFICO UNIDAD CON LIQUEO DE GASOLINA , SE VERIFICO Y SE ENCONTRO CHARCOL CANISTER LLENO DE GASOLINA , SE HIZO TEST PLAN Y SE ENCONTRO VALVULA INTERNA DEL TANQUE DE LA GASOLINA TRANCADA Y ESTO OCASIONANDO LIQUEO DE GASOLINA , SE REMOVIO Y SE INSTALO TANQUE DE GASOLINA NUEVO Y CANISTER DE LOS GASES NUEVO Y VALVULA N80 NUEVA Y SE LIMPIARON TODAS LAS LINES DEL SISTEMA , SE HIZO TEST Y NO PRESENTO LIQUEO DE GASOLINA" - Mecanic
Volkswagen Golf 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-17
- VIN: 3VWG57AU7KM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: This has been an open recall for 5 years and the manufacturer will not fix it. This could lead to vehicle fires and injuries.. It is not acceptable that Volkswagen can just ignore these safety recalls!
Volkswagen Golf 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-13
- VIN: 3VW117AU1HM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf. The contact stated that after refueling the vehicle, the contact became aware that the fuel had been consumed extremely quickly. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V110000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown. Parts distribution disconnect.
Volkswagen Golf 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-09
- VIN: 3VW4T7AU8HM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Starting January 2023, I had issues putting fuel in my car (symptoms align with the recall issued this year). I took it to VW and paid their diagnostic fee for them to say there’s nothing wrong with the car (approx. $170) continued to drive the car and eventually due to the issue, my fuel pump went out and I had to replace it. (See attached image). This time, I took the car to a local mechanic who charged a $100 diagnostic fee. All of this was prior to the recall this year and I am hoping for reimbursement on everything I spent trying to resolve this issue.
Volkswagen Golf 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
- VIN: 3VW217AU4HM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: July 30,2024 I own a Golf 2017. My suction jet pump has failed. I cannot drive my car because I can't put gas into it. I need my car for work. The recall does not have the part available and it seems there hasn't been a part to fix this for a very long time. I'm really at a loss. What are my next steps? Should I report this to the Better Business Bureau? So far I've been on Volkswagen Of America's phone wait for 40 minutes. I've already taken my car to a dealership to have this problem verified. There were no warning messages.
Volkswagen Golf 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-30
- VIN: 3VW217AU3HM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: On July 7, 2024, the fuel tank system on my car (2017 VW Golf) failed. I was unable to pump gas into the gas tank. Upon arrival back to my house, gas started leaking out of the backside of the car near the gas tank (I later found out from the VW service manager it was leaking out of the charcoal canister). I had the car towed ($173) to a local VW dealership the next morning, 7/8/24. It is now 7/30/24 and the car is still not fixed. I was without a car for two and a half weeks (7/7 to 7/24), then finally got a rental from the dealership that is costing me $40/day (totaling $240 as of today). According to the service manager at the VW dealership, VW engineers are saying the failure is not due to the fuel tank suction jet pump (which there is a current recall on but no fix available) but all the symptoms I experienced point to that part being the problem. The service manager said that VW will cover the cost of the repair under a PZEV warranty, not the fuel tank suction jet pump extended warranty/recall. The replacement parts are taking weeks for the dealership to receive and there was confusion/miscommunication about which parts were included or needed. My complaints are: 1) the length of time it's taking for the car to be fixed, 2) the amount of money it's costing me for towing, rental car and any other potential expenses related to this issue, and 3) if it's not the fuel tank suction jet pump that is the problem, then there's potentially a larger problem at play with the fuel tank system not included in the original recall.
Volkswagen Golf 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-26
- VIN: 3VW217AU9HM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the contact heard an abnormal clicking sound. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed suction jet pump. The contact was informed that the suction jet pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V110000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Golf
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 169 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Golf.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volkswagen Golf 2018
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
- Model: Volkswagen Golf 2015
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
- Model: Volkswagen Golf 2016
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
- Model: Volkswagen Golf 2017
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
- Model: Volkswagen Golf 2019
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.
Latest negative Volkswagen Golf car reviews
Latest positive Volkswagen Golf car reviews
-
Vehicle year: 2010
After searching all the other cars in its class, I have come to the conclusion that the Golf is in a class of its own. I have been driving the car for a month and a half now and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed. The styling and drivability are top-notch. I have driven 4200 miles in it, including a long road trip, and it has performed phenomenally. All driver controls are easy to use and the trip computer was a lifesaver on the road trip. I am even getting better mileage than what is average, despite driving it the way it is supposed to be driven. I couldn't ask for a better car. The only thing I have added since buying it is the adjustable armrest, which has made a huge difference in my comfort. As someone who is 6 ft and 230 lbs, the car fits me perfectly.
-
Vehicle year: 1995
I'm so glad to hear that you enjoyed your Golf 3! It sounds like the power to weight ratio is just perfect with a manual transmission. Additionally, it's great to know that the car is easy to work on. If you stick to a regular maintenance schedule, I'm sure the engine will continue to perform well for you.
-
Vehicle year: 2002
I bought this car brand new in 2002 after enjoying 14 wonderful years with my Jetta. Now, after 15 years and 138,000 miles, it's still in pretty good shape despite my carelessness. I've hauled too much landscaping material and broken the springs driving over potholes, but I've only had to replace the full set of tires twice and haven't had to replace any other costly items. Although there is some rust on the body around the wheels, it's a small price to pay for living in a wintery environment and not washing it enough. This car has front-wheel drive and performs well when the snow is less than 5 inches on the road. It's fun to drive, with lots of pep and handles corners well. The tight turning radius is very helpful for u-turns, and it has great gas mileage. I'm spoiled! This car has more bells and whistles than my old Jetta, and it's too smart as it locks itself at 5 mph or within a few minutes of me parking. Although Bluetooth and navigation systems were invented after I bought this car, it's no loss to me. It's comfortable for me to drive in the city, as I am short, but it may be cramped for long drives and hard for passengers with long legs or big feet to get in and out. I've been happy with the dealer maintenance, but VW is expensive. They have given me some workarounds, and VW will now fix your car with non-VW parts if you ask. Overall, I've had a great experience with this car and would highly recommend it!
-
Vehicle year: 2014
I got the 4 door hatchback with the base 2.5 engine. Like most VWs, this is a driver's car. It's still built in Germany. The car has a great feel on the road, very comfortable seats, and a sophisticated feeling suspension. There is very little road/wind noise. I have been getting around 27 mpg with mostly highway driving. This powertrain has enough pep for my needs while still using regular gas. There's lots of room with the seats folded down. If you can negotiate, VW still has great lease rates. Let me know if you have any questions!
-
Vehicle year: 2010
This is a fantastic car! It's spacious, enjoyable to drive, very well-built, quite speedy, and incredibly fuel-efficient. I get 43-45 mpg during my commute, mid 50's on the highway (I even got 59 mpg recently!), and mid 30's in the city. The Golf is surprisingly adept in the winter (I put snow tires on it), as it easily made it through over a foot of snow in my driveway last winter. This car never ceases to amaze me with its abilities.
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Golf?
Javonte Murray 2025-01-09
Vehicle year: 2020
I have owned three VWs and I appreciate the brand's concept of providing an affordable, well-made, and fun-to-drive European car in the US market. Unfortunately, my recent experience with a poorly made car has left me disappointed. Despite being a fun car to drive, the panoramic sunroof caused constant squeaking, creaking, and cracking noises, which the dealer was unable to resolve despite multiple attempts. This left me feeling like I was driving a worthless piece of junk. Additionally, the residual value of the car dropped significantly, causing me to lose all my equity from my previous trade-in. While I acknowledge that VW has had its share of scandals and quality control issues, I believe that they have the potential to dominate the US market with their unique offerings. The new Golf, for example, is built on the same platform as the Audi A3 and with the new turbo 4, it feels like a luxury car. Although the interior may feel a little old-fashioned compared to other cars in its class, it is still a great option for those looking for a well-made and fun-to-drive compact car with good seating for four and excellent fuel economy.VW has made a great effort to include quality interior components such as a soft-touch dashboard, leather steering wheel and shift knob, and a carpeted storage area in the door. However, there have been some quality control issues with the panoramic sunroof, which has caused some annoyance and frustration for the owner. Despite this, the car is still a great value and has many exceptional characteristics. While Consumer Reports has expressed concerns about the Golf's long-term reliability, only time will tell. The owner hopes to update the review in a year or so with good news.
Giles Mosciski 2025-01-07
Vehicle year: 2015
I've been eyeing one of these cars for a year now. After owning a 2011 Tiguan, which I absolutely adored, I decided to go for the Golf. While the car looks great and the engine is impressive, I have to admit that I've been a bit disappointed. The interior is nicely done and I'm a big fan of the sunroof. The power off the line is a bit slow until the turbo spools up, but after that, it has plenty of power. The fuel economy is a bit less than I expected for the size of the car, but it's not a deal-breaker. I bought the car about 8 months ago and have driven almost 6000 miles. Unfortunately, around 4700 miles, the transmission started to shutter when shifting gears. In sports mode, it shifted much better, but had a hard downshift. I took it in for maintenance and they replaced both front axles. They told me that VW was aware of the problem and that this would solve the issue I was having. They also mentioned that most customers don't start having this problem until they have around 15,000 miles on the car. While the car shifted better for the first 600 miles after the repair, it's now doing the same thing again. It's bad enough in drive, but in sports mode, it's terrible. I'm taking it back to the shop tomorrow and hoping they'll get it fixed correctly this time. If it wasn't for this issue, I would be very happy with the car and would give it a 4+ star rating. If you're considering purchasing one, I recommend checking out some of the VW forums first. There are a lot of people experiencing the same issue as me, and VW has yet to step up and solve the problem. Many of these people are die-hard VW fans who have owned VW vehicles for years.
Alfredo Quitzon 2025-01-01
Vehicle year: 2020
I purchased a new 2020 vehicle and experienced hesitation while shifting gears in the first month. When I brought it in for testing, I was told that it was normal. However, a year later, I encountered an error with the start-stop system and engine light. The dealership suggested that I use only top-tier gas, but the issue persisted even after they put a fuel additive in. Despite being in the shop for a month and undergoing several fixes, the problem persisted. The dealership replaced my coolant pipe and vacuum to my brake system, moved cylinders around, installed new wiring, and found that my exhaust valve was not closing properly, causing a cylinder to receive 30% less compression. Although the lights have not come back on, the vehicle still does not drive smoothly and the hesitation remains. Despite my attempts to discuss options with VW Canada, they have not been helpful. The dealership offered me a $400 credit for services, which does not provide peace of mind. They also suggested a trade-in assist or extended warranty, but did not provide details unless I bring my car back. As a young buyer who purchased a new vehicle for peace of mind, I am disappointed with my experience and would appreciate any advice.
Silas Klocko 2024-11-29
Vehicle year: 2002
I really appreciate the way the Golf runs and drives. However, I have been experiencing some issues with the windows opening and the car unlocking itself overnight. I have tried reaching out to two dealers, but unfortunately, they were unable to provide a solution. One of them suggested that someone might be doing it to me. It's concerning because it's an easy car to steal without anyone noticing. Although this issue has been frustrating, I still believe that the Golf is a great car. I hope to find a solution soon and continue enjoying it. Thank you for your understanding.
King Wisozk 2024-11-29
Vehicle year: 2002
I test drove my brother's 2001 VW Golf and loved it, so I decided to get a 2002 GLS Golf. However, within the first year of having it, I experienced some minor issues. For example, all four doors freeze shut in freezing rain or snow, which can be frustrating. I also had a faulty air intake boot clamp that caused my car to stop running during rush hour on a highway exit ramp. Additionally, there was an ABS recall and some extra noises. Despite these issues, I still enjoy driving my Golf.