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.
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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
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Vehicle year: 2017
Before making a decision, I highly recommend test driving the 2017 Golf. It's an economical car that is incredibly fun to drive. If you prefer sports cars, you may want to consider the GTI. I personally looked at the Mazda 3 and Ford Focus hatchback, but the Golf was the clear winner. The Ford Focus was less impressive, with a weak engine and higher cost. While the Mazda 3 had its merits, I couldn't get past its looks. I am extremely satisfied with my Golf, which feels like a much more expensive car thanks to its quality and practical functionality.
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Vehicle year: 2015
Five year update: I am happy to report that I have had zero problems with my car after 5 years, despite it having less than 30k miles, mostly in the city. The only service I have had, other than oil changes, was a VW recall on something in the steering wheel. Although I do worry about stiction issues when the car reaches the 50k mark, so far, so good. I still do oil changes at 3-5000 miles, rather than the 10k recommended by VW, but I have experienced no loss of power or gas mileage. I have heard that VW is considering phasing out the Golf in a few years, and I feel that would be a huge mistake. I am still very pleased with this car. It has a great ride, superior handling (thanks to the low profile 17 inch tires), a quiet interior (even on the highway), a terrific interior, and an awesome (Fender 400 watt) stereo. The back seat is surprisingly spacious and has good headroom. Although VWs are not known for reliability, it has a 5 year warranty on the engine and powertrain. I am even planning on using this car for a trip to FL, rather than my mid-size, because it is actually more comfortable (not to mention easier on gas). My only complaint is that when the Tiptronic transmission is in normal 'Drive' mode, it upshifts a bit too soon for my liking, resulting in borderline engine lugging. Switching to Sport mode, at least on takeoff, cures this, but it affects gas mileage if you leave it in Sport. Despite this, gas mileage has improved somewhat. Overall, I am very pleased with this car. One final note: Volkswagen says you can go for 10k between oil changes, but in a direct-injection engine like the TSI, I would go no longer than 5,000 to avoid engine stiction (gunk). It is a small price to pay for peace of mind.
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Vehicle year: 2010
Congratulations to those of you who have purchased new Golf TDI's! I too made the same decision when I bought mine in May 05, 2010 and I am constantly reminded that it was the right choice. The city/highway mpg is an impressive 37/43 and on interstates with the cruise set at 77-mph, I average 43-mpg. On secondary roads with the cruise set at 60-mph, I average 45-mpg! I have had NO warranty issues - it's a well-built car! As of August 2016, I am still extremely pleased with my car. With the VW settlement plan, I plan to buy a new TDY with all bells & whistles. The emission issue was way overblown! As of August 2017, I sold my car back to VW USA. They made me an offer I could not refuse. Unfortunately, VW is no longer selling diesels in the US or I would have bought a new VW diesel. The Golf never failed me and delivered everything I wanted. Just a heads up, the heading says it's for a
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Vehicle year: 2013
I am so glad to hear that you are enjoying your 2012 Golf TDI! It sounds like it has everything you could want in a car - great handling, power, and fuel efficiency. It's wonderful to hear that it drives like a solid European car but at a more affordable price. You have owned quite a few different car brands, but it's great to hear that the VW Golf is your happiest purchase. The top of the line Tech package sounds amazing, especially with the Dynadio stereo, navigation, LED running lights, and xenon headlights. It's definitely worth the extra cost in my opinion. When the time comes, I hope you will consider purchasing another VW Golf. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
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Vehicle year: 2006
The Gold GLS TDI is everything you could want and more. The diesel engine is incredibly quiet and smooth, with hardly any smoke under normal driving conditions. It's also unbelievably responsive. On the interstate, you can expect to get up to 56.8 mpg, while around town you'll get a respectable 39 to 41 mpg. VW has done an excellent job improving their engine design over the years. It's no wonder my daughter, son-in-law, and even my grandson who plays hockey all drive one. The ample head and leg room, as well as the comfortable ride, were important factors for me when comparing this car to others in the same category. Overall, I highly recommend the VW diesel.
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Golf?
Judah Labadie 2025-10-06
Vehicle year: 2003
When I first bought my Golf, it had 70k miles on it and I had every intention of driving it until 300k. Unfortunately, at 148k, that doesn't seem likely. For the first year, it went relatively well, with nothing too major. However, after that, it started to go downhill. Almost all the knobs for the audio adjustments have broken off, the paint on the buttons and controls has worn off, the ceiling lining is peeling off, the cloth padding on the doors is falling off, the hydraulic hood strut in the back has failed, and the key fob won't unlock the trunk anymore, just to name a few things. So far, I've replaced the radiator, had several misfires, replaced 2 of the window clips (which have a history of failing, resulting in your window falling off the track), the side mirror cover has fallen off on the highway twice, and not to mention it consumes oil like my grandpa consumes whiskey. All in all, I've spent close to what I paid for it maintaining it, and that's only 80k miles in. Currently, I'm looking to sell it and get something more reliable.
Cole Schaefer 2025-09-26
Vehicle year: 2021
The way you perceive this car largely depends on your previous experiences. While it is a decent car, it has a major drawback: its predecessors. Personally, I traded in my 2017 Golf 1.8T for this model, and I can't help but compare the two. Unfortunately, the 2021 model falls short in almost every aspect (slower, noisier, more cheaply made, only marginally more fuel efficient than its previous version, with signs of cost cutting everywhere, etc.). After driving it for just over a month, I can't think of a single compelling reason to choose it over its competitors. It's a nice car, but it's just that - a car. It doesn't have any special features that would make it stand out to someone who cares about what they drive. In my opinion, the Golf used to offer the perfect balance of drivability and practicality for the price, but unfortunately, that is no longer the case.
Florian Mills 2025-09-25
Vehicle year: 1998
I would like to share my experience with my VW car. While I have faced some challenges with it, I believe it is important to do your research before making a decision. Consumer Reports is a great resource to learn about the reliability of different car manufacturers. It is worth noting that my Honda, which is older and has more miles, has been more reliable. I hope this information is helpful to you as you consider your options.
Bernardo Mills 2025-09-19
Vehicle year: 1997
This is my first car that I got in high school and I still have it. I bought it with 68,000 miles in 2007 and have put on about 30,000 miles since then. Despite having only 4 cylinders, I have no trouble getting up to speed on the highway and passing other cars. The gas mileage is decent around town, but it really shines between 50-75 mph. The interior is not the most luxurious, with a lot of cheap plastic pieces, but considering it's 15 years old, it's not surprising that most of it is deteriorating. The only major issue I had was with an intermittent speedometer, but I plan on driving this car until it can't go any further. If you manage to find one, you won't be disappointed.
Makenna Ledner 2025-09-06
Vehicle year: 2001
The Volkswagen Golf has some areas for improvement, such as its electrical system and engine build quality. However, it also has some well-designed features. It's worth considering other options like Lexus or Mazda, especially if you're looking for a more reliable car.