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: 2020
I'm so excited to share my experience with the 2019 Golf SE with 6-speed Manuel! Even though I've never been a fan of golfing, this car has definitely won me over. The ride is incredibly smooth and there are plenty of upscale options to choose from. I had to go out of state to find it, but it was definitely worth the trip. On my 250 mile journey home on toll/interstate highways, I was able to average an impressive 39.3 mpg while going 70-80 most of the time. This car is truly engaging and I love all the nice features it comes with, like leather seats, heated seats, sunroof, and Apple play. It's white on the outside and black on the inside, which is just perfect. After owning it for almost 3 years, I can confidently say that it's a practical, economical, yet sporty fun ride that I highly recommend. The only issue I had was a malfunctioning driver's side window, but it was quickly fixed under warranty. Overall, this is a great car!
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Vehicle year: 2016
I purchased a loaded Golf 4-door TSI SE in March 2016 and I absolutely love it, although I do have some reservations. In my opinion, this car offers better value than its competitors, although they are catching up (for example, Mazda). The build quality is on par with Audi and it has performed very well. The service department at my dealership (Coastal VW) has been great so far, although the sales department has gone downhill. I have owned the car for 3 years and have only driven it very low miles (20,500). My only complaint was the EPC error with engine hesitation, which occurred about 10 times before it was resolved with a software update. My other minor complaint is that the automatic transmission downshifting could be smoother. If you are considering a hatchback, I highly recommend including the VW Golf TSI in your test drive lineup, as it offers great value. I received a good trade-in value and recently purchased a 2019 GTI Autobahn in Silver White Metallic with the new VW warranty offering (6/72k). I got a great deal and the sales experience at Kelly VW was excellent!
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Vehicle year: 2010
This is actually my third VW! I traded in my 2005 Hyundai Elantra, which was a competent car, but after having owned a 1969 Beetle and a 1997 Jetta before, I felt called back into the VW fold, so to speak. The only car in the class that comes close to offering the same lively character in driving is the Mazda 3, but it lacks the refinement in ride quality. Having owned an 03 Mazda Pr5 and the aforementioned Hyundai in between VWs, it's odd seeing that the revs are so low as I'm driving. The ummph comes in low. I'm seeing 25/26 in the city and 31/32 on the highway. The build quality appears impeccable and the material quality is on par with MB, BMW, and, most obviously, Audis in which I've ridden or driven.
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Vehicle year: 1999
Overall, the 1999 VW Golf is a fantastic car. It has the handling of a go-kart, fuel economy like a moped, and acceleration like a puma. The TDI engine is exceptional with its mileage and reliability. Burning biodiesel, you can expect to reach 300,000 miles without any major issues, if the body lasts that long (salty Maine air, roads).
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Vehicle year: 2002
Since breaking the car in (at around 12,000 miles), you can consistently expect to reach 54mpg, with a range of over 700 miles per tank. Even if you drive it like a scalded cat, you can still get over 50mpg. It's a great commuter car, and if you're looking at a TDI, be sure to get the 5-speed.
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Golf?
Orland Dibbert 2025-04-26
Vehicle year: 1997
I bought my 97 Golf brand new. At first, I loved my little love bug. However, within the first year, there were transmission problems. On the bright side, gas mileage is great. Although I have had my Golf for over 7 years, it has put me down more times than I can count. I know many people love their VW, but finally, you meet someone who doesn't. Unfortunately, my outside paneling came off within the first 2 years, and my check engine light stays on, and the dealership doesn't know why. It can be a bit of a hassle to get an emission, and recently my emergency brake has become problematic. I can't park on hills. I took good care of this car, but anyone considering this car should think again. I should have gone with Toyota!
Johnnie Heller 2025-04-25
Vehicle year: 1998
I'm three years into owning my '97 Golf, having bought it with 24k miles. I can say that it's the little things that can drive you crazy. Now at 75k+, the engine is still a tiger. It's zippy and fun to drive with enough pickup to blow off slow pokes on the highway. However, I'd be hard-pressed to ever buy a VW again. Within a year of buying it, I experienced seized power locks, a dead rear wiper, and no intermittent wiper up front. Many obnoxious little repairs and electrical bugs made it a serious pain in the butt. It's cute and useful, but it doesn't hold up well here in the Upstate NY Arctic!
King Schneider 2025-04-21
Vehicle year: 2016
It is unacceptable to have a repair cost of ten thousand dollars for a well-maintained vehicle that is only four years old. Despite attempts to contact Volkswagen Canada and the local Barrie dealer, no response has been received.
Franco Johnston 2025-04-18
Vehicle year: 2010
I appreciate everything about this car, however, I have experienced some quality issues. When I purchased the car, the door was misaligned and the fuel tank produces a swooshing sound when coming to a stop. The dealer has suggested that there may be a defect with the baffles or other components.
Isidro Heller 2025-04-10
Vehicle year: 1997
The Golf III is a decent car overall. Although, the locks tend to freeze easily which can cause the key to bend in unnatural ways. Additionally, there were some corners cut during production which resulted in the battery dying after two years and the spark plugs coking-up 20K miles early. Dealer service can be quite expensive, with numerous checks costing $200-$300. However, this is not the case with Honda, as their scheduled part replacement is included in the price. It is possible that this is a dealer-specific issue though.