Volkswagen Golf alltrack problems

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The Volkswagen Golf (Mk7) is a C-segment car manufactured by German automobile manufacturer Volkswagen. It is the seventh generation in the Golf series and the successor to the Golf Mk6. It was introduced in Berlin on 4 September 2012, before a public launch at the 2012 Paris Motor Show. Sales in Europe began with the model in November 2012.

Marketed in three-door and five-door hatchback, van, and estate forms, the Golf Mk7 shares the MQB platform with the third generation Audi A3, SEAT León and Škoda Octavia.

In November 2016, Volkswagen presented a facelift of the Golf Mk7. It was replaced in December 2019 by the Golf Mk8, which is built on the MQB Evo platform. Production of the e-Golf and the Golf Variant ended in mid-2020.

photo of Volkswagen Golf alltrack car production

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Volkswagen Golf alltrack model years

volkswagen golf alltrack 2019 photo
Golf alltrack 2019
Volkswagen

0

3

17

4.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen golf alltrack 2018 photo
Golf alltrack 2018
Volkswagen

0

0

22

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen golf alltrack 2017 photo
Golf alltrack 2017
Volkswagen

0

1

18

4.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Volkswagen Golf alltrack problems

The Volkswagen Golf Alltrack, a small SUV alternative with increased ground clearance and all-wheel drive, has been available for only three years, and there are specific issues to avoid when considering purchasing one.

The 2018 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack is the year to avoid due to several irritating faults that can disrupt the driving experience. These issues include misaligned headlights, which can affect visibility during nighttime driving, a dead key-fob battery, which can leave drivers stranded if they don't have a backup key, and a squeaky clutch pedal, which can be an annoyance during daily driving. Additionally, some drivers have reported problems with the air conditioning system, which can make the car uncomfortable during hot weather.

While these issues may not be extreme, they can add up and detract from the overall driving experience. If you are set on purchasing a Golf Alltrack, it's recommended to avoid the 2018 model and consider the 2017 or 2019 models instead. These years have received minimal complaints and excellent reviews from both professionals and everyday drivers, bringing in top-notch safety reviews and minimal repairs and troubles.

Another potential issue to consider is the 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine found in the Alltrack, which can be a source of trouble for some owners. Test-driving shoppers are advised to be on the lookout for poor or sporadic performance at moderate- to full throttle, and for any Check Engine Light (CEL) or warning messages displayed in the instrument cluster. These can illuminate for hundreds of reasons, including some relating to coil-pack failure, turbocharger failure, vacuum leaks, and more. The engine should pull strong and smooth in the mid-RPM range. If the acceleration feels lumpy or jerky, be sure to have a technician investigate.

In summary, while the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack is a unique offering from VW with a cult following, it's essential to be aware of potential issues before purchasing, especially when considering the 2018 model. By being informed and cautious, you can find a reliable and enjoyable car that fits your needs and preferences.

Volkswagen Golf alltrack

What is the most common problem with the VW Golf?

VW Golf owners often search for information about the following problems.

  • Fuel leaks. ...
  • Blocked DPF. ...
  • Stretched timing chain. ...
  • DSG automatic gearbox issues. ...
  • Foggy headlight lenses. ...
  • Faulty handbrake. ...
  • Electrical issues. ...
  • Faulty crash sensors.

What is the best year of the Alltrack?

There are two quality choices for the Golf Alltrack. We recommend the 2017 or 2019 version with the best reviews and minimal customer complaints.

Why was the Golf Alltrack discontinued?

Production of the VW SportWagen and Alltrack Comes to an End

After the 2019 model year, Volkswagen is discontinuing sales of the Golf SportWagen and the Golf Alltrack in the United States. The automaker has decided to place more of a focus on the new SUV models that will soon be hitting showrooms.

How many miles should a VW Golf last?

between 100,000 and 200,000 miles

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.

Recalls Volkswagen Golf alltrack

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Golf alltrack.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Volkswagen Golf alltrack 2019
  • Report Received Date: 2023-08-30
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Golf, Golf Alltrack, Golf Sportwagen, 2019-2020 Golf GTI, and Jetta vehicles equipped with a conventional ignition switch. The ignition switch may fail, especially in high temperature environments.
  • Consequence: Ignition switch failure can cause the electrical system to shut down and the engine to stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 1, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 28H7.
  • Model: Volkswagen Golf alltrack 2019
  • Report Received Date: 2022-10-31
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan LWB, Golf Sportswagen A7, Golf Alltrack, Golf R GP, Audi Q3, Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas, Golf A7, Audi A3, 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport, and 2021 Atlas FL vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system may not detect an air pressure loss in adequate time when deflating occurs among all four tires simultaneously. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
  • Consequence: An undetected sudden loss of pressure in all four tires increases the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will update the TPMS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 18, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi’s customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are (Audi) 45J7, and (VW) 45J6 and 45J8.
  • Model: Volkswagen Golf alltrack 2017
  • Report Received Date: 2020-09-16
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Golf R and Atlas, 2017 Golf Alltrack and E-Golf and 2016-2018 Passat vehicles. These internal use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
  • Consequence: Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of a crash or injury to vehicle occupants.
  • Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners and will repurchase the vehicles. The recall began October 6, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01E9.
  • Model: Volkswagen Golf alltrack 2019
  • Report Received Date: 2019-12-11
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Park It: 1
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Jetta GLI, Golf Alltrack, and Golf GTI vehicles. The front wheel bearings may have been improperly machined, potentially causing excessive stress on the wheel, wheel bolts, or wheel bearings.
  • Consequence: The excessive stress can cause steering, traction or other stability issues or breakage relating to the front wheels, and increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Volkswagen has notified owners, and dealers will replace the wheel bearing assemblies, wheels, and wheel bolts, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 40P1. Note: The affected owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repairs have been made.

Latest negative Volkswagen Golf alltrack car reviews

  1. Darion King 2024-11-02

    Vehicle year: 2019

    Hey there! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the Alltrack. It sounds like you've had some mixed experiences with it. While it's great to hear that the car handles well in bad weather and feels like a sports car, it's a shame that it's not as spacious as you'd like. I totally understand how frustrating it can be when the GPS doesn't work properly, especially if you rely on it for work. It's also disappointing to hear that you've had some electronic issues with the vehicle. Overall, it sounds like the Alltrack has some great features, but also some areas for improvement. Thanks again for sharing your honest review!The back-up camera, hidden under the emblem, is probably the most ingenious thing any car maker has ever done. It never gets dirty. However, I have had some issues with the paint on the tailgate chipping and peeling, which is disappointing considering the car is only 5 months old. If you are a die-hard VW fan, I would definitely recommend the Alltrack. However, there are many other vehicles in the same price range with more room and proven technology that may be worth considering.

  2. Soledad Abbott 2024-09-29

    Vehicle year: 2018

    I was really hoping to like the VW Alltrack, especially since we've had such good experiences with the VW Passat and Passat Wagon - we've owned multiple of those as well. Unfortunately, while the Alltrack looks great from the outside, handles well, and seems like it would be fun to drive, it falls short in a few key areas. The primary issue is the lack of space in both the front and rear seats, as well as the cargo department. Taller drivers will especially struggle with the limited foot movement due to the steering wheel column. We really enjoyed having the Passat Wagon and we hope that VW will reconsider bringing it back to the US, or redesign the Alltrack with more space to address the growing segment of the market.

  3. Jonathan Ortiz 2024-09-16

    Vehicle year: 2018

    Hey there! Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the Alltrack. It sounds like you've had some mixed experiences with it. While it's great to hear that the car handles well in bad weather and feels like a sports car, it's a shame that it's not as spacious as you'd like. I totally understand how frustrating it can be when the GPS doesn't work properly, especially if you rely on it for work. It's also disappointing to hear about the electronic issues you've had with the vehicle. On the bright side, it's great to hear that the engine is powerful and the car feels like a much more expensive model. Thanks again for sharing your honest thoughts with us!The back-up camera, hidden under the emblem, is probably the most ingenious thing any car maker has ever done. It never gets dirty. However, I have had some issues with the paint on the tailgate chipping and peeling, which is disappointing considering the car is only 5 months old. If you are a die-hard VW fan, I would definitely recommend the Alltrack. However, there are many other vehicles in the same price range with more room and proven technology that may be worth considering.

  4. Korbin King 2024-08-13

    Vehicle year: 2018

    Hello! I wanted to share my experience with our 2017 Alltrack. We received a notice about a recall to repair an issue with the sunroof in September 2021. Additionally, the driver's side power seats weren't working, so we took it to the dealer in Marin County, California in October. Unfortunately, we received a call from the service advisor stating that the roof had leaked water into the headliner, floorboards, and even soaked the airbags, causing major damage. Despite the extended warranty we purchased from the dealer, VW is refusing to take responsibility for the damage caused by their faulty design. After further research, I discovered that this is a common problem with Alltracks, as well as VW's refusal to take responsibility. We are now joining a class action suit with others against VW. I hope that by sharing my experience, others can be aware of the potential risks. Thank you for listening.

  5. Isai Howell 2024-08-12

    Vehicle year: 2017

    The car does not display the gear until the clutch is fully disengaged and the car is moving. This can be confusing and potentially dangerous, as you may think you are in first gear when you are actually in third. This issue is compounded by the push button start, which requires the driver to quickly stomp on the brake to restart the car after stalling. Additionally, the distracted driver electronics, such as the driver assistance package, are not up to par. During a 30-minute test drive in city traffic, the car only achieved 19.7 mpg. Overall, I prefer to stick with my TDI. Thank you for considering my experience.

Latest positive Volkswagen Golf alltrack car reviews

  1. Colin Legros 2024-11-18

    Vehicle year: 2017

    Pros: The car handles great and drives more like a car than an SUV or crossover. Additionally, it has a nice moonroof and a good sound system. The acceleration is also good. Cons: Although the headlights could be brighter, overall it's a great car to drive.

  2. Neil Gleason 2024-11-06

    Vehicle year: 2017

    In 2016, I owned a Sportswagen Limited, but unfortunately lost it in a really bad accident. Thankfully, my wife was fine. That's why I decided to replace it with a 2017 Alltrack SE, which I affectionately call my 'little big car'. It has good gas mileage, great handling, and a grateful look.

  3. D'angelo Swaniawski 2024-10-26

    Vehicle year: 2018

    That's great to hear! It sounds like you really enjoy your vehicle.

  4. Rico Hand 2024-10-23

    Vehicle year: 2017

    Clean and classic wagon, with a smooth ride and great fuel efficiency.

  5. Darwin Mayer 2024-10-23

    Vehicle year: 2018

    I recently switched to the Alltrack after receiving a great buy back offer for my VW Diesel Golf Wagon in the Dieselgate scandal. I hope that VW has learned their lesson and that there won't be any more e-cheats related to e-car specs! I chose the VW over the Subaru, which felt too plasticky and lacked the driver feel I was looking for. Additionally, my experience with the dealer in Houston was not great. I also preferred the VW over the Mazda CX-9, which was unfortunately too wide for my garage. Car width can be a problem for many people with narrow parking spots. From the moment I sat in the Golf wagon, I knew it was the perfect fit for me. The front seats are comfortable, and all the controls are in the right place, with most of them being tactile knobs that can be adjusted by feel without having to take your eyes off the road. Aside from the great driving experience, the flexibility and size of the back load area make this car incredibly useful in my daily life. Whether I'm collecting flattened Amazon cardboard for the recycling depot or loading up our beach trolley, the Alltrack has proven to be a reliable appliance. However, I am concerned about the longevity of this car. In the past, I owned a VW microbus, and everything could be fixed at a modest price, including replacing the clutch myself. Unfortunately, there are warning signs that the vast amount of electronics in the Alltrack (and probably most current cars) will make them unfixable within a few years. My first warning came with the failure of one of the wheel speed sensors, which cost over $400 to fix. The dealer ominously warned me that there were three more sensors. It seems like cars are moving into an economic zone where you are expected to shell out $40K every five years or move to public transport if you can't afford that.

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