2018 Volkswagen Golf r problems
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.
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Common 2018 Volkswagen Golf r problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Volkswagen Golf R 2018, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Water Pump and Thermostat Housing Failure:
- The water pump and thermostat housing are a common unit in the MK7.5 Golf R. Made of plastic, this part is prone to cracking or warping due to exposure to hot engine components, leading to coolant leaks, overheating, and potential engine damage.
- Owners should regularly monitor coolant levels and be vigilant for early signs of coolant loss to prevent more severe issues. Repairs can cost around £300-400 in parts plus 4-5 hours of labor if out of warranty.
- It is recommended to have this repair done by a reputable Volkswagen specialist to save on labor costs.
- Bonnet Latch, Cable, and Handle Issues:
- Components like the bonnet latch, cable, and interior handle are susceptible to failure. Symptoms include a stiff interior bonnet handle or difficulty closing the bonnet properly.
- Replacement parts can cost around £30 for a used cable or £40 for a new aftermarket latch, with additional labor costs.
- Regular usage of the car is advised to ensure the battery remains charged, especially if there are signs of bonnet latch issues to avoid being stranded due to a flat battery.
- Haldex System Maintenance:
- The Haldex system requires regular oil changes and servicing every 3 years to maintain optimal performance and prevent premature wear.
- Neglecting Haldex servicing can lead to reduced traction on the drive system and potential internal damage.
- The cost of a Haldex service typically ranges around £99+VAT, and it is crucial for maintaining the functionality and longevity of the system.
These common problems with the Volkswagen Golf R 2018 highlight the importance of regular maintenance and proactive monitoring to address issues promptly and ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
What is the common issue with Golf R?
Carbon buildup: The Volkswagen Golf R is known to experience carbon buildup in the intake valves, which can lead to engine misfires and reduced performance. Water pump failure: Some Volkswagen Golf R owners have reported water pump failure, which can cause overheating and engine damage.
How long will a Golf R engine last?
How long do Volkswagen Golf engines last? A well cared for Golf engine can last as long as a decade, but the average engine that's encountered heavy use and potential wear and tear through its lifespan should last at least 5 years before it develops the need for a little TLC.
Can you daily drive a Golf R?
Intake, exhaust, ECU and DSG software tuning, suspension, brakes, aesthetics, the list goes on and on and on. With a few modifications and the right expertise, the Golf R can be transformed into the perfect daily driver. The intake is one of the easiest modifications to do, which makes it a first for many.
Will Golf R hold its value?
The combination of desirable VW badge and exceptional driving dynamics has meant strong demand for Golf R models on the secondhand market. And while the fast flagship sells in greater numbers than the GTI, our experts predict that the popular R will retain at least 50 percent of its new value after three years.
What is the common issue with Golf R?
Carbon buildup: The Volkswagen Golf R is known to experience carbon buildup in the intake valves, which can lead to engine misfires and reduced performance. Water pump failure: Some Volkswagen Golf R owners have reported water pump failure, which can cause overheating and engine damage.
How long will a Golf R engine last?
How long do Volkswagen Golf engines last? A well cared for Golf engine can last as long as a decade, but the average engine that's encountered heavy use and potential wear and tear through its lifespan should last at least 5 years before it develops the need for a little TLC.
Is the Golf R good on fuel?
And so, it seems, do miles when you're driving a car that has a lot going for it. As you'll have read above, the Golf R's performance and fuel economy have struck an impressive balance, averaging more than 35mpg to this point, while offering the potential to thoroughly excite on back roads.
How much engine does a Golf R 2018 have?
2.0L I-4
Retail Price
| Engine | 2.0L I-4 |
|---|---|
| MPG | Up to 21 city / 29 highway |
| Seating | 5 Passengers |
| Transmission | 6-spd man w/OD |
| Power | 292 @ 5400 rpm |
2018 Volkswagen Golf r car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Golf r problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Volkswagen Golf r vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2018 Volkswagen Golf r complaints
The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Volkswagen Golf r.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-18
- VIN: WVWVF7AU6JW
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: After starting the car and then beginning to drive, the transmission falls into neutral when it should have shifted from 1st to 2nd gear. In order to recover, the driver has to stop applying the accelerator and then wait a second or two for the rpm’s to approach idle rates before the transmission will re-engage. It is not repeatable, and is sporadic but always when first driving the car after it has been recently started. This has occurred about 5times in 35k and is happening more often. I have taken it to the dealer multiple times but they dismiss the concern because they haven’t yet been able to repeat it. This bad shift / loss of power is dangerous when trying to initially accelerate and merge into traffic.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-18
- VIN: WVWVF7AU8JW
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Volkswagen Golf R. The contact stated that the headlights had become significantly dim while driving due to moisture accumulation inside the headlights housing. The contact stated that the failure had reduced the visibility of the roadway while driving at night. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who informed the contact that the manufacturer had advised to drive 30 minutes after starting the vehicle to allow the moisture to evaporate, as per TSB Number: 94-19-01. The dealer and the manufacturer informed the contact that the headlights were designed to collect condensation. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 62,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-05
- VIN: WVWVF7AUXJW
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: When driving the car it occasionally slips into neutral when it should be making the 1st to 2nd shift. Happens rarely; about 12-15 times in 60K miles. More common after filling up with gas, but has happened at other times. Very dangerous as one pulls out to merge into traffic to have the car do this when trying to accelerate. Acceleration is moderate and not flooring it when this happens. I know of 3-4 others on VW forum reporting the same issue. Again, this is potentially DANGEROUS.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-16
- VIN: WVWVF7AU1JW
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Around 5 times now over the last year or two, most recently yesterday, the (DSG automatic) transmission has dropped out of gear into neutral when pulling away from a stop. Note that the shifter was not moved and did not move - but the transmission pops out of gear. Every time this has been when pulling pretty gently away from a stop sign or intersection.. It has happened both when the car was cold, and also after driving 15 miles. Yesterday was a highly dangerous situation - I was making a left turn out of a gas station across 4 lanes of traffic, and when it dropped to neutral was left rolling across the lanes with revs up and in neutral gear unable to accelerate. This was when it occurred to me that this could cause serious injury or death. I asked about this behavior on a VW owners forum, and so far have one response from another owner saying the same thing has happened to him 15-20 times (also a 2018 R) and his dealer says is "normal". I've not talked to my dealer yet. So does not appear to be unique to me. - No warning indicators - Not taken to dealer yet - Component - dual clutch automatic transmission (DSG) - Safety - Highly dangerous loss of gear/ability to accelerate out of path of oncoming traffic. - Available for inspection on request
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-10
- VIN: WVWWF7AU6JW
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: EXITING A PARKING LOT WITH A 15% INCLINE @3MPH MERGING INTO THE ROAD, THE FRONT PARK ASSIST SENSORS BEEPED AND THE VEHICLE AUTOMATICALLY APPLIED BRAKES INSTEAD OF ACCELERATING. THE ENGINE STALLED SINCE I HAD THE CLUTCH FULLY RELEASED, INCOMING TRAFFIC HAD TO STOP WHEN THEY NOTICED THE VEHICLE NOT MOVING. PARKPILOT SYSTEM WILL OFTEN MISREAD THE ROAD AS AN OBSTACLE AND APPLY BRAKES ON ITS OWN, SPECIALLY BELOW THE 3MPH SPEED. IT COULD BE A COMBINATION OF THE RIDE HEIGHT OF THIS VEHICLE AND THE LAYOUT OF REGULAR PARKING LOTS IN THE US.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-03
- VIN: WVWVF7AU7JW
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: FRONT COLLISION WARNING SOUNDS WHEN LEAVING PARKING LOTS WITH SMALL DIP WHERE THE ROAD MEETS THE EXIT. 25% OF THE TIME MY EMERGENCY BRAKES ACTIVATE STOPPING THE CAR WHEN I WANT TO EXIT. THE CAR THINKS THE ROAD IS AN OBSTACLE BECAUSE OF THE DIP. THIS HAPPEN OFTEN AND IN DIFFERENT PARKING LOTS. VERY DANGEROUS SINCE YOU'RE ENTERING A ROAD WAY AND COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-07-11
- VIN: WVWWF7AU6JW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: BACKUP CAMERA MAY NOT DISPLAY UPON SHIFTING TO REVERSE - I HAD AN ANDROID PHONE PROJECTING AN ANDROID AUTO SESSION. WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING, STATIONARY AT A PARKING LOT, I DEPRESSED THE CLUTCH AND SHIFTED TO REVERSE. THE INFOTAINMENT SYSTEM DID NOT SHOW THE BACKUP CAMERA NOR A WARNING POPUP OF AN ERROR - IT JUST DISPLAYED THE MEDIA SCREEN. I TRIED 3 TIMES MORE - THE 2ND TIME THE INFOTAINMENT DISPLAY SHOWED "PARKPILOT IS CURRENTLY NOT AVAILABLE". PICTURE IS ATTACHED. VIDEO IS AVAILABLE IF NEEDED.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-14
- VIN: WVWWF7AU0JW
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE INSIDE CAR WHILE DRIVING ON A 55MPH DIVIDED HIGHWAY AND 1/2 TANK OF GAS INDICATED. WITHIN APPROXIMATELY 10 MILES OF DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND BACK ROADS ATTEMPTING TO MAKE IT TO A SERVICE STATION, ~1/8 TANK OF GAS WAS INDICATED BY GAUGE, THE ENGINE STOPPED RUNNING AFTER ONLY 1 STUMBLE. HEAVY SMELL OF RAW GASOLINE INSIDE OF CAR AND UNDER HOOD. NO PUDDLE OF GAS WAS OBSERVED UNDER CAR. THE LOCAL POLICE WERE CALLED OUT AND CONFIRMED NO CURRENTLY LEAKING GAS BEFORE AAA WOULD DISPATCH A TOW TRUCK. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO THE SELLING DEALER AND DIAGNOSED AS A FAILED HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP AND A CLAMP NOT CONNECTED BETWEEN HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP AND HIGH PRESSURE FUEL HOSE. I WAS TOLD THIS FAULT WOULD CAUSE AN INCORRECT FUEL LEVEL TO BE SHOWN BUT DEALER WOULD NOT CONFIRM IT WAS THE CAUSE OF THE LOST GASOLINE. THE CAR HAD PREVIOUSLY HAD THE FUEL RECALL PERFORMED BY THE SAME DEALER AND DEALER SAID THE RECALL HAD BEEN PERFORMED PROPERLY AND THIS FAILURE WAS NOT RELATED. WHEN CAR WAS RETUNED AFTER PUMP REPLACEMENT, INTERIOR OF CAR AND ENGINE STILL SMELLED OF GASOLINE BUT CAR SEEMED TO BE DRIVING NORMALLY.
WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-11-27
- VIN: WVWVF7AU2JW
- Components: WHEELS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: AFTER A RAIN THE PASSENGER SIDE BRAKE PAD STICKS TO THE OUTBOARD ROTOR. THE PAD BINDS TO THE ROTOR CAUSING THE BRAKE TL SEIZE. THE VEHICLE WAS IN REVERSE BACKING OUT.OF PARK.
2018 Volkswagen Golf r recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2018 Volkswagen Golf r.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Touareg GP, Tiguan, Golf A6, E-Golf GP, CCF, 2016-2017 Passat GP, 2018-2019 Golf R GP, and 2018 Atlas 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 injury, crash, or fire.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will repurchase the vehicles. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01F1.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Golf R vehicles. The fuel hose quick connector may detach from the fuel supply line in the engine bay, resulting in a fuel leak.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the engine compartment can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will secure the fuel line connection, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 11, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 20Bi.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen e-Golf and Golf R vehicles, and Audi A3 Sedan and RS3 vehicles. The rear seat frame head restraint guide sleeves may be incorrectly welded to the seat frame.
- Consequence: If the guide sleeves are incorrectly welded, in the event of a crash, the rear seat head restraints may have reduced stability, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Volkswagen and Audi will notify their owners, and dealers will inspect the guide sleeves for incorrect welds, replacing the rear seat frame, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 28, 2018. 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 72H8 (VW) and 72H9(Audi).
Positive 2018 Volkswagen Golf r car reviews
Other years of Volkswagen Golf r
Are you having problems with your 2018 Volkswagen Golf r?
Gayle Kulas 2025-08-06
I had two GTI's before this car and I absolutely loved them. I decided to go for even more power and I must say, it's more than I need but super fun to drive. The technology in this car is great and I really enjoy driving it. The suspension is sporty so you do feel the road, which I personally like, but it's best to avoid potholes. Update: May 2021 - I still LOVE the car, but I have had to put the suspension DCC in Comfort mode as the potholes have caused damage to two tires and one rim. If you live in an area with good roads, it won't be an issue, but unfortunately, I live in LA...
Jordi Nicolas 2025-07-28
I cross shopped this with much more expensive cars. Once I started driving it, I was blown away. It's quick, but not incredibly fast. It handles, but isn't the best handling car. That being said, it all blends together into an incredibly balanced and engaging vehicle that makes driving to work a rush. The interior is beautifully finished. The seats are comfortable and the navigation system has some fun features. The stereo is pretty good. I couldn't really point out a fault.
Eino Marks 2025-07-11
The Golf R is a car that some people may not fully appreciate at first glance. Sure, it may seem like a lot to spend $41K on a VW Golf, and it may not turn heads like some other cars out there. But don't let its unassuming appearance fool you - it's a real powerhouse. For those who value performance, it can easily compete with many so-called sports cars. In fact, if you compare its acceleration, handling, and braking statistics to those of the last generation C5 Corvette, you'll see that it more than holds its own. Plus, it's equipped with the same engine and transmission as the Audi S3 and TTS, but at a much more affordable price point. And unlike some other Similarly, it would be great if the navigation system could be used independently of the radio. Maybe VW could take a cue from Honda on this one.
Jeffrey Block 2025-06-26
I have been interested in this vehicle for almost two years. When the 2017 model came out with DCC, I did some more research and finally decided to buy it. The ride home from the dealership on I-95 left a smile on my face that lasted until the next day, when I got an even bigger smile after understanding more about the systems. The car is incredibly quick and goes exactly where you want it to. The seats are very comfortable, even after spending over four hours in the vehicle on the second day. The tech may be a little intimidating at first, as the vehicle has almost every conceivable bit of information at your fingertips. VW's carnet is much better than Onstar. The fender sound system is absolutely outstanding. I decided to lease mine because of my previous experience with VW products. They all developed
Chase Stamm 2025-06-21
After 6 months of ownership in Lapiz Blue, DSG, & dynamic chassis control, I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. This car is an absolute joy to drive, with its impressive speed, excellent grip, and practicality. Even in snowy conditions, the high-performance all-season tires handled well. At $40K, this Audi S3 is a steal, especially with the Fender audio system that provides excellent sound quality. Although I did experience some issues with my entertainment and navigation system, a quick dealer refresh resolved the problem. While I do wish that the car had a Homelink garage door opener, LED tail lights, and a sunroof option, I still find the car to be luxurious and practical. The black, dark, and serious interior could benefit from an open roof to create a more airy atmosphere. I did have some trouble with the center console being bolted shut, but overall, this car is special and exclusive. I highly recommend it, especially if you can strike a good deal.