2017 Volkswagen Golf sportwagen 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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Common 2017 Volkswagen Golf sportwagen problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2017 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen, several common problems have been reported:
- Stereo System Freezing: Some owners have reported problems with the stereo system freezing.
- Suspension Noises: Complaints include a slight banging sound from the front driver side suspension on certain road conditions, which has not been resolved.
- Lane-Keeping Assist System: Some owners have misunderstood the lane-keeping assist system as a warning light, causing confusion.
- Seals and Weather Stripping: Seals and weather stripping issues have been reported, resulting in wind noises and air leaks, particularly affecting the sunroof.
- Electrical Accessories: Complaints about electrical accessories have been noted, although specific details are not provided in the search results.
- Engine Major: There have been reports of engine major issues, but details are not specified in the search results.
- Brakes: Brake-related problems have been mentioned, but specific complaints are not outlined in the search results.
- Steering and Suspension: Complaints regarding steering and suspension issues have been reported, including the banging sound from the front driver side suspension.
- Paint and Exterior: No specific details are provided in the search results, but paint and exterior issues have been mentioned.
These problems highlight a range of issues that owners of the 2017 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen have faced. From leaks in the panoramic roof to suspension noises and confusion over warning lights, these issues can impact the driving experience and require attention for resolution.
Is the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen a reliable car?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 11% for the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen, compared to an average of 11% for compact cars and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
How reliable is a 2017 Volkswagen Golf?
The 2017 Volkswagen Golf has a predicted reliability rating of three out of five from J.D. Power. That's average among all vehicles but slightly below average for the class.
How long will a Golf SportWagen 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.
Why did VW discontinue the SportWagen?
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.
Is the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen a reliable car?
The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 11% for the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen, compared to an average of 11% for compact cars and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.
Is VW Golf 2017 reliable?
Reliability 8/10 – There are no major mechanical issues reported on the 2017 Golf. Avoid models from 2015 which have some engine problems, while 2016–2021 are more reliable.
How long will a Golf SportWagen 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.
Why did VW discontinue the SportWagen?
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.
2017 Volkswagen Golf sportwagen car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Golf sportwagen problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Unknown or other problems
- Suspension problems
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2017 Volkswagen Golf sportwagen vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2017 Volkswagen Golf sportwagen
The NHTSA has received 107 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2017 Volkswagen Golf sportwagen. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2017 Volkswagen Golf sportwagen vehicles.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 3VWU17AU4HM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Left and Rear Coil Springs have snapped in half due to unreasonably dangerous defective manufacturing. This is consistent with the open recall for the exact condition: NHTSA's campaign number: 19V188000. However, VW North America refuses to consider my vehicle for the recall as my vin is not included. Although the snaps reflect a a dangerous manufacturing defect, VW incorrectly has determined the rear coil springs on my vehicle are not "in the batch" of defective coil springs.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-07
- VIN: 3VWC17AU3HM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: When fueling the car at the gas station, the gas pump would shut off, almost immediately and the little fuel would gush out of the tank. We are unable to fuel the car. Repeated several times, but unable to fuel the car. From reading various online forum posting of folks with a similar problem, it appears that the suspect is the suction pump. Called the dealer and the recommend getting a new gas tank. Estimate cost of repair-$4,000. Taking car to dealership to have the suction pump replaced under the recall and see what happens.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-06
- VIN: 3VWC17AUXHM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Passenger Occupancy Sensor (0152612) failed causing airbag and seatbelt warning lights to illuminate. Airbag was not functional while lights were on. Dealer diagnosed and repaired issue for $892.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-27
- VIN: 3VWC17AU6HM
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen. 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 contact stated while driving at approximately 60 MPH, the fuel tank was leaking. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed that the EVAP system had been filled with fuel, but the fix for the vehicle could not be determined. The vehicle was not repaired. 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 70,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-06
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf. 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 contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirm parts not available.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-20
- VIN: 3VWC17AU2HM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: [XXX] loud clunking noise from right rear of car taken to VW KIngst on, NY, diagnosed with broken rear springs there is a recall but not for my VIN number, but my springs are broken, maybe VIN numbers need updating INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-15
- VIN: 3VWC17AU8HM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: There was a recall on my vehicle due to a spring issue. Presumably I have the same springs as those on cars that were recalled, even though my car was not recalled. My springs are damaged, but VW refuses to take responsibility.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-02
- VIN: 3VW017AU2HM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: While driving approximately 50 mph I heard a clunk noise from the back of the car I was close to our service garage in Meaford Ontario Canada so I stopped there and left the car with them They called and said the right rear spring was broken in 2 places One break was rusty and the second break was fresh and clean We investigated and saw that there was a recall 42J5 so we instructed the mechanic to replace both as per the notice to save the cost of towing($200) the car 30 miles We purchased the replacement springs from the local dealer We have now been advised by VW that they do not have to honour the recall because the VIN is not on their data base To me that confirms that the data base must be wrong because I had a spring break I have reported this to Transport Canada as well but I know it is North American issue I clicked [XXX] and 12345 as a zip code my address is actually in [XXX]
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-14
- VIN: 3VWH17AU4HM
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The Clock Spring Assembly on my vehicle failed. In May 2023 Volkswagen of America issued an extended warranty coverage notice for the part. After doing some research and determining the part failure, I called my local VW dealer to report the problem. They told me they would be happy to schedule an appointment to look at my vehicle but they could not schedule my vehicle for service for at least a month. Considering this issue to be an extreme safely issue and realizing I did not want to drive around in my vehicle for over a month without air bag protection, I had my vehicle repaired at an independent service facility. I have had several communications with VW of America (attached) and they refuse to reimburse me for this repair.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-31
- VIN: 3VWU17AU3HM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Broken rear coil spring requiring replacement of both rear springs. The springs were replaced at the state safety inspection in August 2023. The broken parts were not retained. Failure of part could have resulted in loss of control of the vehicle. The work was completed by an independent garage. There was no warning other than reduction of ride comfort.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-22
- VIN: 3VW5T7AU3HM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Currently gas is pouring from back right bumper. The pump is siphoning gas from the tank & onto the pavement. In the garage & on the driveway. We cannot fill our tank more than 1/4 at this time.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-16
- VIN: 3VWH17AU0HM
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Turbo Wastegate actuator rod/flap failure/seizure. VW dealership & Independent service center both diagnosed the issue as a seized wastegate actuator flap/rod. This is due to poor design and is a common issue on all 2015-2020 VW/Audi 1.8l TSI engines. This issue causes intermittent engine codes for "low boost" related codes. P00AF00 and similar codes without warning. A key cycle usually temporarily fixes the problem until under boost again. This prevents safe operation of the vehicle while on highways and freeways. Engine shaking & prevention of acceleration and shifting happens after the engine code occur and the car is put into a limp mode. It is unsafe to maneuver the vehicle to the side of the road during these events.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-07
- VIN: 3VWC17AU0HM
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Steering wheel "Clock Spring" has failed at 76,000 miles. Heard an clicking sound when turning leading up to issue, then a POP sound. Airbags, horn, cruise control, and other wheel controls all dead. I see this is a common problem, obviously a bad part from VW, and a MOJOR safety risk since Airbag will not deploy. This should be a recall, or free repair when it breaks at least, no reason this part should ever fail.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-21
- VIN: 3VW017AU0HM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Both rear coil springs have broken. Ref: NHTSA Campaign 19V188000
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- VIN: 3VWC17AU6HM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Got in touch with VW regarding recall 42J5 but manufacturer tells me that my vehicle is not a part it the recall. I believe since my car is 2017 which is a part of the recall, there is a chance a defective part could have been used on my car. Also VW refused to provide me with parts numbers for the effected vehicle. I was going it compare with parts on my vehicle which are broken ( coil springs)
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-25
- VIN: 3VWC17AUXHM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, there was an abnormal thumping sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. Upon inspection, the contact discovered that the rear passenger’s side to the vehicle was lowered due to a fractured coil spring. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V188000 (Suspension) which he linked to the failure. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-21
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3VW017AU8HM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: I was parking my car with my foot on the brake when suddenly the car just took off and crashed into a building ---- WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE!! I think it was a sudden unintentional acceleration where the electrical something in the engine malfunctions causing the throttle to open and the car to accelerate --- FAST ---- and in a split second the car crashed into a building. I am thankful that the building was there otherwise I might have been killed or seriously injured . My car was a 2017 volkswagen golf.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-06
- VIN: 3VWH17AU5HM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Sunroof spontaneously shattered while driving down the highway. No collision or impact. Sounded like a gunshot. Had to immediately pull over, remove all of the glass in order to drive it at all.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-02
- VIN: 3VWH17AU7HM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Continual unidentified leak in the roof area. I've seen many reports of this same issue for the 2017 Golf Alltrack, specifically on incline.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-23
- VIN: 3VWH17AU9HM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY CAR HAS 16500 MILES AND THE PANAROMIC ROOF DRAINS ARE NOT WORKING PROPERLY AND WATER LEAKED INTO THE BACK OF CAR. I DID NOT KNOW THERE WAS WATER IN THE CAR UNTIL I LOOKED INTO THE SPARE TIRE COMPARTMENT WHICH HAD QUITE A BIT OF WATER IN IT. THEN I SAW THAT THE HEADLINER WAS STAINED IN THE REAR OF THE CAR. THIS IS A HAZZARD BECAUSE THERE ARE WIRES IN THE WELL FOR THE STEREO SYSTEM AND COULD HAVE CAUSED ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS FOR THE VEHICLE. THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. IT IS NOT UNDER WARRANTY. IT IS GOING IN FOR REPAIR END OF JUNE (EARLIEST APPOINTMENT THAT IS AVAILABLE).
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-23
- VIN: 3VWC17AU1HM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Both rear springs shattered in three paces withing 6 weeks of each other. One occurred while driving on highway beginning of March 2023. The first time there was no immediate issue because of the way the spring collapsed on itself. I replaced the spring. The second spring shattered and collapsed (end of April 2023) onto the shock causing loud banging sounds. Luckily it collapsed while on city street. The tire was scraping inside the wheel well but I was able to control the vehicle. I could not drive the vehicle until the spring was replaced. I checked with VW and there are numerous recalls on the my vehicle model and year, but not my vin #.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-18
- VIN: 3VWH17AU3HM
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. The contact stated that while adjusting the passenger's side rear-view mirror, the mirror glass suddenly detached from the housing, fell on the ground and shattered. The local dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 92,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-08
- VIN: 3VWM17AU3HM
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Turbo wastegate actuator arm seized casing turbo failure. Wastegate stuck in the semi-open position.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-02
- VIN: 3VW017AU4HM
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: Broken rear coil springs, piece of passenger side rear spring located in assembly, possible road and vehicle hazard. Broken spring is available for inspection. Spring has not been inspected by dealer, appointment has been scheduled. No warning messages, loud banging noise heard, internet search conducted and broken spring piece located and removed. Located VW recall #42J5, contacted VW, but they could not locate recall # in their system. VW told me that my VIN# wasn't included in the recall, but they couldn't locate the actual recall. Safety recall report #19V-188
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-29
- VIN: 3VWH17AU4HM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: This is the second time since November 2022 that our clock spring has failed. While it's broken the driver has no airbag, horn, or usability of controls on steering wheel. This is a huge saftey concern especially driving in winter conditions.
2017 Volkswagen Golf sportwagen recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2017 Volkswagen Golf sportwagen.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2019 GTI, 2015-2016 and 2018-2019 Golf, 2012-2019 Beetle and Beetle Convertible, 2017-2019 Golf SportWagen and 2011-2018 Jetta vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, manual handbrake and keyless entry. A build-up of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition when the transmission shift lever is not in "Park."
- Consequence: Removing the key while the shift lever is in a position other than "Park" increases the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional switch and circuit board, free of charge. The recall began November 19, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 37M2.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Golf Sportwagen, 2019 Jetta, 2015-2019 Golf, and 2018-2019 Tiguan vehicles. The rear coil springs may prematurely fracture.
- Consequence: If a coil spring fractures while driving, it may damage a rear tire causing a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear axle coil springs, free of charge. The recall began April 12, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 42J5.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: STEERING:COLUMN LOCKING:ANTI-THEFT DEVICE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Volkswagen Golf and Golf Sportwagen vehicles. The build of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition while the vehicle shift lever is not in "Park." As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
- Consequence: Removing the key while the shift lever is in a position other than "Park" increases the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional switch and circuit board, free of charge. The recall began March 19, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 37L5.
Negative 2017 Volkswagen Golf sportwagen car reviews
Positive 2017 Volkswagen Golf sportwagen car reviews
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I purchased this car as a used vehicle in January 2018 with 50,000 km (31,000 miles) on it. Living in Central Ontario, having an AWD car is a great advantage on snowy and icy roads. Although I miss the fantastic fuel mileage of my previous 2004 Golf TDI diesel, I still get almost 400 miles per tank during summer cruising. The car handles very well and has loads of cargo space with the rear seats down. The seats are comfortable and heated in the front, which is a blessing in Ontario. The heated side mirrors are also a great feature. Although it can be a bit difficult for rear seat in/out, I rarely have back passengers. The back up mirror is large and very bright, and the lens is cleverly covered until the auto is in reverse, so it stays clean. The car only needs to be serviced every 16,000 km (10,000 miles), which is a bonus. The doors open and close with a nice solid thunk, and the car is well-built with no rattles. I am 77 years old and have driven from Ontario to Florida twice, and felt good at the end of the trip. This Sportwagen does everything I want it to and never seems to be labouring. I am delighted with this vehicle and highly recommend it. Although it may not be as fun as my 2004 Golf TDI, it is still a great vehicle.
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Had it for 4 years so far - This fun sports car is perfect for camping or packing an entire trade fair booth inside, including a tent, tables, rack, and merchandise!
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I am so glad with the way the car handles, drives, accelerates and great gas mileage to boot. I have taken it on several long trips, commute in it every day and can honestly say I am proud of myself for making the decision to purchase this particular car. It covers all of the items on my checklist...
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Our 2017 VW Golf Sportwagen TSI (DSG, 4Motion, DAP) has been our only vehicle for 2 years now and I must say, it still brings me joy every time I drive it. While many fans describe it as 'fun' and 'sports car like', our criteria was comfort and reliability, which it delivers on perfectly. I've test driven several new models in my search for the 'perfect' all-around car, but none have come close to the Sportwagen. Even after driving 7 new cars, I have not found one that compares. The DSG transmission (dual clutch auto) took some getting used to, but with 4 driving modes to choose from (Normal, Sport, Comfort and ECO), it's easy to find the perfect setting for any drive. Plus, with standard Apple Carplay and Android phone compatibility, it's easy to stay connected on the go. I highly recommend the Sportwagen if you can find one. VW still manufactures it, but unfortunately, they no longer import them to NA. Don't be fooled by the rumors of high maintenance costs for VW's either. While engine oil changes cost $69, they are only required every 10,000 miles and the transmission service, the most expensive maintenance item, is only required every 40,000 miles at a cost of $350.00. We've only had one recall (an electronic switch in the shifter) and regular maintenance. In fact, after driving the new Buick Encore GX Essence and the top of the line Honda CR-V and HR-C, I was left disappointed. The Buick had a cheesy interior and a 3 cylinder engine, while the Hondas had a tinny feeling, loud road noise, and poor fit and finishes (orange peel paint in some areas with misaligned doors and hatch, on both). Our Sportwagen has been a reliable and comfortable ride, and I'm excited to see where it takes us next. UPDATE: @60,000k miles.This is an update on my 2017 GSW review that I posted in 2021. I'm happy to report that my car is still going strong with no rattles, break downs or significant repairs. I had the water pump cover replaced (under warranty), one set of new tires and two sets of wiper blades, but all maintenance has been performed on schedule. All in all, it's performed flawlessly and I still love the car.
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This is such a great car! When I first got it, I took it to get a new battery and the mechanic complimented it, saying 'these are great cars'. It has plenty of engine power for accelerating into traffic and cruising on the highway. I'm really enjoying driving it, and the rear hatch makes it super convenient for loading and unloading things. The touch screen is really nice, and the stereo sounds decent. Plus, the rear camera is such a nice feature to have. The controls take a bit of getting used to, but it's worth reading the manual before you drive the car so you can figure out how to control the rear wiper, cruise control, and other items. You can even customize your dashboard, which is really neat (I put the compass on mine). It's not super fancy, but it's a well-made and practical car.
Other years of Volkswagen Golf sportwagen
Are you having problems with your 2017 Volkswagen Golf sportwagen?
Lawson Schneider 2024-09-06
We experienced a disappointing ride due to the corrugated surface.
Enrique Ankunding 2024-07-23
I really appreciate blind spot monitors, especially when driving on a busy freeway. I have them on my Toyota Avalon and Mazda 3, and they work seamlessly. However, I have had some issues with the blind spot monitor on the VW Golf. The monitors are difficult to see, partly because they're tiny and partly because the lights are not bright enough, making it really difficult to see them in bright sunlight. Additionally, the turn signal lights are placed too close to the blind spot monitors, which can cause hesitation and make it unsafe to change lanes. I believe that VW should address these issues as soon as possible. I also find that the rear cross traffic alert is occasionally unreliable, which can be concerning. As for the adaptive cruise control, I have deactivated it because it can cause sudden deceleration even when there is ample space between vehicles. Overall, I believe that safety features are important, and I hope that VW can improve these features in the future.
Jace Goldner 2024-07-08
In November 2021, I upgraded from a '17 SportWagen to a new '19 Golf Alltrak. However, I have had some issues with warranty claims. When the car had only 10k miles, the panoramic sunroof leaked, flooding the spare tire space and staining the headliner. The dealer claimed that I neglected to clean the sunroof drains and charged me for a warranty claim. Unfortunately, this experience has left me with strong reservations about buying another VW. I have found that some VW dealers act like grimy used car dealers and are chintzy on warranty claims. For example, Volkswagen and the dealer near my house refused to help me replace the fuse for the cigarette lighters the day before Thanksgiving this year. They did not demonstrate that they cared about my best interests. Although info about replacing fuses should not be proprietary, there is no fuse diagram provided in the car's manual. The dealer's service advisor was insincere, discourteous, and inconvenient, especially given the circumstances that it was Thanksgiving and I needed to travel a substantial distance. When I contacted VW customer service, the representative seemed ignorant about cars and did not appreciate that my dealer's refusal to replace my car's fuse majorly inconvenienced me and embarrassed VW. Instead, she said I have to bring it into the dealer for a garage appointment subject to availability. This experience has made me question whether VW and the dealer really put profit above the best interests of their customers.I was disappointed and upset by the dealer's and VW's unwillingness to accommodate my request to replace a fuse. I had already taken more time than needed to replace it, and it was frustrating that they didn't appreciate that. The TDI campaign was misleading, and it was unfortunate that the dealer benefited from it. However, I believe that VW should be forthcoming in enabling me to replace a fuse, and I hope they will be in the future. The service department at that dealer lost my confidence due to the extra challenge posed to my travels by not having a cigarette lighter to charge my cellphone for GPS. I am getting jaded about Volkswagen, and I would not recommend this car because of the company's actions. The TDI scandal and this experience have pushed me away from the brand. I believe that I shouldn't need a VW dealer to change my fuse, and I hope that they will make it easier for customers in the future. On a separate note, I had a 2015 VW Golf Sportwagen TDI SE 6-speed manual, which had many features that I miss on my 2017 VW Golf Sportwagen 4Motion S 6-speed manual. I had to special order my 2017 Sportwagen to get the manual shift, but it was worth it. Without a manual shift, I probably would not have gotten another VW to replace my TDI.There are things I really like about my new Sportwagen! It wasn't expensive compared to other cars in its class, has all-wheel drive which was great during a nor'easter of wet heavy snow last week, has a peppy engine, is fun to drive, has ample space, and has nice fit and finish. The only downsides are that it gets about 28 mpg in mixed driving which pales in comparison to my TDI that averaged 47 mpg, the cloth seats attract dog hair, and there's no power seat. However, I'm still happy with the Sportwagen compared to other models available now because it's a manual shift wagon with a turbo. I'm having a bit of trouble with the Apple CarPlay - toggling between it and the radio, but I'm sure I'll get the hang of it soon. I might have buyer's remorse that I didn't spring for the Golf Alltrack SE, because it does come with all the features I miss from my TDI and is available in a manual. Then again, it is more than $5,000 more than the Sportwagen... So in conclusion, if you want a Sportwagen with a manual and more bells and whistles go for the Alltrack SE!
Gus Strosin 2024-04-02
The wiring and heat shield of the car are covered in a plant-based product that unfortunately attracts small animals due to its tastiness. We have had to bring the car in twice for this issue. Although VW does not consider this a warranty issue, the dealer has suggested coating the parts in a toxic material, which is not an ideal solution. It is important to note that this is a known issue. Please take this into consideration before purchasing this car.
Archibald Deckow 2024-03-22
The car is experiencing some issues, including the engine light turning on and worn tires. However, I am confident that these problems can be resolved with the right attention and maintenance.