1986 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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Common 1986 Volkswagen Golf problems
The Volkswagen Golf 1986 is a popular and reliable car, but it is not without its issues. One of the most common issues with the Volkswagen Golf 1986 is with the carburetor. Some models experienced problems with the carburetor, which could cause the engine to run rough or stall unexpectedly. This could be caused by issues with the carburetor itself or problems with the fuel delivery system. The early model Volkswagen Golf 1986 was also known for having issues with the suspension system. Some models experienced problems with the strut mounts, which could cause the car to handle poorly and make noise while driving. Additionally, some models had issues with the rear axle, which could cause the car to feel unstable or wobbly at high speeds.
Another common issue with the Volkswagen Golf 1986 is with the transmission, particularly in automatic models. The automatic transmissions can develop shifting problems over time, and the shift points may become erratic or hard. This can be caused by issues with the transmission fluid, a clogged filter, or problems with the valve body. The Volkswagen Golf 1986 is also known for having issues with rust and corrosion, particularly in the wheel arches and floor pan. This can be caused by exposure to moisture and road salt, which can cause the metal to corrode over time. Regular maintenance and proper care can help prevent rust and corrosion from occurring.
The Volkswagen Golf 1986 is also known for having issues with the fuel system. Some models have experienced fuel leaks, which can be caused by a variety of issues, including faulty fuel lines, damaged fuel tanks, or problems with the fuel pump. Additionally, some models have experienced problems with the fuel injectors, which can cause the engine to run rough or stall unexpectedly.
The 1987-1991 Volkswagen Golf 2, also known as the "late model" Golf 2, had a different set of issues compared to the earlier model years. One of the most common problems with this generation was with the electrical system, particularly the alternator. Some models had issues with the alternator failing prematurely, which could cause the battery to drain and result in the car stalling unexpectedly. Another common issue with the 1987-1991 Volkswagen Golf 2 was with the clutch system. Some models experienced problems with the clutch cable, which could cause the clutch to slip or fail to engage properly. This could be caused by issues with the cable itself or problems with the clutch pedal assembly.
The late model Volkswagen Golf 2 was also known for having issues with the fuel injection system. Some models experienced problems with the fuel injectors, which could cause the engine to run rough or stall unexpectedly. Additionally, some models had issues with the fuel pressure regulator, which could cause the engine to run too rich or too lean. Finally, the 1987-1991 Volkswagen Golf 2 had issues with the braking system. Some models experienced problems with the brake calipers, which could cause the brakes to drag or fail to release properly. This could result in increased wear on the brake pads and rotors and potentially cause the brakes to overheat and fail.
Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help address many of these issues with the Volkswagen Golf 1986 and 1987-1991 Volkswagen Golf 2. Regular inspections of the electrical system, clutch, fuel injection system, and brakes can help identify potential issues before they become major problems. Regular maintenance and proper care can help prevent rust and corrosion from occurring.
Are old VW Golfs reliable?
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 much horsepower does a 1986 VW Golf have?
In 1986 (1987 for North America) a Golf GTI 16V was introduced; here the 1.8 litre engine output was 139 PS (137 hp; 102 kW) at 6,100 rpm (or 129 PS (95 kW) for the catalyst version) and 168 N⋅m (124 lb⋅ft) at 4,600 rpm of torque, the model was marked by discreet red-and-black "16V" badges front and rear.
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.
Which VW Golf is most reliable?
We recommend the 2014 model, the Volkswagen Golf Mk6, for an excellent combination of classic Golf and new technology features. According to motorbiscuit.com, the 2014 Volkswagen Golf is the best because it is more reliable than the previous generation and filled with technology the old Volkswagen Golf did not have.
1986 Volkswagen Golf car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Golf problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Visibility problems
- Structure problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Volkswagen Golf vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1986 Volkswagen Golf complaints
The NHTSA has received 16 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Volkswagen Golf.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-12
- VIN: 1VWBA0171GV
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE ON 2/8/02, AND HAVE HAD THE CAR CONTINUOUSLY IN THE REPAIR SHOP SINCE THAT PURCHASE. THE FIRST PROBLEM, THE CAR STOPPED WHILE EXECUTING A RIGHT TURN, OCCURRED TWO DAYS AFTER PURCHASE. SINCE THAT WAS A SUNDAY, I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO WAIT UNTIL I WAS ABLE TO CONTACT THE DEALER THAT FOLLOWING MONDAY. WHEN I DID TALK WITH THE DEALERSHIP, I WAS TOLD THAT SINCE I PURCHASED THE CAR "AS IS" THEY HAD NO RESPONSIBILITY TO HAVE THE CAR TOWED, OR TO DETERMINE WHAT THE PROBLEM WAS. SINCE THAT OCCURRENCE, I'VE HAD NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS, HAVE HAD IT TOWED TWICE, AND HAD IT IN THE REPAIR SHOP ON NUMEROUS OCCASSIONS. I HAVE KEPT MOST OF THE RECEIPTS FOR THE REPAIRS MADE, ALTHOUGH I DO ADMIT TO HAVING MISPLACED A FEW. I'VE HAD TO PURCHASE AND EXCHANGE THREE STARTERS, HAVE THE FUEL INJECTORS REPAIRED, HAVE A COMPLETE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS, PURCHASE NEW SPARK PLUG WIRES, THERMOSTAT AND A NEW IGNITION SWITCH. ALL OF THESE ITEMS WERE REPAIRED/REPLACED BY A REPAIR SHOP WHICH CHARGED LABOR FEES TOTALLING MORE THAN $600.00.*AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-06
- VIN: 1VWAG0172GV
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING IN BUMPER TO BUMPER FAST MOVING TRAFFIC ON INTERSTATE 80 ON SUNDAY, NO SAFETY DEFECT. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-06
- VIN: 1VWAG0172GV
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING IN BUMPER TO BUMPER FAST MOVING TRAFFIC ON INTERSTATE 80 ON SUNDAY, NO SAFETY DEFECT. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-06-15
- VIN: 1VWFA0178GV
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: WHILE SITTING WITH VEHICLE RUNNING FUEL PUMP OPERATED ERRATICALLY. TOOK VEHICLE TO MECHANIC AND THEY REPLACED FUEL FILTER. CONSUMER STATED IF SITTING TOO LONG AT A LIGHT VEHICLE WILL STALL AND SHUT OFF. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1VWFA0172GV
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THIS CAR FAILED STATE INSPECTION DUE TO THE CONDITION OF ALL FOUR DOORS. THE TWO BACK DOORS CANNOT BE OPENED FROM THE INSIDE. ALL FOUR DOORS ARE STICKY AND DIFFICULT TO OPEN FROM THE OUTSIDE. ALL BUT ONE DOOR LOCK KNOB HAS LOST (BROKEN OFF) THE PLASTIC KNOB. OTHER VW GOLF OWNERS (USED AND NEW CARS) HAVE COMPLAINED TO ME ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. CAN YOU TELL ME IF THERE WAS EVER A PARTS RECALL AND / OR HOW I MIGHT CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER FOR MORE INFORMATION? THANK YOU!
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1VWFA0173GV
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VISIBILITY
- Summary: RECALL COMPONENTS NOT COVERED UNDER RECALL DUE TO VIN FUEL PUMP 87V053, FUEL TANK 86V149, FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY 86V029 AND HEATER CORE 92V050. NLM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-01-21
- VIN: 1VWEG0179GV
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLE'S CLUTCH DISC EXPERIENCED PREMATURE FAILURE ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, DISC FELL APART SEVERAL TIMES. MJS
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-02
- VIN: 1VWEG0179GV
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION LEAKED AT HOLE, COMPLETELY DESTROYING TRANSMISSION. MJS
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-11-20
- VIN: 1VWDB0178GV
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: GAS TANK LEAKS AS IT NEARS THE 10 GALLON POINT AND IT APPEARS TO COME FROM ON TOP OF THE TANK ASSEMBLY NEAR THE POINT WHERE THE FILLER TUBE AND TANK WERE MOLDED TOGETHER DEALER SAYS THERE IS NO RECALL. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WATER ENTERING VEHICLE CAUSING VEHICLE'S SEAT BELT RETRACTOR TO FAIL.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-09-05
- VIN: 1VWDB0172HV
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: WATER ENTERS SEAT BELT RETRACTOR HOUSING AREA. IN WINTER, WATER WOULD FREEZE & SEAT BELTS DO NOT RELEASE. ALSO FAILS TO RETRACT BACKWARDS. HAVE NOT TAKEN TO DEALER YET. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-07-23
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1VWBA0177GV
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: HEATER CORE BROKE, CAUSING LEAKAGE ONTO CONSUMER/INJURIES.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-07-01
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DOOR HANDLE DEFECTIVE.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-07
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1VWBA0170GV
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: ELECTRONIC FUEL PUMP MALFUNCTIONED, RESULTING IN VEHICLE FIRE. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-07
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1VWBA0170GV
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: ELECTRONIC FUEL PUMP MALFUNCTIONED, RESULTING IN VEHICLE FIRE. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-03-01
- VIN: 1VWFA0179GV
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: SUDDEN ACCELERATION, CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL. (ORIGINAL DOCUMENT ON 482158). *SKD
1986 Volkswagen Golf recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1986 Volkswagen Golf.
- Manufacturer: FOREIGN PARTS DISTRIBUTORS, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CERTAIN HYDRAULIC BRAKE HOSES, P/N 171.611.107B, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR 1975-1985 VOLKSWAGEN (VW) RABBIT; 1985-1992 VW GOLF; AND 1980-1992 VW JETTA PASSENGER VEHICLES. POSSIBLE BRAKE HOSE RUPTURE COULD OCCUR WHICH FAILS TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 106, "BRAKE HOSES."
- Consequence: BRAKE HOSE RUPTURE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF BRAKING ABILITY, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: FOREIGN PARTS DISTRIBUTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE BRAKE HOSES WITH COMPLIANT BRAKE HOSES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 30, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FOREIGN PARTS DISTRIBUTORS AT 305-885-8646 EXT. 11.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE
- Summary: THE END CAP CONNECTING THE HEAT EXCHANGER'S CORE TO THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM COULD RUPTURE AND ALLOW HOT COOLANT TO ESCAPE INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT.
- Consequence: THE COOLANT ESCAPING INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT COULDCONTACT THE DRIVER'S FEET AND INJURE THE DRIVER. ALSO, STEAM FROM THE HEATEDLIQUID WILL CLOUD ON THE WINDOW SURFACES AND IMPAIR THE DRIVER'S VISION ANDCOULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE HEATER CORE WITH AN IMPROVED HEATER CORE.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: FUEL PUMP, LOCATED INSIDE FUEL TANK, COULD SEIZE DURING HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES BECAUSE OF AN EXTREME FINE MESH FUEL FILTER RESTRICTING THE FUEL FLOW.
- Consequence: FUEL SUPPLY TO ENGINE WOULD BE PARTIALLY INTERRUPTED,RESULTING IN STALLING.
- Remedy: INSTALL A MODIFIED FUEL PUMP AND FILTER.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: MORE FUEL THAN PERMITTED BY FMVSS 301 MAY ESCAPE FROM THE FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: CARS ARE NOT IN COMPLIANCE WITH FMVSS 301.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY WITH A MODIFIED UNIT.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: MORE FUEL THAN PERMITTED BY FMVSS 301 MAY ESCAPE FROM THE FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY UNDER THE TEST CONDITIONS DESCRIBED IN THE STANDARD. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: IF THE CAR IS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT, THE FUEL SPILLAGE MAY RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY WITH A MODIFIED UNIT.
Other years of Volkswagen Golf
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