1991 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 1991 Volkswagen Golf problems
The Volkswagen Golf 1991 is a popular car, but like any vehicle, it can have its share of common problems. Here are some of the issues that Volkswagen Golf 1991 owners have reported:
- Rear Wheel Bearing Housing Failure: The rear wheel bearing housings in the Volkswagen Golf 1991 may be incorrectly manufactured, leading to premature failure. This problem can be resolved by replacing the faulty parts.
- Passenger Airbag Non-Deployment: The passenger airbag in the Volkswagen Golf 1991 may not deploy as intended, which can be a serious safety issue. This problem can be resolved by replacing the faulty airbag.
- Front Brake Disc Thickness: The front brake discs in the Volkswagen Golf 1991 may not be the correct thickness, which can affect the car's braking performance. This problem can be resolved by replacing the faulty brake discs.
- Insecure Head Restraint: The head restraint in the Volkswagen Golf 1991 may be insecure, which can be a safety issue. This problem can be resolved by replacing the faulty head restraint.
- Rear Seat Bench Welded Connection Failure: The welded connection on the rear seat bench in the Volkswagen Golf 1991 may not be correctly performed, which can lead to problems with the seat. This problem can be resolved by replacing the faulty seat bench.
- Housing Bolts on the Cam Shelf Adjuster: The housing bolts on the cam shelf adjuster in the Volkswagen Golf 1991 may come loose, which can affect the car's performance. This problem can be resolved by tightening or replacing the faulty bolts.
- E-Call Service Function Failure: The E-Call service function in the Volkswagen Golf 1991 may not always function, which can be a safety issue. This problem can be resolved by replacing the faulty E-Call module.
- Infotainment System Glitches: The touchscreen infotainment system in the Volkswagen Golf 2021 to 2023 models may sometimes be slow to respond or fail to respond at all. A software update may fix the problem.
- Faulty Crash Sensors: Volkswagen issued a recall for the Volkswagen Golf 2021 to 2023 models due to faulty crash sensors for the airbag and restraint system. This problem can be resolved by replacing the faulty sensors.
These are some of the common problems that Volkswagen Golf 1991 owners have reported. It's important to note that not all cars will experience these issues, and some may not experience any problems at all. However, it's always a good idea to be aware of potential issues and to address them promptly if they do arise.
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 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.
Is Volkswagen Golf high maintenance?
According to RepairPal, Volkswagen maintenance costs are only slightly more expensive than average. Volkswagen maintenance and repairs cost about $676 per year while the industry average is $652.
Is VW Golf a good car to buy?
Yes, it's the Volkswagen Golf, the 'hear hooves, think horses' of family hatchbacks. It's an industry benchmark. A vanguard in the battle against the overdone, overblown and ostentatious. An easy (and possibly lazy) recommendation given by all car people to non-car people when they simply need 'a car'.
Are old Volkswagen Golf reliable?
Is a used Volkswagen Golf hatchback 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.
Is Volkswagen Golf high maintenance?
According to RepairPal, Volkswagen maintenance costs are only slightly more expensive than average. Volkswagen maintenance and repairs cost about $676 per year while the industry average is $652.
Are used VW Golf reliable?
Its reliability score was 90.4%. As a car brand, VW ranked 22nd out of 32 manufacturers. The largest concern is electric issues, of which 5% of owners that took part in the survey cited as something they've experienced with their Golf.
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.
1991 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:
- Visibility problems
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Volkswagen Golf vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1991 Volkswagen Golf complaints
The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Volkswagen Golf.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-14
- VIN: 3VWDB21G8MM
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING IN EXTREMELY COLD WEATHER THE ACCELERATOR STUCK OPEN. ( IN RESEARCHING ON THE INTERNET I FOUND VOLKSWAGEN RECALLED CARS IN CANADA FOR THIS PROBLEM. RECALL TR (CANADA ONLY). ) THIS HAPPENED THIS WINTER -- BELOW 10*F . IT IS AN EXTREMELY HAZARDOUS SITUATION IN TRAFFIC. I HAD TO PULL OFF THE ROAD AND TURN THE CAR OFF -- PUSHING THE CLUTCH IN CAUSED HIGH REV'S. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT IDLE WHEN IT WAS BELOW 20*F PUSHING THE CLUTCH IN AT A STOP LIGH WOULD CAUSE THE ENGINE TO QUIT. REPLACING THE IDLE STABILIZER VALVE HELPED THIS ISSUE -- AFTER THE ISV I REMOVED FROM THE CAR SAT INSIDE FOR SEVERAL DAYS I PICKED IT UP TO MOVE IT AND A CLEAR LIQUID RAN OUT WHICH LOOKED A LOT LIKE WATER. I HAVE OWNED THE CAR FOR SEVERAL YEARS BUT THIS IS THE FIRST YEAR I HAVE DRIVEN IT DURING THE WINTER AND THIS YEAR I HAVE MOVED 240 MILES FURTHER NORTH WHERE THE WEATHER IS COLDER. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-31
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 3VWDB21G8MM
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TOP SECTION OF HEATER CORE CRACKED OPEN WHILE ENGINE AT IDLE SPEED ALLOWING VERY HOT COOLANT TO ENTER THE COCKPIT DRIVER AND PASS. SIDE AT THE FOOT LEVEL. AFTER EMAILING OTHER VW OWNERS GOLF, JETTA, GTI, PASSAT THEY HAVE REPORTED SAME PROBLEMS DUE TO FACT THAT VWOA USES THE SAME PART ON THESE CARS. ALSO FOUND A SAFETY RECALL W/ WWW.ALLDATA.COM WITH TSB # CMPGSD ISSUED MAY 1992 RE: HEATER CORE.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-31
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 3VWDB21G8MM
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TOP SECTION OF HEATER CORE CRACKED OPEN WHILE ENGINE AT IDLE SPEED ALLOWING VERY HOT COOLANT TO ENTER THE COCKPIT DRIVER AND PASS. SIDE AT THE FOOT LEVEL. AFTER EMAILING OTHER VW OWNERS GOLF, JETTA, GTI, PASSAT THEY HAVE REPORTED SAME PROBLEMS DUE TO FACT THAT VWOA USES THE SAME PART ON THESE CARS. ALSO FOUND A SAFETY RECALL W/ WWW.ALLDATA.COM WITH TSB # CMPGSD ISSUED MAY 1992 RE: HEATER CORE.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-11-01
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CONSUMER RECEIVED RECALL CAMPAIGN SK IN NOVEMBER 1999 DATED AUGUST 1993, HOWEVER NOT ABLE TO RECEIVE REPAIR DUE TO LACK OF KITS AVAILABLE FOR REPAIR. (92V-058) *MJS
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-02-09
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPER CONTROL SWITCH FELL OFF DUE TO WEAK MATERIAL. MJS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CIRCUIT BOARD/SHEET FAILED. MJS
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-28
- VIN: 3VWFA21G5MM
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: HEATER CORE FAILED POURING HOT COOLANT INTO PASSENGER SIDE FLOOR AND STEAM POURING THROUGH VENTS.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-04-14
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE PULLING OUT OF DRIVEWAY THE FRONT BUMPER FELL OFF FOR NO APPARENT REASON. THE DEALER IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. PROBLEM HAS NOT BEEN CORRECTED. THE BUMPER IS BEING HELD ON BY BUNGEE CORDS AT THIS TIME. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-17
- VIN: 3VWFA21G1MM
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ALTERNATOR/AIR CONDITIONER BELTS REPLACED. *AW
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-17
- VIN: 3VWFA21G1MM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: STARTER LOCATED TOO CLOSE TO EXHAUST MANIFOLD, CAUSING STARTER TO OVERHEAT, DAMAGING TEETH ON FLYWHEEL.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-05-06
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DRIVING VEHICLE AT SPEED 40 MPH, HAD COMPLETE LOSS OF POWER, IMPACT 3:00 POSITION. TT
1991 Volkswagen Golf recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1991 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: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: AN ENGINE PREHEATING TUBE MAY NOT BE PROPERLY SUPPORTED DUE TO A MISSING SUPPORT BRACKET, CAUSING THE PREHEATING TUBE TO CHAFE AGAINST THE RIGHT FRONT METAL BRAKE LINE. THIS CAN DAMAGE THE HYDRAULIC LINE, CAUSING BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE AND DIMINISHED BRAKING IN ONE BRAKE CIRCUIT.
- Consequence: DIMINISHED BRAKING CAN RESULT IN INCREASED STOPPINGDISTANCES AND A POSSIBLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A PREHEATING TUBE SUPPORT BRACKET TO ENSURE PROPER POSITIONING RELATIVE TO THE RIGHT FRONT METAL BRAKE LINE.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA,INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE FUEL HOSE ATTACHED TO THE FUEL DISTRIBUTION RAIL ON THE ENGINE MAY SHRINK BEYOND THE CLAMP FORCE OF THE FUEL HOSE CLAMPS, ALLOWING FUEL TO LEAK.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAN CAUSE AN UNDERHOOD FIRE IF THE FUEL COMES IN CONTACT WITH A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE FUEL HOSE ATTACHED TO THE FUEL RAIL AND INSTALL A NEW SPRING TYPE SELF-TIGHTENING CLAMP.
Positive 1991 Volkswagen Golf car reviews
Other years of Volkswagen Golf
Are you having problems with your 1991 Volkswagen Golf?
Doyle Wisozk 2024-07-23
I've been driving this car for over a year now and it has exceeded my expectations by tenfold. It's also really easy to customize to your liking and the durability is superior to other newer cars on the market today.
Cecil Kuhic 2024-03-28
Your vehicle has been performing exceptionally well throughout its life. You will be pleased to know that there have been no issues with the engine or transmission. The body is in excellent condition, and new tires were fitted all around on 5/30/03. The transmission is a five-speed stick shift.
Murray Doyle 2024-02-15
We bought this car used last year for our newly-driving daughter. It's been a great addition to our family! Although it's 12 years old, it had low mileage and no body rust (which is fantastic when you live near the salt water of the Atlantic Ocean). After a year of hard-driving fun, we all love to tool around in this indestructible machine. If you come across one, you should definitely consider dropping the $500 to experience one of your own!
Kaley Flatley 2024-01-26
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share that I bought my car brand new 19 years ago and it's still going strong. I've only had to service the brakes and belts once, and the muffler three times. I use it to commute three times a week and occasionally for pleasure. I really feel like buying this car was a great investment.