2009 Volkswagen Golf problems

General information about Volkswagen-Golf
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list

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 2009 Volkswagen Golf problems

The Volkswagen Golf, first introduced in 1974, has been a popular choice among car buyers due to its versatility and sporty design. However, like any other vehicle, the 2009 Volkswagen Golf has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues by owners:

Automatic Gearbox Problems: The automatic gearbox in the 2009 Volkswagen Golf can wear out over time, causing it to judder intermittently. This issue is often a sign of failure in the mechatronic unit, which is the control center of the gearbox.

Central Locking Problems: The Mk5 Golf, in particular, is known for having central locking issues. When the key fob is pressed, it may not lock or unlock all the doors. This problem can usually be repaired by replacing the door lock modules. The average cost of Volkswagen Golf central locking system repairs is £79.96.

Clutch Problems: Clutch problems are more likely to occur in older Golf models, especially if they have been used as a first car. Before purchasing a Golf, it is essential to check the biting point and listen for any clutch slipping during a test drive. The clutch in cars with a manual gearbox should have a positive biting point that is not too near the top of the pedal's travel.

Rear Wheel Bearing Housings: Rear wheel bearing housings may be incorrectly manufactured and could fail prematurely.

Passenger Airbag: The passenger airbag may not deploy as intended, which could be a safety concern.

Front Brake Discs: Front brake discs may not be the correct thickness, which could affect the car's braking performance.

Head Restraint: The head restraint may be insecure, which could be a safety concern.

Rear Seat Bench Welded Connection: The rear seat bench welded connection may not be correctly performed, which could affect the car's safety and structural integrity.

Housing Bolts on the Camshaft Adjuster: Housing bolts on the camshaft adjuster may come loose, which could affect the car's performance and safety.

E-Call Service Function: The E-Call service function may not always function, which could be a safety concern.

It is essential to note that while these problems are common, not all 2009 Volkswagen Golf models will experience them. Regular maintenance and servicing can help prevent these issues from occurring or worsening. If you are considering purchasing a used Volkswagen Golf, it is crucial to have the car thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems before making a purchase.

Are 2009 Golfs reliable?

The answer to that question depends on the model you choose. Because diesel versions with automatic gearboxes tend to have the largest number of commonly-reported faults, they're probably the ones to steer clear of; conversely, a petrol-powered manual shouldn't be too troublesome.

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 a Volkswagen Golf a reliable car?

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. Problems with the exhaust followed behind, with 3.3% of owners commenting on this.

Are golfs expensive to fix?

Volkswagens are premium vehicles, but their cost of maintenance overall can be the same as a Ford's or a Mazda's if the parts are replaced only when needed – and they are cared for in the correct manner.

Are 2009 Golfs reliable?

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.

What are common faults with VW?

Some of the most prevalent VW problems include coil failure, overheating, coolant leaks, ABS control module failures, electrical issues, timing belt problems, and oil leaks/consumption. Understanding the root causes and warning signs of these common problems can help you address them promptly.

How long will a VW Golf engine last?

2009 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:

Service brakes problems
Electrical system problems
Engine problems
Electronic stability control (esc) problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Volkswagen Golf vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2009 Volkswagen Golf complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Volkswagen Golf.

2018-08-03

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2018-07-01
VIN: WVWHV71K29W
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE SPEEDOMETER FAILED AND THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED THE SAME SYMPTOMS AS LISTED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V913000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO STONE MOUNTAIN VOLKSWAGEN (3500 STONE MOUNTAIN HWY, SNELLVILLE, GA 30078, 678-367-4286) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED A NEW CONTROL MODULE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 116,000.

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2017-05-05

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2017-04-24
VIN: WVWEV71K89W
Components: SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: I WAS DRIVING MY VW GTI MK5, AND FROM ONE MOMENT TO ANOTHER I TURNED ON 3 LIGHTS ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL OF MY CAR, A BRAKE LIGHT, TRACTION CONTROL AND ABS, THE CAR BEGAN TO SOUND A WARNING AND TURN IT OFF IMMEDIATELY

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2016-07-01