2018 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 2018 Volkswagen Golf problems
The Volkswagen Golf 2018 is a popular car, but like any vehicle, it can have certain common problems. Here are some of the issues reported by owners of this car:
- Rattling Sound from Engine: Another common problem in the Volkswagen Golf 2018 is a rattling sound that can be heard when starting the engine. This sound disappears after driving for a few miles and then reappears at random intervals. The cause of this issue is the camshaft-driven high-pressure fuel pump, which needs to be replaced every 20,000 miles to prevent the rattling sound and potential engine damage.
- Limp Mode: The Golf may suddenly go into Limp Mode while driving, which is often caused by a faulty water pump. An initial diagnosis may indicate a faulty supercharger, but the actual issue is a connection between the water pump and the supercharger. Replacing the water pump can solve this problem.
- Rough Gear Changes (Automatics): Some owners of the Volkswagen Golf 2018 have reported rough gear changes in the automatic transmission. In most cases, the gearbox unit needs to be replaced, but before doing so, it's worth checking the timing chain for any issues.
- Rear Boot Locking Problems: If you're having trouble locking the boot on your Golf, it's likely due to a cracked and leaking brake servo pipe. Replacing the pipe can solve this issue.
- Hot ABS Unit: The ABS unit in the Volkswagen Golf 2018 can overheat, even during short journeys. This problem is caused by an electrical fault in the ABS control unit and can lead to a fire if left untreated. Replacing the ABS unit can solve this issue.
- Grinding from Rear: A grinding noise coming from the rear of the car while driving can be caused by faulty rear axles. This issue is common in Golfs built between 1997 and 2004 and is caused by moisture entering the ball joints, which then corrode and seize. Replacing the entire rear axle can solve this problem.
- Faulty Seat Belt Pre-Tensioner: Some Volkswagen Golf 2018 models have a pre-tensioner that discharges excessive heat when put to use, posing a fire risk. Replacing the seat belt pre-tensioner can solve this issue.
- Struggle to Get Fifth Gear: If you have to force the gearstick to get into 5th gear, it could be due to low gearbox oil levels or faulty or broken gear linkage or cables. Checking the oil levels and replacing any damaged components can solve this issue.
It's important to note that these issues are not necessarily indicative of widespread problems with the Volkswagen Golf 2018 and may only affect a small percentage of vehicles. If you're considering purchasing a used Volkswagen Golf 2018, it's always a good idea to have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase.
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.
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.
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.
Do VW Golf have transmission problems?
Over time, the gearbox in automatic Golf models can wear out and start to judder intermittently. This is a sign of failure in the mechatronic unit, also known as the control centre of the gearbox. Look out for the following symptoms: Loss of power when changing gear.
Is Volkswagen Golf a reliable car?
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%.
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'.
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.
Do VW Golf have transmission problems?
Over time, the gearbox in automatic Golf models can wear out and start to judder intermittently. This is a sign of failure in the mechatronic unit, also known as the control centre of the gearbox. Look out for the following symptoms: Loss of power when changing gear.
2018 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/propulsion system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
- Forward collision avoidance problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Volkswagen Golf vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2018 Volkswagen Golf
The NHTSA has received 31 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Volkswagen Golf. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2018 Volkswagen Golf vehicles.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-15
- VIN: 3VW547AUXJM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Cannot fill gas tank. Recall issued February 2024 no remedy available still. 24V110
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-29
- VIN: 3VW447AU4JM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I have a recall for the jet pump in the fuel tank of my vehicle. I have had fuel leaking from my charcoal canister. The vehicle is at the dealership right now, and they have confirmed this. Yet they will not make a repair on it and have been without my vehicle for over a week now. I am stuck in limbo with no date when anything will be done. I am unable to drive my vehicle due to he leak as it is unsafe and a fire hazard. The vehicle will also cut off while driving and will not start, even though it says there is still fuel in it. This should be due to the leak, and the dealer will do nothing to fix my problem until they are notified by Volkswagen themselves. This is ridiculous as i am without a vehicle, which i am still paying a loan on and insurance every month. Yet i have called Volkswagen and have been offered no solution on this matter. I have been told to wait for the recall, but this issue has been known about since February. Am i just supposed to wait indefinitely for a solution while i can't work or drive anywhere, while i continue to pay for this vehicle? I need a solution and Volkswagen to fix my issue and to be help responsible.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-06
- VIN: 3VW447AU2JM
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: There is a peeling plastic/metal chrome trim piece on the steering wheel that cause a finger laceration.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-07
- VIN: 3VW447AU2JM
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I was coming back from work and was driving on the highway at around 80 mph. All of a sudden, literally out of nowhere, the car started shaking violently, and the steering wheel was shaking super fast violently (vibrating) and was very heavy and hard to move. Also, the D started flashing. I was struggling to control the car. I noticed that the Abs light, steering light, suspension light for DCC, and a whole bunch of other lights except the engine light. The car was in custom mode. Sport steering and sport Suspension, Normal for powertrain. All windows and sunroof were fully open, and music was playing. When all this occurred, I could hear outside the car something that sounded like metal tinging or metal contact. idk. This was while the car was still moving. When I pulled over, all the lights went away. I turned off the car for a few minutes and turned it back on. The lights did not come back, and it drove like nothing ever happened. The car is currently at VW Dealership awaiting a response from VW helpline (VTA) as of 1/17/24. I have been doing research on this issue and I have found multiple VW GTI/R owners who are currently and/or have experienced this issue. A Golf R (Model year 2018) owner with about 19.5k miles said "The real problem was the electric power assist motor, the part that controls how heavy the steering is when you change modes. But it can't be serviced. So the whole thing has to be swapped. It needed the entire power steering rack assembly replaced". He took this to a VW dealership and was covered under warranty. I strongly believe VW needs to release a recall for this as it is very dangerous to happen while driving especially at highway speeds like it did to me and many others.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-14
- VIN: 3VWH17AUXJM
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Second occurrence of this issue approximately two years apart, unresolved and unaddressed by manufacturer. Driving during evening on lit city street at night traveling in lane of traffic. In normal course of driving (~25 mph) vehicle applied full brakes with no advance notice in the middle of road. Forward Collision Assist had been activated by what appeared to be a patch of ice on the road ahead. Full braking while driving posed significant risk of rear collision due to automated full brake application without input or forewarning to the driver.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-21
- VIN: 3VW547AU6JM
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Hello my left front headlamp failed. Initially both my headlights were sweaty/foggy, which started early 2021 but no light present. This is a safety issue especially when driving at night. It is available for inspection. The vehicle was inspected at the dealer Galpin VW. AFS light came on when system failed.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-11
- VIN: 3VW547AU5JM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: During refueling after low fuel indicator, fuel tank was not able to accept any fuel. During a second attempt, vehicle accepted 0.25 gallons but all of this fuel came gushing out of the tank from the inlet and from the passenger side rear wheel well. Fuel kept leaking for another 20miles until vehicle was taken to the Rochester Hills, MI VW dealership. The vehicle continued to leak fuel at the dealership and I was requested to park outside due to the risk of a fire. During this 20mile trip, engine was very hesitant and spluttered and almost stalled. No warning lights on dash. My personal safety was at risk since any ignition source would cause a fire due to this fuel leak, vehicle did not show any warning lights besides low fuel. VW dealership information was that the fuel tank suction jet pump needs replacement. No information was shared if the component will be sent to the manufacturer for inspection. No information how this new pump will not cause a repeat event.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-26
- VIN: 3VW547AU3JM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I have owned the 2018 VW GTI since new. With 105,000 miles, following a 30 minute highway drive, the EPC light came on and the vehicle entered limp mode. After turning car off, letting it sit 5 minutes, and restarting, EPC light went off and no limp mode. Drove car daily for another week with no observed issues until appointment. Brought car to dealer. They identified the fuel injector wiring harness was faulty and needed to be replaced, and fuel injector #3 was dirty and needed to be replaced, at total cost of $1,756. Online search turned up VWP-23-03, a FUEL INJECTOR WIRING HARNESS LIMITED WARRANTY EXTENSION up to 10 years or 120,000 miles for similar VW cars: 2018-2019 Tiguan 2018-2019 Beetle 2018-2020 Passat So the same exact part, on thousands of other VW models produced at the same time, is covered by a warranty extension. The dealer declined to cover this repair. VW Customer Care declined to cover this repair or offer partial coverage. The car has been repaired by dealer (harness was shorted). I am not asking for special treatment. I am looking for fairness. If VW has identified a given component as defective on three different models, and the same component fails on my GTI, then VW should also cover the GTI under the Warranty Extension.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-22
- VIN: 3VWM17AU9JM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: We were driving on the highway when the sunroof exploded. There were 4 of us in the car and none of us recalls anything striking the sunroof. Glass exploded wverywhere.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-01
- VIN: 3VW447AU2JM
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Headlights don't turn on immediately upon ignition start. Error message appears on infotainment and dashboard. The temporary fix, Turned off the vehicle and locked the car, and tried again and it worked just fine. I took the car for regular service when I had mentioned to them that my headlights were acting up. they told me they found no fault codes and could not do anything about it. I spoke to a manager and they told me to take pictures if it happens again, so I did. (The picture in the dark) The headlights would not turn on once again in evening in the Auto setting and I had to cycle the car off and on to get them working properly again. Once turned on the driver-side headlight is now a yellow color similar to a halogen light. (The picture in the daytime) Last week I went to warm up the car for 3-5 minutes and when I returned to the vehicle I noticed the driver-side headlight DRL was not Illuminated. I went into the vehicle and saw that there was an error message on the infotainment screen regarding the headlights. I cycled the car on and off and the vehicle went back to "normal" These issues happen on both headlights but is more persistent on the driver side headlight on my vehicle.I mentioned this on a Facebook group to ask if anyone has experienced this and many people are/did, unfortunately, experience this issue, even as far back as the 2015 Model years. Many people mentioned that they went to the dealership(s) and they would not cover the headlight under warranty as according to them it's impossible to have both headlights inoperable at the same time. I am lucky to have a good dealership to where to they actually are replacing the entire headlight assembly on the driverside. But i am worried even with a new headlight assembly, in a few years it will happen again. If this would have happened while driving at nighttime I would’ve not had any visibility whatsoever. Please recall the LED headlights in these vehicles
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-24
- VIN: 3VW547AU5JM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Received a low coolant warning and then checked the coolant level. Coolant was low and was topped off. One week later the issue recurred as the coolant level and dropped below minimum levels again. Thermostat housing had a slow leak which was discovered by the dealer. This seems to be a flaw in the design of the thermostat housing as multiple owners are reporting the same issue with the same flaw in the thermostat housing.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-09
- VIN: 3VW447AU5JM
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle intermittently stalls when coming to a stop in traffic while in gear. Has occurred on multiple separate occasions, but cannot be easily re-produced. When vehicle stalls it can be difficult to restart while in traffic and occurs without warning creating safety hazard. Usually there are no codes stored by the computer when this occurs, but check engine light has been noticed. Vehicle has been brought to dealership 3 different times for same issue. Upon first visit starter was replaced. Upon 2nd visit an oxygen sensor was replaced. Upon 3rd visit no further action was taken and I was told by dealer vehicle tested normal with no further repairs being authorized.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-28
- VIN: 3VW447AU0JM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Fuel leaking from charcoal canister next to exhaust can lead to fire. Fuel leaking on to ground by passenger side rear wheel. Strong smell of gasoline outside and inside car. Caused dizziness while driving can harm children. No warning or any lights other then strong odour of gasoline from inside/outside of vehicle Similar to safety recall 20Y6 Parts requested for repair by dealer -EVAP can system -Fuel Tank
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-15
- VIN: 3VWH17AU8JM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was driving west on I-80 and my sunroof exploded/shattered. There was no rock to be found anywhere.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-28
- VIN: 3VWH17AUXJM
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: Had forward collision assist (turned on by default at engine start) turned on. When entering an intersection, vehicle stopped short to a full stop right in front of a metal plate on the road in the intersection. Had there been a vehicle behind me, the system may have needlessly caused a collision.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-10
- VIN: 3VW447AU4JM
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: UNKNOWN We have Hankook Ventus S1 Noble 2 225/40R18 tires on our 2018 VW GTI that came OEM, and are the same on the car as when we took possession of the car from the dealer in 2018. The front right tire, has two substantial cracks and one section where a more open gap occurred in the exterior sidewall. In this latter section, it is very near the tire's tread. We have less than 14,000 miles on this vehicle, as we are retired and did not drive much to begin with, but even less after the Pandemic occurred. Additional Details (below) - I first saw the tire issues on 11/10/2021, but the tire has not yet failed. Per Hankook's earlier recall, I am concerned that the cracks/opening are precursors to failure while in use.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 3VWG17AU4JM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TRIM ON CENTER CONSOLE ABOVE SHIFTER AND BELOW CENTER CUBBY IS RAZOR SHARP AND HAS CUT MY HAND DEEPLY TWICE WHILE PARKED AND CLEANING INTERIOR SINCE PURCHASING THE CAR.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-08
- VIN: 3VWH17AU9JM
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING SYSTEM ENGAGES WITHOUT CAUSE OR WARNING. AT BOTH SLOW AND MODERATE SPEEDS WITH NO OBSTACLE IN FRONT OF CAR. RISK OF CAUSING A REAR-END ACCIDENT VERY HIGH. DEALERSHIP RAN DIAGNOSTIC AND FOUND NOTHING. RECOMMENDS DISABLING SYSTEM IF ISSUE PERSISTS.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-03
- VIN: 3VW447AU4JM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: RIGHT FRONT (PASSENGER) SIDE HAS A VERY LOUD CONSISTENT RATTLING NOISE AT AROUND 2000-3500 ENGINE RPM RANGE. READING ALONE AND CONFIRMING WITH OTHER OWNERS OF THE SAME VEHICLE, IT IS A LOOSE FUEL LINE GOING UNDER THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE RATTLING AGAINST THE CHASSIS. COULD BE A HIGH RISK, NOT SURE, CHECK AND ADVISE.
SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-26
- VIN: 3VW447AU2JM
- Components: SUSPENSION,POWER TRAIN,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: SO WHAT HAPPEN WAS EVER SINCE I GOT MY 2018 GOLF GTI AUTOBAHN DSG, I'VE EXPERIENCED ISSUES WITH THE TRANSMISSION, IT JERKS WHEN SLOWING DOWN FROM 2ND GEAR TO FIRST AND SOMETIMES FROM 4TH THROUGH 1ST. I TOOK IN THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY SAID NOTHING WAS WRONG I TOOK IT TO THEM MULTIPLE TIMES AND THEY STILL SAID NOTHING IS WRONG HOWEVER I HAVE SHOWED THEM PROOF THAT THERE IS SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE CAR, I HAVE A SCANNER TOOL AND IT SHOWS THAT I HAVE MULTIPLE CODES FOR TRANSMISSION AND OTHER STUFF AS WELL. THE CAR HAS 7600 MILES WHICH IS BASICALLY BRAND NEW CONSIDERING ITS 2YRS OLD. ALSO WHEN REVERSING THE TRANSMISSION MAY DISENGAGE REPEATEDLY, THIS HAPPENS MOSTLY WHEN REVERSING ON AN INCLINE, HOWEVER THE INCLINE IS AS LITTLE AS 1.5-2%.THE LANE DEPARTURE KEEP FEATURE IS DANGEROUS, LET ME EXPLAIN WHY. WHEN DRIVING ON A ROAD THAT DOESN'T HAVE VISIBLE LINES THE SYSTEM MAY JERK THE STEERING WHEEL HARD TO ONE SIDE DEPENDING ON ROAD CONDITIONS, IF A DRIVER DOESN'T HAVE A GOOD GRIP OF THE STEERING WHEEL, THERE IS A HIGH RISK OF A CRASH. THE SUSPENSION IN THIS CAR IS AMAZING BUT WHEN IT WAS NEW, NOW IT FEELS LIKE THE CAR HAS NO STABILITY AND DOES NOT ABSORB BUMPS IN THE ROAD.MY 2013 TOYOTA COROLLA LE DOES A BETTER JOB AT ABSORBING BUMPS THAN MY 2018 GTI WITH ADAPTIVE DAMPENING. MY CAR USED TO FEEL LIKE A SUPER EXPENSIVE MERCEDES-BENZ OR BMW WHEN IT CAME TO SUSPENSION COMFORT BUT NOW ITS JUST NOT THE SAME AT ALL.SO THE OTHER DAY THIS CRAZY DRIVER SLAMMED ON HIS/HERS BRAKES AND THE AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM ENGAGED WHICH IS GOOD CAUSE NO ACCIDENTS HAPPENED, HOWEVER THE CAR HAD A HARD TIME ACCELERATING AFTER, IT FELT LIKE THE FRONT BRAKES WERE STILL ENGAGED, BUT AFTER 1 LONG MINUTE THE CAR STARTED MOVING AGAIN NORMALLY UNTIL YOU TRY TO REVERSE AND THEN IT STARTED JERKING REPEATEDLY WHILE GOING IN REVERSE.THIS CAR NEEDS TO BE RECALLED ESPECIALLY THE 6 SPEED DSG TRANSMISSION
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-21
- VIN: 3VW447AU6JM
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: COOLANT LEAK NOTICED UNDERNEAT THE ENGINE. IT RUN DOWN TO THE OIL PAN DRIPPING ON THE DRIVE WAY. TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR DIAGNOSIS. THEY SAID LEAK IS COMING FROM THE THERMOSTAT HOUSING. MILEAGE IS NOW 73700. VW POWERTRAIN WARRANTY COVERS UP TO 72000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-13
- VIN: 3VWB17AU0JM
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: IMMEDIATELY AFTER BEGINNING TO LEAVE WORK ON NOVEMBER 13, 2019, I NOTICED THE SUNROOF ON MY 2018 VW GOLF WAS SHATTERING AND CRUMBLING AWAY, STARTING TOWARD THE FRONT AND CENTER OF THE SUNROOF. THE INITIAL BREAK MUST HAVE OCCURRED EITHER AS IT WAS SITTING IN THE PARKING LOT AT WORK, OR IMMEDIATELY AFTER BEGINNING TO DRIVE, AT NO MORE THAN 20MPH, BECAUSE I NOTICED IT ON THE DRIVEWAY LEADING AWAY FROM MY WORKPLACE. THE WEATHER WAS ABOUT 30 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT WITH NO PRECIPITATION AND THERE WAS NO ROAD DEBRIS INVOLVED. OVER THE NEXT FEW DAYS, I TRIED TO LIMIT MY USE OF THE CAR (I SECURED A RENTAL CAR THROUGH MY INSURANCE FOR A FEW DAYS) BUT THE AREA OF BROKEN GLASS EXPANDED SIGNIFICANTLY ANYWAY. TO DATE, VW HAS NOT ACCEPTED ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THIS UNDER WARRANTY EVEN THOUGH THE CAR WAS BOUGHT NEW, I AM THE ONLY OWNER, AND IT ONLY HAD ABOUT 20,300 MILES ON IT AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT. THEY SUGGESTED I GO THROUGH MY INSURANCE FOR THE REPAIR. THE REPAIR IS IN PROGRESS BUT I AM TOLD BY THE GLASS SHOP THAT IS HANDLING IT THAT ONE OF THE TWO SUNROOF ACTUATORS ACTUALLY APPEARS DAMAGED BY THE FLEXING AND BREAKING OF THE GLASS AND THIS IS MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO REMOVE THE ORIGINAL SUNROOF PANEL.
STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-20
- VIN: 3VWM17AU8JM
- Components: STRUCTURE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: WATER LEAK FROM THE PANORAMIC ROOF. HEADLINER AND A PILLAR IS WET AND WILL BE REPLACED. WINDSHIELD FOGGED AND HAD CONDENSATION.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-10-01
- VIN: 3VWH17AU2JM
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PANORAMIC MOONROOF LEAKING AROUND EDGES AND STAINING HEADLINER AND UPHOLESTRY
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-28
- VIN: 3VWB17AU2JM
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO SUNTRUP VOLKSWAGEN (LOCATED AT 6000 S LINDBERGH BLVD, ST LOUIS, MO 63123, (314) 892-8200) FOUR TIMES, BUT THEY WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. DIAGNOSTICS REVEALED A FAULTY VALVE, WHICH WAS REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD ALSO ACCELERATE WHILE ON AN INCLINE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 16,000. *BF CONSUMER STATED VOLKSWAGEN IS UNDER NO OBLIGATION TO HONOT THEIR WARRANTY AS LONG AS THEY MAINTAIN THAT MY CAR IS OPERATING NORMALLY. 'PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).'*JB
2018 Volkswagen Golf recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2018 Volkswagen Golf.
- 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: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling two 2018 Golf GTI vehicles. The VIN printed on the Federal Certification label may not match the actual VIN on the vehicle. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567, "Certification."
- Consequence: If the stamped vehicle identification number (VIN) does not match the VIN on the Vehicle Certification Label, owners may be unable to tell if their vehicle is under an important safety recall, possibly exposing them to an increased risk of a crash, fire or injury.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install a correct certification label, free of charge. This recall began July 9, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01E7.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Park It: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Atlas, Passat, Beetle, Beetle Convertible, Golf, Golf SportWagen and GTI and Audi Q5 and SQ5 vehicles. The brake caliper pistons on these vehicles may have insufficient coating, potentially reducing the brake performance.
- Consequence: A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Volkswagen and Audi will notify their owners. Audi dealers will bleed the rear brakes. Volkswagen dealers will bleed the front and rear brake calipers. Note: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the brake system has been checked. The recall began June 29, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 47N8, 47N9, and 47N6.
Negative 2018 Volkswagen Golf car reviews
Positive 2018 Volkswagen Golf car reviews
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The Volkswagen Golf has a really nice interior at an affordable price. During Thanksgiving, VW was offering mine for $21k. They throw in lots of features that other cars at the same price point don’t have, such as leatherette seats, blind spot warning, and a panoramic sunroof. The car is also really quick, but the transmission is slow shifting and lazy. It handles exceptionally well and has good brakes. You also get standard one-touch all windows, electric driver and passenger seats, lumbar on both front seats, rain-sensing wipers, paddle shifters, and rear air, which no hatchback at that price point has. The visibility is fine, but I have blind spot monitoring and a backup camera, so it doesn’t matter. I upgraded my sound system to Fender, which is one of the best sound systems I’ve heard in a car. My only problem so far has been minor electrical issues that don’t really affect the car at all. 90% of the time, I was able to fix them myself in a minute. Although my transmission went out, it was my fault for driving recklessly. This car handles so well that I’ve even drifted it sideways by flooring it at a stoplight and turning, and I kept it in control. It’s also great at whipping through traffic. It’s so easy to speed really fast and cut everyone off safely. If you need to get to your destination fast, take a Golf. It accelerates quickly, handles well, and you can even tune it for more power. It gets good gas mileage too, not the best, but still good. I recently got a new car, but I don’t want to get rid of the Golf. It’s such a fun car to drive. Someone even backed into me, and it was ruled 50/50, even though it was their fault and they hit me pretty hard. But there was barely even a dent, not even a scratch. You can’t even notice it unless I point it out.I've owned it for three years and it still feels very solid with no squeaks or rattles. My only complaint is that I wish it had the DSG, but then it would feel too much like a GTI, which would be kind of silly to get.
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I've always been a fan of small cars, and this one has a large car feel where it counts. My first new car was a '77 Rabbit, and this one has the same quickness and agility as the old one. However, this car is much more powerful and quiet, making it an even more enjoyable ride. Parking is a breeze, and there's plenty of room for me, the Mrs., our 50 lb dog, and our grandson in his car seat. I was pleasantly surprised to see that my gas mileage was well above government ratings, even when I wasn't driving like Mario Andretti. On the highway, I'm getting 40+ mpg. I just love this car! Originally, I wanted a manual like my '77 Rabbit, but the Mrs. convinced me to get the automatic transmission. Trust me, you won't be disappointed. By the way, it even has a CD player, which is a huge plus for an old man like me.
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I have had quite a bit of experience with Volkswagens. My first car was a red '65 Beetle Convertible, followed by a '67 Beetle, a '75 Le Grande Bug (which was an awesome car), a '64 Beetle, and a '74 Superbeetle. In 2010, I bought a Tiguan which I liked a lot. Then, in 2015, I traded in my Tiguan for a Mark 7 Golf Comfortline (mid-trim level in Canada). I absolutely loved that car and drove it trouble-free for almost 2 years until a dump truck backed into it while parked, totalling it. Fortunately, I was able to replace it with a black, top-of-the-line Highline trim 2017 Golf, which was awesome. The Fender sound system was killer, the ambient lighting was awesome, and it was just so much fun driving a deluxe “all the bells and whistles” car. For six months. Then, unfortunately, I was in an accident. However, all you Golf owners can rest assured that this is one tough little car. It did exactly what it was supposed to do. Before I knew what had happened, the driver’s airbag was already deflating, and I walked away without so much as a scratch on me, or any soft tissue injuries to speak of. I replaced that car with another Golf, a 2018 Comfortline, down a trim level, but with the Driver’s assist package, so all the latest technology plus the 8” infotainment. I have driven it for 27,000km without a single issue. It accelerates like no car I’ve ever owned, and the 6-speed autobox is smooth as silk, although it performs much better in sport mode. I have taken it on a couple of road trips and can attest to the seat comfort and highway performance. My only complaint, and I’m going to ask about this when I take it in for its oil change and inspection next week, is the huge difference between highway mileage and city driving. Even driving like a 100-year-old nun, I can’t seem to get better than 16mpg, and about 2-300 km on a tank of gas. On the highway, no matter how I drive, it’s in the 40mpg range, and I went almost 500km on a tank of gas. I hope this helps you make an informed decision about your next car purchase!I completely understand what you mean about the turbo making the engine work too hard in stop and go driving. However, overall, I must say that this is the best car I have ever owned.
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I recently purchased a Golf Wolfsburg in white with a manual transmission and it's a great car! I had to replace my regular Golf that was only 3 weeks old and had been totaled, but I've always had good experiences with the comfort, reliability, and performance of VW cars. The Apple CarPlay is a great feature and the car looks nice both inside and out. I bought it from Fussilo VW in Schenectady and Bill Watson was incredibly helpful and a pleasure to work with, especially since I had to go through the process twice due to the accident. Overall, I'm very happy with my purchase!
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This Volkswagen Golf Hatchback with its 1.8T engine is still considered the best and most reliable model ever. I have been maintaining it regularly and it has run 15K since May 2018. It is flawless, quiet, smartly spacious and a pleasure to drive. This is actually my second Golf after the 2015 model. Even though my family drives BMW, Honda HR-V and Ford Escape, everyone wants to drive my Golf and they love how smooth it is. I will add more reviews after I drive 20k, as and when that happens.
Other years of Volkswagen Golf
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Ted Feest 2024-09-11
Although the VW is a fun car to drive, the maintenance costs can be quite high. Unfortunately, I needed a new transmission after only 109,000 Km on the vehicle, and VW would not cover it under warranty. I ended up spending approximately $10K to get it fixed.
Roy Johns 2024-08-04
I bought this car brand new and I absolutely love how it looks and drives. However, I have had a few issues with it and it has been in the shop 8 times in the 11 months that I've owned it. Unfortunately, it has left me stranded twice which is not something I would expect from a new car. Despite these issues, I am still very fond of the car and I am hopeful that the issues will be resolved soon.