Volkswagen Gti problems
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Volkswagen Gti model years
Common Volkswagen Gti problems
Volkswagen GTI owners have reported several common problems that can affect the performance and reliability of these popular hatchbacks. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
- High Mileage Automatic Transmissions May Have Shifting Problems: Some Volkswagen GTI owners have reported issues with automatic transmissions, particularly in high-mileage vehicles. These problems can include rough shifting, slipping, and difficulty getting into gear. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn-out clutch packs, damaged solenoids, or low transmission fluid levels.
- Air Leaks and EVAP Faults Causing Check Engine Light: Many Volkswagen GTI owners have reported issues with air leaks and EVAP faults, which can cause the check engine light to come on. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty sensors, damaged hoses, or leaks in the EVAP system. These issues can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, poor performance, and increased emissions.
- Ignition Coils: In high-performance applications like the GTI, the ignition system is subjected to more stress, which can lead to premature failure of components like ignition coils. Symptoms of a faulty ignition coil or spark plug include a check engine light, misfiring, and a rough or vibrating engine.
- Intake Manifold Runner: The intake manifold runner is responsible for directing airflow into the engine. If the runner is not functioning properly, it can lead to a variety of issues, including reduced power, poor fuel efficiency, and a check engine light.
- Water Pump: The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant through the engine to keep it at a safe temperature. In the Volkswagen GTI, some owners have reported issues with the water pump, including leaks and premature failure. These issues can lead to overheating and engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Upper Timing Chain Tensioner: The timing chain tensioner is responsible for maintaining the correct tension on the timing chain, which keeps the engine's valves and pistons in sync. If the tensioner fails, it can lead to damage to the engine's valves and pistons, as well as reduced performance and increased emissions.
- Intake Valves: The intake valves are responsible for allowing air and fuel to enter the engine. If the valves become dirty or damaged, it can lead to reduced performance, poor fuel efficiency, and increased emissions.
- Gearbox Issues: Some Volkswagen GTI owners have reported issues with the gearbox, including rough shifting, slipping, and difficulty getting into gear. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn-out clutch packs, damaged solenoids, or low transmission fluid levels.
- Oil Consumption: Some Volkswagen GTI models can suffer from high oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly. It's important to keep checking the oil level, even between services, and to have the car serviced according to guidelines.
- Electrical Issues: Faults with the navigation and entertainment system, as well as other electrical niggles, have been reported on some models. It's worth checking that all the electrics work as they should.
These are just some of the common problems reported by Volkswagen GTI owners. While these issues can be frustrating, many of them can be addressed with regular maintenance and prompt repairs. It's important to keep up with routine maintenance, such as oil changes and transmission fluid flushes, to help prevent these issues from occurring. If you do experience any of these problems, it's important to have them addressed promptly by a qualified mechanic to help prevent further damage to the vehicle.
Is the VW GTI a reliable car?
Overall, it seems that the Volkswagen Golf GTI is generally reliable. Motorbiscuit.com indicates that recent updates, particularly in 2013 and later cars, have made the Volkswagen Golf GTI models quite reliable compared to their earlier counterparts.
Is the GTI a good car or bad?
The engineers developed a great hatchback; the UX people appear not to have driven. Throw the GTI hard into a corner, and it claws the tarmac. Once you're done throwing it around recklessly, it becomes just another Golf; it's discreet, comfortable, practical, and surprisingly thrifty, writes William Clavey.
Is GTI high maintenance?
The annual maintenance cost of a Volkswagen GTI is $791. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
What are the disadvantages of GTI?
Cons
- Infotainment system can be frustrating to use.
- Not as much power as some rival hot hatches.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Gti years
We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Gti cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen Gti model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Gti model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Gti years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volkswagen Gti car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Gti , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
- Electronic stability control (esc) problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Gti vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Gti model years
A total of 27 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Gti model years
There were a total of 12 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Gti model years
There were a total of 23 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Gti model years
There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 873 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Gti . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Gti vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volkswagen Gti 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: 3VW6T7AU3KM
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Rough idle on start. RPM is not maintaining to keep the engine running. After a few try, it starts ok and drive off the parking lot, but the engine dies after about 10 seconds over 30mph. It feels like gasoline is not igniting corretly. Scanned Error Code P0171: System Too Lean Bank 1 P0190: Fuel Rail Pressure Sensor A Circuit Dealership can't replicate the issue and find the issue. Could be related to Fuel System Recall.
Volkswagen Gti 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-29
- VIN: WVWFV7AJ0CW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: ABS Control Module short and failure occurred. Trouble codes generated include 01325 - Tire Pressure Monitoring Control Module No signal/communication and 01130 - ABS Operation Implausible signal static. Upon visiting an Authorized Volkswagen dealer service center was charged $200 for ABS diagnostic fee and told the ABS Control Module has failed and I will need to pay >$2900 to replace. ABS, ESP/ASR, airbag, and parking brake lights are now permanently active as a result and not certain these systems are functioning.
Volkswagen Gti 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-20
- VIN: 3VW6T7AUXKM
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: There has been no incident. I am filing this complaint because I have been unable to get an expected date of repair from VW by calling VW.
Volkswagen Gti 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-14
- VIN: WVWGD7AJ3AW
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The seatbelt is failing as it does not retract back into its holder and I am uncertain as to how safe and effective it is. Note that I have not done anything to cause this damage to it, it is through use and time. Volkswagen Group should approve fixes to it without additional cost to the customer.
Volkswagen Gti 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-04
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WVWHD7AJ5AW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: under emergency braking at around 70mph all 4 wheels locked up and abs/traction lights illuminated on dash. Caused a minor accident and flat spot on all 4 tires. ABS did not work. This is a know recall for 2009 models of the same vehicle. I replicated the issue a second time at a slower speed on a secluded road with the same results. There are numerous complaints about the same situation on this and other model VW cars of this year all over the internet forums. The ABS module was diagnosed as defective by mechanic shop.
Volkswagen Gti 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-28
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-28
- VIN: WVWFD7AJ7CW
- Components: ENGINE,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen GTI. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the low coolant level warning light illuminated. The contact stopped and refilled the coolant reservoir bottle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed water pump. The contact was informed that the water pump needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the failure had been persistent, and the water pump had been replaced three times previously. The contact was informed that oil leaked onto the gasket and caused the housing of the water pump to crack, which caused the engine to overheat. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.
Volkswagen Gti 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-10
- Date Complaint: 2023-12-10
- VIN: WVWHD7AJXEW
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: I noticed a common problem among MK6 GTI owners of the steering wheel messing up, causing many issues such as broken airbags, the horn not work, cruise control stopped, etc., and since I have the issue (air bag symbol, horn, no cruise control) as well I was wondering what could be done. This happened after a near-accident/close call and when I tried to honk it didnt work. It could've been for any situation and a car horn is very important. That on top of the fact that if I did crash there was a risk of me not even having an air bag. Not to mention the countless inconvenient long drices with no cruise control. I checked the wiring and the wheel/horn is connected properly, and everything else on the dasg works fine.The car has been in a minor accident before and I did take it to a VW dealership for mechanical and body work, so the car should've been fine had they fixed the issue, but the problem is I had zero idea about the recall and I'm assuming they didnt bother to check since I didnt mention, and so the issue was hidden away. I did in fact however call the dealership and call to ask if they perhaps incorrectly ordered a wrong oart or something, but they assured me that the car was handled to their best extent. I doubt fixing the issue would have been a bother, so they wouldve done it had they know. I'm 99% sure this is the recall affecting my car, and I sure would like some help. Thank you
Volkswagen Gti 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-21
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-09
- Fire: 1
- VIN: WVWHV71K49W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The warning light went on engine oil pressure off. Search manual. Then it wouldn't start. But lights where on so we put a new starter. But it wouldn't turn the engine. So We thought it must be the battery needs a jump start. And then wire from battery to starter caught on fire? I Googled the problem, and found that there had been recalls for that faulty wire before.
Volkswagen Gti 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-13
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-29
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WVWEV71K27W
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I hydroplaned and was t-boned on the passenger side. The only air bags that went off were the side curtains on the passenger side
Volkswagen Gti 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-04
- Date Complaint: 2023-03-08
- VIN: WVWHD7AJ3EW
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Volkswagen GTI. The contact stated while shifting the vehicle into drive(D) there was a lag before the vehicle responded. The contact stated that the engine revved before the transmission jolted into gear. The contact stated that the vehicle shook abnormally. Additionally, while accelerating the vehicle was revving loudly before jolting into the next gear. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The contact stated that the check engine light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to the local dealer however, the vehicle had not been diagnosed. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 63,669.
Volkswagen Gti 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-09
- Date Complaint: 2023-01-09
- VIN: WVWHV71K77W
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The front passenger airbag has been verified by a service centre to have some kind of issue, is a safety hazard and they confirmed other of the same type airbags have had faults as well (in their experience).
Volkswagen Gti 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-12-06
- VIN: Wvwhv9aj2aw
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: About a month ago, while driving , the abs light, brake light and ESP light came on. After about 2 weeks of troubleshooting, a local mechanic troubleshot the issues to a faulty ABS module. After many phone calls with my local VW dealership I was able to set an appointment for a diagnostic. They determined " Diag ABS system no communication advised on replacement module". The module costing $2,886.04 in parts and labor. With the part not in stock and the dealership saying " no way of knowing when we'll get one in". Over 130,000 VW's same year and model have had this same issue and been recalled but for some reason my vehicle doesn't have a recall on this vin. Both the VW dealership and VW customer care refuse to do anything. I believe this vehicle like many others were missed or ignored during the recall. My vehicle brakes have been sticking and have locked on me once already in the last month while driving. It is a safety hazard to drive.
Volkswagen Gti 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-25
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-01
- VIN: WVWFD71K49W
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Volkswagen GTI. The contact stated while driving 35-40 MPH, the ABS warning light, traction control warning light, and the brake warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V913000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic, Electronic Stability Control). Upon reprogramming the ABS module, the dealer informed the contact the ABS module failed the diagnostic test and needed to be replaced; however, the dealer informed the contact that he had to pay for the repair even though the recall remedy stated that the ABS module replacement was free of charge. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 17,000.
Volkswagen Gti 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-09
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-30
- VIN: WVWGD7AJ2CW
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: My Air bag light came on. Plus all the controls on my steering column do not work, including the horn. I called the VW dealer. They knew exactly what it was. The Clock Spring. This happened in early May. I was told the part has been on back order for 6 months. The dealer does not have any cars to give me until the part comes in. I was told 6 other cars have the same problem This to me is a major safety issue. I HAVE to drive my car, and I am not comfortable with that.
Volkswagen Gti 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-11
- Date Complaint: 2022-08-10
- VIN: WVWFV7AJ6B
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Volkswagen GTI. The contact stated that he lost the function of the steering wheel, horn, controls, and air bag. The air bag warning indicator light was illuminated. The contact called the local dealer and it was diagnosed that the clock spring needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that the parts required were on backorder. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted but provided no additional assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 55,000.
Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Gti
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 65 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Gti.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volkswagen Gti 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-27
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Golf R, Golf GTI, 2024 Atlas, and 2024 Atlas Cross Sport vehicles. The rearview camera image may be delayed or deactivated after shifting into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A rearview camera with a delayed or deactivated image reduces the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2024, and July 16, 2024. Owners may contact VW customer service at 1-800-893-5298. VW's number for this recall is 91US.
- Model: Volkswagen Gti 2015
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- 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.
- Model: Volkswagen Gti 2018
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- 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.
- Model: Volkswagen Gti 2019
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- 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.
- Model: Volkswagen Gti 2017
- Report Received Date: 2024-02-14
- 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.
Latest negative Volkswagen Gti car reviews
Latest positive Volkswagen Gti car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1997
I purchased my 1996 GTI (5 speed) last year (2008) with approximately 95k miles on it. I absolutely adore this car! It's incredibly reliable and has never let me down. I did have one issue where it died on the road, but it turned out to be a blown coil circuit caused by running the AC on full blast in the high heat of South Florida. VWs are known for having electrical problems as they age, but they're no different from any other car in that regard. The usual suspects are the coil/coil circuit (i.e. wiring), ignition switch, and spark plugs (avoid using platinum 4 prongs as they don't last). With a little research, you can easily get your car in prime shape without breaking the bank (VW Depot in FL is highly recommended).
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Vehicle year: 2001
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my MKIV that I bought almost a year ago. I absolutely love it! The peppy engine and reliability are just some of the things that make me happy to own it. However, I do want to mention that it's important to know how to drive and maintain these cars to avoid any issues. I've put 40k on it in the past year for work and school, and it's been great on most highway journeys, even going 100+. It currently has 236k on it, and besides the belt changes done by the previous owner, it's needed very little work. I haven't experienced any oil leaks, power loss, or tranny problems yet, which is great. Although, I do want to mention that the materials used in the interior aren't the best. The headliner and door panel upholstery have started to fall off, and the finish has faded. But, the good news is that there are numerous modifications available to make it even better! Let me know if you have any questions.
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Vehicle year: 2007
You're in for a treat with this MK5 GTI! I've owned a VR6 and a 1.8T, but this one takes the cake. The torque, handling, and comfort are all top-notch. The interior looks and feels more luxurious than the competition. Plus, it's a blast to drive! I even upgraded the suspension and added a chip to make it handle and perform even better. While it may be a bit pricier than some of its competitors like Honda or Mini, you get what you pay for with all the extra features that come with the GTI. Trust me, this car is perfect for everyday driving and you'll still be in love with it even after five years or more. Don't just take my word for it - my friends who drive Fords and Acuras test drove it and absolutely loved it!
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Vehicle year: 2012
I recently purchased a GTI autobahn, DSG, 4dr and after driving it for 50 miles, I can confidently say that the plethora of positive reviews online are absolutely right! The build quality is excellent, the driving dynamics are amazing, and the ride is quiet and smooth despite its size. The brakes are also excellent and the car looks great with its squat, low stance. The DSG takes a bit of getting used to but once you do, it's a blast to drive around town. As with previous GTIs, the car has abundant torque and I was even able to comfortably fit two boosters and a nine year old in the back, although they were a bit skinny. While there are a few minor ergonomic foibles, such as the steering wheel obstructing the top of the speedo with my preferred driving position, and some controls being too low and difficult to visualize, overall I am extremely happy with my purchase!
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Vehicle year: 2003
Congratulations on your wise decision to purchase a 2003 VW GTI on New Year's Eve of 2003! It's great to hear that you have no regrets about your purchase. The car is solid both inside and out, and it gets fantastic gas mileage. It's packed with tons of standard features that are hard to find in other vehicles, making it a pleasure to drive every time. The dealerships are also fantastic, with great customer service skills and a willingness to help. It's impressive that you've almost reached 20,000 miles with just one minor issue. The check engine light came on due to temperatures dropping below 20 degrees, which caused your purge valve to become stuck. Fortunately, it was quickly replaced, and you haven't had any problems since. Keep up the good work!
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Gti?
Clifford Wehner 2025-06-23
Vehicle year: 1998
The car is great to drive and has excellent handling. Although I have experienced some electrical issues with all three of my VWs, they have not been too troublesome, just a bit annoying. The rear wiper and side molding are a bit flimsy, but nothing major. Additionally, my VW with ABS brakes has malfunctioned. Despite these minor issues, I would definitely recommend this vehicle.
Milford Swift 2025-06-22
Vehicle year: 2010
I still believe that the GTI is a bit overpriced for its class, especially when compared to other similar cars that offer more options (good luck trying to connect an iPod to the system and control it through the wheel, and let's not even get started on the plaid cloth seats). However, I must say that driving it is an absolute blast. It's definitely more enjoyable than the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3, and even the WRX in that range would have been even more expensive and worn out. I do want to give a heads up that I had to spend around $3k to replace the front fans in a hot climate at around 67k miles, which was frustrating considering the car was worth about $10k at that point. But as I mentioned before, driving it is just so much fun!
Scotty Witting 2025-06-17
Vehicle year: 2011
I purchased my car in May, but unfortunately, after only 300 miles, the engine had to be replaced due to a hole in the upper oil pan. After a month of dealing with this issue, I was able to get a new car. However, shortly after getting my second car, I noticed some water issues and a strange smell. It wasn't until I took it in that I found out it was due to a water leak in a body seam. The car spent two weeks in the shop at the dealer before being fixed. During both warranty situations, I had to drive a Toyota Camry, which was not my preferred choice. If this is the average reliability, I am not satisfied. At this point, I would have gladly paid the premium and accepted the gas mileage difference for a Subaru WRX.
Moses Collins 2025-06-11
Vehicle year: 1996
I love this car and think it is fun to drive. It looks so cute and gets a lot of comments, even now that it has 100,000 miles on it. However, it has required a lot of maintenance to keep it running smoothly. The brakes needed to be replaced entirely, costing over $1000, at 60,000 miles. The license surround broke the day I bought it. The exhaust needed to be replaced twice in 4 years. It had a persistent oil pressure problem that couldn't be figured out by numerous shops. Warning lights come on when it gets wet and shops can't seem to fix it. The car nearly caught fire when the electrical system melted, costing about $2000 to fix. The water pump, thermostat, and harmonic balancer just quit. Although I won't buy another VW, I have learned a lot from owning this car and will always cherish the memories I have made with it.
Benjamin Legros 2025-06-05
Vehicle year: 2001
My experience with owning the VW GTI VR6 was not a pleasant one. I purchased the top of the line 2001 GLX with less than 140,000 kilometers and was the third owner. Unfortunately, over the span of one year, I spent half its value on repairs for parts that are prone to failure. Volkswagen is aware of this issue but has made no attempt to fix it. A simple Google search for coil-pack failures for the mk4 will confirm this. While it is a fun car to drive, it is heavy, slow, and antiquated. The whole VR6 thing is overrated until you hit the highway, and the bulk of my driving was in the city, making it a gas guzzler. Changing the oil is also an expensive job, costing at least $100 if you opt for full synthetic. Despite these issues, I can confidently say that my experience with the VW GTI VR6 has given me a better understanding of what to look for in a car and what to avoid.