2008 Volkswagen Gti problems

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2008 Volkswagen Gti

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Common 2008 Volkswagen Gti problems

The Volkswagen GTI 2008 is a popular car model, but like any vehicle, it has some common problems that owners have reported over the years. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues based on the search results:

  1. Rust: One of the most common problems with the Volkswagen GTI 2008 is rust, which can occur on suspension components, wheel arches, rockers, and below the emblem. Rust can cause significant damage to the car's structure and can be expensive to repair. It's important to check for rust when buying a used GTI and to address any signs of rust as soon as possible.
  2. Broken Coil Springs: Another common problem with the Volkswagen GTI 2008 is broken coil springs. This issue can cause the car to sag on one side or to ride lower than usual. Broken coil springs can also lead to other problems with the suspension system, so it's important to address this issue promptly.
  3. Tired Struts and Shocks: The Volkswagen GTI 2008's struts and shocks can wear out over time, leading to a less comfortable ride and reduced handling performance. This issue can be addressed by replacing the struts and shocks with new ones.
  4. Soft Touch Interior Coatings: Some owners of the Volkswagen GTI 2008 have reported issues with the car's soft touch interior coatings, which can peel or crack over time. This issue can be unsightly and can reduce the car's value.
  5. Cam Follower / High Pressure Fuel Pump / Intake Cam: The Volkswagen GTI 2008's cam follower, high pressure fuel pump, and intake cam can also cause problems. These components are part of the car's direct injection system, which can wear out over time. If these components are not in good condition, they can cause the car to run poorly or to have reduced power.
  6. Ignition Coils / Spark Plugs: The Volkswagen GTI 2008's ignition coils and spark plugs can also cause problems. These components are responsible for igniting the fuel in the car's engine, and if they are not in good condition, they can cause the car to run poorly or to have reduced power.
  7. Timing Belt / Waterpump: The Volkswagen GTI 2008's timing belt and water pump can also cause problems. These components are responsible for keeping the engine's valves and pistons in sync, and if they fail, they can cause significant damage to the engine.

In summary, the Volkswagen GTI 2008 is a popular car model, but like any vehicle, it has some common problems that owners have reported over the years. These issues include rust, broken coil springs, tired struts and shocks, soft touch interior coatings, cam follower, high pressure fuel pump, intake cam, ignition coils, spark plugs, and timing belt/waterpump. It's important to address these issues promptly to ensure the car's safety and reliability.

2008 Volkswagen Gti engine

What is the problem with the 2008 VW Golf GTI?

Top 2008 Volkswagen GTI Problems

  • High Mileage Automatic Transmissions May Have Shifting Problems. ...
  • Air Leaks And EVAP Faults Causing Check Engine Light. ...
  • Reverse Gear Failures and Noise in Manual Transmission Models are Common. ...
  • Power windows fail more often than manually operated window cranks.

Is Golf GTI 2008 a good car?

This is definitely the best GTI in a long time. It's also versatile -- it comes as a two-door or four-door and has a roomy and well-built interior. Your only pause for concern might be that the GTI is a bit pricey and lacks in performance when compared to other top sport hatchbacks or coupes.

Is GTI high maintenance?

VW GTI is robust, simple and well-built car. Being used with sense, maintenance is not more expensive, than any other mini. Once driver starts to push his GTI over the limit, maintenance costs will skyrocket.

What are the disadvantages of GTI?

Cons

  • Infotainment system can be frustrating to use.
  • Not as much power as some rival hot hatches.

Is the 2008 Golf GTI a good car?

Powered by a turbocharged 200hp 2.0T FSI engine, it's smooth, refined and pleasingly quick to drive plus there's a choice of the standard six-speed manual or an optional semi-automatic DSG gearbox. On the road the Mk5 GTI is simply superb, cornering with accurate precision and providing plenty of surefooted grip.

What are the disadvantages of GTI?

Cons

  • Infotainment system can be frustrating to use.
  • Not as much power as some rival hot hatches.

What is the common problem with Golf GTI?

Next problem is the intake manifold Runner the intake manifold is in charge of directing the flow of air into the head of the engine. It has a series of flaps that control the air velocity.

Is GTI high maintenance?

VW GTI is robust, simple and well-built car. Being used with sense, maintenance is not more expensive, than any other mini. Once driver starts to push his GTI over the limit, maintenance costs will skyrocket.

2008 Volkswagen Gti car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Gti problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Power train problems
  • Exterior lighting problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems
  • Engine problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Volkswagen Gti vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2008 Volkswagen Gti

The NHTSA has received 67 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Volkswagen Gti. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2008 Volkswagen Gti vehicles.

2020-07-19

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
  • VIN: WZWHV71K57W
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE RPMS ONLY GO TO 4000 THE HEADLIGHTS ARE CONSTANTLY BLOWN, ONE OF THE FANS DOES NOT WORK ....THERE ARE A LOT OF ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS, THE MASS AIR INTAKE FLOW ISSUES WITH THAT THERE'S JUST A LOT OF ISSUES. IT'S AFFECTED THE ELECTRICAL, SPEED CONTROL, AIRBAGS, VISIBILITY AND WIPER,LIGHTING, FUEL SYSTEM MASS AIR INTAKE SENSOR
2019-07-02

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-03-12
  • VIN: WVWFD71K68W
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: EA888 HAS A KNOWN TIMING CHAIN AND CHAIN TENSIONER ISSUE THAT CAUSES ENGINE FAILURE.
2018-07-12

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2018-07-09
  • VIN: WVHHD71K58W
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: THE CAR JERKS OUT WHEN U ACCELERATE. THE CAR FEELS LIKE IT'S IN MANUAL WHEN TAKING OFF.
2018-02-14

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-08-01
  • VIN: WVWGV71K18W
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: 2.0 T USE OF EXCESSIVE OIL BETWEEN OIL CHANGES
2017-10-21

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2017-06-12
  • VIN: WVWGV71K18W
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: CAR LOSS POWER HAD TO BE TOWED TO VOLTSWAGON LATER THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP WAS FOUND TO HAVE FAILED CAUSING A LOST OF POWER WHILE ON THE ON RAMP TO THE HIGHWAY. THERE WAS ALSO DAMAGE DONE TO THE MOTOR FROM THE INTERNAL METAL FRAGMENTS FROM WHERE THE PUMP WORKS WITH THE CAM SHAFT AND THE METAL FELL INTO THE MOTOR. HAD TO HAVE A NEW ENGINE REPLACE MENT MILEAGE 135000.
2016-11-16

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-11-15
  • VIN: WVWEV71K88W
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: RECENTLY I PREFORMED A ROUTINE MAINTENANCE CHECK ON MY VEHICLE AND AS SUGGESTED BY ALL MARK 5 GTI OWNERS I CHECKED THE CAM FOLLOWER. I FOUND THE CAM FOLLOWER COMPLETELY WORN THROUGH. I CONTACTED VW TO MAKE SURE I WAS UNDER THE EXTENDED WARRANTY HANDED OUT TO ALL 2006-2007 AND SOME 2008 OWNERS TO FIND OUT I WAS NOT UNDER THE WARRANTY EXTENSION. RIGHT NOW I HAVE A THE PIECE OFF MY OLD CAM FOLLOWER SOMEWHERE IN MY ENGINE AND VW REFUSES TO SERVICE MY VEHICLE DUE TO THEIR NEW IMPROVED MODEL APPARENTLY THAT MANY OTHER OWNERS ARE EXPERIENCING. VW KNOWS THAT THE CAM FOLLOWER IS FAULTY BUT REFUSES TO SERVICE MANY OTHER 2008 OWNERS SUCH AS MYSELF. RIGHT NOW IT FEELS LIKE MY CAR IS A TICKING TIME BOMB WITH THE CAM FOLLOWER PIECE SOMEWHERE IN THE ENGINE.
2016-08-29

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-08-15
  • VIN: WVWHV71KX8W
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: THE CAM FOLLOWER HAS PREMATURELY WARN OUT CAUSING THE INTAKE CAMSHAFT TO WEAR PREMATURELY AS WELL, WHICH HAS IN TURN CAUSED THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP TO FAIL. THIS IS A LONG-TERM, DEGENERATIVE ISSUE. VOLKSWAGEN HAS EXTENDED THE WARRANTY ON THESE PARTS FOR SOME 2006-2008 GTI'S BUT NOT MY VIN. THEIR WARRANTY EXTENSION WAS NOT BROAD ENOUGH AS THESE SAME PARTS HAVE FAILED IN MY CAR.
2016-03-30

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-03-29
  • VIN: WVWHV71K38W
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: I'VE RECENTLY HAD FREQUENT HEADLIGHT BULB FAILURES AND OTHER HEADLIGHT RELATED ISSUES DURING MY OWNERSHIP OF THE CAR. PRIOR TO INSTALLING ANOTHER EXPENSIVE NEW BULB I DID SOME INVESTIGATION INTO THE WIRING INSIDE THE HEADLIGHT HOUSING AND I WAS COMPLETELY STUNNED AND CONCERNED AT WHAT I FOUND. THE WIRING INSULATION/COVERING IS MISSING ON THE MAJORITY OF THE WIRES. ESPECIALLY AT THE MAIN CONNECTOR WHERE THE COVERING ON ALL WIRES IS MISSING. THE MAJORITY, APPROXIMATELY 80% OF THE WIRES ARE BARE. ANY WIRE INSULATION REMAINING IS CRACKED AND FRAIL. I AM CONCERNED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF THIS VEHICLES WIRING AND THE POTENTIAL FOR FIRE DUE TO ELECTRICAL SHORTS AS WELL AS THE POTENTIAL FOR THIS ISSUE TO CAUSE OTHER PROBLEMS WITH THE ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT OF THE CAR. THERE IS NO ROUTINE MAINTENANCE AS AN OWNER THAT COULD HAVE PREVENTED THIS FROM HAPPENING. I CONTACTED VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA AND I WAS TOLD THAT DUE TO THE AGE AND MILEAGE (103,257) OF THE VEHICLE THEY COULDN'T DO ANYTHING. I BELIEVE THIS TO BE AN ENGINEERING FAILURE TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE INSULATION TO THE WIRING IN AN ENVIRONMENT PRONE TO HEAT AND SHOULD BE SUBJECT TO A FORMAL INQUIRY OF OTHER VEHICLES OF THE SAME MAKE AND MODEL. THE HEADLIGHT FAILURE INDICATOR ON THE DASH CAME AS I STARTED THE CAR AND I VERIFIED THE LIGHT WAS OUT. THE WIRING ISSUE WAS FOUND WHILE THE CAR WAS STATIONARY DURING THE REPLACEMENT OF THE BULB.
2015-07-25

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-09-12
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASING MY 08 GTI WITH THE FSI MOTOR, I WAS SEARCHING THE INTERNET FOR COMMON ISSUES TO WATCH OUT FOR. THE CAM FOLLOWER WHICH SITS BETWEEN THE CAMSHAFT AND HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP WAS SEEN MULTIPLE TIMES ONLINE AS AN ISSUE DUE TO WEARING THROUGH ALLOWING THE CAM SHAFT TO INTERACT WITH THE PUMP. I ASKED A VW DEALERSHIP ABOUT THE PROBLEM AND THEY TOLD ME THAT EARLIER MODELS WERE COVERED UNDER WARRANTY, BUT 2008 WAS NOT DUE TO THE PROBLEM BEING FIXED BY THE FACTORY FOR THIS YEAR. I DECIDED TO CHECK ANYWAY AND FOUND THAT THE FOLLOWER WAS COMPLETELY WORN THROUGH ALLOWING THE CAM SHAFT TO INTERACT WITH THE PUMP. THIS WAS AT 56K MILES. WHEN I RETURNED TO DISCUSS THIS WITH THE DEALERSHIP THEY SAID THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. THIS SHOWS THAT THE PROBLEM WASN'T SOLVED, AND WHILE EARLIER MODELS ARE COVERED FOR THEIR DAMAGE IF SOMETHING GOES WRONG DUE TO METAL SHAVINGS IN MY ENGINE, OR OTHER ISSUES I'LL BE FORCED TO PAY OUT OF POCKET. I AM NOW REPLACING THE FOLLOWER MYSELF EVERY 15K JUST TO BE SURE, BUT THE FACT THAT ONE YEAR ISN'T COVERED IS NOT RIGHT. SINCE THE ISSUE PERSISTS THEY SHOULD COVER IT.
2015-06-28

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-06-28
  • VIN: WVWFV71K68W
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: WHEN BUCKLING THE DRIVERSIDE SEATBELT BEFORE BACKING UP, IT WOULD NOT LATCH.
2014-12-02

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-11-17
  • VIN: WVWEV71K38W
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: VEHICLE REQUIRED EXTRA CRANKING BEFORE STARTING. UPON STARTING AND BEGINNING TO DRIVE, THERE WAS LACK OF POWER AND RPMS DID NOT WANT TO GO ABOVE 4K. AFTER APPROX. 1/4-1/2 MILE ENGINE BEGAN TO RESPOND NORMALLY. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP FOR DIAGNOSIS. TOLD THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP, CAM FOLLOWER AND CAM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED DUE TO CAM FOLLOWER LOSING HARDNESS AND WEARING THROUGH CAUSING FUEL PUMP TO RUN DIRECTLY ON CAM. FUEL PUMP ARM WAS WORN AND ALSO SCORED CAM. WAS TOLD THAT 2006-07 MODEL YEARS HAD EXTENDED WARRANTY FROM VW TO FIX THIS BUT 2008 DID NOT. IN MODEL YEAR 2009, A COMPLETELY DIFFERENT SYSTEM WAS USED. I BELIEVE THAT MY ENGINE STILL CONTAINED THE DEFECTIVE PARTS AND VW INTERNET FORUMS ALSO HAVE EXTENSIVE MENTION OF THIS PROBLEM IN 2008 MODELS. I ALSO ON MANY OCCASIONS HAVE TAKEN VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE AND WAS NEVER INFORMED THAT I SHOULD HAVE THE CAM FOLLOWER INSPECTED FOR WEAR. THIS IS A $60.00 PART THAT COULD BE REPLACED BEFORE IT WEARS THROUGH. INSTEAD, I HAVE A QUOTE FROM THE DEALER TO REPLACE NOT ONLY THE CAM FOLLOWER, BUT ALSO THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP AND THE CAM FOR SLIGHTLY OVER $2,000.00. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP AND WAS TOLD THAT BECAUSE THERE ARE ALSO METAL SHAVINGS IN THE CAM HOUSING THAT I SHOULD ALSO REPLACE THIS ALONG WITH SOME OTHER MISC. PARTS. THE HOUSING PART ALONE IS APPROX. $1,600.00. I AM REPLACING THE FUEL PUMP AND CAM FOLLOWER AND WILL BE CHECKING THE PARTS FOR WEAR EVERY 10-20K MILES. REPORTED THIS ISSUE TO VW CUSTOMER CARE AND WAS TOLD THAT MY VIN DID NOT FALL INTO THE RANGE FOR THE EXTENDED WARRANTY SO THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. I DID RECEIVE A "COUPON" FOR $500 OFF A NEW VEHICLE PURCHASE BUT NOT SURE I WOULD BUY ANOTHER VW AFTER THIS EXPERIENCE. *JS
2014-11-14

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-10-23
  • VIN: WVWFV71K78W
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 VOLKSWAGEN GTI. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO JERK WHEN ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE. ALSO, THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE KEY HAD TO BE PLACED IN ACCESSORY MODE BEFORE THE VEHICLE WOULD TURN ON. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE CAM, HIGH PRESSURED FUEL PUMP, AND THE EVAP PURGE VALVE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 99,800. UPDATED 1/21/15*CN UPDATED 01/26/15
2014-09-04

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-10-10
  • VIN: WVWFV71K28W
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 VOLKSWAGEN GTI. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE ATTEMPTING TO DRIVE, THE VEHICLE HESITATED AND MADE AN ABNORMAL NOISE WHEN SHIFTING GEARS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE TRANSMISSION FAILED AND AS A RESULT A FLUSH NEEDED TO PERFORM. THE REMEDY FAILED TO REPAIR THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000.
2014-05-20

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-05-08
  • VIN: WVWEV71K48W
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 VOLKSWAGEN GTI. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS DID NOT PROJECT. THE HEADLIGHTS WERE NOT AIMED PROPERLY AND CAUSED REDUCED ROAD VISIBILITY INTERMITTENTLY. THE CONTACT USED THE HIGH BEAMS AS AN INTERIM FIX DUE TO THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS SCHEDULED TO BE INSPECTED, DIAGNOSED AND REPAIRED BY AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE CONTACTS VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 07V442000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
2012-07-20

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-07-18
  • VIN: WVWFV71K18W
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 VOLKSWAGEN GTI. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION WHERE THEY STATED THAT THE AIR BAG NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED BUT PROVIDED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000. UPDATED 08/28/12*LJ
2012-06-13

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2012-06-10
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: WVWGV71K58W
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 VOLKSWAGEN GTI. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH THE DRIVER REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE AND THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED BRUISES AFTER HITTING HER HEAD ON THE DASHBOARD. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 67,000. *TR
2012-03-19

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-12-19
  • VIN: WVWGD71K08W
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE TRANSMISSION DOG BONE MOUNT BOLT BROKE. THIS DAMAGED: THE TRANSMISSION HOUSING - THE TRANSMISSION HOUSING SUPPORT - THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER ASSEMBLY - STEERING - THE WIRING HARNESS - THE RADIATOR - THE RADIATOR FAN - ADDITIONAL ITEMS. THE LOSS OF CONTROL THAT RESULTED COULD HAVE LED TO BODILY INJURY. VW IS DECLINING WARRANTY COVERAGE FOR THIS DEFECT. *JS
2011-12-01

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-07-08
  • VIN: WVWHV71K08W
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: 2008 VOLKSWAGEN GTI. CONSUMER STATED THEY HIT A POTHOLE WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT IN THE POCONE PA AREA. THE TIRE WAS LESS THAN ONE MONTH OLD. HAD ALL FOUR TIRES REPLACED SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE IN JUNE. THE CONSUMER STATED THE LOW PROFILE HIGH PERFORMANCE TIRES WERE PRONE TO FREQUENT BLOW OUTS. *JB
2011-06-08

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-05-19
  • VIN: WVWF71K68W1
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: 2008 VOLKSWAGEN GTI. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DISCONTENT RELATED TO VEHICLE PERFORMANCE *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED DURING A 70,000 MILE SERVICE MAINTENANCE, SHE WAS INFORMED THE VEHICLE NEEDED A NEW $2300 TURBO ON A THREE YEAR OLD VEHICLE. *JB UPDATED 06/09/11
2010-12-17

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-11-02
  • VIN: WVWHV71K18W
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: CAME TO COMPLETE STOP. PRESSED ON GAS PEDAL TO MOVE FORWARD INTO INTERSECTION. AFTER AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFTED INTO 2ND, THE CAR LOSS ALL ENGAGEMENT AND FELT AS IF IT WAS IN NEUTRAL. I STEPPED ON THE GAS PEDAL FURTHER AND AFTER 5 SECONDS, THE ENGINE RPM"S INCREASED AND THE TRANSMISSION LUNGED FORWARD. I AM UNSURE IF IT WAS THE DSG TRANSMISSION SLIPPING INTO NEUTRAL, OR A THROTTLE ISSUE. DEALER REPLACED MECHATRONIC UNIT WHICH DID NOT ALLEVIATE THIS FREQUENT PROBLEM.
2010-09-01

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-09-01
  • VIN: WVWFV71K98W
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: 2008 VW GTI DSG--AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION PROBLEM: THE CAR "JUMPS" RANDOMLY WHEN RELEASING FOOT OFF THE BRAKE AT A RED LIGHT, OR WHEN ENGAGING FROM PARK TO DRIVE AND RELEASING BRAKE. MANY "CLOSE CALLS" TO CRASHING AND/OR PROPERTY DAMAGE DUE TO KNOWN ISSUE, ESPECIALLY WHEN PARALLEL PARKED ON STREET: I.E. CAR JUMPING FORWARD OR BACKWARD POTENTIALLY DAMAGING PARKED CARS AROUND OR, EVEN WORSE, "JUMPING" INTO THE TRAFFIC LANES. DEALERSHIP DEFLECTS THE ISSUE, CLAIMING IT TO BE "NORMAL" OPERATION OF THE TRANSMISSION. WARRANTY ON THE TRANSMISSION HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO 10YR/100,000MILE, THOUGH NOT IN RESPONSE TO THIS ISSUE, ACCORDING TO DEALERSHIP. *TR
2010-08-28

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-08-11
  • VIN: WVWHV71K58W
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: AUG 11TH I TURNED A CORNER IN MY 2008 VW GTI WITH ~29,8XX MILES ON THE ODOMETER, ACCELERATED BRISKLY IN 2ND GEAR AT APPROX 4000 RPM THE CAR BUCKED AND SHUDDERED AND LOST POWER. WHEN THE RPM'S DROPPED ABOUT 500RPM THE MOTOR REGAINED POWER UNTIL ABOUT 4000 RPM AND THEN THE CAR BUCKED, SHUDDERED AND LOST POWER AGAIN. THIS CONTINUED TO HAPPEN AS LONG AS THE ACCELERATOR PEDDLE WAS DEPRESSED. THIS HAPPENED IN EVERY GEAR. LUCKILY THIS HAPPENED ON A LONG FREEWAY ENTRANCE RAMP PRIOR TO MY ATTEMPT TO MERGE WITH FREEWAY TRAFFIC. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THE ECU HAD A LOW FUEL PRESSURE CODE. THIS APPARENTLY IS A KNOWN ISSUE AND THEY REPLACED THE CAM, HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP AND CAM FOLLOWER. APPARENTLY THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP IS DRIVEN OFF THE CAM AND OVER TIME PUNCHES A HOLE IN THE CAM FOLLOWER AND THEN RIDES DIRECTLY ON THE CAM SHAFT CAUSING SCORING AND RESULTING IN THE FAILURE I EXPERIENCED. I SPECIFICALLY ASKED TO SEE THE OLD PARTS AS I WANTED TO ASCERTAIN THE AMOUNT OF METAL SHAVINGS THAT WERE NOW FLOATING AROUND IN MY ENGINE. FOR WHATEVER REASON THEY DID NOT SAVE THE PARTS AND SENT THEM BACK TO VW SINCE THIS REPAIR WAS UNDER WARRANTY. *TR
2010-08-17

POWER TRAIN,TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-08-04
  • VIN: WVWFV71K68W
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,TIRES
  • Summary: HARSH SHIFTING DURING ACCELERATION IN 2008 VOLKSWAGEN GTI WITH DSG TRANSMISSION. *TR
2010-06-06

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-12-15
  • VIN: WVWHV71K58W
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: THE ENGINE CONSUMES 3-4 EXTRA QUARTS OF SYNTHETIC OIL BETWEEN 5,000 MILE OIL CHANGE INTERVALS AS INSTRUCTED BY MANUFACTURER. ITS A 2.0T ENGINE THAT USES SYNTHETIC OIL. I HAD PREVIOUS VERSION OF 1.8T AND IT DID NOT CONSUME ANY OIL AT ALL. IF THE OIL IS NOT ADDED, THE CAR WOULD TAKE 2-3 TIMES TO START UP (DOESN'T MATTER WHICH SEASON) AND ITS HORRIBLE ON GAS MILEAGE. WENT TO DEALERSHIP 5 TIMES ALREADY AND EVERY TIME THEY TELL ME THAT THIS IS NORMAL CONSUMPTION. I INFORMED THAT I HAVE TO ADD OIL TO KEEP THE CAR GOING, THEY TOLD ME THAT ITS NOT THEIR PROBLEM UNTIL THE ENGINE CEASES AT WHICH TIME THEY WILL LOOK INTO IT. AS A CONSUMER, I HAVE NO CHOICE BUT TO KEEP ON ADDING THE SYNTHETIC OIL. I THOUGHT THAT SYNTHETIC OIL IS HARD TO BREAK DOWN AND YES I USED THE RECOMMENDED GRADE. VW IS TAKING ME FOR A RIDE. DOES ANYBODY HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS? *TR
2010-05-03

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-05-03
  • VIN: WVWFV71K58W
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: MY CAR IS A 2008 VW GTI WITH THE DSG TRANSMISSION. THE TRANSMISSION IS VERY NOISY, EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO DRIVE AT LOW SPEEDS, AND IS JERKY AND BUCKS WHEN DOWNSHIFTING. AT LOW SPEEDS, THE CLUTCH ENGAGES WITH A JERK AND THE CAR LURCHES FORWARD TO ACCELERATE. WHEN DOWN SHIFTING, IT IS DIFFICULT TO BRAKE BECAUSE AS THE GEARS ARE DISENGAGING AND REENGAGING IN A JERKY MANNER, THE AMOUNT OF BRAKE FORCE REQUIRED TO STOP CHANGES TOO. I RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER ABOUT THIS FROM VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, BUT THE DEALERSHIP DENIES ANY LETTER WAS SENT TO ME AND THAT THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH MY VEHICLE. *TR

2008 Volkswagen Gti recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2008 Volkswagen Gti.

2007-09-24
  • Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
  • Summary: CERTAIN VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." SOME VEHICLES MAY NOT HAVE HAD A REQUIRED CAP INSTALLED WHICH DISABLES THE HEADLIGHT HORIZONTAL AIM AND SOME VEHICLES MAY CONTAIN A CAP THAT DISABLES THE VERTICAL AIMING SCREW.
  • Consequence: NONCOMPLIANCE CAN INHIBIT PROPER HEADLAMP AIM ADJUSTMENT FOR ROADWAY ILLUMINATION, IMPROPERLY AIMED HEADLAMPS COULD CAUSE REDUCED ROAD VISIBILITY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR THE PRESENCE OF A CAP IN THE SOCKET OF THE LOW BEAM HORIZONTAL AIMING SCREW AND INSTALL ONE IF MISSING, AND INSPECT FOR THE PRESENCE OF A CAP IN THE SOCKET OF THE VERTICAL AIMING SCREW AND IF PRESENT, THE CAP WILL BE REMOVED. THE RECALL WILL BEGIN ON OCTOBER 31, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VW AT 1-800-822-8987.

Positive 2008 Volkswagen Gti car reviews

  1. Bo Lakin 2025-01-06

    I've spent the last 7 months researching cars, including the Accord Coupe, G6 GT, Mini Cooper S, and more. I knew that whichever car I chose, I would be happy with it, and I'm thrilled with my lease. This is my first car in my name, which is a big experience for me. As a car enthusiast, I put a lot of time into my research and found that, rating for rating, pound for pound, and dollar for dollar, I made the right choice.

  2. Will Kessler 2025-01-01

    Quick and agile, fun to drive! Please note that the Turbo requires premium fuel. This car is versatile around town and perfect for short trips. The tight, sporty suspension makes for an exciting ride. It's worth noting that most models use some oil between changes due to the turbo. In my experience, mine takes about a quart per 1500 miles, but I drive it relatively easy most days.

  3. Keshawn Raynor 2024-11-23

    You needed a car with a back seat and good gas mileage, but most importantly, it had to be fun to drive since you were giving up your roadster. You test drove several cars from different brands, including Toyota, Subaru, Chevy, and Mazda. However, once you got behind the wheel of the GTI, you knew it was the one for you. Even though you've always preferred manual transmission, a salesman encouraged you to try the DSG transmission, and you loved it. You ended up buying the 4-door model in white, which looks classy, sporty, and practical.

  4. Chesley Mraz 2024-11-01

    I purchased this car despite being aware of VW's reputation for unreliable build quality, overpriced dealer service, and poor customer relations due to the 1.8T and its sludge issue. It's hard to resist the allure of a great car, and in my case, BBC America's Top Gear played a significant role in my decision. After reading their rave review and hearing Jeremy Clarkson's fond memories of his MKI Scirocco, I couldn't resist taking a test drive. The GTI was a significant upgrade from my Scion TC, with better responsiveness, speed, brakes, and agility. Going back to my dependable Toyota was a bit of a letdown. Unfortunately, I made a mistake by not shopping around and ended up paying more than I should have at the dealership.

  5. Hazle Ritchie 2024-10-21

    I bought this car used when it was just 1 year old and had 11000 miles on it. I absolutely love it! The 6sp TWIN CLUTCH auto is superb and was the deciding factor between this and the Mazdaspeed3. Since 90% of my driving is in rush hour, I didn't want a manual again. The lightening fast shifts make driving a breeze. The manual mode is also very fun to drive. I'm getting pretty good mileage, around 26/27 mostly city. The instrument cluster lighting (blue & red) is fantastic and the heated seats are very supportive. The car has gobs of torque on que and the xenon headlights are very bright - even when the car is filthy. This car wants to be driven fast and it's so much fun to drive. I actually like running errands because I get to drive the GTI!

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