2008 Volkswagen R32 problems
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Common 2008 Volkswagen R32 problems
Based on the information gathered from various sources, here are some common problems reported by owners of the Volkswagen R32 2008:
- Uneven Tire Wear: Some owners have observed uneven tire wear on their R32s, with the outer edges of the tires being in good condition while the inner edges wear out faster. This uneven wear pattern is attributed to the factory setup of the R32 for heavy cornering, leading to potential alignment issues and the need for periodic camber adjustments by Volkswagen.
- Headliner Material Deterioration: A common issue reported by owners is the deterioration of the headliner material. This problem is not unique to the R32 but is a general concern with Volkswagen vehicles. While it may not affect the performance of the car, it can impact the overall aesthetic and comfort of the interior.
- Lack of Power Seats: Some owners have noted the absence of power seats in the R32 as a minor drawback. This feature, which is not available in the car, could be a preference for those looking for added convenience and adjustability in seating positions.
- Bluetooth Absence: Another common complaint is the lack of Bluetooth connectivity in the R32. In today's tech-savvy world, this missing feature can be a downside for drivers who rely on hands-free communication and entertainment systems while on the road.
These reported issues provide insights into the experiences of Volkswagen R32 2008 owners, highlighting both the positive aspects of the car, such as its performance and handling, as well as areas that may require attention or improvement for a more satisfying ownership experience.
Is the 2008 R32 reliable?
If you want to buy a vw R32 don't hesitate to do it. Being 12 years old car you expect all kinds of issues but no, engine runs great, DSG transmission runs great. All together a well build car.
What are common R32 issues?
Minor electrical problems usually relating to the luxury aspects. In my experience the essential functions of the car are pretty darn Rock solid but things like the navigation, sound system and other more minor electrical issues are what you will more commonly encounter.
How long does an R32 engine last?
If well maintained the engines are good for 200k.
What is the lifespan of a R32?
R32 has an atmospheric lifetime of less than five years. However, other common kinds of refrigerants like R410A and R11, can stay in the atmosphere for between 17 to 45 years. Aside from R32's environmentally-friendly characteristics, this substance is also known for its general safety.
Is the 2008 R32 reliable?
If you want to buy a vw R32 don't hesitate to do it. Being 12 years old car you expect all kinds of issues but no, engine runs great, DSG transmission runs great. All together a well build car.
What are common R32 issues?
Minor electrical problems usually relating to the luxury aspects. In my experience the essential functions of the car are pretty darn Rock solid but things like the navigation, sound system and other more minor electrical issues are what you will more commonly encounter.
How long does an R32 engine last?
If well maintained the engines are good for 200k.
What engine does 2008 R32 have?
The R32's engine is a 3.2-liter V-6 producing 250 horsepower. Surprisingly, VW doesn't use its FSI direct-injection technology on this engine, opting for multipoint injection through an intake manifold. We are big fans of the DSG dual-clutch transmission, and VW includes it standard on the R32.
2008 Volkswagen R32 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Volkswagen R32.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2008 Volkswagen R32 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2008 Volkswagen R32.
- Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING APPROXIMATELY 5,000 MY 2008 R32 (5TH GENERATION) VEHICLES. WHEN CERTAIN DRIVING CONDITIONS ARE ACCOMPANIED BY HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES, THE FUEL TANK VENTILATION VALVE MAY NOT REMAIN FULLY CLOSED. IF THIS HAPPENS, LIQUID FUEL MAY ENTER THE FUEL TANK VENTING SYSTEM AND MIGRATE INTO THE EVAPORATIVE SYSTEM, SATURATING THE CARBON CANISTER. SHOULD THIS OCCUR WHILE DRIVING, THE VEHICLE MAY EXPERIENCE PERFORMANCE ISSUES (I.E., VEHICLE JERKING) AND THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER COULD ILLUMINATE. FUEL COULD LEAK FROM THE EVAPORATIVE SYSTEM LEAK DETECTION PUMP FILTER.
- Consequence: A FUEL LEAK, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD LEAD TO A VEHICLE FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL TANK VENTILATION VALVE WITH AN IMPROVED VALVE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 2, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLKSWAGEN AT 1-800-822-8987.
- 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.
Negative 2008 Volkswagen R32 car reviews
Positive 2008 Volkswagen R32 car reviews
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I've owned or purchased several performance vehicles over the years, including a 1997 BMW M3, 2001 BMW M Coupe, 2003 Honda S2000, and 2006 Porsche Boxster S. While the R32 doesn't quite match the handling and performance of some of these cars, it offers something unique that none of them (except for the 97 M3) can provide: a combination of performance and practicality. The R32's AWD makes it superior to the M3 in bad weather, but it doesn't quite match the head-banging acceleration of some other cars. However, what it lacks in pure speed, it makes up for in manners. You'll always feel in control of the R32, rather than the other way around, which can happen when people buy cars that are too powerful for their capabilities. Overall, the R32 is a great car!
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Just three days in and I am absolutely certain that this is the best purchase I have made in 27 years! We have had an 03 Jetta, and currently have an 06 Passat. I bought a GTI in Feb but couldn't resist the all-wheel drive. But that is nothing compared to what I felt and heard out of that tailpipe! The deep, soothing sounds sent chills up my spine! Sport and luxury all at once? Great job VW. Could you please consider a manual option for next time?
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Overall, this car is great. The performance isn't blistering, but it's a nice bump up from the GTI. The AWD system, although not amazing, does the job for 95 percent of drivers. The interior is spacious and well-equipped. While I wish there had been a manual transmission, most people love the DSG. I just miss that three-pedal feel.
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I wrote about my car shortly after receiving it in 2007. Here we are nearly two years later, and I still love it! I'm happy to report that I haven't had any mechanical problems at all. The gas mileage is still mediocre (25mpg at very best, all highway driving, more like 18 in the city . . .) but that's understandable when there's so much power on tap. The seats continue to be completely supportive even after two years. I just wanted to chime in and say that the enthusiastic glow that so many of us feel right after buying a car has continued with this one. It's my favorite car I have ever owned, and that includes a long string of Audis, BMWs and various Japanese makes. I have no regrets whatsoever!
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Your wife drives a 2007 BMW 328ix and it's great to hear that she loves her car. It seems like she enjoys taking the R32 for a spin whenever she gets the chance, for a little more excitement. The BMW 328ix is a complete package that is almost perfectly balanced between comfort, performance, safety and fuel economy. One thing that stands out among any of the other pocket rockets on the market is the styling. The dynamic styling of this car inside and out is truly unique and incomparable. It's outside the box and beyond smart. The handling is sweet and it can keep up with anything on the hairpin road and then some.
Other years of Volkswagen R32
Are you having problems with your 2008 Volkswagen R32?
Nathen Torphy 2025-05-26
I love this vehicle too! It's sporty, functional, and fairly comfortable. However, I've also experienced the gas tank problem that some of you have mentioned. My R32 was idling when it suddenly started dumping multiple gallons of gas from the underside of the car. Although the VW people assure me that this problem was unique to my car, all the parts are back-ordered. They've had my car for almost 2 weeks and said it could be 2-3 weeks more. It seems like VW needs to acknowledge this design flaw.
Rocio Kautzer 2025-03-02
Hey there! I wanted to share my experience with my 2008 R32 that I purchased back in January. It was a great little car that had good performance thanks to the AWD, and sounded magnificent with the dual exhaust. Coming from an '06 Z4 3.0i, it was a totally different experience. Although it wasn't as luxurious and didn't have as sporty handling, it felt just as fast. Ultimately, I decided to trade it in for a BMW 135i convertible because I missed the convertible and didn't think the 'boy-racer' styling fit my personality. Thanks for listening!
Elbert Koepp 2024-04-14
I made a mistake in purchasing the Over Steroid GTI, as it did not meet my expectations for the price. However, I have only driven it for 901 miles and it remains in my garage. While I regret my decision, I am confident that I will make a more informed choice in the future.
Mohamed Reichert 2024-03-03
In the price range of new c300, 328i, G35 and is350, this car is perfect for VW enthusiasts who don't mind paying a premium. The engine sounds great (thank you VW engineers!), the transmission is smooth, and the semi-sleeper styling is eye-catching. It has more than enough power for non-racers. However, it's worth noting that this car is essentially a golf, which first came to the EU in 2003. The interior may feel a bit dated (shame on VWoA for being slow), and after my second day with the car, I noticed some interior pieces rattling on rough roads. The stereo sounds decent until you crank up the bass - then it sounds like some economy speakers.