2008 Volkswagen R32 problems

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2008 Volkswagen R32

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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.

2008 Volkswagen R32 engine

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.

2009-03-20
  • 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.
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.

Negative 2008 Volkswagen R32 car reviews

  1. 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!

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

Positive 2008 Volkswagen R32 car reviews

  1. Marvin Green 2025-04-14

    What a great car! I drive my 4-year-old daughter to school every day and I was a bit unsure about the two doors at first. However, I've found that it's actually more comfortable stepping in from the driver's door right in front of her than fumbling around with the rear door like I used to do in my old Jetta.

  2. Laurel Williamson 2025-04-14

    Around three weeks after receiving my vehicle, it started to hesitate periodically. After documenting fuel-ups and problem occurrences, I brought it to the dealership. They told me that I probably topped it off, which I probably did. This was not an issue with my four previous GTI's. The dealership replaced a faulty charcoal canister unit and purge valve and provided me with a rental car, which was excellent. I filled up the car today and the engine malfunction light never went on. I will see what happens this weekend.

  3. Cordelia Jerde 2025-04-13

    I've had my R32 for four days now. Previously, I owned a 1995 Jetta VR6, so I knew what to expect in terms of power and performance. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how smooth and precise the DSG was during my first road trip from Detroit to Atlanta (750 miles). I learned that 'S' means 'See Ya later!' and I was comfortable and enjoyed the drive. The handling and acceleration are unbelievable! This vehicle is low-key and stays under the radar with the police. I'm looking forward to adding a cool air intake in the coming weeks to help with gas mileage and possibly more.

  4. Spencer Hirthe 2025-04-05

    Hi there! I hope this message finds you well. I just wanted to share my experience with my car since I bought it back in September 2008 with only 12k miles. I'm happy to report that it's still going strong with 42k miles on it! I've really gotten the hang of driving it efficiently without sacrificing gas mileage. It's especially great on long, winding roads and can handle 20 mph S-turns at 60-70 mph with ease - it's so much fun to drive! I typically get around 23 combined and 26 highway MPG, but I do wish it had a taller 6th gear. Despite that, I truly believe it's one of the best AWD cars out there. While maintenance for the AWD and DSG can be a bit pricey, I've only had to replace a strut. I can't help but wonder how it would perform with an extra 100 hp! Thanks for listening to my story.

  5. Seamus Ruecker 2025-04-01

    I was originally considering purchasing a GTI, but I stumbled upon a dealer selling their last 2 R32s for $4K below the list price (including the VW rebate), which was a much better deal than my local VW dealer who was selling them for $4K over. I ended up paying $29.3K (without Nav.), which is only about $3-4K more than an optioned up GTI. So far, the car has exceeded my expectations. The power is more than adequate for in-town driving, the handling is great, and the exhaust note is pure magic. The gas mileage is even acceptable as long as you keep your foot out of it. The Reader's Reviews on Edmunds convinced me to go for it, and I have not been disappointed.

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Other years of Volkswagen R32

volkswagen r32 2004 photo
R32 2004
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2

28

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volkswagen r32 2007 photo
R32 2007
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volkswagen r32 2008 photo
R32 2008
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2

34

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2008 Volkswagen R32 photo