1997 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

0 recalls, 25 complaints - 73 TSBs

No recalls found for this vehicle.

Complaint Statistics

25 total complaints 1 crashes 1 fires 1 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION	3
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL	2
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE	2
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH	2
VISIBILITY	1
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:HORN	1
AIR BAGS	1
POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY	1
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS	1
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT	1

Incident date: Aug 9, 2009

I WAS DRIVING AT NIGHT BRINGING A FRIEND HOME AND AS I WAS APPROACHING AN OFF RAMP, I FELT SOMETHING BURNING ON MY LEGS. I LOOKED DOWN TO TRY TO SEE WHAT IT WAS AND WHEN I LOOKED UP, MY WINDSHIELD WAS COMPLETELY COVERED IN FOG. THANKFULLY THERE WAS A SHOULDER ON THE EXIT, SO I PULLED OVER AN... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2005

AIR CONDITIONING IS LEAKING CONDENSATION INTO THE CAR, FOGGING UP FRONT WINDOW AND COMPROMISING VISIBILITY. FLOORBOARD IS SOAKED WITH WATER, CLOUDING WINDOWS. *NM

Incident date: Jan 25, 2004

TRANSMISSION WILL NOT SHIFT WHEN NEEDED INTO HIGHER GEARS, AND SOMETIMES FALLS OUT OF THE PROPER GEAR AND INTO A LOWER GEAR WHEN IT'S NOT SUPPOSED TO, CAUSING ENGINE TO REV WAY TOO HIGH WHILE ON THE FREEWAY. CAR DOES NOT RUN PROPERLY AS A RESULT, AND I CAN'T REALLY DRIVE IT UNTIL IT'S FIXED. I TRI... Read more

Incident date: Mar 9, 2005

TRANSMISSION FAILED WHILE SHIFTING. DRIVER PULLED OVER, AND NOTICED THAT TRANSMISSION LIGHT FLASHED ON AND OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED DUE TO THE HOUSING SHAFT. *AK

Incident date: Jun 23, 2004

WHILE INSPECTING THE VEHICLE CONSUMER NOTICED FOUR DOORS' MOLDING SEPARATED FROM VEHICLE. CONSUMER GLUED MOLDING ON TWICE, BUT PROBLEM RECURRED. DEALERSHIP AND MANUFACTURER WERE CONTACTED.*AK

Incident date: Apr 22, 2004

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, WHEN THE ENGINE IS "COLD" THE TRANSMISSION DOES NOT SHIFT IN TO GEAR PROPERLY. IT USUALLY GETS STUCK BETWEEN GEARS, IF YOU STEP ON THE GAS AT THE TIME BETWEEN GEARS THE CAR WILL BUCK VIOLENTLY AS IT SHIFTS. EVEN THOUGH IT HAS HAPPEND MANY TIMES I WILL LIST THE DATE IT HAPP... Read more

AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCK INTERMITTENTLY MALFUNCTIONED IN COLD TEMPERATURES. DOOR KNOB POPPED UP, BUT THE DOOR FAILED TO OPEN AUTOMATICALLY OR MANUALLY. AS A RESULT, CONSUMER WAS TRAPPED IN OR LOCKED OUT OF THE VEHICLE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE HAD NOT BEEN DETERMINED. *AK

FRONT AIRBAGS DEPLOY WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK

Incident date: Jan 17, 2002

AIRBAGS IN THE CAR DEPLOYED CAUSING ME TO HIT A CURB MORE THAN ONCE DESSIMATING MY PASSENGER SIDE AND KNOCKING ME THROUGH A LOOP, MY INSURANCE COMPANY IS INVESTIGATING , BUT IM NOT SURE WHAT THE CAN FIND OUT ,I KNOW AUDI(PART OF VW) WAS HAVING PROBLEMS WITH AIRBAGS DEPLOYING BECAUSE OF STATIC CHARGE... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Sep 29, 2001

NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK

THE GOODYEAR EAGLE GA TIRES (195/60R14) EXPERIENCED 2 FAILURES, THE RIGHT REAR SIDEWALL HAD A DEFECTIVE CRACK AND THE RIGHT REAR TIRE EXPERIENCED A BLOWOUT, THE CONSUMER IS REQUESTING AN ADJUSTMENT FROM ONE OF TIRES THAT WAS PAID FOR AT A PRO-RATED COST. *SLC

Incident date: Apr 19, 2000

THE IGNITION BROKE IN APRIL 2000 & WAS REPLACED BY DEALER. ON 9/1/2000, WHITE, ODORLESS SMOKE CAME FROM LEFT SIDE OF STEERING COLUMN. ON 9/18/2000, BROWN SMELLY SMOKE CAME FROM SAME AREA. CAR TOWED TO DEALER. DEALER KEPT FOR 3 DAYS, COULDN'T FIND PROBLEM, SAID CAR WAS SAFE. ON 9/24/2000, BROWN ... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Apr 18, 2000

EXHAUST DOWN PIPE SHEID OUTSIDE LOOSE BOTTOM & TOP NEED TO BE "RECRIMED" (VW 7/24/00) VW DEALERSHIP TOLD ME IT'S A MANAFACTURERS DEFECT BUT MY WARRANTY IS VOID "2 YEARS 24,000 MILES" THE OXYGEN SENSOR/GASKETS/FLEX PIPE ARE ALL EFFECTED TO DO THIS PROBLEM LEADING TO MANIFOLD PROBLEMS ? THE AUTOMOBILE... Read more

WHEN DRIVING AND ACCELERATING THERE IS A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE EXHAUST PIPE. DEALER SAYS PIPE NEEDS TO BE REWELDED OR REPLACED. *AK

DRIVERS SIDE DOOR LOCK BROKE. NLM

Incident date: May 22, 2000

I WAS TOLD BY VW THAT THE O2 SENSORS USE TO BE COVERED BY THE EMMISSIONS CONTROLS WARRANTY. I BELIEVE THESE PARTS WERE OF POOR QUALITY AND THAT VOLKSWAGEN SHOULD REIMBURSE ME. MY MECHANIC NOTED THAT O2 SENSOR FAILURE IS NOT UNCOMMON ON '97 & '98 GOLFS. IF SO, PLEASE CONSIDER INVESTIGATING FOR A R... Read more

Incident date: Jul 29, 1999

I WAS DRIVING MY CAR HOME IN THE RAIN AND APPARENTLY MY CAR'S ENGINE HYDROLOCKED BY SUCKING IN WATER THROUGH THE AIRBOX. I WAS TOLD THAT THIS WAS DUE TO OUTSIDE THE NORMAL CIRCUMSTANCES AND THAT MY WARRANTY WOULD NOT COVER IT.

Incident date: Nov 23, 1998

NO SUMMARY

Incident date: Nov 23, 1998

NO SUMMARY

Incident date: Nov 23, 1998

NO SUMMARY

WHEEL LUG:BOLTS THAT ARE CAUSING THE WHEEL TO SEPARATE FROM VEHICLE DUE TO IMPROPER LUG: NUTS THAT ARE ATTACHED TO WHEEL AND VEHICLE. *AK

Incident date: Jan 8, 1999

DEALER COMPLICATED ISSUE. REPAIR TECHNICIAN STATED TO SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE THAT CLUTCH CABLE CAUSED PREMATURE CLUTCH FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL REPAIRS TO PARTS THAT FALL INTO THE FIELD OF NORMAL MAINTAINENCE. THE REPAIR COST SHOULD BE PRORATED TO THE EXPECTED ... Read more

Incident date: Oct 23, 1998

PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG NO LONGER FUNCTIONAL. DASH WARNING LIGHT WENT ON 10/23/98. NO ACCIDENTS, POWER FAILURE, ETC. AIR BAG SYSTEM NO LONGER WORKING. $700 QUOTE FROM DEALER. NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY.

HORN CAN'T BE LOCATED WHEN THE WHEEL IS TURNED.

Incident date: Nov 17, 1996

DRIVER'S SEAT IS UNCOMFORTABLE, THIS CREATES A LOT OF FATIGUE, EVEN ON SHORT TRIPS. *AK

Technical Service Bulletins, 1997 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

73 manufacturer communications from 52 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	12
350000 EQUIPMENT	7
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING	6
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	4
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	4
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	4
105000 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE	2
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION	2

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Volkswagen Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

Engine oil quality standards, update to attachments.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Update engine oil quality standard lists (attachments)

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

Updated to include additional models and model year applicability.

350000 EQUIPMENT

The part number listed in the document is to be returned if it meets the criteria provided.

350000 EQUIPMENT

Alternative method for radio code retrieval.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Alternative method for radio code retrieval.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standards

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Condensation and or water droplets visible on inside of exterior light lenses. TB updated to include model year 2019 applicability.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Engine replacement tip

111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

Updated to include model year 2014 thru 2018 applicability.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Updated to include model year 2014 thru 2018 applicability.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Update to existing tip for fuel quality checking.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

17 17 01 July 5, 2017 2012855 Supersedes Technical Bulletin 17-16-02 (V171602) dated April 29, 2016 due to updated oil standards lists to current specifications. Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standards

350000 EQUIPMENT

This special notice is to inform dealers to return all part numbers listed in the document and order the superseded part numbers going forward.

350000 EQUIPMENT

VAS 6154 Replacement Part Setup Guide

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This communication is to update our ProFi dealers of the current status of the latest inbound and outbound ProFi requests.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Update model year applicability to include 2017.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Data Link connector pin assignment chart that is applicable to all models. Update model year applicability.

140000 AIR BAGS

Airbag Issues.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This document contains the VW Elsa Newsletter that contains a general overview of wiring diagrams updates, technical bulletins, pending service solutions, tech tips, campaigns, updates, and suggestions.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This document contains the VW Elsa Newsletter that contains a general overview of wiring diagrams updates, ElsaPro infomedia icons grayed out, workshop equipment tool storage application, technical bulletins, pending service solutions, tech

350000 EQUIPMENT

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

Tech Tips (Heated Rear Window, One or More Lines Inoperative): To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 V, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engin

132000 VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Technical Bulletin: Condensation and or water droplets becomming visible on inside of exterior light lenses issue is discussed in this document

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Technical Bulletin: Condensation and or water droplets becomming visible on inside of exterior light lenses issue is discussed in this document

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standard VW 502 00/505 00/505 01 and VW 504 00/507 00

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

Technical Bulletin (Engine Oils Which Meet Volkswagen Oil Quality Standard): This document informs of a sample list of products generally available in the North American market that meet the Volkswagen Oil Quality Standard

350000 EQUIPMENT

Technical Bulletin (Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation): This document informs of the Condensation and or water droplets visible on inside of exterior light lenses. The document also informs how to service the issue.

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Squeaks, Rattles, Noise, Repair Materials

350000 EQUIPMENT

Technical Bulletin (Squeaks, Rattles, Noise, Repair Materials): This doucment contains a list of components and applications developed to repair concerns of squeaks, rattles, noise and trim fit conditions.

121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS

Technical Bulletin (Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation): Exterior light assemblies (headlights, taillights, fog lights, turn signals) are vented and may collect moisture on their inner surfaces, depending on humidity and other climatic

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Golf/GTI Perfect Delivery Inspection (PDI) - Technician and Detailer Inspections:

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Fuel Additive to Help Prevent Sporadic Misfire Faults

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Fuel Additive to Help Prevent Sporadic Misfire Faults

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 V, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engine running and heated rear window switched on. Switch OFF the ign

138220 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT

116100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

138200 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

Golf Perfect Delivery Inspection (PDI) - Technician and Detailer Inspections: A checklist to insure a customer receives a wonderful delivery of a vehicle that looks, feels, and meets the expectations of a new vehicle that he/she has purch

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation

063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM

VOLKSWAGEN: EXHAUST HEAT SHIELD, REPLACEMENT GUIDELINES. HEAT SHIELDS ARE TO BE INSPECTED AFTER COMPLETION O ANY TYPE OF REPAIR TO THE UNDERBODY (EXHAUST SYSTEM TRANSMISSION, ETC.), AND IF DAMAGED, REPLACED. *PE

161100 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS

220000 SEATS

SUBJECT REGARDING LATCH SYSTEM LOWER ANCHORS AND TETHERS FOR CHILDREN, INSTALLING / RETROFITTING. *TT

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

INFORMATION ON MAINTENANCE INTERVALS. *YC

357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER

DISCONNECTING THE FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG UNIT. *YC

134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

SUBJECT PERTAINING TO POWER SUNROOF CONVENIENCE CLOSE FEATURE, FUNCTION CHANGE. *AK

012200 STEERING:COLUMN LOCKING:ANTI-THEFT DEVICE

CONCERNS WITH ANTI-THEFT ALARM SOUNDS AFTER IS SET AND CANNOT BE SWITCHED OFF. *YC

136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER

PROGRAMMABLE INTERMITTENT WINDSHIELD WIPER, FUNCTION DELETED. *AK

100000 POWER TRAIN

CHART IDENTIFIES WHICH TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULES (TMC) ARE AVAILABLE FOR VARIOUS STATES. *AK

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

CHART IDENTIFIES WHICH TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULES (TMC) ARE AVAILABLE FOR VARIOUS STATES. *AK

162600 STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE

VEHICLE PRODUCED WITH A "JAZZ" STICKER ATTACHED TO HATCHBACK MUST BE REMOVED. *YC

061110 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS

TOOTHED BELT RUNS TOWARDS OUTSIDE, WEARS OUT/ JUMPS OFF, AND CRACKS. *AK

103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

CONDITIONS WITH TRANSMISSION NOT SHIFTING INTO REVERSE AND IS DIFFICULT TO SHIFT IN/OUT OF REVERSE. *YC

105000 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE

CONDITIONS WITH TRANSMISSION NOT SHIFTING INTO REVERSE AND IS DIFFICULT TO SHIFT IN/OUT OF REVERSE. *YC

061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE

PROCEDURES APPLYING TO DISTRIBUTOR INSTALLATION ON UPDATED 2.0L ENGINES. *YC

116000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

PROCEDURES APPLYING TO DISTRIBUTOR INSTALLATION ON UPDATED 2.0L ENGINES. *YC

103400 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT

TRANSMISSION POPS OUT OF GEAR/SHIFTER FEELS LIKE IT HAS A DOUBLE DETENT WHEN SHIFTING INTO GEAR, AND WILL NOT MAINTAIN SHIFT ADJUSTMENT. *AK

103300 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)

TRANSMISSION POPS OUT OF GEAR/SHIFTER FEELS LIKE IT HAS A DOUBLE DETENT WHEN SHIFTING INTO GEAR, AND WILL NOT MAINTAIN SHIFT ADJUSTMENT. *AK

105000 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE

DIFFICULTIES WITH SHIFT LEVER AND TRANSMISSION IS HARD TO SHIFT INTO REVERSE GEAR. *YC

103300 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)

DIFFICULTIES WITH SHIFT LEVER AND TRANSMISSION IS HARD TO SHIFT INTO REVERSE GEAR. *YC

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

SERVICE MANUAL ON ELECTRIC WINDOW REGULATOR MOTORS. *YC

133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

SERVICE MANUAL ON ELECTRIC WINDOW REGULATOR MOTORS. *YC

355100 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH NEW AIRBAG WARNING LABELS. *YC

102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION

CONDITION WITH VEHICLES SHIFTER LEVER VIBRATING/KNOCKING IN 1ST, 2ND, 3RD OR 4TH GEARS. *YC

NHTSA Safety Investigations, VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

DP, Closed , Model Year: 2019

Vehicle Stalling - Manual Transmission

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has completed its review of a defect petition received on 14 August 2019 requesting an investigation of an alleged defect of the manual transmissions in Model Year (MY) 2019 Volkswagen (VW) GTI, Golf GTI and Jetta GLI vehicles. The stalling incidents cited o... ccurred without warning as the vehicle slows to a stop or prepares to make a turn across traffic with the clutch pressed in and the vehicle in neutral.The hazard posed by a vehicle stalling event is manifested in the inability of the vehicle to move with the flow of surrounding traffic. Two factors have a major impact on the potential hazard to the vehicle, its occupants and surrounding vehicles: the surrounding traffic speed and the subject vehicle's restart ability. In the case of the vehicles that are the subject of this petition, restart is immediate and the stalls occur when the vehicle is slowing to stop for a traffic signal, making a turn, or is completely stopped. These circumstances substantially reduce the risk of harm to the vehicle, its occupants and surrounding vehicles.As of March 2, 2020, out of the population of 11,333 subject vehicles, NHTSA has identified 214 consumer complaints in its database, with unique Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN), citing engine stalling as vehicles are being brought to a stop and/or preparing to make a cross traffic turn. When combined with the warranty, field report and customer complaint data received from VW in response to the Information Request letter sent, NHTSA identified 413 unique VINs alleging low speed engine stalling.Volkswagen determined that the low speed / idle engine stall was the result of unwanted gases remaining in the cylinder caused by the intake valve camshaft not being in the correct position at idle. The intake camshaft is in an advanced position. This advanced position results in too much overlap with the position of the exhaust valve camshaft, allowing both the intake and exhaust valves to be open at the same time. The erroneous advanced position of the intake camshaft is a result of low oil pressure at idle and high oil temperatures, greater than or equal to 110?C/230?F combined with engine control algorithms in the Engine Control Module (ECM) that position the intake camshaft. Based on examination of returned engines, only engines manufactured at the Silao Mexico plant were affected due to a tolerance stack-up issue with the oil system of the engines.In December of 2019, VW initiated a Service Action (24FD) to remedy the stalling issue in the affected vehicles. The warranty for the affected vehicles was extended to December 31, 2025. The software in the Engine Control Module (ECM) will be updated with a new calibration value for the adaptation nodes of the regulation valve. This is a directed action with letters being sent to vehicle owners asking them to bring their vehicles to their dealership to have the software update installed in their vehicle. The letters were sent in December 2019.After thoroughly assessing the material submitted by the petitioner, information already in NHTSA's possession, information submitted by Volkswagen in response to an information request and the potential risks to safety implicated by the petitioner's allegation, NHTSA does not believe that the stalling condition as alleged by the petitioner indicates the likelihood of a safety related defect that would warrant a formal investigation, therefore the petition is denied. Further specifics can be found in the Federal Register Notice.ODI complaint ID Numbers are listed on the attached sheet.Read more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 2000

ENGINE STALLING

BY LETTER RECEIVED ON JUNE 24, 2005, MR. RONALD M. STRICKLAND OF RALEIGH, NC, SUBMITTED A PETITION REQUESTING THAT THE AGENCY INVESTIGATE THE PERFORMANCE OF THE IGNITION COIL PLUGS ON MODEL YEAR (MY) 2000-2003 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA, GOLF AND PASSAT SEDANS.THE PETITIONER ALLEGES THAT HE HAD EXPERIENCED MU... LTIPLE STALLING EVENTS AS A RESULT OF ONE OR MORE IGNITION COIL PLUGS MALFUNCTIONING ON HIS 2002 VW JETTA SEDAN.AS A RESULT OF THE ENGINE STALLING, THE PETITIONER EXPERIENCED A LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND INCREASED BRAKING EFFORTS WHEN HE PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE.AFTER A FEW MINUTES PARKED ON THE SHOULDER HE WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE ALTHOUGH THE ENGINE OPERATED AT REDUCED POWER.VW ISSUED A CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN (CSC) ON JANUARY 31, 2003 TO INSTRUCT THEIR DEALERSHIPS TO INSPECT THE VEHICLES FOR ANY MALFUNCTIONING IGNITION COIL PACKS AND TO REPLACE THEM AT NO COST TO THE CONSUMER.CONSUMERS WERE NOTIFIED TO BRING THEIR VEHICLES TO THEIR DEALERSHIPS VIA OWNER LETTERS MAILED OUT ON JUNE 6, 2003.WHILE VW INITIALLY INSTRUCTED THE DEALERSHIPS TO ONLY REPLACE THE MALFUNCTIONING IGNITION COIL PACKS, A REVISED CSC WAS ISSUED TO DEALERSHIPS IN DECEMBER 2003 AND JANUARY 2004, INSTRUCTING DEALERSHIPS TO REPLACE ALL IGNITION COIL PACKS REGARDLESS OF THEIR PERFORMANCE.A REMINDER TO THE DEALERSHIPS WAS SENT BY VW ON APRIL OF 2004.ALTHOUGH THE CONCERNS OF THE PETITIONER COULD THEORETICALLY CREATE A SAFETY PROBLEM, THE RISK IS VERY SMALL, DUE TO THE ENGINE STILL RUNNING ON EITHER 3, 5, OR 7 CYLINDERS.THERE ARE NO REPORTED CRASHES OR INJURIES DUE TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT.ONCE DRIVERS ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM (LOSS OF POWER DUE TO ONE OF THE IGNITION COIL PACKS MALFUNCTIONING), DRIVERS ARE ABLE TO TAKE PRECAUTIONARY AND COMPENSATORY MEASURES AND STILL MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THEIR VEHICLES.IN ADDITION, FOUR FIRES WERE REPORTED TO ODI.THESE WERE IGNITION COIL BURNOUTS WITH NO ADDITIONAL DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE AND WERE LOCALIZED ON TOP OF THE ENGINE. DURING THE LAST 24 MONTHS THE NUMBER OF STALL AND DRIVABILITY COMPLAINTS REPORTED TO ODI HAS GREATLY DIMINISHED FROM A PEAK OF 195 IN JANUARY OF 2003 TO ONLY 3 IN AUGUST OF 2005.THIS COINCIDES WITH THE CSC RELEASED BY VW.A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT TREND HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AT THIS TIME AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2001

INADVERTENT SIDE-AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT

THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH SIDE-THORAX AND SIDE-HEAD CURTAIN AIRBAGS TO PROTECT THE FRONT AND REAR OUTBOARD OCCUPANTS IN A SIDE-IMPACT CRASH.THIS INVESTIGATION IDENTIFIED A TOTAL OF 499 REPORTS (482 OWNERS REPORTS AND 17 WARRANTY CLAIMS).THE CRASH SENSING SYSTEM?S ALGORITHM MAY RECOGNIZE... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1999

FUEL PUMP LEAKS

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED ON NOVEMBER 29, 2004, BASED ON FIVE CONSUMER REPORTS ALLEGING FUEL LEAKING FROM THE FUEL PUMP.BY LETTER OF APRIL 14, 2004, VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA (VOLKSWAGEN) NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT IT WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL OF 35,000 GOLF AND GTI VEHICLES MANUFACTURED IN WOLFSBU... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2000

TURN SIGNAL/HAZARD FLASHER FAILURE

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED ON OCTOBER 19, 2004, BASED ON NINE REPORTS ON 2000 THROUGH 2001 JETTA AND GTI VEHICLES ALLEGING THAT THE TURN SIGNALS AND OR HAZARD FLASHERS FAIL TO BLINK, OR FLASH.SOME OF THE COMPLAINANTS REPORTED THAT THE LIGHTS WOULD BLINK ONLY A FEW TIMES AND THEN STOP.SEVERAL OF T... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1995

HOOD LATCH FAILURE

ODI HAS RECEIVED THREE REPORTS, INCLUDING THE PETITIONERS, REGARDING ALLEGED HOOD LATCH FAILURES.ALL OF THE ODI REPORTS INDICATE THE HOOD FLEW UP WHILE DRIVING.FOLLOWING A TELEPHONE INQUIRY, VOLKSWAGEN PROVIDED ODI WITH SOME LIMITED INFORMATION REGARDING SIX ADDITIONAL REPORTS OF HOOD FLY-UP FOR MOD... Read more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 1995

HOOD FLY-UP

There is no summary currently available

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1990

DETACHMENT OF BUMPER COVER

There is no summary currently available

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1990

DETACHMENT OF BUMPER COVER

There is no summary currently available

EA, Closed , Model Year: 1986

WINDSHIELD WIPERS

===

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1987

HEATER CORE RUPTURE

There is no summary currently available

PE, Closed , Model Year: 1986

WINDSHIELD WIPER FAILURE

There is no summary currently available

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the VOLKSWAGEN GOLF across all model years (1985, 2021).

169 Total Recalls

2,101 Total Complaints

12 Investigations

90 Reported Crashes

48 Reported Fires

1 Reported Deaths

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2023	0	22	View
2022	0	132	View
2021	1	12	View
2020	2	8	View
2019	6	88	View
2018	6	38	View
2017	5	145	View
2016	9	115	View
2015	12	184	View
2014	5	14	View
2013	5	67	View
2012	6	68	View
2011	6	151	View
2010	4	97	View
2009	0	5	View
2008	0	1	View
2007	0	2	View
2006	3	16	View
2005	4	27	View
2004	6	33	View
2003	6	33	View
2002	7	98	View
2001	9	152	View
2000	8	118	View
1999	7	76	View
1998	1	28	View
1997 (current)	0	25
1996	1	74	View
1995	5	84	View
1994	5	57	View
1993	5	11	View
1992	2	6	View
1991	3	11	View
1990	5	10	View
1989	4	41	View
1988	6	9	View
1987	4	4	View
1986	5	20	View
1985	6	15	View

Other VOLKSWAGEN Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
JETTA	249	14,075	View
PASSAT	185	10,492	View
BEETLE	157	3,629	View
GTI	116	1,926	View
ID.4	115	1,606	View
ATLAS	101	2,700	View
TIGUAN	78	3,173	View
ATLAS CROSS SPORT	73	701	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

1997 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

Technical Service Bulletins, 1997 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, VOLKSWAGEN GOLF

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF - All Years Overview

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF - Year by Year

Other VOLKSWAGEN Models