1996 VOLKSWAGEN GTI
1 recalls — 11 complaints — 36 TSBs
98V160000 Jul 16, 1998
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HOOD:LATCH
Defect Description
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE BOLTS SECURING THE FRONT HOOD LATCH CAN LOOSEN OVER TIME. THE LATCH WOULD MOVE CAUSING DISENGAGEMENT OF THE HOOD STRIKER FROM THE LATCH.
Consequence
UNEXPECTED OPENING OF THE HOOD COULD OCCUR OBSTRUCTING THE DRIVER'S VIEW OF THE ROAD WHILE DRIVING, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE HOOD LATCH AND SECURING BOLTS AND REPLACE THEM IF NECESSARY.
Complaint Statistics
11 total complaints
1 fires 1 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE | 1 |
| WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS | 1 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE | 1 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION | 1 |
| VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY | 1 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 1 |
| STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR | 1 |
| POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION | 1 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD | 1 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC | 1 |
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Jun 30, 2010
Incident date: Aug 10, 2009
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 VOLSWAGEN GTI. HE STATED WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH THE VEHICLE WAS SIGNIFICANTLY LOSING SPEED TO 30 MPH AND THEN RE-GAIN NORMAL SPEED AFTER 10 SECONDS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO ADVISED THAT THE CAMSHAFT WAS INOPERABLE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE W... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Aug 29, 2008
Incident date: Mar 10, 2008
ABS MODULE FAILURE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
Jun 22, 2005
Incident date: Jun 10, 2003
CAR ALARM WOULD GO OFF WHEN EXITING THE VEHICLE AND THE HORN WOULD GO OFF. THE FAILURE OCCURED WHILE DRIVING ON A MAIN ROAD, THE ALARM HORN ENGAGED AND WOULD NOT SHUT OFF. AFTER APPROXIMATELY 10 MINUTES OF CONTINUOUS HONKING THE WIRES TO THE ALARM HORN STARTED TO MELT. I ATTEMPTED TO DISCONNECT TH... Read more
Fire
1 injured
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
May 16, 2005
Incident date: Apr 20, 2002
THE REVERSE GEAR IS VERY WEAK IN STANDARD TRANSMISSIONS.THE GEAR CHIPS THEN BREAKS OFF AND FALLS INTO THE DIFFERENTIAL CAUSING AN EXPLOSION OF THE HOUSING AND THE LOSS OF ALL THE GEAR FLUID. REPLACEMENT OF COMPLETE UNIT IS THEN NECESSARY. THIS WILL BE MY THIRD TRANSMISSION IN 56000 MILES. LOCAL DEAL... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
May 1, 2003
Incident date: Apr 12, 2003
THE VEHICLES DOOR HANDLE CAME OFF IN THE CONSUMERS HAND. *NLM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Dec 3, 2001
ELECTICALCOMPONENTS KEEP GOING, NOW SUN ROOF WON'T CLOSE
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
Dec 3, 2001
ELECTICALCOMPONENTS KEEP GOING, NOW SUN ROOF WON'T CLOSE
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Dec 3, 2001
ELECTICALCOMPONENTS KEEP GOING, NOW SUN ROOF WON'T CLOSE
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
Nov 24, 1998
Incident date: Aug 21, 1998
THE CONSUMER HAS BEEN EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH COMPUTER SYSTEM. THE COMPUTER MODULE HAS FAILED TO OPERATE 8 TIMES. VEHICLE HAS STALLED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS BECAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. VEHICLE IS THEN TOWED BECAUSE IT WILL NOT RESTART. THE MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
Oct 1, 1998
Incident date: Sep 23, 1998
LUGS:NUTS:BOLTS, ONE ON EACH TIRE, CANNOT BE REMOVED. DEALER WANTED TO CHARGE EXTRA FOR A SPECIAL DRILL TO REMOVE LUGS NUTS AND BOLTS. DEALER INFORMED CONSUMER THIS PROBLEM WAS PERTAINING TO LUGS: NUTS:BOLTS MANUFACTURER. (1-800/669-8788). *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Mar 17, 1997
VEHICLE STALLS WHILE IN MOTION AND WHEN FOOT IS ON THE GAS PEDAL. DEALER COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG. *AK
Technical Service Bulletins — 1996 VOLKSWAGEN GTI
36 manufacturer communications from 25 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL | 9 |
| 120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING | 4 |
| 350000 EQUIPMENT | 4 |
| 103300 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL) | 2 |
| 171100 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH | 2 |
| 103400 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT | 1 |
| 105000 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE | 1 |
| 070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | 1 |
V941901201152115
Apr 21, 2020
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
Updated to include additional models and model year applicability.
SM 33-2019
Mar 27, 2019
350000 EQUIPMENT
The part number listed in the document is to be returned if it meets the criteria provided.
V941901-2011521
Feb 18, 2019
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Condensation and or water droplets visible on inside of exterior light lenses. TB updated to include model year 2019 applicability.
SM 44-2017 EN
Jun 28, 2017
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.
VHW-17-11
Jun 22, 2017
350000 EQUIPMENT
VAS 6154 Replacement Part Setup Guide
1-2017 Update
Feb 1, 2017
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.
V691601 2010479
Oct 31, 2016
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Update model year applicability to include 2017.
TT 97-12-02
Sep 23, 2016
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Data Link connector pin assignment chart that is applicable to all models. Update model year applicability.
Airbag
Jan 22, 2016
140000 AIR BAGS
Airbag Issues.
Elsa 6-29-15
Jun 29, 2015
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.
Elsa 6-22-15
Jun 22, 2015
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
Elsa 6-22-15
Jun 22, 2015
350000 EQUIPMENT
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
941403
Jun 4, 2014
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation
TB001404
Apr 10, 2014
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Squeaks, Rattles, Noise, Repair Materials
941402
Mar 6, 2014
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation
PDI - GOLF GTI T
Feb 11, 2014
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Golf/GTI Perfect Delivery Inspection (PDI) - Technician and Detailer Inspections:
TB001403
Jan 27, 2014
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Fuel Additive to Help Prevent Sporadic Misfire Faults
TB001403
Jan 27, 2014
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Fuel Additive to Help Prevent Sporadic Misfire Faults
TT641402
Jan 24, 2014
116100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
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
TT641402
Jan 24, 2014
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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
TT641402
Jan 24, 2014
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
TT641402
Jan 24, 2014
138220 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT
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
PDI - GOLF GTI T
Jul 17, 2013
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
PDI - GOLF GTI T
Jun 13, 2013
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 purcha
941401
Feb 14, 2011
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Exterior Lights, Moisture Accumulation
2015831
Aug 28, 2008
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
2015831
Aug 28, 2008
161100 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
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
0101
Jun 12, 2001
220000 SEATS
SUBJECT REGARDING LATCH SYSTEM LOWER ANCHORS AND TETHERS FOR CHILDREN, INSTALLING / RETROFITTING. *TT
9704169709F
Apr 16, 1997
100000 POWER TRAIN
SUBJECT ON THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE CAN ADDITIONALLY RECOGNIZE TWO DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC) NOT CURRENTLY SHOWN IN THE REPAIR MANUAL. *YC
9704169709F
Apr 16, 1997
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
SUBJECT ON THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION CONTROL MODULE CAN ADDITIONALLY RECOGNIZE TWO DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC) NOT CURRENTLY SHOWN IN THE REPAIR MANUAL. *YC
34 9703
Apr 11, 1997
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
34 9703
Apr 11, 1997
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
9704109702F
Apr 10, 1997
103300 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
DIFFICULTIES WITH SHIFT LEVER AND TRANSMISSION IS HARD TO SHIFT INTO REVERSE GEAR. *YC
9704109702F
Apr 10, 1997
105000 POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE
DIFFICULTIES WITH SHIFT LEVER AND TRANSMISSION IS HARD TO SHIFT INTO REVERSE GEAR. *YC
57 9702
Jan 21, 1997
171100 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
PROCEDURE FOR OBTAINING DOOR LOCK KEY CODE IF A NEW KEY MUST BE CUT. *AK
9701219701D
Jan 21, 1997
171100 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
CONDITIONS REGARDING EXTERIOR DOOR LOCKS CANNOT BE LOCKED OR UNLOCKED WITH KEY WHEN AMBIENT TEMPERATURE IS BELOW FREEZING. *YC
VOLKSWAGEN GTI — All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the VOLKSWAGEN GTI across all model years (1985–2025).
83
Total Recalls
1,934
Total Complaints
0
Investigations
66
Reported Crashes
23
Reported Fires
7
Reported Deaths
VOLKSWAGEN GTI — Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 2024 | 2 | 40 | View |
| 2023 | 5 | 11 | View |
| 2022 | 6 | 47 | View |
| 2021 | 1 | 6 | View |
| 2020 | 3 | 10 | View |
| 2019 | 4 | 287 | View |
| 2018 | 3 | 21 | View |
| 2017 | 2 | 54 | View |
| 2016 | 4 | 84 | View |
| 2015 | 6 | 123 | View |
| 2014 | 1 | 18 | View |
| 2013 | 2 | 42 | View |
| 2012 | 2 | 52 | View |
| 2011 | 2 | 65 | View |
| 2010 | 1 | 68 | View |
| 2009 | 2 | 295 | View |
| 2008 | 1 | 76 | View |
| 2007 | 1 | 102 | View |
| 2006 | 2 | 57 | View |
| 2005 | 1 | 12 | View |
| 2004 | 1 | 13 | View |
| 2003 | 1 | 72 | View |
| 2002 | 2 | 141 | View |
| 2001 | 2 | 97 | View |
| 2000 | 3 | 58 | View |
| 1999 | 2 | 11 | View |
| 1998 | 0 | 12 | View |
| 1997 | 0 | 12 | View |
| 1996 (current) | 1 | 11 | |
| 1995 | 2 | 28 | View |
| 1994 | 2 | 0 | View |
| 1993 | 2 | 0 | View |
| 1992 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1991 | 1 | 1 | View |
| 1990 | 2 | 0 | View |
| 1989 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1988 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1987 | 2 | 2 | View |
| 1986 | 3 | 2 | View |
| 1985 | 2 | 3 | View |