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2017 Volkswagen Golf Owner Complaints

Updated May 30, 20265 Critical Recalls
Daniel Wilson
2017 Volkswagen Golf Owner Complaints

Complaint Summary

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf has 142 reported complaints.

  • Top issues involve fuel/propulsion system and engine.

Reliability Score

Reliability Score

6.2/ 10

Based on 142 complaints

Most Frequent Issues

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

51 35.9%

ENGINE

17 12%

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

11 7.7%

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

8 5.6%

STRUCTURE:BODY

7 4.9%

Quick Insights

  • The top category is FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, accounting for 35.9% of all complaints.

  • Owners have reported issues across 26 distinct vehicle systems.

  • Note: Complaint data reflects owner reports and may not always indicate a verified defect. Compare with Recalls and TSBs for a complete picture.

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Complaint Summary

What owners keep reporting on the 2017 Volkswagen Golf

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf has 142 owner complaints in this dataset. FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM is the most common complaint category, representing about 36% of the reports shown here.

Most common complaint categories

The top complaint groups for the 2017 Volkswagen Golf are FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (51), ENGINE (17), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (11).

Are these complaints a serious red flag?

Potentially. 101 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems like brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection.

What should buyers inspect on a used 2017 Volkswagen Golf?

Start with the top complaint systems, compare them against the recall report, then inspect service records for evidence that those same areas were already repaired or monitored.

Read the full buyer guideRecall report and remedy notesMaintenance costs and intervals2016 Golf complaints2018 Golf complaints2015 Golf complaints

Detailed Complaint Log

Showing 26 of 26 systems

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

51 Reports36% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

WHILE TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS THE VEHICLE FLASHED THE EPC WARNING LIGHT AND SUDDENLY LOST ALL POWER AND RAPIDLY DECELERATED. THE CAR HAD TO COAST OFF THE HIGHWAY AND WOULD NOT RESPOND TO THROTTLE INPUT ONCE STOPPED. CAR WAS TURNED OFF AND ON WHICH RESULTED IN "LIMP" MODE BUT CAR WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE ON THE ROAD. HAD CAR TOWED TO DEALER AND WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A FAULTY FUEL INJECTOR. CAR HAS 700 MILES ON IT.

1/10/2017

EVAP CANISTER FAILED WITH LESS THAN 40,000 MILES ON THE CAR. I FIRST NOTICED WHEN I WAS PUMPING GAS ONE DAY, I OPENED MY TANK AND HEARD A LOUD WOOSH NOISE LIKE PRESSURE HAD BEEN BUILDING UP INSIDE THE GAS TANK. I THEN WENT TO FILL UP MY TANK AND GOT MAYBE $3 WORTH OF GAS IN THE TANK BEFORE THE PUMP SHUT ITSELF OFF LIKE THE TANK WAS FULL THOUGH IT WASN'T. WAS TOLD IT'S NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY BY VOLKSWAGEN, AND EVEN THOUGH THE 15-16 GTI HAD RECALLS FOR THE SAME ISSUE THE PROBLEM WAS SUPPOSED TO BE FIXED FOR THE 17 GTI. I EITHER HAVE A LEMON OR THE PROBLEM HAS CARRIED OVER FOR A 3RD STRAIGHT YEAR.

2/17/2019

49 more complaints are available in this category.

ENGINE

17 Reports12% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD MISFIRED IN ALL CYLINDERS; HOWEVER, THEY WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE DEALER CLEARED THE SYSTEM AND WARNING SENSORS AND ADVISED THE CONTACT TO ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO WARM UP BEFORE DRIVING. IN ADDITION, THE FAILURE RECURRED TWO WEEKS LATER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT IT NEEDED A SOFTWARE UPDATE; HOWEVER, AN UPDATE WAS NOT AVAILABLE AT THE TIME. THE FAILURE OCCURRED A TOTAL OF THREE TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,300. ..UPDATED 05/15/17 *BF *CN

4/13/2017

VEHICLE HAD 300 MILES ON ENGINE WHEN LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR REGISTERED. CAUSE WAS METAL SHAVINGS IN OIL, ACCORDING TO MANUFACTURER AS TOLD TO DEALER. MANUFACTURER INSTRUCTED DEALER TO REPLACE ENGINE AND ALL ASSOCIATED PARTS LUBRICATED BY ENGINE OIL AND SEND NON-FUNCTIONING ENGINE TO MANUFACTURER'S RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT FACILITY; STATED THAT PROBLEM HAS HAPPENED, ALBEIT INFREQUENTLY, TO OTHER LIKE ENGINES. WARRANTY COVERED ALL COSTS. I HAVE INVOICES FOR AUTO PURCHASE AND REPAIR.

2/2/2018

15 more complaints are available in this category.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

11 Reports8% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

ON 6/21/17, A SUV CAR REAR-ENDED MY VEHICLE WHILE I WAS TRAVELING IN TOWN ABOUT 4-6 MPH BECAUSE I HAD SLOWED DOWN AND WAS PREPARING TO STOP FOR AN AMBER LIGHT. WHEN THE PERSON HIT MY CAR, MY HEAD AND UPPER BODY WERE VIOLENTLY THRUST FORWARD AND BACK AS MY HEAD HIT NEAR THE BOTTOM AREA OF MY HEADREST. I HAVE A CONCUSSION AND WHIP LASH. MY CAR HAS REAR-END AND SIDE DAMAGE. SHORTLY AFTER I PURCHASED MY NEW CAR IN SEPT. 2016, I COMPLAINED ABOUT MY CONCERN TO THE DEALER, DIRITO BROTHERS IN WALNUT CREEK, CA AND SPOKE TO: [XXX], SALESPERSON, [XXX], OWNER, [XXX], THE SERVICE MANAGER, AND [XXX], SERVICE CONSULTANT AND TOLD THEM SINCE THE SEAT IS TOO TALL, THE HEADREST DOESN'T GO DOWN ENOUGH TO CRADLE MY HEAD IN THE MIDDLE OF THE HEADREST. I TOLD THEM I WAS AFRAID IF I WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT, MY HEAD COULD POSSIBLY HIT AT OR NEAR THE BOTTOM PART OF THE HEADREST AND I COULD POSSILBLY BE INJURED (WHICH IS EXACTLY WHAT HAPPENED). MY NAME IS [XXX], PH # IS [XXX], EMAIL IS [XXX], AND MY MILEAGE IS 14,739. I FILED A COMPLAINT WITH VW OF AMERICA, CASE #[XXX] ON 6/30/17. I TOLD THEM MY MAIN CONCERN WAS SAFETY AND FOR THE PROBLEM TO BE RESOLVED TO PREVENT INJURIES OF THEIR CUSTOMERS IN FUTURE ACCIDENTS. I SUGGESTED A RECALL AND POSSIBLE COMPENSATION. TODAY, VW STAFF, [XXX] CONTACTED ME AND TOLD ME THERE WAS NOTHING THEY WOULD DO SINCE THE NHTSA (YOUR AGENCY) SAID VW HEADRESTS MEET AND EXCEED FEDERAL SAFETY STANDARDS. WHEN I ASKED TO SPEAK TO A SUPERVISOR, [XXX] PLACED ME ON-HOLD AND WHEN SHE RETURNED TO THE PHONE, SHE SAID THE SUPERVISORS WERE ALL IN A MEETING, AND THERE WAS NOTHING ELSE THEY COULD DO. VW OF AMERICA REFUSED TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR MY AND OTHERS' SAFETY AND SHOWED NO CONCERN. THIS IS THE 3RD GOLF VW I'VE OWNED AND I'VE NEVER HAD THIS PROBLEM PREVIOUSLY WITH HEADRESTS. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

7/7/2017

ON 10/17/17 AT 6:30 PM, I WAS DRIVING VERY SLOWLY IN SLOW TRAFFIC IN TOWN WHEN A MAN DRIVING IN BACK OF ME WAS LOOKING DOWN SLIGHTLY TO THE RIGHT AND DISTRACTED (WAS ON HIS PHONE ALTHOUGH HE SAID HE FELL ASLEEP) WHEN HE HIT THE BACK (REAR-ENDED) MY CAR. I HAD MY SEAT BELT ON. MY HEAD AND BODY THRUSTED FORWARD AND BACK AND MY HEAD HIT THE LOWER PART OF THE HEAD REST HARD BECAUSE THE HEAD REST AND SEAT ARE TOO TALL (I'M SHORT) AND THE HEADREST DOESN'T FIT MY HEAD. I SUFFERED A CONCUSSION, WHIPLASH, AND SIGNIFICANT PAIN. THIS IS THE 2ND ACCIDENT WHICH WAS EXACTLY THE SAME AS THE 1ST ACCIDENT ON 6/21/17 WHICH I PREVIOUSLY REPORTED TO YOU, VW OF AMERICA, AND DIRITO BROTHERS IN WALNUT CREEK. I SUFFERED A 2ND CONCUSSION AND WHIPLASH. BOTH TIMES, THE OTHER PARTY WAS AT FAULT AND BOTH PARTIES ADMITTED THEY WERE AT FAULT AND I DID NOTHING WRONG BOTH TIMES. I REQUESTED THAT VW RECALL THESE HEADRESTS AND SEATS AND REPLACE THEM WITH HEADRESTS AND SEATS THAT ARE ADJUSTABLE AND FIT PROPERLY FOR SHORT PEOPLE. MY REQUEST WAS DENIED DESPITE THIS BEING A SAFETY CONCERN WHICH CAUSED MY VEHICLE DAMAGE AND MY BODY WAS INJURED. I, AM, AGAIN, RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING A RECALL SO MY HEADREST AND SEAT WILL FIT PROPERLY AND I WILL BE AT REDUCED RISK FOR INJURY WHEN THERE IS AN ACCIDENT. BOTH TIMES, I FILED CLAIMS WITH MY STATE FARM INSURANCE CO. I RECEIVED MEDICAL TREATMENT BOTH TIMES.

11/5/2017

9 more complaints are available in this category.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

8 Reports6% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

THE SUNROOF LEAKS WATER FROM ALL FOUR COUNTERS INTO THE VEHICLE: HEADLINER, SEATS, CARPET AND DASHBOARD. WARNING SIGNALS/ERRORS MESSAGES: AIR BAG, TRACTION, ENGINE LIGHT. 2500 MILES ON VEHICLE PURCHASED 3/18 NEW. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN A DRIVEWAY DURING A MAJOR RAIN STORM.

6/18/2018

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V464000 (STEERING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. VOLKSWAGEN OF CHERRY HILL (2261 MARLTON PIKE W, CHERRY HILL, NJ 08002, (888) 486-1840) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. *BF *TR

2/15/2019

6 more complaints are available in this category.

STRUCTURE:BODY

7 Reports5% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

ON 10/17/17 AT 6:30 PM, I WAS DRIVING VERY SLOWLY IN SLOW TRAFFIC IN TOWN WHEN A MAN DRIVING IN BACK OF ME WAS LOOKING DOWN SLIGHTLY TO THE RIGHT AND DISTRACTED (WAS ON HIS PHONE ALTHOUGH HE SAID HE FELL ASLEEP) WHEN HE HIT THE BACK (REAR-ENDED) MY CAR. I HAD MY SEAT BELT ON. MY HEAD AND BODY THRUSTED FORWARD AND BACK AND MY HEAD HIT THE LOWER PART OF THE HEAD REST HARD BECAUSE THE HEAD REST AND SEAT ARE TOO TALL (I'M SHORT) AND THE HEADREST DOESN'T FIT MY HEAD. I SUFFERED A CONCUSSION, WHIPLASH, AND SIGNIFICANT PAIN. THIS IS THE 2ND ACCIDENT WHICH WAS EXACTLY THE SAME AS THE 1ST ACCIDENT ON 6/21/17 WHICH I PREVIOUSLY REPORTED TO YOU, VW OF AMERICA, AND DIRITO BROTHERS IN WALNUT CREEK. I SUFFERED A 2ND CONCUSSION AND WHIPLASH. BOTH TIMES, THE OTHER PARTY WAS AT FAULT AND BOTH PARTIES ADMITTED THEY WERE AT FAULT AND I DID NOTHING WRONG BOTH TIMES. I REQUESTED THAT VW RECALL THESE HEADRESTS AND SEATS AND REPLACE THEM WITH HEADRESTS AND SEATS THAT ARE ADJUSTABLE AND FIT PROPERLY FOR SHORT PEOPLE. MY REQUEST WAS DENIED DESPITE THIS BEING A SAFETY CONCERN WHICH CAUSED MY VEHICLE DAMAGE AND MY BODY WAS INJURED. I, AM, AGAIN, RESPECTFULLY REQUESTING A RECALL SO MY HEADREST AND SEAT WILL FIT PROPERLY AND I WILL BE AT REDUCED RISK FOR INJURY WHEN THERE IS AN ACCIDENT. BOTH TIMES, I FILED CLAIMS WITH MY STATE FARM INSURANCE CO. I RECEIVED MEDICAL TREATMENT BOTH TIMES.

11/5/2017

THE PROBLEM PRESENTS ITSELF AS TICKING/CLICKING/CRACKING NOISE COMING FROM THE TOP OF THE DRIVER'S SIDE B-PILLAR WHEN THE BODY OF THE CAR FLEXES, FOR EXAMPLE WHEN DRIVING OVER UNEVEN ROAD (EVEN AT PARKING LOT SPEED). AFTER THE DEALERSHIP TRIED TO ADDRESS IT BY REPLACING INTERIOR PANELS AND APPLYING FOAM, THEY WERE ADVISED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT THE ISSUE IS RELATED TO A WELD JOINT, AND 'PERFORMED ADJUSTMENT TO PILLAR SEAM' (AS LISTED ON THE SERVICE RECORD). THIS FAILED TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE, SO AFTER A VISIT FROM A VW REPRESENTATIVE THEY TRIED 'PEENIG OVER' THE SEAM, BUT THE NOISE IS STILL PRESENT. MY CONCERN IS THAT ANY ISSUE RELATED TO A STRUCTURAL COMPONENT OF THE CAR, SUCH AS THE B-PILLAR TO ROOF/DOOR FRAME JOINT, POTENTIALLY COMPROMISES THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY AND SAFETY OF THE CAR.

2/6/2018

5 more complaints are available in this category.

AIR BAGS

6 Reports4% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

THE SUNROOF LEAKS WATER FROM ALL FOUR COUNTERS INTO THE VEHICLE: HEADLINER, SEATS, CARPET AND DASHBOARD. WARNING SIGNALS/ERRORS MESSAGES: AIR BAG, TRACTION, ENGINE LIGHT. 2500 MILES ON VEHICLE PURCHASED 3/18 NEW. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN A DRIVEWAY DURING A MAJOR RAIN STORM.

6/18/2018

I was driving to work today play in my steering wheel made a funky crinkling sound and then I had a warning about my airbag and no horn working now after and I didn't hit anything nor was I hit

11/21/2021

4 more complaints are available in this category.

SERVICE BRAKES

5 Reports4% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

JUNE 16,2017 , I PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE AND ATTEMPTED TO LEAVE THE PARKING SPACE. ALL WHEEL BRAKES WERE LOCKED/THE CAR STALLED. 2-3 MINUTES LATER, THEY FREED UP. ON FEB.15,2018 WHILE WAITING IN TRAFFIC ON RT.580 IN DUNEDIN, THEY LOCKED UP AGAIN. 2-3 MINUTES LATER, THEY FREED UP AND I SHUT OFF MY EMERGENCY FLASHERS. MARCH 28 ,2018 , DITTO IN MY DRIVEWAY AFTER JUST BACKING OUT OF THE GARAGE. TWO VW DEALERS ON MAR.22 AND AGAIN ON APRIL 5, THEIR COMPUTERS COULD FIND NO PROBLEMS WITH THE BRAKING SYSTEM. MY SCAN OF THE INTERNET ALL POINTED TO THE MASTER CYLINDER AS THE PROBLEM. *JS *JS

4/7/2018

BRAKES SEIZED.

7/23/2018

3 more complaints are available in this category.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

4 Reports3% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

TAKATA RECALL HAVING AN ISSUE WITH ACC OR ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL, INFO SCREEN SAYS ACC NOT AVAILABLE, THIS IS SECOND TIME HAPPENING, FIRST TIME DEALER SAID IT JUST NEEDS CALIBRATION, IT JUST HAPPENED AGAIN. THE CAR IS STILL UNDER WARRANTY, ONCE IT EXPIRES AND IT HAPPENED AGAIN, IT WILL BE OUT OF POCKET EXPENSE. PLEASE TAKE ACTION TO THIS MATTER, MULTIPLE PEOPLE BEEN HAVING SAME ISSUE.

2/4/2018

WHILE IN THE NUMBER 2 LANE ON THE FREEWAY, USING CRUISE CONTROL, WE APPROACHED A SEMI TRUCK IN THE NUMBER 3 LANE. WE WERE MOVING MORE QUICKLY THAN THE SEMI TRUCK AND DID NOT CHANGE LANES NOR DID THE SEMI TRUCK. THE FREEWAY WAS STRAIGHT. THE AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM TURNED ON AND ENGAGED THE BRAKES WHEN OUR CAR REACHES APPROXIMATELY THE REAR AXLE OR IS NEXT TO THE BACK MIDDLE OF THE SEMI TRUCK. BRAKES ENGAGE IN THE SAME FASHION THEY DO AS IF THERE WAS A HAZARD IN FRONT OF US. TO BE CLEAR, NOTHING AT ALL IS IN FRONT OF US, JUST THE SEMI TRUCK TO OUR RIGHT.

5/27/2019

2 more complaints are available in this category.

STEERING

4 Reports3% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 18V464000 (STEERING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. VOLKSWAGEN OF CHERRY HILL (2261 MARLTON PIKE W, CHERRY HILL, NJ 08002, (888) 486-1840) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND WAS NOT ABLE TO CONFIRM WHEN THE PARTS WERE TO BECOME AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. *BF *TR

2/15/2019

WHILE IN THE NUMBER 2 LANE ON THE FREEWAY, USING CRUISE CONTROL, WE APPROACHED A SEMI TRUCK IN THE NUMBER 3 LANE. WE WERE MOVING MORE QUICKLY THAN THE SEMI TRUCK AND DID NOT CHANGE LANES NOR DID THE SEMI TRUCK. THE FREEWAY WAS STRAIGHT. THE AUTOMATIC BRAKING SYSTEM TURNED ON AND ENGAGED THE BRAKES WHEN OUR CAR REACHES APPROXIMATELY THE REAR AXLE OR IS NEXT TO THE BACK MIDDLE OF THE SEMI TRUCK. BRAKES ENGAGE IN THE SAME FASHION THEY DO AS IF THERE WAS A HAZARD IN FRONT OF US. TO BE CLEAR, NOTHING AT ALL IS IN FRONT OF US, JUST THE SEMI TRUCK TO OUR RIGHT.

5/27/2019

2 more complaints are available in this category.

POWER TRAIN

4 Reports3% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

I NOTICED A VIBRATION AT SPEEDS NEAR AND OVER 80 MPH. I TOOK IT TO THE VW DEALER WHERE I HAD PURCHASED AND THEY FOUND THE BOLTS WHERE THE DRIVER FRONT AXLE CONNECTS TO THE TRANSMISSION OUTPUT SHAFT WERE LOOSE AND BACKING OUT. THEY REPLACED THE BOLTS, BUT I'M STILL HAVING VIBRATION IN THE DRIVELINE. I'M WORRIED WHAT OTHER BOLTS MAY BE LOOSE OR WHAT ASSOCIATED PARTS MAY HAVE BEEN COMPROMISED AS THIS IS POTENTIALLY A VERY DANGEROUS SAFETY SITUATION FOR MYSELF AND ANYONE NEAR MY VEHICLE WERE THE AXLE TO COME APART AT SPEED.

11/25/2019

My car started to loose coolant around 50K. This is a common problem for MK7 Golf which is usually caused by failure of the waterpump housing. VW is aware of this issue since 2016 but never addressed this problem. I request a formal investigation of this issue and demand VW to recall the vehicles.

1/31/2022

2 more complaints are available in this category.

SEATS

3 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

2017 VW ALLTRACK S DRIVER SEAT BASE BOLSTER DIGS INTO LEFT LEG. I HAVE OWNED PREVIOUS VW'S AND NEVER HAD A PROBLEM LIKE THIS. VW NOR DEALER WOULD DO ANYTHING. VERY DISAPPOINTING.

2/8/2017

THE SUNROOF LEAKS WATER FROM ALL FOUR COUNTERS INTO THE VEHICLE: HEADLINER, SEATS, CARPET AND DASHBOARD. WARNING SIGNALS/ERRORS MESSAGES: AIR BAG, TRACTION, ENGINE LIGHT. 2500 MILES ON VEHICLE PURCHASED 3/18 NEW. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN A DRIVEWAY DURING A MAJOR RAIN STORM.

6/18/2018

1 more complaint is available in this category.

VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

3 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

2017 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. CONSUMER WRITES WITH CONCERNS REGARDS SUNROOF EXPLOSION. *AS THE CONSUMER STATED THE MANUFACTURER REFUSES TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE UNDER WARRANTY CLAIMING THERE MUST HAVE BEEN AN IMPACT FROM OUTSIDE. *JS

10/9/2018

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUN ROOF WAS LEAKING AND STAINED THE HEADLINER. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE WARRANTY WAS EXPIRED BY 1,000 MILES; THEREFORE, THE CONTACT WOULD BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE REPAIR COST. VOLKSWAGEN OF ROCHESTER (20 FARMINGTON RD, ROCHESTER, NH 03867, (603) 332-6242) REMOVED THE SPIDER TRAPS ON THE DRAINS FOR THE SUN ROOF. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 36,500.

7/5/2019

1 more complaint is available in this category.

SUSPENSION

3 Reports2% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

REAR SPRING BROKE. DEALER REPLACED BUT SAID CAR DOESN'T QUALIFY FOR RELATED SAFETY RECALL 42J5 EVEN THOUGH YEAR OF CAR IS LISTED IN RECALL DATE RANGE.

2/4/2021

Front suspension creaking noise. Front suspension creaking noise during suspension cycles (going over speed bumps or entering on an inclined surface) due to I believe Coil Spring not formed correctly and rubs against the perch of the strut or other issues/manufacturer defects with the front suspension. See also technical bulletin for 2012-2019 Passat stating similar issues: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2019/MC-10155776-9999.pdf I had originally reported a creaking noise to the dealer service center while my vehicle was still under warranty. The dealer claimed it was not able to recreate the sound, which I believe to be a false statement as it is very easy to recreate as it occurs every time I pull into my driveway or go over a speed bump. I stated this at the time however I suspect they didn’t want to replace under warranty or take ownership of the defect / recall. My vehicle is available for inspection upon request. I have not sought a second opinion from an independent service center yet. I believe this poses a safety concern for both myself and many others. It continues to creak because VW refuses to admit there is a problem. Please help, thank you!

2/1/2023

1 more complaint is available in this category.

VISIBILITY/WIPER

2 Reports1% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

WAS DRIVING ON THE FREE WAY WHEN SUDDENLY HEARD A LOUD BANG THAT SOUNDED LIKE A FUN SHOT. IMMEDIATELY I HEARD A CRACK AND PIECES OF GLASS FROM MY SUNROOF STARTED FALLING INTO MY CAR. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION THERE WAS NO ROCKS OR ANYTHING IN THE CAR. FURTHERMORE THE GLASS SEEMED TO BE PUSHED OUTWARD TOWARD THE OUTSIDE WHICH MADE ME THINK IT EXPLODED FROM DEFECT.

1/23/2018

Panoramic sunroof drains leaked water into passenger compartment down the A pillar on the drivers side. Leak was intense and occurred during rain, even light rain or mist. Material covering the A pillar was soaked through, and water droplets were dripping from the pillar onto the driver and dashboard. Water soaked the gauge cluster electronics and airbag contained within the A pillar. The electronics continued to operate, and water did not immediately cause them to malfunction. No warning lights illuminated. The windshield would become foggy any time there was moisture outside and visibility was severely reduced even when using the defroster. This occurred for the entire length I owned the vehicle, even after multiple drain cleanings at a dealer/ technician, and inspections at a Volkswagen dealer. Volkswagen and the dealer I purchased the used vehicle from were uncooperative in fixing this problem, which began within weeks of my vehicle ownership. Volkswagen dealer service department admitted this is a known issue. I took the vehicle to be inspected and repaired, which did not fix my issue after multiple attempts. I have since sold the vehicle with the known defect at a large loss because I was afraid for my safety and the safety of my family.

8/6/2021

SEAT BELTS

2 Reports1% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

FOR THE PAST 2+ YEARS, I WILL HAVE HAD THIS CAR 3 YEARS IN NOV.2019, AND FOR THE PAST 2 YRS+ THE DEALER HAS NOT FOUND THE TROUBLE WITH THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEATBELT SENSOR COMING ON FOR NO REASON. IT COMES ON WHILE DRIVING, THE LDRIVER'S SIDE SEATBELT LIGHT COMES ON AND THE SENSOR STARTS BEEPING - THE WORST WAS OVER A HALF HOUR STRAIGHT WHILE DRIVING HOME. IT HAS HAPPENED ON CITY STREETS- CANNOT RECALL IT ON HIGHWAY DRIVING. IN THE LAST FEW MONTHS THE SEATBELT UNIT WAS REPLACED- BUT THE LIGHTS AND BEEPING HAS RETURNED. I AM NOW THINKING IT MAY BE THE SEAT - SENSOR. NOT THE BELT. I READ/VIEWED VIDEOS THAT THERE WAS A SHORT IN THE ELECTRICAL OF SOME PEOPLE'S SEATBELT HOUSING, FIXED WITH WELDS. MOST RECENTLY IT IS HAPPENING MULTIPLE TIMES WHILE DRIVING. IT HAPPENED 7 TIMES WHILE DRIVING MY CAR FROM WORK TO THE DEALER, <10 MILES CITY STREET DRIVE. IT HAS NEVER BEEN REPRODUCED AND I DO NOT THINK ANY CODE WAS EVER SCANNED. THIS IS MY FIRST LEASE, AND AS SUCH I ONLY LET THE DEALER TACKLE IT. STILL NOT FIXED AND NOW MUCH, MUCH WORSE, WITH MULTIPLE OCCURRENCES AND NO RHYME OR REASON TO IT.

5/24/2019

Rear passenger seat buckle does not latch and thus at least one seat belt cannot be used. Buckle failed on its own. No accident or other incident was done to the buckle.

8/7/2023

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

2 Reports1% of total

Previewing the first 2 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the contact heard an abnormal clicking sound. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed suction jet pump. The contact was informed that the suction jet pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V110000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

7/26/2024

The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf. The contact stated that after refueling the vehicle, the contact became aware that the fuel had been consumed extremely quickly. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V110000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was unknown. Parts distribution disconnect.

8/13/2024

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD MISFIRED IN ALL CYLINDERS; HOWEVER, THEY WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE DEALER CLEARED THE SYSTEM AND WARNING SENSORS AND ADVISED THE CONTACT TO ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO WARM UP BEFORE DRIVING. IN ADDITION, THE FAILURE RECURRED TWO WEEKS LATER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT IT NEEDED A SOFTWARE UPDATE; HOWEVER, AN UPDATE WAS NOT AVAILABLE AT THE TIME. THE FAILURE OCCURRED A TOTAL OF THREE TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,300. ..UPDATED 05/15/17 *BF *CN

4/13/2017

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

LOW AND HIGH BEAM LAMPS ARE INADEQUATE AND DO NOT SUFFICIENTLY ILLUMINATE THE ROAD. MUCH DIMMER THAN ANY CAR I HAVE EVER DRIVEN. VW NEEDS TO ADDRESS THIS LIGHTING ISSUE.

3/26/2018

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT ASSIST WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE "FRONT ASSIST NOT AVAILABLE" MESSAGE WAS DISPLAYED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LIBERTY VOLKSWAGEN (920 S MILWAUKEE AVE, LIBERTYVILLE, IL 60048, (847) 680-8000) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO CONNECT TO THE SERVER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 7,200. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

9/4/2018

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

TL* THE CONTACT, AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WAS CALLING ON BEHALF OF HIS CLIENT WHO OWNS A 2017 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS LEAKING FUEL ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE LEAKED FUEL WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS HOT. THE CONTACT INFORMED THE VEHICLE OWNER THAT THE FUEL TANK AND CANISTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE OWNER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY. THE OWNER WAS INFORMED BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT HE WOULD RECEIVE A CALLBACK WHICH WAS STILL PENDING. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 35,800.

7/1/2020

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

Forward collision warning malfunction made the safety feature become safety issues. I have to turn it off before I drive. Otherwise it automatically preforms hard break/ stop for no reasons, no matter how how fast am I driving, where and when. Even pulling out from parking lot w/ 5/10 mph at midnight when there is absolutely no one and nothing around or on the middle of the highway w/ 60mph in the afternoon.

2/19/2022

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

Forward collision warning malfunction made the safety feature become safety issues. I have to turn it off before I drive. Otherwise it automatically preforms hard break/ stop for no reasons, no matter how how fast am I driving, where and when. Even pulling out from parking lot w/ 5/10 mph at midnight when there is absolutely no one and nothing around or on the middle of the highway w/ 60mph in the afternoon.

2/19/2022

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER CLOCKSPRING/SPIRAL CASSETTE

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

Air Bag light came on and it was determined that the clock spring failed. This car has only 38,118 miles on the speedometer

6/15/2022

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 MPH, the vehicle started jerking with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact parked the vehicle at her residence and upon exiting the vehicle, she smelled an abnormally strong gasoline odor. The contact inspected the vehicle and saw a pool of gasoline underneath the passenger’s side rear of the vehicle. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer, who diagnosed that the breather valve inside the fuel tank had failed. The dealer determined that the fuel tank, fuel lines and charcoal canister needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 66,000.

7/29/2022

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:EVAPORATIVE EMISSIONS:CANISTER

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

Fuel will not fill. EVAP system to fail. Car stalls after trying to fill with gas.

9/14/2022

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

1 Report1% of total

Previewing the first 1 complaint summaries.

My clock spring has failed three times now the first few times I had it fixed at the dealership but my warranty is now no longer valid once since I bought it from the dealership and it has failed again saying my airbags deployed and none of my features on my steering wheel work at all not even my paddle shifters and nor does my horn. And this has happened every time all those things have not worked when it is gone faulty.

9/27/2023

About This Data

Data and Methodology

MethodologyHow we score →

Scores are derived from NHTSA recalls and owner complaints, normalized by vehicle segment averages.

FAQ

What are the most common owner complaints for the 2017 Volkswagen Golf?

The most reported complaint category for the 2017 Volkswagen Golf is FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, with 51 owner reports. That is about 36% of all complaints logged here. Other recurring themes include FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER.

Are complaints about the 2017 Volkswagen Golf a serious warning sign?

Potentially. 101 complaint reports fall into higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components. That does not prove every vehicle has a defect, but repeated complaints in those systems justify a more careful pre-purchase inspection.

How should buyers use complaint data for the 2017 Volkswagen Golf?

Use complaints as an early pattern to investigate, not a standalone verdict. Start with the top complaint categories, compare those themes against the recall report and maintenance guide, then inspect service records for evidence that the same problem areas were already addressed. If the same issue appears repeatedly across complaints and recalls, treat it as a real ownership-risk flag.

Are complaints about the 2017 Volkswagen Golf severe?

101 complaint reports involve higher-attention systems such as brakes, steering, engine, powertrain, fuel, suspension, airbags, or electrical components, which is enough to justify a focused inspection before purchase.

Complaint list entries are sourced from owner-submitted NHTSA ODI records.

Read complaint summaries

Volkswagen Golf: How should complaint data influence buying decisions?

Use complaint patterns together with recalls and maintenance guidance to estimate ownership risk and inspection priorities.

Carfocal links complaint data directly to recall and maintenance routes for the same model year.

Return to full vehicle report
Complaint entries
142
Top-topic view
5 grouped topics shown
Primary source
NHTSA ODI owner complaint records

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In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Common Problems
  3. 03Owner Complaints
  4. 04Data and Methodology

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