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Model-year record

2017 Volkswagen Golf
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2017 Volkswagen Golf

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

131

Reports to NHTSA, 2017

Safety recalls

5

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

29

EPA estimate

Known issues

Fuel/Propulsion System issues lead owner complaints (34% of 131 reports), followed by engine (15%).

Fuel/Propulsion System34% · 45 reports
Engine15% · 19 reports
Unknown Or Other9% · 12 reports
Electrical System8% · 10 reports
Power Train5% · 6 reports
Structure5% · 6 reports
Fuel System4% · 5 reports
Air Bags3% · 4 reports

+ 11 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 131 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11689572, ODI 11622253, ODI 11616046, ODI 11611590, ODI 11607650.

Individual complaint reports(131)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Electrical SystemMay 2026 · ODI 11735790Details +

Driving my 2017Golf the check engine light came on. The light was steady. I called my dealer and got it in for service. They report to me that the Thermostat housing needs to be replaced and oxygen sensors need replacing also. I just had the manifold replaced 6 weeks ago. I found on line that this is a common problem . Why isn’t this a Recall Repair?

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11735790 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJan 2026 · ODI 11712343Details +

My vehicle is subject to Safety Recall 20UF (Suction Jet Pump failure / Fire Risk). I have attempted to contact Pacific Volkswagen in Hawthorne, CA to schedule this safety-critical repair. On two separate occasions, upon mentioning that the call was regarding the 20UF recall, the dealership staff disconnected the call. This repeated 'recall avoidance' at Pacific Volkswagen is preventing me from remedying a known fire risk, and the dealership is effectively refusing to facilitate a federally mandated safety repair. I am concerned that the dealer is prioritizing paid service over safety-critical warranty work.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11712343 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlOct 2025 · ODI 11696778 · crashDetails +

The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and occupied, while attempting to depress the accelerator pedal, the vehicle independently accelerated and crashed into a parking lot barrier. The contact stated that none of the air bags deployed. There was no injury sustained. No medical attention was required. A police report was not filed. The contact stated that the vehicle was not diagnosed by a dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was towed to an Auto Body Shop. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not deemed a total loss. The contact related the failure to an article read online on Edmonds Auto Reviews. The approximate failure mileage was 96,000.

Reported
Oct 2025
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11696778 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemOct 2025 · ODI 11696492Details +

I have been having rear cameras for quite some time. The first time I took it to the dealer they could not find any issues and told me to take pictures. I did, plenty of them. Monday 10-27 2025 I took it in again for the gas tank issue and camera issue. Being disabled due to serious spine issues I had to minimize waiting time. The dealer preformed a radio update per 91-19-02 & MIB2 composition & discovered media info system malfunctions. I am currently under VW extended warranty 10 year 100000 mi but they charged me $225.00 for the update. This is exactly the same issue for recall #91SB. Apparently the issue goes back further than the recall, I believe that these issues were swept under the rug. Any help would be appreciated. [XXX] VW [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] I believe that the recall is the tip of a very large problem INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Oct 2025
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11696492 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemSep 2025 · ODI 11689572Details +

In December 2021, my fuel gauge read empty, so I stopped at a gas station near the Honolulu Airport and VW Honolulu dealership. As I was pumping the gasoline, it began overflowing from the top of the tank, although I had just started pumping. I immediately removed the pump which is when gas began leaking out of the bottom of the tank, like a faucet. Luckily, I was right by the dealership, and was able to make it there without anything dangerous happening. After assessing my vehicle, the VW technicians said there was an internal issue with a faulty fuel tank. They said this issue was not something that I caused. Attached are the invoices and notes provided by the technicians. I paid $3,877 to get the problem fixed.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Dec 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11689572 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemOct 2024 · ODI 11622253Details +

The component that failed, according to Volkswagen, is the rollover valve in the gas tank. This issue caused large amounts of gasoline to leak and pool from behind the rear passenger wheel well, creating a significant fire hazard and risk of harm. The vehicle was inspected by a Volkswagen service center as part of the repair process, whereupon the Volkswagen service center documented that the issue was caused by a faulty rollover valve in the gas tank. There were no warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms prior to the failure.

Reported
Oct 2024
Incident date
Aug 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11622253 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemSep 2024 · ODI 11616046Details +

I had a suction jet pump recall due on the car. I took it to the dealer to fix. Mind you, I have never had an issue with this car ever. Now about a week later from the car being in the shop I get an engine malfunction light that comes on due to the evap system. Vw dealership of cool springs has not worked with me on this at all and it is frustrating to say the least.

Reported
Sep 2024
Incident date
Sep 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11616046 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherSep 2024 · ODI 11612975Details +

The water pump in these vehicles are known defects, with class actions resulting. My water pump has failed at less than 70k miles. This results in engine overheating and possible failure. Luckily I was able to get the car off the road.

Reported
Sep 2024
Incident date
Sep 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11612975 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemAug 2024 · ODI 11611590Details +

Car has been leaking fuel for over a year. Had to pay out of pocket to get it fixed and VW refused to refund cost of repairs even though there is now a recall over a year later acknowledging the issue.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Aug 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11611590 at NHTSA →
SteeringAug 2024 · ODI 11610366Details +

Failure of wheel speed sensor in front right wheel. This is the THIRD time I have had a wheel speed sensor fail on this car, which has 35,000 miles on it. Failure caused loss of power steering, airbags, abs, etc.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11610366 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2024 · ODI 11609661 · 1 injuriesDetails +

I have gear shift trim that has peeled and is extermely sharp in my vehicle. This had led to cutting my hands multiple times while accessing the center storage compartment. This is a known issue with GTIs and other Volkswagen trim manufacturing, yet Volkswagen refuses to replace the part in my VIN. The relevant Service Action Code is 34J7.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
1 injuries
Open ODI 11609661 at NHTSA →
Fuel SystemAug 2024 · ODI 11608176Details +

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.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Apr 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11608176 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemAug 2024 · ODI 11607650Details +

Starting January 2023, I had issues putting fuel in my car (symptoms align with the recall issued this year). I took it to VW and paid their diagnostic fee for them to say there’s nothing wrong with the car (approx. $170) continued to drive the car and eventually due to the issue, my fuel pump went out and I had to replace it. (See attached image). This time, I took the car to a local mechanic who charged a $100 diagnostic fee. All of this was prior to the recall this year and I am hoping for reimbursement on everything I spent trying to resolve this issue.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Jan 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11607650 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJul 2024 · ODI 11605426Details +

July 30,2024 I own a Golf 2017. My suction jet pump has failed. I cannot drive my car because I can't put gas into it. I need my car for work. The recall does not have the part available and it seems there hasn't been a part to fix this for a very long time. I'm really at a loss. What are my next steps? Should I report this to the Better Business Bureau? So far I've been on Volkswagen Of America's phone wait for 40 minutes. I've already taken my car to a dealership to have this problem verified. There were no warning messages.

Reported
Jul 2024
Incident date
Jul 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11605426 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJul 2024 · ODI 11605490Details +

On July 7, 2024, the fuel tank system on my car (2017 VW Golf) failed. I was unable to pump gas into the gas tank. Upon arrival back to my house, gas started leaking out of the backside of the car near the gas tank (I later found out from the VW service manager it was leaking out of the charcoal canister). I had the car towed ($173) to a local VW dealership the next morning, 7/8/24. It is now 7/30/24 and the car is still not fixed. I was without a car for two and a half weeks (7/7 to 7/24), then finally got a rental from the dealership that is costing me $40/day (totaling $240 as of today). According to the service manager at the VW dealership, VW engineers are saying the failure is not due to the fuel tank suction jet pump (which there is a current recall on but no fix available) but all the symptoms I experienced point to that part being the problem. The service manager said that VW will cover the cost of the repair under a PZEV warranty, not the fuel tank suction jet pump extended warranty/recall. The replacement parts are taking weeks for the dealership to receive and there was confusion/miscommunication about which parts were included or needed. My complaints are: 1) the length of time it's taking for the car to be fixed, 2) the amount of money it's costing me for towing, rental car and any other potential expenses related to this issue, and 3) if it's not the fuel tank suction jet pump that is the problem, then there's potentially a larger problem at play with the fuel tank system not included in the original recall.

Reported
Jul 2024
Incident date
Jul 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11605490 at NHTSA →
Fuel SystemJul 2024 · ODI 11604755Details +

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.

Reported
Jul 2024
Incident date
Apr 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11604755 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJul 2024 · ODI 11604527Details +

A recall was published on 02/14/2024 and remains unresolved. Since the safety risk of "leaking fuel, in the presence of an ignition source, may result in a fire" it seems like this should be a priority. (Manufacturer Recall Number20UF, NHTSA Recall Number24V110)

Reported
Jul 2024
Incident date
Feb 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11604527 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJun 2024 · ODI 11595545Details +

***DATE OF OCCURRENCE: 07/03/2023*** SOLUTION REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY: I have been without a working vehicle for nearly 1 full year without recourse. ONE YEAR! Initially the recall for the exact suction jet pump issue did not include 2017 GTI models. I was furious. Repair estimates I received ranged rom $2,000-4,000 to replace the entire fuel system. Being unable to afford this, I was forced to leave it parked and completely unusable. I even had to change my car insurance to "garaged" status to avoid paying premium on a vehicle I couldn't even drive. I am extremely disappointed in the timeline for this recall. I'm glad that the recall for suction jet pump issue now includes my vehicle's year, but a repair solution is needed immediately. INCIDENT DESCRIPTION: Vehicle began losing engine power a day or so before the incident. I was driving home and noticed the intermittent engine power issue. Thankfully, I was not far from home. As I approached my neighborhood gate, I rolled down the window to enter the code. That's when I smelled a strong fuel odor. There were NO indicator lights or warning lamps displayed on my dashboard panel that suggested an issue with my vehicle. I looked around nearby for lawn maintenance trucks, suspecting they were refueling or had potentially spilled fuel from their equipment. As I pulled into my parking space and exited the vehicle, I immediately noticed fuel streaming down from the inside of the wheel well and pooling on the ground below the gas tank door. Honestly, it was a really scary experience. I was afraid for my safety. It looked like my car could explode at any moment. The only good news is that my gas tank was relatively low on fuel so the spill didn't last long. I have not started my vehicle since the incident, nearly 1 year ago. It's a gut punch every day to see it parked, unusable AND have to continue paying for it. Please issue a repair solution for this recall immediately. Thank you.

Reported
Jun 2024
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11595545 at NHTSA →
StructureJun 2024 · ODI 11595149Details +

driving down the highway at 70mph and what sounded like a gunshot inside the car. glass started falling on us driving down the road. the sunroof glass exploded. got pulled over and looked and the glass is literally blown outward not inward like something falling on it. the hole it bulged up and the glass from the hole was missing.

Reported
Jun 2024
Incident date
Jun 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11595149 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemMay 2024 · ODI 11588685Details +

Related to recall 20UF. VWoA refused to authorize repair under recall in March. My 2017 GTI is diagnosed with all symptoms of the 20UF recall. Random power loss, inability to add fuel, large fuel leak from rear fender (charcoal canister). I have been unable to drive the car since March, but VWoA refuses to pay for the repair. The recall was issued 3 months ago and there is still no repair, or offer from VWoA to give a loaner car or anything.

Reported
May 2024
Incident date
Mar 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11588685 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemApr 2024 · ODI 11581571Details +

VW is not acting fast enough to fix the active fuel tank suction jet pump recall, given the immense danger risk. The recall was issued a month and a half ago - they should have the parts available now to fix it. I have noticed fuel smells while inside and driving my car on and off for several months now!! I took my car to their dealership yesterday to get their faulty water tank replaced and when I asked about the recall I was completely dismissed and they said they had no idea when the parts would be available. I need my car to get to work. I can't just stop driving it but it feels incredibly unsafe to drive now that I know about the recall!

Reported
Apr 2024
Incident date
Apr 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11581571 at NHTSA →
SuspensionMar 2024 · ODI 11578065Details +

-rear coil springs snapped -if coil completely falls out there will be no suspension, creating a greater chance of accident -yes confirmed by mavis discount tire -inspected by me and mavis discount tire -no warning

Reported
Mar 2024
Incident date
Mar 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11578065 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJan 2024 · ODI 11564743Details +

Hello I am creating this inquiry about the suction pump and charcoal canister for my 2017 VW GTI. The suction pump on my vehicle has gone faulty and the car will no longer accept more than a gallon of gas. A faulty suction pump commonly leads to gas leaks and a faulty charcoal canister as well. The suction pump for the 2015 and 2016 golf gti was recalled due to this issue. There are hundreds of people with later models from 2017-2020 including myself that experience that exact same problem but VW has yet to extend the recall to our years. As of December 2023 the us transportation authority opened a probe into Volkswagen for not extending the recall. I am very frustrated over this because this can be close to $2000 in repairs. I should not be held financially responsible for a faulty pump that should have been recalled from the manufacturer.

Reported
Jan 2024
Incident date
Jan 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11564743 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2023 · ODI 11561868Details +

Thermostat Sensor Failure causing check engine light P00B7. Vehicle not reading the correct engine temp causing cooling fans to run at 100% and drivability concern. Dealer diagnosed the repair as replacement of the Thermostat/Thermostat Housing quoted at $1,635. The vehicle has not been inspected by any other party other than dealership. Check Engine line appeared, thermostat not reading proper temp, and cooling fans running at 100% speed. This is a well documented problem with my vehicle: https://www.reddit.com/r/GolfGTI/comments/drna5m/mk775_thermostat_housing_issue_and_coolant_loss/

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11561868 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemDec 2023 · ODI 11560614Details +

The fuel suction pump in my 2017 volkswagen golf r failed causing strong gas odors to emit whenever the car is running, loss of power, inability to put more than a small amount of fuel in, and gas leaking into the evap and charcoal canister causing them to fail. This creates a huge risk for ignition and fuel dumping onto the road which, only because I stopped driving it, has not happened to me. A check engine light has still yet to appear even after part failure. I believe you can see how big of a safety risk this causes to not only the vehicle's occupants, but those around it as well. I have already taken it to the volkswagen dealer and they themselves confirmed that yes the fuel suction pump has failed and that all those parts and the fuel tank itself need replaced totaling around 3,500 to 4,000 dollars. I have not gotten anything replaced. They refuse to cover it under the warranty extension titled VWP22-12 even though my car is obviously not 15 years old and it only has around 37,000 miles. They claim they revised the part for 2017 so that it doesn't fail anymore, but if that were the case then why is that warranty extension all the way up to 2020 models. I have looked through other complaints filed on this site and see you've already been contacted several times about my exact issue on 2017 models. I am urging you to please make this a recall. Volkswagen clearly knows this is a widespread issue evidenced by the fact the it affects such a large amount of models and years and by not making a recall you are allowing them to screw people over.

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Sep 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11560614 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemDec 2023 · ODI 11558501Details +

Large amount of fuel dumped onto road from right rear side of car at stop light. Police stopped me and asked me get a tow and no longer drive. 1st garage said it might be faulty fuel pump, and only VW dealer can replace. towed to VW where they replaced the whole fuel assembly.

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Sep 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11558501 at NHTSA →
EngineNov 2023 · ODI 11552952Details +

Fuel evaporation canister started leaking raw fuel after a strong gas odor was present before hand. The fuel suction pump failed and pressure built up in my gas tank. I was at risk because the presence of raw fuel near ignition sources can cause a fire. Verified at Volkswagen dealership. No warning signs by car when issue first started. Only sign of problem before raw fuel leaking was poor car performance, car stalled and I could not put more than a gallon of gas in the fuel tank.

Reported
Nov 2023
Incident date
Oct 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11552952 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemOct 2023 · ODI 11548647Details +

While driving the vehicle I noticed hesitation and lose of power on the interstate. No MIL or check engine light illuminated on the dash. I was able to get the vehicle back to the house, but noticed a strong fuel smell coming from the car. I walked around the vehicle looking for a visible sign of a fuel leak and saw a puddle by the rear passenger tire. After further investigation I discovered that the fuel was coming from the air filter on my charcoal/evap canister. I did some research and see that VW has an extended warranty out for this issue but it is not currently a recall, Fuel Tank Suction Jet Pump Limited Warranty Extension (VWP-22-2). The safety issue is that while driving and stationary you have raw fuel and vapors on the exterior of the vehicle by an exhaust muffler and the inner fender liner absorbs some of the fuel in its fabric, so with the right circumstances could cause a vehicle fire. Thankfully this did not happen to my vehicle but the potential for it to happen is present. I took my vehicle to my local dealer and they diagnosed this issue but because my vehicle has a salvage title they will not cover the cost for the repairs, even though the reason that my vehicle has a salvaged/total title has nothing to do with the fuel/emission/evap system, so I will be doing the repairs myself. The parts that needs to he repaired are the same parts listed in the previous recall of the earlier model of the VW GTI (Safety Recall Code 20Y6)

Reported
Oct 2023
Incident date
Sep 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11548647 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemSep 2023 · ODI 11547266Details +

Vehicle would not take in fuel from the gas pump. Fuel would leak from the rear, passenger side of the vehicle. Dealer replaced Fuel Tank, ACF Valve and Evaporative Emission Canister to fix the problem.

Reported
Sep 2023
Incident date
Oct 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11547266 at NHTSA →
Air BagsSep 2023 · ODI 11546976Details +

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.

Reported
Sep 2023
Incident date
May 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11546976 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherSep 2023 · ODI 11546483Details +

Vehicle EPC light comes on dash. OBD code is "P00AF00 - Turbocharger Boost Control "A" Module". This error causes sudden loss of power and loss of driver assistance (forward collision assist, blind spot assist, cruise control, etc.). Vehicle is available for inspection upon request. Upon checking turbo charger, the wastegate actuator arm is seized up, keeping the wastegate from functioning properly, failing to maintain boost pressure and entering limp mode causing sudden loss of power and acceleration. This has happened while on the roadway, attempting to merge into highway traffic, change lanes & pass other vehicles. This caused the vehicle behind me to close the distance very rapidly almost resulting in multiple rear end collisions. The vehicle has not been inspected by others, yet. The only warning that came on was when it first did it. I had a sudden loss of power, a warning beep from the dash and the EPC light illuminated. It fixed itself after a few moments then occured again. It is now stuck with this error and will not operate accordingly.

Reported
Sep 2023
Incident date
Sep 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11546483 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemSep 2023 · ODI 11542548Details +

While on a road trip we noticed that the car was missing slightly on steep hills, and we attributed it to needing new spark plugs. When we filled with gas later, we noticed it clicking off as full sooner than it should have. The next day we could not get more than a gallon in it, and gas pooled in the neck of the tank and started oozing out around the rear bumper and on to the ground. It was clearly unsafe to drive in that condition. We took it to a nearby mechanic where we were visiting and he diagnosed it as a failed EVAP that he couldn't replace because it's integrated into the tank, and he didn't do that kind of major work on VWs. Found another mechanic and he disassembled the fuel system to discover that the baffles in the gas tank had collapsed, the charcoal filter was destroyed, the fuel pump and simmy valve were broken. All will have to be replaced at a cost of about $4500. (No documentation yet--still in the shop, and I haven't yet been able to get through to VW.) No check engine or warning lights ever came on, and the damage was sudden and instantaneous, with no cause (never been in a wreck in this car, always use factory-recommended fluids and fuel). No mechanical problems until this, and it seems there are many reports of Golfs 2016-2018 having this same problem at 5 years, so it's clearly a defect. This needs to be a recall! Thanks.

Reported
Sep 2023
Incident date
Sep 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11542548 at NHTSA →
EngineAug 2023 · ODI 11537264Details +

My VW on two occasions experienced coolant / water pump system failures (May 2022 and August 2023), the second of which required full water pump replacement. These are identical to the class action lawsuit outlined on https://waterpumpsettlement.com/ (civil court case Civ. No.: 2:21-cv-11251-MCA-MF), though I am receiving difficulties with the settlement claim for unknown reasons. My vehicles water pump is identical to those outlined in the case, as the pump model numbers and OEM origin are identical. These two incidents posed a severe risk/hazard to both the vehicle and myself due to leakage and loss of coolant putting the car at risk of catatrosphic engine failure. It is becoming apparent that these should amount to a recall as the growing number of incidents keeps increasing.

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Aug 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11537264 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsAug 2023 · ODI 11536956Details +

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.

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Aug 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11536956 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemAug 2023 · ODI 11537018Details +

Tried to put gas in tank and the pump at the gas station kept shutting off. Pulled over to refuel at another gas station and had gas leaking out of the side of my car, above tire on rear passenger side and next to exhaust. Inside of the car filled with strong odor of gasoline. Extremely dangerous having fuel pouring out of the side of the car while vehicle was moving. Volkswagen issued a recall for this issue on the 2015 and 2016 vw gti models due to the suction pump getting stuck inside the gas tank and they need to do the same for the 2017 models. Having to pay out of pocket to fix this issue and its going to cost over $3,500.00. Local dealership saying I need to replace the entire gas tank to fix the issue. Vehicle has roughly 72,000 miles on it. No warning lamps or messages from the vehicle while driving.

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11537018 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJul 2023 · ODI 11535411Details +

Driving I noticed the power getting cut intermittently. This happened for a couple days. When I parked the car there was a smell of fuel. Looked at the rear of the car and there was a massive puddle of fuel on the ground at the rear passenger side. Left car outside house for safety reasons. Incredibly dangerous. No warning lights, just a very strong smell of fuel. Scheduled to take vehicle to dealer as there is a recall on the suction pump for the fuel system for models 15-16. It appears this is an issue in other models as well.

Reported
Jul 2023
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11535411 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJul 2023 · ODI 11534630Details +

One day after a fuel fill-up, during hot weather, upon returning home my wife noticed the smell of gasoline when exiting my vehicle. Then she saw a steady stream of fuel pouring onto the ground just behind the passenger-side rear tire. She immediately got back in the car and drove it back out of my garage, onto our gravel driveway. The fuel continued running out of the wheel well, from a location approximately below the fuel filler door, for several minutes. After I opened the fuel filler cap there was a hissing sound, then the fuel leak appeared to stop. I called my local VW repair shop, who advised us to get the car towed to them, and NOT to drive it. The next morning it was towed to that shop. It took them a couple of days to get to our car, and they diagnosed that fuel had filled the charcoal canister, and presented us with a repair estimate of approximately $5,000. That included replacing the charcoal canister, the entire fuel tank, and several other related parts. After doing some research online, I believe this incident resulted from failure of the fuel tank suction pump, which was the subject of VW recall 20Y6, dated 12/21/2016. Apparently the same fuel suction pump continued to be used in the 2017 model year Golf. My online research revealed that this problem continues to occur with VW Golfs of model year 2017 and even later.

Reported
Jul 2023
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11534630 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJul 2023 · ODI 11533709Details +

Gasoline was leaking profusely out the back of near the right rear tire well. I had it inspected by Camelback VW (Dealer) and they said the fuel tank failed. The car has 55.8k miles on it, bought in December of 2017. Having the fuel leak out was eye opening along with the repair bill of $3967.79 from what I understand, the fuel tank has a molded pump in it, that failed, which caused fuel to leak out https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8k48eSbgVg (not my car, but exactly what happened, gurgling and all)

Reported
Jul 2023
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11533709 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesJul 2023 · ODI 11531806Details +

Breaks are not fuctioning well Engine is not fuctioning well

Reported
Jul 2023
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11531806 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJul 2023 · ODI 11530737Details +

I was driving down the highway and had power issues, pulled over once and saw nothing, drove another 15-20 miles, pulled over again, and had fuel pouring out behind the rear passenger wheel, at which point I turned off the car. I had car towed to a VW dealership and they said nothing is wrong with the car, and that there's no diagnosis. Also called VW of America and had a regional representative say they had to trust the dealer that the car is okay, and that we should keep driving the car. However, VW has released an extended warranty notice for the fuel tank suction jet pump on this car, policy VWP-22-12, and released a safety recall (20Y6) for the 2016 GTI for a very similar issue and concern for leaking fuel starting a fire. Despite this, the VW dealership is very unwilling to try and diagnose this fuel issue even with the warranty notice, and VW of America seems okay with this. Both have told me to continue driving the car as is.

Reported
Jul 2023
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11530737 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJun 2023 · ODI 11529296Details +

Vehicle is spitting fuel back out when refilling. After driving and the system becomes pressurized it leaks fuel out in significant amounts when attempting to refuel.

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Jun 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11529296 at NHTSA →
EngineJun 2023 · ODI 11527425Details +

The thermostat housing leaked all my radiator fluid across the front of the engine block. I have to refill the reservoir every 2-3 days in order to keep the coolant in the engine and to keep it from overheating. Low coolant lights came on at a stop light, to initially alert me of the problem. There's currently a class-action suit against VW for this and it's time to issue a recall.

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Jan 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11527425 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJun 2023 · ODI 11526428Details +

There is a significant fuel leak from the EVAP canister, spilling gallons of fuel even with the vehicle turned off.

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
May 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11526428 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemApr 2023 · ODI 11519371Details +

Found vehicle was leaking gas from the passenger rear wheel well throught the liner. Had it inspected by a coworker for the issue and we deemed it was the charcoal canister at first. I ordered a new one and replaced it but concern persisted. Spoke with a former vw technician who got into contact with current technicians who stated to replace the gas tank. Had it inspected at a different location and they found the new charcoal canister, vent valve and purge valve filled with fuel and that they would need to replace them and rediagnose to find if it is one of the valves or a different issue. Decided to see online if others were having the same issue and found that others with the mark 7 golf gti (17)are having the same issues (that a recall was put out for the 2015-16 gtis). This happening is a hazard due to a possible thermal event. The vehicle is at higher risk to catch fire due to this. My vehicle is readily available to be inspected

Reported
Apr 2023
Incident date
Mar 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11519371 at NHTSA →
StructureApr 2023 · ODI 11516400Details +

2017 VW GTI, incredibly common issue of the sunroof surround cracking and allowing water to leak into the electrical components and headliner of the vehicle. VW does not care to admit fault on this even though there are hundreds of documented cases about this issue. Less than a year out of warranty and now dealing with potential mold issues or worse, an electrical shortage problem that could cause a fire. Not sure how this can be seen in hundreds of cases from VW owners and they haven’t done anything about it. Major issue.

Reported
Apr 2023
Incident date
Mar 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11516400 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemMar 2023 · ODI 11512060Details +

There is a problem with the fuel system in the tank region that effects the PCV valve, Charcoal cylinder and fuel tank cause a build up of pressure in the system that causes the vehicle to leak gas vapor and not be able to fill with fuel. There was a similiar issues with the 2015/2016 models and the PCV valve. The vapor build up is extremely dangerous as it could ingnite causing boldily harm or even death.

Reported
Mar 2023
Incident date
Mar 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11512060 at NHTSA →
SuspensionFeb 2023 · ODI 11505083Details +

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!

Reported
Feb 2023
Incident date
Apr 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11505083 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2023 · ODI 11502182Details +

Car will stutter and stall. Usually after multiple short trips (5 stops and starts) in a short period of time (2 hours). 1 min/1000 gauge is fluttering around 0.75 on gauge when stopped. When car stalls it can be when pulling out at a stop sign. It will stall when gas is applied and then I need to coast around a corner. Occasionally the car will stall out when driving between 20 and 30 miles per hour. When this happens it is extremely dangerous because I am driving in traffic and need to pull over to the side of the road. I had this problem fixed at the dealership once before in 2021 and it cost $559.08 then. I was told at the time that gas sometimes has sediment in it and I should not get gas at grocery store pumps where the price is lower. I should stick to better gas stations. I now am getting my gas at the same two better places all the time hoping that the problem wouldn’t happen again. The problem started two weeks ago and is following the same pattern. I scheduled a service appointment again for them to check my car but it never displays any codes and it is difficult for them to recreate the stalling. My car is almost at 85,000 miles when my warranty runs out.

Reported
Jan 2023
Incident date
Jan 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11502182 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherDec 2022 · ODI 11498054Details +

The sunroof glass exploded while driving. Shattered glass had the potential to fall into the vehicle had the sun shield not been closed. Shattered class could fly out onto the road causing hazards to other motorists. The sunroof has not been inspected yet. No warnings or symptoms prior to failure. While driving, a loud explosion was heard coming from the top of the car. When inspecting the top of the car it was noticed that the sunroof had been shattered along the seal. No signs of impact from projectiles.

Reported
Dec 2022
Incident date
Dec 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11498054 at NHTSA →
Power TrainDec 2022 · ODI 11496535Details +

This is related to VW recal 37M2. My VIN is not in the recall list, but it has the exact same issue with the shifter assembly. The car does not recognize when the transmission is placed in Park. Unable to lock doors

Reported
Dec 2022
Incident date
Dec 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11496535 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(5)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Unknown Or OtherMay 2021 · 21V321000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017 Touareg GP, Tiguan, Golf A6, E-Golf GP, CCF, 2016-2017 Passat GP, 2018-2019 Golf R GP, and 2018 Atlas vehicles. These internal-use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may fail to comply with the requirements of various Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Risk: Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of injury, crash, or fire.

Remedy: Volkswagen will repurchase the vehicles. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01F1.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
SuspensionJun 2019 · 19V188000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Golf Sportwagen, 2019 Jetta, 2015-2019 Golf, and 2018-2019 Tiguan vehicles. The rear coil springs may prematurely fracture.

Risk: If a coil spring fractures while driving, it may damage a rear tire causing a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear axle coil springs, free of charge. The recall began April 12, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 42J5.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
SteeringNov 2018 · 18V464000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2018 Volkswagen Golf and Golf Sportwagen vehicles. The build of silicate on the shift lever micro switch contacts may enable the key to be removed from the ignition while the vehicle shift lever is not in "Park." As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."

Risk: Removing the key while the shift lever is in a position other than "Park" increases the risk of an unintended vehicle rollaway that may result in personal injury or a crash.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional switch and circuit board, free of charge. The recall began March 19, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 37L5.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Seat Belts · 16V955000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2017 Audi A7, A4, A6, Volkswagen Golf and Tiguan vehicles and 2016 Volkswagen e-Golf vehicles for driver frontal air bags, passenger frontal air bags or head air bags that may not deploy properly. Additionally, certain 2017 Audi Q7, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, and 2018 Audi Q5 vehicles are being recalled because the seat belt pretensioners may not activate properly.

Risk: In the event of a crash, if the air bags and/or the seat belt pretensioners do not inflate or function properly, the vehicle occupants have an increased risk of injury.

Remedy: Volkswagen and Audi will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected air bags and seat belt pretensioners, free of charge. The recall began April 2017. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Fuel System · 24V110000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain front-wheel drive 2015-2020 Audi A3 Sedan, 2015-2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2018 Golf Sportwagen GP, 2018-2019 Golf Sportwagen A7, 2015-2017 Golf Sportwagen, 2015-2020 Golf GTI, and 2015-2020 Golf A7 vehicles. Due to a problem with a suction jet pump seal inside the fuel tank, fuel may flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and possibly leak out of the charcoal canister.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the suction pump, free of charge. Final owner notification letters for Audi owners were mailed on July 25, 2024. Final owner letters for VW owners were mailed on August 13, 2024. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are VW: 20UF/Audi: 20YF. Vehicles that were previously recalled under 16V-647 will need to have the new remedy completed. This recall expands and replaces previous recall number 16V-647.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

1 NHTSA investigation on record

Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.

Fuel Leak due to Suction Jet Pump Failure within Fuel Tank (Remedy Effectiveness of Recall 16V647)

On December 12, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened RQ23-007 to investigate the remedy repair effectiveness and scope of Volkswagen (VW) recall 16V-647. Recall 16V-647 was issued on September 2, 2016, for a defective suction jet pump (SJP) inside the fuel tank. Failure of the SJP could lead to a fuel leak from the vehicle. This recall covered certain model year (MY) 2015-2016 Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3 passenger car vehicles. The recall remedy repair replaced SJP Version 1.0 with an improved version, Version 1.1. The SJP is designed to purge fuel from the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system. VW’s recall filing stated the SJP may have been damaged during assembly, which could potentially allow fuel to flow directly into the EVAP system. Over time, the fuel could accumulate in, and cause a leak from, the charcoal canister filter element. ODI received consumer complaints of SJP failure leading to a fuel leak, refueling spit back, refueling shutoff, and/or fuel odor in vehicles previously repaired under recall 16V-647. Additional complaints alleging SJP failure leading to the previously stated outcomes were received in vehicles outside the scope of recall 16V-647, including MY 2016-2020 VW Golf and Audi A3 vehicles. VW issued recall 24V-110 on February 14, 2024, to address issues with SJPs Versions 1.0 and 1.1. The recall remedy replaces the SJP Version 1.0 or 1.1 with an improved version, Version 2.0. Recall 24V-110 covers certain MY 2015-2020 VW Golf (including Golf GTI), 2015-2020 Audi A3, and 2019-2020 VW Jetta GLI vehicles, including vehicle previously repaired under 16V-647. Vehicle owners were notified of this recall in April 2024 and VW’s projected date for owner notification of recall remedy availability is August 2024. In view of the recall being conducted by VW, ODI is closing this Recall Query (RQ). The Agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.

Crash-test ratings

2017 Volkswagen Golf 4 DR FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Golf1.8L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive253629
Golf1.8L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive253529

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2017 Volkswagen Golf: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2017 Volkswagen Golf?

Owners filed 131 NHTSA complaints about the 2017 Volkswagen Golf. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2017 Volkswagen Golf?

The most-reported problem areas are Fuel/Propulsion System (34% of complaints) and engine (15%).

How many recalls does the 2017 Volkswagen Golf have?

5 recalls have been issued that affect the 2017 Volkswagen Golf, covering components such as unknown or other. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2017 Volkswagen Golf get?

The EPA rates the 2017 Volkswagen Golf at 29 mpg combined.