2017 Volkswagen Gol

Introduction:

The 2017 Volkswagen Gol is a compact hatchback that offers a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 1.0-liter three-cylinder with 82 horsepower and 89 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic is optional. A more powerful 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is also available, producing 105 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.

Owners praise the Gol for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and practicality. However, some have experienced issues with its powertrain, suspension, and electrical systems.

Engine

• 1.0-liter Three-Cylinder
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner may fail prematurely, leading to a stretched timing chain and potential engine damage.
    • Symptoms: Engine noise, reduced performance, illuminated check engine light
    • Solution: Replace timing chain and tensioner
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: N/A
• 1.6-liter Four-Cylinder
  • No Issues Found

Transmission

• Five-Speed Manual (1.0L and 1.6L)
  • Shift Linkage Binding: The shift linkage may bind, making it difficult to shift gears.
    • Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, especially from 2nd to 3rd
    • Solution: Replace or lubricate shift linkage
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: N/A
• Six-Speed Automatic (1.0L and 1.6L)
  • Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure: The TCM may fail, leading to transmission shifting problems.
    • Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifts, inability to shift gears
    • Solution: Replace TCM
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: N/A

Suspension

• Front Suspension:
  • Strut Mount Bearing Failure: The strut mount bearing may wear out prematurely, causing a clunking or popping noise.
    • Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise when turning or going over bumps
    • Solution: Replace strut mount bearing
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: N/A
• Rear Suspension:
  • No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Faulty Battery Sensor: The battery sensor may malfunction, causing the battery to drain prematurely.
    • Symptoms: Battery goes dead frequently, especially after short trips
    • Solution: Replace battery sensor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250+
    • Recalls: N/A
• Electrical Wiring Harness Issues:
  • Damaged Wiring Harness: The electrical wiring harness may become damaged or frayed, causing electrical problems.
    • Symptoms: Various electrical issues, such as lights flickering, gauges malfunctioning
    • Solution: Inspect and repair damaged wiring
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Exterior Trim:
  • Loose or Missing Trim: Some exterior trim pieces, such as body moldings or grilles, may become loose or fall off.
    • Symptoms: Loose or missing trim pieces
    • Solution: Reattach or replace trim pieces
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: N/A
• Paint:
  • Paint Fading or Peeling: The paint may fade or peel prematurely, especially on vehicles exposed to harsh sunlight.
    • Symptoms: Faded or peeled paint
    • Solution: Professional paint repair
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Instrument Cluster:
  • Faulty Gauges: One or more gauges in the instrument cluster may malfunction or become inaccurate.
    • Symptoms: Inaccurate or non-functioning gauges
    • Solution: Replace or repair faulty gauges
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: N/A
• Climate Control System:
  • Faulty Blower Motor: The blower motor may fail, leading to poor air flow from the vents.
    • Symptoms: Weak or no air flow from vents
    • Solution: Replace blower motor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: N/A

Summary:

The 2017 Volkswagen Gol is a generally reliable vehicle, but some owners have encountered issues with its powertrain, suspension, and electrical systems. The severity of these issues varies, with some being relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, while others can be more serious and costly. Overall, the Gol is a practical and fuel-efficient option, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues before making a purchase.