2017 Volkswagen Gol

The 2017 Volkswagen Gol is a subcompact car popular in South America and other emerging markets. It’s known for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. Engine options available for the 2017 Gol include a 1.0L 3-cylinder engine producing around 75 horsepower and 71 lb-ft of torque, a 1.6L 8-valve 4-cylinder engine making approximately 101 horsepower and 111 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.6L 16-valve 4-cylinder engine generating about 120 horsepower and 115 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices are typically a 5-speed manual or an automated manual (ASG). Owners often appreciate the Gol’s nimble handling and spacious interior for its class, but some dislike the basic interior trim and limited features compared to more expensive models.

Engine

1.0L 3-Cylinder Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes an abnormally high amount of oil, requiring frequent top-ups. Blue smoke may be visible from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacing the piston rings may mitigate the issue, but sometimes a full engine rebuild is needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L 8-Valve 4-Cylinder Engine

• Rough Idling
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine idles roughly, with noticeable vibrations and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the throttle body and checking the spark plugs and ignition coils.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L 16-Valve 4-Cylinder Engine

• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, loss of power, and the check engine light illuminating. Diagnosing may reveal a faulty ignition coil.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Difficulty Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging certain gears, especially first or second gear. Grinding noises may be present.
  • Solution: Adjusting or replacing the clutch cable. If the problem persists, the synchronizers may be worn and require replacing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Automated Manual (ASG) Transmission

• Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh and abrupt shifts between gears, especially in stop-and-go traffic. The transmission may feel hesitant or unresponsive.
  • Solution: Re-programming the transmission control module (TCM). Clutch adjustment may also be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, particularly when going over bumps. Reduced handling precision.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings on the control arms, sway bar links, and other suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Window Regulators
  • Description/Symptoms: The power windows operate slowly or not at all. A clicking noise may be heard from inside the door.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The central locking system fails to lock or unlock all doors simultaneously. Sometimes, individual doors may not respond.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the issue could involve checking the door lock actuators, wiring harness, and central locking module. Replacing the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture accumulates inside the headlight lenses, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Removing the headlights, drying them thoroughly, and resealing the lens to the housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard is the most effective solution, but can be expensive. Applying a dashboard cover is a more affordable alternative.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air conditioning system blows warm air, or not air at all.
  • Solution: Check the AC compressor, refrigerant, and condenser. May require a new compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Volkswagen Gol, while generally reliable, exhibits a range of issues spanning engine performance, transmission smoothness, suspension integrity, electrical functionality, and interior durability. Engine-related issues like oil consumption and rough idling can range from minor inconveniences to more costly repairs. Transmission problems, particularly with the automated manual, may affect drivability. Other concerns include suspension bushing wear, electrical glitches with power windows and central locking, headlight condensation, and dashboard cracking. The severity of these issues varies, with repair costs ranging from relatively inexpensive fixes to more substantial investments.