2017 Volkswagen Gol
2017 Volkswagen Gol
Overview
The 2017 Volkswagen Gol, a popular subcompact car in many Latin American markets, generally offers a decent level of reliability for its segment. It’s known for its practicality and affordability, making it a common choice for daily commuting. While it doesn’t typically suffer from widespread, catastrophic failures, like any vehicle, it can experience specific issues. Owners often report a solid performance from its powertrain options, though some minor electrical gremlins and interior wear can be observed over time. The suspension is generally robust for urban driving conditions. Overall, the Gol is considered a dependable option when properly maintained, with most reported issues being manageable and not indicative of systemic design flaws.
Engine
1.0L EA211 Flex
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
1.6L EA211 Flex
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
6-Speed Automatic (Tiptronic)
Occasional Jerking/Hesitation
- Symptoms: Slight jerking or hesitation during gear changes, particularly at lower speeds.
- Solution: Software update or transmission fluid flush and replacement.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Suspension
Standard Independent Front / Torsion Beam Rear
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
General Electrical System
Infotainment System Glitches
- Symptoms: Occasional freezing or unresponsiveness of the touchscreen infotainment system.
- Solution: Software reset or update.
- Cost: $50 - $150
Power Window Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Power windows may become slow or stop working intermittently.
- Solution: Lubrication of window tracks or replacement of window regulator motor.
- Cost: $100 - $250
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Cabin Materials and Features
Wear on Seat Upholstery
- Symptoms: Accelerated wear and tear on fabric seat upholstery, especially on driver’s side.
- Solution: Seat covers or professional cleaning/repair.
- Cost: $50 - $200
Plastic Trim Rattles
- Symptoms: Minor rattles or creaks from interior plastic trim pieces over time.
- Solution: Application of felt tape or foam padding in contact areas.
- Cost: $20 - $50
Summary Verdict
The 2017 Volkswagen Gol is a generally reliable vehicle, particularly for its price point and market segment. The engine options are robust, with the manual transmission being particularly trouble-free. The automatic transmission may occasionally exhibit minor issues. Electrical components, such as the infotainment system and power windows, are the most common areas for minor complaints, but these are typically fixable with software updates or relatively inexpensive part replacements. Interior wear is also a common observation, as expected for a car in this class. Overall, the Gol is a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking dependable transportation, provided regular maintenance is performed.