2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack is a versatile compact wagon offering the practicality of an SUV with the driving dynamics of a Golf. It came standard with a 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-4 cylinder TSI engine producing 170 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Alltrack for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and standard all-wheel drive. Some common complaints include relatively high maintenance costs compared to other vehicles in its class, and some reliability concerns regarding the infotainment system and drivetrain.

Engine

1.8L TSI Engine

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gasket, rear main seal, and timing chain cover. Symptoms include visible oil drips, oil consumption, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the affected gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Decreased engine power, unusual noises (whining or whistling) from the turbocharger, and potential check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacing the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+

Transmission

6-Speed DSG (DQ250)

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, hesitation, failure to engage gears, and warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
• Clutch Pack Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping during acceleration, jerky shifts, and unusual noises from the transmission.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch packs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, excessive body roll, and potential clunking noises from the rear suspension.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen may freeze, become unresponsive, or randomly restart.
  • Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, or, in some cases, replacing the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (head unit replacement).
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days of inactivity, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the parasitic draw, replacing the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues (Water Leaks/Failure to Close)
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin during rain, difficulty opening or closing the sunroof, and unusual noises during operation.
  • Solution: Cleaning the sunroof drains, repairing the sunroof mechanism, or replacing the sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+

Interior

• Air Conditioning Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air conditioning system blows warm air, insufficient cooling, or unusual noises from the compressor.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the A/C compressor, condenser, or other components in the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+

Recalls:

• None Found

Summary:

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack, while praised for its practicality and driving experience, can suffer from several issues. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger problems can be expensive to address. Transmission issues with the DSG can also be costly. Electrical and interior issues can also cause frustration. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential maintenance and repair costs associated with this vehicle.