2017 Volkswagen Golf R

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf R is a popular hot hatchback known for its performance, practicality, and all-wheel-drive system. It came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 292 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic. Owners often praise its responsive handling, strong acceleration, and comfortable interior. Common complaints include infotainment system glitches, potential for high running costs, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.0L TSI (EA888) Turbocharged Inline-4

• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, coolant warning light. The plastic water pump housing is prone to cracking.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump with an updated version, ideally one with an aluminum housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, reduced power, check engine light. Ignition coils can fail prematurely.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, decreased fuel economy, reduced power, hesitation upon acceleration. Direct injection engines are prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves.
  • Solution: Perform a carbon cleaning service on the intake valves (walnut blasting or chemical cleaning).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slipping under hard acceleration, difficulty shifting, high RPMs with little forward movement.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

7-Speed DSG (DQ381) Dual-Clutch Automatic

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh engagement, inability to shift, transmission fault light. The Mechatronic unit (transmission control unit) can fail.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the Mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• DSG Service Required
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay in shifting, harsh shifts, transmission hesitation. DSG transmissions require regular fluid and filter changes.
  • Solution: Perform a DSG service (fluid and filter change) according to the manufacturer’s recommended interval.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Adaptive Damper (DCC) Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Suspension fault light, uneven ride quality, failure of one or more dampers.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty damper(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per damper
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wheel Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or grinding noise from the wheel area, especially noticeable at higher speeds or when turning.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty wheel bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, software glitches.
  • Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking properly, unusual noises from the door lock.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, leaking, unusual noises during operation.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

In summary, the 2017 Volkswagen Golf R is a performance-oriented vehicle with some potential reliability concerns. Engine issues, particularly with the water pump and carbon buildup, can be moderately expensive to address. The DSG transmission can also present costly repairs. Suspension and electrical glitches are also common. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in the cost of maintenance and potential repairs when considering purchasing a used 2017 Golf R.