2019 Volkswagen Gol

The 2019 Volkswagen Gol is a subcompact hatchback primarily sold in South America. Engine options typically include a 1.0L three-cylinder, a 1.6L eight-valve four-cylinder, and a 1.6L sixteen-valve four-cylinder. The 1.6L eight-valve engine, a popular choice, produces around 101 horsepower and 111 lb-ft of torque on gasoline. Owners often appreciate the Gol’s affordability and fuel efficiency. Criticisms often include limited features, basic interior materials, and somewhat unrefined driving dynamics compared to more modern competitors.

Engine

1.6L Eight-Valve Four-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable drop in oil level between oil changes, blue smoke from the exhaust, especially during startup or acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacing the piston rings. In some cases, a complete engine rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Difficult Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, grinding noises when shifting, especially between 1st and 2nd gear.
  • Solution: Check and adjust the clutch cable. If the problem persists, the clutch disc, pressure plate, or throw-out bearing may need to be replaced. Inspect the transmission fluid level and condition.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+

Suspension

• Premature Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the front suspension, particularly when going over bumps or turning. Reduced handling precision.
  • Solution: Replace worn control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, and strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Electrical

• Faulty Window Regulator
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows operating intermittently or not at all. Grinding noises when attempting to operate the windows.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window regulator assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
• Central Locking System Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to lock or unlock with the remote or interior switch.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty door lock actuator, wiring harness, or central control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $300+

Interior

• Rattling Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling noises emanating from the dashboard, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Add sound dampening material behind the dashboard panels and secure any loose components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+

Exterior

• Rusting
  • Description/Symptoms: Early signs of rust, especially on the undercarriage and around the wheel wells, even in regions not exposed to heavy road salt.
  • Solution: Sanding and repainting affected areas, applying rust inhibitors and undercoating.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on severity

Recalls:

• None Found

The 2019 Volkswagen Gol, while generally reliable, presents some common issues. The engine can experience oil consumption, and the transmission can have shifting issues. Suspension bushing wear and electrical problems are also reported. Interior rattles can be annoying, and premature rusting may be a concern. The severity of these problems ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs, with estimated repair costs varying accordingly.