2019 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack is a popular wagon known for its practicality, all-wheel-drive capability, and fun-to-drive nature. It comes standard with a 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 168 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed DSG automatic transmission. People appreciate the Alltrack for its cargo space, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. Common dislikes include a relatively small back seat and some concerns about long-term reliability.

Engine

1.8L TSI (EA888 Gen 3B)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include the low oil level warning light illuminating and the need to add oil every 1,000-3,000 miles.
  • Solution: The most common solution is replacing the piston rings, which are prone to failure on this generation of the EA888 engine. In more severe cases, the entire engine short block may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks are a common symptom, along with overheating. The water pump housing is prone to cracking.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and thermostat assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed DSG Automatic (DQ250)

• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, hesitation, and a “clunking” noise during gear changes are common symptoms. In some cases, the transmission may enter limp mode.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the mechatronic unit (valve body). In some cases, a software update may resolve the issue, but this is not always a permanent fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping during acceleration, particularly in higher gears, is a common symptom. Jerky shifts and a loss of power can also occur.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch packs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Spring Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, and the ride quality is compromised. In some cases, the rear coil springs can break completely.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, crash, or fail to respond to inputs. Bluetooth connectivity issues are also common.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, the entire infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1,500+ (Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door locks may fail to lock or unlock properly, or they may make a loud clicking noise.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may leak, make excessive noise when opening or closing, or fail to open or close completely.
  • Solution: Lubricate the sunroof tracks and seals. In more severe cases, the entire sunroof assembly may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report rattling noises coming from various areas of the interior, including the dashboard, door panels, and rear cargo area.
  • Solution: Locate and isolate the source of the rattling noise and tighten or replace any loose components. This often requires removing interior trim panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ (depending on complexity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack, while generally a reliable and enjoyable vehicle, does have some common issues. Engine problems, particularly excessive oil consumption, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues with the DSG automatic can also be expensive. Electrical and suspension issues are less common but can still be a nuisance. Overall, the severity of the issues ranges from minor annoyances to major mechanical failures, and the cost to fix can vary significantly depending on the specific problem.