2021 Volkswagen Golf

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf is the final year of the Golf available in the US market. All 2021 Golfs sold in the USA have the 1.4L Turbocharged Inline-4 TSI engine producing 147 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with either an 8-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission. Many people love the Golf for its practicality, sporty handling, and upscale interior. However, some dislike its relatively high price point and less adventurous styling compared to some competitors.

Engine

1.4L TSI

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, warning light.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and thermostat assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between lower gears, hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Software update or valve body replacement. In some cases, transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (software), $1500 - $3000+ (valve body), $4000 - $7000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, becomes unresponsive, or crashes frequently.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500 (software), $800 - $1500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Lane Assist)
  • Description/Symptoms: Erroneous warnings or failures of parking sensors or lane assist features.
  • Solution: Replace faulty sensors or recalibrate the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per sensor or recalibration.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noise from the front suspension when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failing, sunroof getting stuck, or leaking.
  • Solution: Replace sunroof motor, repair sunroof track, or replace sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling/Buzzing Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Various rattling or buzzing noises coming from the dashboard, door panels, or rear hatch area.
  • Solution: Tighten loose trim pieces, add sound dampening material, or replace damaged clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on the severity and source.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf, while generally a reliable vehicle, does have some common issues. The most concerning are potential turbocharger failures and 8-speed transmission problems, which can be expensive to repair. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and sensor malfunctions are also relatively common. The severity of issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially costly repairs, so prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems.