Used Volkswagen Golf SV 2014-2020 reliability
Category: MPV
The Volkswagen Golf SV is a good MPV, but it’s hard to forget that a Golf Estate is more spacious and the T-Roc is more stylish
What should I look for in a used Volkswagen Golf SV hatchback?
The Golf SV will have been used in city centre car parks and tight urban rat runs so check the front and rear of the body for any signs of damage. Also check the alloy wheels for any kerb damage. Check the operation of the rear seats; make sure they slide backwards and forwards easily, and that they fold as they should.
What are the most common problems with a used Volkswagen Golf SV hatchback?
DSG automatic gearbox problems with the previous generation of Golf was known to cause some issues, and there are still some early cars of this generation for which problems have been reported.
Faults with the navigation and entertainment system, as well as other electrical niggles, have also been reported on some models, so it’s worth checking that all the electrics work as they should.
Examples fitted with automatic cruise control (ie cruise control that senses the distance from the car in front) can suffer from problems whereby the system gets confused and slams on the brakes. Often, there’s little that can be done to solve this, although the system can be recalibrated – but, beware, it's not a cheap job.
Gearbox issues
Volkswagen had largely sorted out the most expensive of its DSG automatic gearbox problems before this generation of Golf was launched, but there are still some early cars with which problems have been reported, so make sure the gearbox changes smoothly and there are no signs of temperamental behaviour.
Timing chains
Timing chains fitted to petrol engines have been known to snap prematurely; this can cause significant engine damage but can be mitigated by having the car serviced on time. This means a full service history is critical.
Sat-nav issues
Faults with the navigation and entertainment system, as well as other electrical niggles, have been reported on some models, so it’s worth checking that all the electrics work as they should.
High oil consumption
GTI models can suffer from high oil consumption, so it’s important to keep checking the oil level on these, even between services. If the level gets too low, it can cause damage to the engine or timing chain.
Adaptive cruise control
Examples fitted with adaptive cruise control (which can automatically match the speed of the car ahead of you in your chosen lane) can suffer from problems whereby the system gets confused and slams on the brakes. Often, there’s little that can be done to solve this. The system can be recalibrated, at a cost.
Is a used Volkswagen Golf SV hatchback reliable?
Our latest reliability data shows petrol Golfs in a better light than their diesel counterparts. Petrol models were given a reliability rating of 94.6%, while diesel variants received a rating of 89.4% – not terrible, nor amazing.
Volkswagen, as a brand, ranked 20th out of 30 manufacturers in the same survey.
