2012 Volkswagen Golf Match 1.6 TDi from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Pretty average

Faults:

EGR valve.

Injectors (twice, expensive!).

ABS.

Oil leak.

Rust at front wheel arches.

Plus the usual wear and tear (brakes, suspension, tyres, etc).

General Comments:

My 2012 Golf was a decent enough car. Comfortable, spacious, and economical when running correctly (genuine 55 - 60 mpg on diesel). Insurance and tax was also pretty low.

But when the car needed repairs it was always very expensive, negating any savings made elsewhere.

It was OK to drive, and quite a good looking car.

Scrapped last year when the engine management light came on and mechanic diagnosed yet another faulty injector. Cost more than the car was worth to repair! I've heard this is common on VW diesel 1.6 engines of this time. Maybe a petrol version would have been better.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 16th December, 2025

27th Dec 2025, 18:41

I had the same car and had the injectors fail also, and on a Skoda Octavia with the same engine. A bit of research reveals some early VW (also used in Seat/Skoda) 1.6 TDi injectors had Siemens injectors which were known to fail. And Continental as well, though both are regarded as decent brands.

I've heard later TDi units used Bosch (among others) injectors and fair a bit better, after circa 2015 model years.

Regardless of which you have, using quality fuel and oil helps also. If the car has had supermarket fuel and other cheaper fluids ran through it from new, the injectors aren't going to like it and fail early.

2012 Volkswagen Golf GT 2.0 TDi from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Economical and good to drive

Faults:

Exhaust, clutch, front suspension and wheel bearings, etc.

I keep the car serviced on time and belt changes up to date.

General Comments:

The Golf GT is a great solid hatchback car that does everything I need.

Being a 2012 car it is getting on a bit now, but still feels fresh. Ride is smooth and not overly firm, yet still has great handling. Seats (leather) are very comfortable. Full electrics.

2.0 TDi is fast and regularly does over 50 mpg, economical enough.

Service and repairs can be a little expensive though.

Great fun to drive, bodywork does not have a mark on it, love looking at and being in this car.

Overall just a classic solid hatchback car that is a common sight on the road for good reasons - easily one of the best in its class. They are a bit expensive to buy used, but worth it in my opinion.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th September, 2023