1996 Volkswagen Golf GL review from North America
"Excellent daily driver.."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Coolant flange off the head disintegrated at 190k..cheap fix, $20 part.
Coil required replacement at 150k, $100.
Rad support rotted out; replaced at 200k, $100.
Headlights twice, both sides, $40.
Oil pressure sensors required replacement 170k (known issue... results in oil leaks) $20.
Throttle body gasket came unglued... caused rough idle, would not pass E-Test...replaced $300 (sent in for repair)
General comments?
Very reliable car that is extremely good on gas...700km per tank!!! Relatively easy to work on. Suspension holding up well... loves the cold!!! Starts within two turns of the engine even at -20C. Does not like wet weather... electrical gremlins...keep a can of dry and go handy. Clutch is fine... tranny acts up once in a while (stiff to go into 1st...likely linkage issue...meh)
I am very impressed with this car...12 yrs old and still humming along... what more can you ask for?
Recommended reviews
| It has held up and remains reliable |
|
| Great car for masochists and the car repair industry |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1996 |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2005 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8L Manual |
| Performance marks | 3 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 138000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 210000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Acura Integra |
| Date of Entry | 1st December, 2007 |