1996 Volkswagen Golf GL review from North America
"Exceptional VW"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Ignition coil@ 250,000 km
wheel bearings front both@ 200,000 km
water pump@ 150,000.
Remainder is maintenance:
timing belts
batteries
mufflers.
General comments?
I am very happy with this car.
It has met and exceeded my expectations in terms of costs, repairs and what it has provided me. At 300,000 kms plus, what else can I ask this car to do?
I am waiting to pick up a 2004 GTI MKIV, but this 1996 MKIII won't die and there have been no problems other than listed. What to do...
I decided to change the suspension on the car from the beginning as recent Golfs of all types are a little on the soft side. It appears the ignition coil problems continue with VW as do poorly designed exhaust systems. The ignition coil problems are dangerous and the exhaust repairs can add up to huge amounts. VW still does not do electrical systems very well and their dealer service experiences still vary from exceptional to below acceptable.
Keep in mind all VW's are high maintenance cars, but if properly taken care of, they will rewards you with years of service and performance when called upon.
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 |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 303250 kilometres |
| Previous car | Audi Coupe |
| Date of Entry | 4th August, 2004 |