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2016 Volkswagen Golf/GTI: problems, recalls and fuel economy
The 2016 Golf/GTI has 237 owner complaints and 14 recalls on file with NHTSA, so check the VIN for open recalls before you buy[1][2]. NHTSA gives it top overall crash ratings[3].
Reported problems
NHTSA has 237 owner complaints on file for the 2016 Golf/GTI[1]. Five mention a crash, none a fire, and the complaints report 14 injuries in total[1]. No deaths are reported[1]. These are unverified owner reports, and one complaint can name several parts. The data covers the whole Golf family, so it mixes GTI, Golf, Golf R, SportWagen and e-Golf cars.
The biggest groups by complaint count:
| Component group | Complaints | Median miles at failure |
|---|---|---|
| Engine[5] | 55 | 44,500 |
| Fuel/propulsion system[6] | 52 | 23,045 |
| Unknown or other[7] | 43 | 30,000 |
| Air bags[8] | 33 | 41,000 |
| Electrical system[9] | 31 | 29,000 |
| Power train[10] | 21 | 42,000 |
| Structure[11] | 16 | 30,000 |
| Fuel system, gasoline[12] | 11 | 41,000 |
Two groups stand out for safety. The unknown or other group includes 11 of the injuries[7]. The air bag group includes 4 of the 5 crashes[8].
We also read a small sample of complaint texts in four groups. These are only samples, so treat them as examples of what owners describe, not as a ranking.
- Air bags[8]. In a sample of 12 texts, 7 describe a failed steering wheel clock spring. The air bag warning light comes on, and the horn, cruise control and steering wheel buttons stop working. One text describes water from a sunroof drain reaching the cabin.
- Fuel and propulsion[6]. In a sample of 12 texts, 5 describe fuel smell or a fuel leak. Five describe trouble tied to the fuel tank pump recall, such as parts not being available or problems after the repair. Two say real-world mpg was far below the posted rating.
- Engine[5]. In a sample of 12 texts, 2 describe a leaking water pump that was replaced. Two describe the car shutting off while driving. Two describe shaking or a misfire at low mileage.
- Electrical system[9]. In a sample of 12 texts, 4 describe an electric Golf stopping suddenly, most with an electrical system failure message. Two describe rear camera or infotainment glitches.
Recalls
NHTSA lists 14 recalls for this model year[2]. Some cover only one version, such as the Golf R or e-Golf, so check your VIN with NHTSA or a Volkswagen dealer. Newest first:
- Fuel tank suction pump (24V110). A seal problem in the tank pump can let fuel flow into the evaporative emissions (EVAP) system and leak out of the charcoal canister. A fuel leak near an ignition source raises the risk of fire. Dealers replace the pump for free. It expands and replaces earlier recall 16V647, and cars that had the earlier repair need the new one[13].
- Wiper software, Golf R (22V831). Wrong wiper software may stop the wipers from working, which cuts visibility. Dealers update the body control module software for free. It covers 5 vehicles[14].
- Passenger air bag inflator (22V543). The front passenger air bag may explode or deploy improperly. Metal fragments could injure occupants, or the bag may not protect them properly. Dealers replace the module for free[15].
- Shift lever switch (19V615). A build-up of silicate on the shift lever switch contacts may let the key come out when the lever is not in Park. The car could roll away. Dealers add a switch and circuit board for free. This recall lists automatic cars with a manual handbrake and keyless entry[16].
- Rear coil springs (19V188). A rear spring may break. A broken spring can damage a rear tire and cause loss of control. Dealers replace the rear axle coil springs for free[17].
- Shift lever switch (18V464). The same key removal problem as above, on an earlier recall. The fix is the same added switch and circuit board[18].
- Compliance after internal evaluation (18V329). Changes made during an internal evaluation period may mean some cars do not meet all regulations, which raises crash, fire or injury risk. Volkswagen repairs the cars or buys them back if needed. It covers 252 vehicles[19].
- Air bags and seat belt pretensioners (16V955). Some air bags may not deploy properly, which raises injury risk in a crash. Dealers replace the affected parts for free. It covers 5,947 vehicles and lists 2016 e-Golf cars[20].
- Fuel tank suction pump (16V647). The earlier version of the pump recall. Fuel could reach the EVAP system and leak, which raises fire risk. It has been fully replaced by 24V110[21].
- Rear child locks (16V464). Vibration may release the rear child locks so a child could open a door. Covers certain Golf R and e-Golf cars. Dealers inspect and replace the locks if needed[22].
- Fuel rail (16V403). The fuel rail may come off the cylinder head and leak fuel, which can cause a fire. The remedy is new cylinder heads, but the record says the manufacturer had not yet provided a notification schedule. It covers 55 vehicles[23]. Do not assume the repair is available, and ask a dealer[23].
- Certification label, Golf R (16V337). A label may list the wrong rear axle weight limit. Dealers install a corrected label. It covers 11 vehicles[24].
- e-Golf battery software (16V138). Overly sensitive battery diagnostics may falsely detect a surge and shut the electric motor off unexpectedly, which raises crash risk. Dealers update the software for free[25].
- Camshaft lobe (15V705). The lobe that drives the brake vacuum pump may shear off, which reduces brake assist and lengthens stopping distance. A dealer updates the engine control module software[26].
Fuel economy
EPA combined ratings differ by version. Annual fuel cost uses EPA's current fuel price assumptions, not prices from when the car was new.
| Version | Engine and gearbox | City / highway / combined MPG |
|---|---|---|
| Golf[27] | 1.8L turbo, Manual 5-spd | 25 / 36 / 29 |
| Golf[4] | 1.8L turbo, Automatic (S6) | 25 / 35 / 29 |
| GTI[28] | 2.0L turbo, Manual 6-spd | 25 / 34 / 28 |
| GTI[29] | 2.0L turbo, Automatic (AM-S6) | 25 / 33 / 28 |
| Golf SportWagen[30] | 1.8L turbo, Automatic (S6) | 25 / 34 / 29 |
| Golf SportWagen[31] | 1.8L turbo, Manual 5-spd | 25 / 35 / 28 |
| Golf R[32] | 2.0L turbo, Automatic (AM-S6) | 23 / 30 / 25 |
| Golf R[33] | 2.0L turbo, Manual 6-spd | 22 / 31 / 25 |
The GTI and Golf R are rated for different fuel. The GTI runs on regular with an estimated yearly cost of $2,400[29]. The Golf R uses premium, at an estimated $3,300 a year[32]. The Golf with the 1.8L engine is estimated at $2,300 a year[4].
The e-Golf is rated 116 MPGe combined with 83 miles of range[34].
Safety ratings
NHTSA gives the 2016 Golf an overall rating of 5 stars in all four body styles listed: 4 DR FWD[3], 2 DR FWD[35], 4 DR AWD[36] and SW FWD[37]. Frontal crash and rollover are each 4 stars, and side crash is 5 stars in all four[3][35][36][37]. Rollover risk is 13.4% for the 4 DR FWD[3], 4 DR AWD[36] and SW FWD[37], and 11.1% for the 2 DR FWD[35].
Engine and size
EPA lists the following horsepower ratings for test vehicles:
- Electric motor: 115 hp[38]
- 1.8L 4-cylinder: 170 hp[39]
- 2.0L 4-cylinder: 211 to 292 hp, depending on version[40]
Dimensions below are Canadian-market specifications and can differ slightly from US models.
| Variant | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2DR GTI hatch[41] | 167 in | 70 in | 57 in | 104 in | 3,038 lb |
| 2DR hatch 1.8 TSI[42] | 167 in | 70 in | 57 in | 104 in | 2,906 lb |
| 4DR GTI / R hatch[43] | 167 in | 71 in | 57 in | 104 in | 3,038 lb |
| 4DR hatch 1.8 TSI[44] | 167 in | 71 in | 57 in | 104 in | 2,906 lb |
| 4DR hatch TDI[45] | 167 in | 71 in | 57 in | 104 in | 3,025 lb |
| 4DR wagon / TDI wagon[46] | 180 in | 71 in | 58 in | 104 in | 3,186 lb |
How 2016 compares with other years
Show the numbers
| Model year | Complaints | Recalls |
|---|---|---|
| 1995 | 61 | 4 |
| 1996 | 12 | 1 |
| 1997 | 17 | 0 |
| 1998 | 28 | 1 |
| 1999 | 72 | 4 |
| 2000 | 133 | 5 |
| 2001 | 190 | 5 |
| 2002 | 198 | 3 |
| 2003 | 79 | 2 |
| 2004 | 35 | 2 |
| 2005 | 27 | 2 |
| 2006 | 55 | 2 |
| 2007 | 79 | 1 |
| 2008 | 68 | 1 |
| 2009 | 170 | 2 |
| 2010 | 122 | 5 |
| 2011 | 165 | 6 |
| 2012 | 89 | 6 |
| 2013 | 82 | 5 |
| 2014 | 22 | 5 |
| 2015 | 322 | 14 |
| 2016 | 237 | 14 |
| 2017 | 301 | 7 |
| 2018 | 76 | 10 |
| 2019 | 284 | 7 |
| 2020 | 14 | 3 |
| 2021 | 11 | 2 |
| 2022 | 119 | 6 |
| 2023 | 23 | 5 |
| 2024 | 41 | 2 |
| 2026 | 4 | 0 |
Looking at Golf/GTI model years in NHTSA data, 2016 has 237 complaints and 14 recalls[2]. Only three years have more complaints: 2015 with 322, 2017 with 301 and 2019 with 284[2]. For recalls, 2016 ties 2015 at 14, which is the highest count listed for any year[2]. The next highest is 10 recalls for 2018[2]. Some of these recalls also cover other years or other models, so the totals overlap.
Complaint counts are not adjusted for how many cars were sold. Compare years of the same model only, as we do here.
Should you buy a used 2016 Golf/GTI?
The record is mixed. The 2016 model year has a high recall count[2], but NHTSA crash ratings are 5 stars overall[3]. Before you buy, run the VIN for open recalls, and ask for proof that the fuel tank pump recall 24V110 was done[13]. Ask about the fuel rail recall too, since its repair had no schedule when last recorded[23]. Fuel economy depends on the version, such as the GTI at 28 MPG combined and the 1.8L Golf at 29[29][4].
Frequently asked questions
- What are the most common problems with the 2016 VW Golf GTI?
- The biggest complaint groups are engine with 55 complaints[5], fuel/propulsion system with 52[6] and unknown or other with 43[7]. In a small sample of air bag complaints we read, 7 of 12 describe a failed steering wheel clock spring[8].
- How many recalls does the 2016 Golf have?
- NHTSA lists 14 recalls for this model year[2]. They include the fuel tank suction pump (24V110)[13], the passenger air bag inflator (22V543)[15] and rear coil springs (19V188)[17]. The fuel rail recall 16V403 had no notification schedule when last recorded[23].
- What is the gas mileage of a 2016 GTI?
- EPA rates the GTI at 28 MPG combined with either the manual or the automatic[29][28]. Highway is 34 MPG for the manual and 33 for the automatic[28][29].
- Is the 2016 Golf safe?
- NHTSA rates it 5 stars overall, with 4 stars frontal, 5 stars side and 4 stars rollover[3]. Check recalls, since several involve air bags, springs and fuel leaks[15][17][13].
- Is 2016 a bad year for the Golf?
- By NHTSA counts, 2016 has the fourth highest complaints (237) and ties 2015 for most recalls (14) among Golf/GTI model years[2]. Counts are not adjusted for sales, so they are a rough guide.
Facts and sources
- NHTSA has 237 owner complaints on file for the 2016 Volkswagen Golf/GTI (5 mention a crash, 0 a fire, 14 injuries, 0 deaths reported). NHTSA vehicle records
- Owner complaints and recalls for every Volkswagen Golf/GTI model year (chart above). NHTSA recall database
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 4 DR FWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 4 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 13.4%. NHTSA vehicle records
- EPA rating for Golf, 1.8L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (S6), Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 25 city / 35 highway / 29 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,300. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- 55 complaints name the engine component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 44,500). NHTSA vehicle records
- 52 complaints name the fuel/propulsion system component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 23,045). NHTSA vehicle records
- 43 complaints name the unknown or other component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 11 injuries, median mileage at failure 30,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- 33 complaints name the air bags component group (4 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 41,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- 31 complaints name the electrical system component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 29,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- 21 complaints name the power train component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 42,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- 16 complaints name the structure component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 1 injuries, median mileage at failure 30,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- 11 complaints name the fuel system, gasoline component group (0 crashes, 0 fires, 0 injuries, median mileage at failure 41,000). NHTSA vehicle records
- Recall 24V110, filed February 14, 2024: Fuel System, Gasoline. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 22V831, filed November 9, 2022: Electrical System › Body Control Module › Software. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 22V543, filed July 27, 2022: Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 19V615, filed August 22, 2019: Electrical System › Ignition › Anti-Theft › Control Module. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 19V188, filed March 6, 2019: Suspension › Rear › Springs › Coil Springs. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 18V464, filed July 11, 2018: Electrical System › Ignition › Anti-Theft › Control Module. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 18V329, filed May 16, 2018: Unknown Or Other. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 16V955, filed December 29, 2016: Seat Belts › Pretensioner. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 16V647, filed September 7, 2016: Fuel System, Gasoline. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 16V464, filed June 24, 2016: Latches / Locks / Linkages. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 16V403, filed June 6, 2016: Fuel System, Gasoline › Fuel Injection System › Fuel Rail. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 16V337, filed May 23, 2016: Equipment › Other › Labels. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 16V138, filed March 7, 2016: Electrical System › Propulsion System › Traction Battery. NHTSA recall database
- Recall 15V705, filed October 26, 2015: Engine And Engine Cooling › Engine. NHTSA recall database
- EPA rating for Golf, 1.8L 4-cyl turbo, Manual 5-spd, Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 25 city / 36 highway / 29 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,300. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for GTI, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Manual 6-spd, Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 25 city / 34 highway / 28 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,400. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for GTI, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (AM-S6), Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 25 city / 33 highway / 28 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,400. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for Golf SportWagen, 1.8L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (S6), Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 25 city / 34 highway / 29 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,300. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for Golf SportWagen, 1.8L 4-cyl turbo, Manual 5-spd, Regular, Front-Wheel Drive: 25 city / 35 highway / 28 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $2,400. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for Golf R, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Automatic (AM-S6), Premium, All-Wheel Drive: 23 city / 30 highway / 25 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,300. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for Golf R, 2.0L 4-cyl turbo, Manual 6-spd, Premium, All-Wheel Drive: 22 city / 31 highway / 25 combined MPG; EPA estimated annual fuel cost $3,300. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- EPA rating for e-Golf, electric, Automatic (A1), Electricity: 116 MPGe combined, 83 miles of range. EPA / DOE fueleconomy.gov
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 2 DR FWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 4 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 11.1%. NHTSA vehicle records
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, 4 DR AWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 4 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 13.4%. NHTSA vehicle records
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings, SW FWD: overall 5 stars, frontal 4 stars, side 5 stars, rollover 4 stars; rollover risk 13.4%. NHTSA vehicle records
- EPA Test Car List, 2016 Volkswagen Golf/GTI with electric motor: rated 115 hp. www.epa.gov
- EPA Test Car List, 2016 Volkswagen Golf/GTI with 1.8L 4-cylinder: rated 170 hp. www.epa.gov
- EPA Test Car List, 2016 Volkswagen Golf/GTI with 2.0L 4-cylinder: rated 211 to 292 hp depending on version. www.epa.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, GOLF 2DR GTI HATCH: length 167 in, width 70 in, height 57 in, wheelbase 104 in, curb weight 3,038 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, GOLF 2DR HATCH 1.8 TSI: length 167 in, width 70 in, height 57 in, wheelbase 104 in, curb weight 2,906 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, GOLF 4DR GTI / R HATCH: length 167 in, width 71 in, height 57 in, wheelbase 104 in, curb weight 3,038 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, GOLF 4DR HATCH 1.8 TSI: length 167 in, width 71 in, height 57 in, wheelbase 104 in, curb weight 2,906 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, GOLF 4DR HATCH TDI: length 167 in, width 71 in, height 57 in, wheelbase 104 in, curb weight 3,025 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov
- Transport Canada specifications via NHTSA vPIC, GOLF 4DR WAGON/TDI WAGON: length 180 in, width 71 in, height 58 in, wheelbase 104 in, curb weight 3,186 lb (converted from centimeters and kilograms). vpic.nhtsa.dot.gov