What's Wrong with the 4th Generation (1999–2005) Golf?

Golf owners have made 53 complaints about the 1999–2005 model years. Using our PainRank™ system we've ranked it 27th out of 46 VW generations in overall reliability, with some engine and transmission concerns.

Compare With Other Golf Generations

Common 1999-2005 Volkswagen Golf Problems

Some of the worst issues 4th generation Golf owners have to deal with.

  1. Ignition Coil Failure

    Ignition coils produce a high-voltage current that fires the spark plugs. But VW coils often fail causing the engine to suddenly lose power. This can lead to shaking or hesitation and leave the driver in a vulnerable position.

    Continue reading article "Ignition Coil Failure" An ignition coil diagram over a blurred out image of a car

  2. VW Windows Fall into Door

    The clamps that hold the windows in place for many VW's are made of a very cheap plastic. Sometimes when moisture gets in the door and then freezes, it expands and pushes the windows off the clamps, causing the windows to literally fall int…

    Continue reading article "VW Windows Fall into Door" VW door disassembled to show window regulator

What Owners Complain About

Sometimes it helps just to tally up the complaints and see where the biggest stacks are. Use this information to learn about troublespots or to run for the hills.

Worst Issues

What Breaks the Most

Years to Avoid

4th Generation (1999–2005) Golf Key Numbers

  1. 7 model years

    Grouping all models by their year can reveal some baddies.

  2. 53 complaints

    Running tally of owner grievances filed to CarComplaints.com.

  3. 27th in reliability

    Overall reliability rank out of 46 eligible generations.