Is the Golf GTI reliable?
The seventh-generation Golf GTI is, broadly speaking, reliable hot hatchback. Indeed, it does have a number of known issues (see below), all of which are detcable and repairable.
Parts are readily availble thanks to the vast number of Volkswagen dealserships and independent specialists in the UK.
Engine: Loud noises from the turbo, a loss of power, smoke from the exhaust and an engine warning light are all signs of turbo failure.
The IS20 turbo fitted to early cars is prone to failure and can even explode, causing shrapnel to fly into the exhaust and intercooler. Ouch. If it fails, upgrade to the more reliable IS38 from the Golf R.
High oil consumption is a common issue with engines. It can be caused by a worn piston ring, a faulty valve seal or camshaft cover seal. Be sure to check the oil levels and watch out for any big drops on a test drive.
Coolant can seep out from the underside of the thermostat housing (you’ll smell it) but it can be hard to spot a leak as the coolant has a coagulant in it. Check the oil pan for any residue and the car’s history to see if the housing has been replaced. Coolant can also leak from the water pump if it fails, which can cost £500-£750 to replace.
Wheels: The alloys are easily scuffed and, being diamond-cut items, they’re expensive to get refurbished. Also watch out for ‘white worm’ corrosion, because once it bites, the wheel needs a full refurb.
Body: The front end is prone to stone chips so check it carefully. Sills are also susceptible to blistering and, in the worst case, can rust.
Sunroof: The poor-quality seal can leak, especially in very wet conditions or when pressure-washing the car. Inspect the headliner for signs of water ingress, even if the seal has been replaced before because any previous leaks could have caused further damage.
An owner’s view
Paul Wilson: “I’ve covered 20,000 miles over 18 months in my manual car, which has proven itself as both a go-kart and a long-distance cruiser. I bought it as an alternative to an estate as I have a dog and it has offered great accommodation with a compliant ride.
“But an early £1100 bill for a new air-con condenser and compressor was most unwelcome and, sadly, ownership has not been of the quality I expected – with high oil consumption and its body very prone to stone chips and blistering sills.”
Also worth knowing
A variety of special editions joined the Mk7 GTI ranks, starting with the 261bhp Clubsport 40.
If that isn’t hardcore enough, there’s the Clubsport S. With its rear seats removed, 306bhp, new suspension and a kerb weight of just 1360kg, it is arguably one of the finest GTIs ever – but only 150 RHD cars were built and it costs about £40k today.
The GTI TCR rounded off the Mk7.5. It looks the part but fails to hit the same heights as the Clubsport and can only be had with an auto gearbox.