2013 Volkswagen Golf R
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2012 | 1 |
| 2013 | 4 |
| 2015 | 1 |
| 2016 | 12 |
| 2017 | 15 |
| 2018 | 9 |
| 2019 | 6 |
| 2020 | 0 |
| 2022 | 10 |
| 2023 | 6 |
| 2024 | 11 |
| 2025 | 0 |
| 2026 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 4 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
3 of 4 total reports mention: air bags.
Show complaint excerpts
Clock spring failure with airbag error light on, and steering controls & horn not functioning. Car previously had clock spring fixed under recall in Aug 2016 (car mileage 55,619), and now had the exact same issue occur in Nov 2021 at 79,596 mi.
NHTSA ODI report, 20211212
7 times now, I have heard a âpopâ while turning the steering wheel & the airbag light has come on. The horn will not work after this happens. Each time, it has occurred at low speed, whilst making a turn or merely backing out of my driveway.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210927
1 of 4 total reports mentions: suspension.
Show complaint excerpts
REAR SUSPENSION COIL SPRING FRACTURED RESULTING IN A SHARP LOOSE PIECE OF STEEL. THIS HAPPENED WHEN I WAS DRIVING THE CAR, AND THE CAR STARTED TO MAKE AN UNEXPECTED METALLIC NOISE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210118
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2013 Volkswagen Golf R — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2013 Volkswagen Golf R reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2013 Volkswagen Golf R?
The most-reported component is air bags, accounting for 75% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2013 Volkswagen Golf R have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.