2017 Volkswagen Golf R
Only 15 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 15 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 15 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
6 of 15 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
Thermostat Sensor Failure causing check engine light P00B7. Vehicle not reading the correct engine temp causing cooling fans to run at 100% and drivability concern.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231226
WAS DRIVING DOWN THE FREEWAY WHEN THE CAR LOST COOLANT. DISCOVERED ROAD DEBRIS HAD PUNCTURED THE SECONDARY HEAT EXCHANGER LOCATED ON THE LOWER FRONT PASSENGER SIDE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20171213
2 of 15 total reports mention: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
WE PURCHASED THE (NEW) CAR ON JUNE 09, 2017. 5 DAYS AFTER WE PURCHASED, WE FOUND OUT THE TRANSMISSION HAD BEEN REPLACED AND THAT FACT WAS NOT DISCLOSED BY THE DEALERSHIP.
NHTSA ODI report, 20170713
2 of 15 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
Show complaint excerpts
The fuel suction pump in my 2017 volkswagen golf r failed causing strong gas odors to emit whenever the car is running, loss of power, inability to put more than a small amount of fuel in, and gas leaking into the evap and charcoal canister causing...
NHTSA ODI report, 20231218
2 of 15 total reports mention: electrical system.
1 of 15 total reports mentions: wheels.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
Fuel Leak due to Suction Jet Pump Failure within Fuel Tank (Remedy Effectiveness of Recall 16V647)
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2017 Volkswagen Golf R — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (2 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 2017 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 2017 Volkswagen Golf R?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 40% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2017 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.