2021 Volkswagen Golf
Only 6 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 6 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 |
|---|---|
| 1985 | 10 |
| 1986 | 13 |
| 1987 | 4 |
| 1988 | 9 |
| 1989 | 17 |
| 1990 | 10 |
| 1991 | 8 |
| 1992 | 6 |
| 1993 | 7 |
| 1994 | 41 |
| 1995 | 43 |
| 1996 | 3 |
| 1997 | 7 |
| 1998 | 18 |
| 1999 | 64 |
| 2000 | 88 |
| 2001 | 116 |
| 2002 | 73 |
| 2003 | 26 |
| 2004 | 28 |
| 2005 | 19 |
| 2006 | 12 |
| 2007 | 2 |
| 2008 | 1 |
| 2009 | 3 |
| 2010 | 69 |
| 2011 | 110 |
| 2012 | 48 |
| 2013 | 43 |
| 2014 | 11 |
| 2015 | 129 |
| 2016 | 85 |
| 2017 | 115 |
| 2018 | 29 |
| 2019 | 62 |
| 2020 | 6 |
| 2021 | 6 |
| 2022 | 81 |
| 2023 | 11 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 6 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
3 of 6 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
red power steering system light turned on and flashed/beeped 3X. steering wheel locked up and I could not turn.
NHTSA ODI report, 20220723
2 of 6 total reports mention: service brakes.
Show complaint excerpts
I was almost rear ended because Hill hold assist did not disengage quickly. Iâve driven manual transmission for over 40 years and find this hill hold dangerous!
NHTSA ODI report, 20240203
1 of 6 total reports mentions: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
red power steering system light turned on and flashed/beeped 3X. steering wheel locked up and I could not turn.
NHTSA ODI report, 20220723
1 of 6 total reports mentions: power train.
1 of 6 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.
Show complaint excerpts
Headlight lens assembly of both headlights is cracking excessively. Upon review of online forums, this is happening frequently to many consumers. This impacts headlight output and looks to be manufacturing defect.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240718
SAFETY TIMELINE
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas Cross Sport, Tiguan LWB, Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas FL and Arteon vehicles.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.
Campaign 20V716000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Volkswagen Golf — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (3 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for steering issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 20V716000 (back over prevention) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2021 Volkswagen Golf 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 2021 Volkswagen Golf?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Volkswagen Golf have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.