2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Volkswagen › Golf Alltrack › 2017
These records cover every 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
1 recall names the 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. Newest first.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Volkswagen Golf R and Atlas, 2017 Golf Alltrack and E-Golf and 2016-2018 Passat vehicles. These internal use vehicles were sold without confirmation that they were built to all applicable regulatory requirements and may have been modified prior to sale. As such, these vehicles may…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Vehicles that do not meet all regulatory requirements may have an increased risk of a crash or injury to vehicle occupants.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners and will repurchase the vehicles. The recall began October 6, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01E9.
Owner complaints
73 complaints3 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Structure › Body
2017 VW Golf Alltrack SEL, purchased XXX CPO. DEFECT: The panoramic sunroof frame's wind-deflector storage channel is separate from the primary, drained water channel and has no drain of its own. During rain, with the vehicle parked nose-up (uphill), water bypasses the inner glass-to-frame…
2017 VW Golf Alltrack SEL, purchased XXX CPO. DEFECT: The panoramic sunroof frame's wind-deflector storage channel is separate from the primary, drained water channel and has no drain of its own. During rain, with the vehicle parked nose-up (uphill), water bypasses the inner glass-to-frame perimeter seal and collects in this undrained channel, then overflows into the headliner cavity, wetting the headliner, front pillar trim, and interior. HISTORY: XXX, VW of Kirkland (Invoice XXX, 40,044 mi) replaced the headliner, both front pillar trim panels, exterior perimeter gasket, and all drain lines for water leakage - the only failure points VW had documented for this platform at the time. The leak recurred under the same incline condition and has worsened as the perimeter gasket aged. This is a mechanically distinct failure path (inner-channel overflow) from what was repaired (outer seal/drains). Current mileage 64,904; vehicle is now usually garaged, which has reduced but not eliminated the issue. DEALER CONFIRMATION: XXX VW of [XXX] (Svc Mgr [XXX]) confirmed recurrence and quoted a repair requiring full removal of the sunroof frame and interior. XXX, Svc Advisor [XXX] reviewed Audi TSB (NHTSA ID XXX/ Mfr Transaction [XXX], released XXX), "Panoramic sliding sunroof leaking," which documents an essentially identical failure mode - an undrained wind-deflector channel overflowing into the headliner - on Audi Q3/Q8/e-tron models, and confirmed no existing or pending remedy exists for the Golf Alltrack. SAFETY: Water intrusion sits near headliner wiring, cabin lighting circuits, and the sunroof motor. A related 2017 Audi Q5 recall addressed sunroof leaks that saturated airbag components. A detailed PDF (full timeline, technical comparison to the TSB, and reference photos) is attached to this complaint. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Electrical system
Car battery spontaneously exploded when trying to start the car.
- Electrical system · Unknown or other
Infotainment system is restarting itself repeatedly every 30 seconds to every few minutes.This has been going on for about 2 weeks. The component has not yet been inspected by a 3rd party.
- Power train · Steering
I am facing an issue with my car where it tends to roll back even when it's in park, regardless of whether the engine is on or off. The only time it remains stationary is when I apply the brakes and engage the emergency brake. This situation poses a safety concern for me and my family, and I would like to find a solution to ensure our vehicle stays securely in place when parked.
- Electrical system · Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
I've been experiencing a recurring issue with my vehicle where the EPC light frequently activates. When this happens, the car significantly reduces its speed, making it difficult to drive safely. I've noticed this situation over the past six to eight months, and it typically requires me to pull…
I've been experiencing a recurring issue with my vehicle where the EPC light frequently activates. When this happens, the car significantly reduces its speed, making it difficult to drive safely. I've noticed this situation over the past six to eight months, and it typically requires me to pull over. After turning off the vehicle multiple times, I'm usually able to reset it and drive normally again. I'm seeking advice on how to address this problem effectively.
- Power train
The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. The contact stated that while parking the vehicle and shifting to the park, the contact turned off the vehicle and the vehicle rolled backward. The driver depressed the brake pedal and activated the parking brake to stop the vehicle from rolling.…
The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. The contact stated that while parking the vehicle and shifting to the park, the contact turned off the vehicle and the vehicle rolled backward. The driver depressed the brake pedal and activated the parking brake to stop the vehicle from rolling. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 170,000.
- Steering
The Clock Spring Assembly on my vehicle failed. In May 2023 Volkswagen of America issued an extended warranty coverage notice for the part. After doing some research and determining the part failure, I called my local VW dealer to report the problem. They told me they would be happy to…
The Clock Spring Assembly on my vehicle failed. In May 2023 Volkswagen of America issued an extended warranty coverage notice for the part. After doing some research and determining the part failure, I called my local VW dealer to report the problem. They told me they would be happy to schedule an appointment to look at my vehicle but they could not schedule my vehicle for service for at least a month. Considering this issue to be an extreme safely issue and realizing I did not want to drive around in my vehicle for over a month without air bag protection, I had my vehicle repaired at an independent service facility. I have had several communications with VW of America (attached) and they refuse to reimburse me for this repair.
- Engine
Turbo Wastegate actuator rod/flap failure/seizure. VW dealership & Independent service center both diagnosed the issue as a seized wastegate actuator flap/rod. This is due to poor design and is a common issue on all 2015-2020 VW/Audi 1.8l TSI engines. This issue causes intermittent engine codes for…
Turbo Wastegate actuator rod/flap failure/seizure. VW dealership & Independent service center both diagnosed the issue as a seized wastegate actuator flap/rod. This is due to poor design and is a common issue on all 2015-2020 VW/Audi 1.8l TSI engines. This issue causes intermittent engine codes for "low boost" related codes. P00AF00 and similar codes without warning. A key cycle usually temporarily fixes the problem until under boost again. This prevents safe operation of the vehicle while on highways and freeways. Engine shaking & prevention of acceleration and shifting happens after the engine code occur and the car is put into a limp mode. It is unsafe to maneuver the vehicle to the side of the road during these events.
- Unknown or other
Sunroof spontaneously shattered while driving down the highway. No collision or impact. Sounded like a gunshot. Had to immediately pull over, remove all of the glass in order to drive it at all.
- Unknown or other
Continual unidentified leak in the roof area. I've seen many reports of this same issue for the 2017 Golf Alltrack, specifically on incline.
- Unknown or other
My car has 16500 miles and the panaromic roof drains are not working properly and water leaked into the back of car. I did not know there was water in the car until I looked into the spare tire compartment which had quite a bit of water in it. then I saw that the headliner was stained in the…
My car has 16500 miles and the panaromic roof drains are not working properly and water leaked into the back of car. I did not know there was water in the car until I looked into the spare tire compartment which had quite a bit of water in it. then I saw that the headliner was stained in the rear of the car. this IS a hazzard because there are wires in the well for the stereo system and could have caused electrical problems for the vehicle. this needs to be addressed. it IS not under warranty. it IS going in for repair end of june (earliest appointment that IS available).
- Visibility › Rearview mirrors/devices › Exterior
The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. The contact stated that while adjusting the passenger's side rear-view mirror, the mirror glass suddenly detached from the housing, fell on the ground and shattered. The local dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 92,000.
- Engine
Turbo wastegate actuator arm seized casing turbo failure. Wastegate stuck in the semi-open position.
- Air bags · Electrical system · Vehicle speed control
This is the second time since November 2022 that our clock spring has failed. While it's broken the driver has no airbag, horn, or usability of controls on steering wheel. This is a huge saftey concern especially driving in winter conditions.
- Suspension
Car developed a knocking sound from the front-left which occurred during any movement of the suspension, i.e. from all minor perturbations of the road surface rather than major dynamic actions such as breaking or steering. The dealer diagnosed worn out sway bar bushings. They replaced these (and…
Car developed a knocking sound from the front-left which occurred during any movement of the suspension, i.e. from all minor perturbations of the road surface rather than major dynamic actions such as breaking or steering. The dealer diagnosed worn out sway bar bushings. They replaced these (and potentially other suspension components - work details from the invoice can be provided upon request) but discovered during their work that the entire front subframe had failed with a major crack. Details can be seen in the attached photos (taken by the VW dealership - Ourisman of Bethesda, MD). I authorized the replacement of the front subframe with OEM components, at a cost in excess of $2000. I have owned the car from new (first registered in January 2018) and it has ~43,000 miles. The car has never been involved in an accident and has been used as family transport on standard road surfaces / driving conditions.
- Engine
Design flaw on thermostat housing leaks causing coolant loss. Common issue that is expensive to repair and should be recalled.
- Electrical system
Passenger window (front) and locks not working. Suddenly stopped working on my low mileage car. The wire harness had to be replaced. Similar recall for the VW Atlas that would also effect the airbag because of corroded wire contacts. Brought to VW dealer and they determined (after 2 weeks) the wire harness had to be replaced. Not functioning doors and locks and possible airbags are a huge safety issue.
- Air bags › Frontal › Driver clockspring/spiral cassette
Airbags, horn, cruise control and all other functions related to the steering wheel suddenly stopped working. Volkswagen has diagnosed the clock spring is defective and needs to be replaced. I’ve been quoted $712.00 for this repair. The replacement part is also on backorders with no clear…
Airbags, horn, cruise control and all other functions related to the steering wheel suddenly stopped working. Volkswagen has diagnosed the clock spring is defective and needs to be replaced. I’ve been quoted $712.00 for this repair. The replacement part is also on backorders with no clear indication of when it will arrive. Volkswagen will not supply a loaner car or any rental assistance and insists their customers drive a car without function airbags or a horn. This is a well known issue for Volkswagen and is a major safety concern for anyone who owns one of their vehicles. It needs to be addressed and fixed ASAP!
- Air bags · Back over prevention › Warnings · Electrical system
Bought the car from autonation in October 2021 and had condensation wet dog smell. Car was garaged until 4/2022 at which time I noticed headliner stains and water coming into wheel well, called dealer was advised to check drain tubes. I cannot. More rain more issues. Care warning lights all came on…
Bought the car from autonation in October 2021 and had condensation wet dog smell. Car was garaged until 4/2022 at which time I noticed headliner stains and water coming into wheel well, called dealer was advised to check drain tubes. I cannot. More rain more issues. Care warning lights all came on including airbag. Car has 38150 miles. VW refusing to cover under recall. Wants me to file insurance claim. Dealer did not acknowledge mold headliner issues until I called back after picking up the car. PANORAMIC SUNROOF LEAKS. HEADLINER I AND CARPET IS BADLY STAINED WITH VISIBLE MOLD GROWTH. PILLAR STAINING AS WELL. WATER LEAKS FROM DOME LIGHT AND SUNROOF CONTROL BUTTONS. WATER ALSO LEAKS INTO FOOT WELL. TAKEN TO TWO DIFFERENT DEALERSHIP WHO HAVE SAID THAT IT IS LIKELY THE SUNROOF DRAINS ARE BLOCKED BY DEBRIS AND REPAIR WOULD NOT BE COVERED BY WARRANTY. THERE IS NO WAY FOR THE CONSUMER TO ACCESS THE SUNROOF DRAINS TO KEEP THEM CLEAR, PARTICULARLY THE REAR DRAINS, WHICH ENTAILS DISMANTLING PART OF THE CAR. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH MANY REPORTED COMPLAINTS BY OWNERS WITH A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN BEING ISSUED. PLEASE ENCOURAGE AN INVESTIGATION
- Unknown or other
Whenever you put the car in park and take your foot off the brake the car will roll a little.
- Unknown or other
Gear Shift trim piece chrome plating splits and lifts up. This part caused a laceration on my finger from the fingernail to 1st knuckle. Related Reference :: Service action 347J - Gear Shift Cover Trim:: This applies only to GTI and needs to apply to Golf in general
- Engine
Leaking water pump at less than 80,000 miles causing engine to overheat and become damaged.
- Unknown or other
The aluminum trim piece around gear shift has come up from the plastic underneath. It is the front of the trim next to where there is a charging outlet and small item storage. When removing my phone one day, I caught my finger on the raised (delaminated) section of the aluminum and sliced my…
The aluminum trim piece around gear shift has come up from the plastic underneath. It is the front of the trim next to where there is a charging outlet and small item storage. When removing my phone one day, I caught my finger on the raised (delaminated) section of the aluminum and sliced my finger open. I did not need stitches, but did use butterfly closures while it healed. I removed the part that was sticking up so now the sharp edge is closer to the exposed plastic and not as much of a hazard. A quick online search shows this is a fairly common problem with many people reporting a cut finger/hand.
- Visibility › Sun/moon roof assembly
The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. The contact stated that the sunroof was leaking and allowing water to enter the cabin of the vehicle. The vehicle was not taken to a local dealer. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and informed the contact that they were unable to assist. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
- Structure › Body
Chrome trim around the DSG shifter has peeling chrome which is razor sharp. It has cut my hand deeply and is a safety hazard to me and my family.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11010024Lack of paint under roof
- 11010022Engine Oil Standards
- 11010021Additional reporting
- 11010011Vehicle Concerns Before Recall Repair Available
- 11008861Fluid requirements
- 11008860Manual transmission noise diagnosing
- 11008858A list of engine oil that meet Volkswagen Engine Oil Standards
- 11008857How to perform the engine oil consumption measurement
- 11008856Checking Engine Oil and correctly reading dip stick
- 11008853How to manage software versions using VW diagnostic Tool
- 11008852Recommended Gasoline Quality
- 11008851Engine Misfire Diagnostic Aid
- 11008850Fuel additive to help with misfire faults
- 11008846Wind & Water Leak Checking
- 11007398Battery testing
- 11007393Engine Oil Standards
- 11005820Engine Assembly Tip
- 11005819Engine Replacement Tip
- 10253481Carefree Maintenance and VW Care Maintenance Plans Interim AdBlue Refills -? Diesel Engines Model Year 2015 and Newer
- 10253477Volkswagen Carefree Maintenance Program ? Diesel Engines Model Year 2015 and Newer
- 10253474This communication contains important information and SAGA claim entry requirements for the Volkswagen Carefree Maintenance Program for all Model Year 2015 and newer VW models with Gasoline Engines.
- 10253262VW Engine oil quality standards
- 10253192Infotainment Worksheet (U.S. Only)
- 10252087In some sunroof-equipped vehicles, the front sunroof drains can become blocked with moist debris. If this happens, water could leak into the passenger compartment. Expiration date announcement
- 10250798VW Engine oil quality standards
- 10250763In some sunroof-equipped vehicles, the front sunroof drains can become blocked with moist debris. If this happens, water could leak into the passenger compartment. Updated expiration date.
- 10250762In some sunroof-equipped vehicles, the front sunroof drains can become blocked with moist debris. If this happens, water could leak into the passenger compartment. Updated expiration date.
- 10249418VW Engine oil quality standards
- 10249414A/C Compressor leak diagnosis
- 10249138Airbag / Pyrotechnic Safety Belt Deployment Inquiries, update to contact information due to retirement.
- 10249136Addressing Cybersecurity or Vehicle Hack concerns
- 10245617Reporting procedure for A/C compressor replacement regardless of the reason for failure. Update to model year applicability and new warranty GFF labor operation number
- 10245607VW Engine oil quality standards
- 10244545VW Engine oil quality standards
- 10243301This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension revision. Revised to include info on how to proceed with vehicles not applicable to the 60E2/60E5.
- 10243298This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension FAQ for commonly asked questions. Revised to include info on how to proceed with vehicles not applicable to the 60E2/60E5.
- 10241197This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension FAQ for commonly asked questions
- 10241196This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension
- 10241188Reopening this service action for unrepaired vehicles in order to support a class action settlement.
- 10241177Update to Volkswagen engine oil standards
Every Volkswagen Golf Alltrack model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.