1996 Volkswagen GOLFVolkswagen Golf 1996

Complaint Information: Recalls, Investigations, Consumer Complaints, Service Bulletins, Recall Investigations, OBD II Codes

NHTSA Mandated Recalls
  • Recall 12341 [USA]: Unexpected opening of the hood could occur obstructing the driver's view of the road while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. The bolts securing the front hood latch can loosen over time. The latch would move causing disengagement of the hood striker from the latch.
    dealers will inspect the hood latch and securing bolts and replace them if necessary.
    owner notification began october 15, 1998.Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact vwoa at 1-800-822-8987.Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

  • Recall 1998158 [Canada]: Structure
    The bolts securing the front hood latch may lose their specified fastening torque over time. Should this happen, the latch could move out of its design position and cause disengagement of the hood striker from the latch. In some vehicles the latch may not have been properly aligned during production. Repeated opening and closing of the hood with an improperly aligned latch could result in damage to the latch. Either condition could result in hood fly up and obstruction of the driver's vision. Correction: hood latches and securing bolts will be inspected and replaced if necessary.

To ensure accuracy and for your safety, it is recommended to do a free VIN recall check here or here [USA] - UK - Canada.

Bulletins

Bulletins are notices put out by manufacturers in conjunction with the NHTSA to notify the public of manufacturing issues or changes.

  • TB001404 - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL: Squeaks, rattles, noise, repair materials
  • TB001403 - FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE: Fuel additive to help prevent sporadic misfire faults
  • TT641402 - VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT: To detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 v, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engine running and heated rear window switched on. Switch off the ign
  • 941403 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Exterior lights, moisture accumulation
  • 941402 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Exterior lights, moisture accumulation
  • 941401 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Exterior lights, moisture accumulation
  • Airbag - AIR BAGS: Airbag issues.
  • V941901201152115 - EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL: Updated to include additional models and model year applicability.
  • SM 33-2019 - EQUIPMENT: The part number listed in the document is to be returned if it meets the criteria provided.
  • V941901-2011521 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Condensation and or water droplets visible on inside of exterior light lenses. Tb updated to include model year 2019 applicability.
  • VHW-17-11 - EQUIPMENT: Vas 6154 replacement part setup guide
  • SM 44-2017 EN - EQUIPMENT: This special notice is to inform dealers to return all part numbers listed in the document and order the superseded part numbers going forward.
  • Elsa 6-29-15 - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : This document contains the vw elsa newsletter that contains a general overview of wiring diagrams updates, technical bulletins, pending service solutions, tech tips, campaigns, updates, and suggestions.
  • Elsa 6-22-15 - EQUIPMENT: This document contains the vw elsa newsletter that contains a general overview of wiring diagrams updates, elsapro infomedia icons grayed out, workshop equipment tool storage application, technical bulletins, pending service solutions, tech
  • 1-2017 Update - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : This communication is to update our profi dealers of the current status of the latest inbound and outbound profi requests.
  • TT 97-12-02 - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : Data link connector pin assignment chart that is applicable to all models. Update model year applicability.
  • V691601 2010479 - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : Update model year applicability to include 2017.
  • PDI - GOLF GTI T - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : Golf perfect delivery inspection (pdi) - technician and detailer inspections: a checklist to insure a customer receives a wonderful delivery of a vehicle that looks, feels, and meets the expectations of a new vehicle that he/she has purcha
  • PDI - GOLF GTI T - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : Golf perfect delivery inspection (pdi) - technician and detailer inspections: a checklist to insure a customer receives a wonderful delivery of a vehicle that looks, feels, and meets the expectations of a new vehicle that he/she has purch
  • V001404 2010380 - EQUIPMENT: Technical bulletin (squeaks, rattles, noise, repair materials): this doucment contains a list of components and applications developed to repair concerns of squeaks, rattles, noise and trim fit conditions.
  • V941402 2011521 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS: Technical bulletin (exterior lights, moisture accumulation): exterior light assemblies (headlights, taillights, fog lights, turn signals) are vented and may collect moisture on their inner surfaces, depending on humidity and other climatic
  • TT 64-14-02 - VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR: Tech tips (heated rear window, one or more lines inoperative): to detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 v, which will be present after the open in the grid line. The check must be performed with the engin
  • PDI - GOLF GTI T - EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL : Golf/gti perfect delivery inspection (pdi) - technician and detailer inspections:
  • TT 64-14-02 - VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW: Tech tips (heated rear window, one or more lines inoperative): to detect which line(s) is inoperative, utilize a volt meter to check for 0 v, which will be present after the open in the grid line. This document informs of how to diagnose t
  • V941501 2011521 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Technical bulletin: condensation and or water droplets becomming visible on inside of exterior light lenses issue is discussed in this document
  • V941403 2011521 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Technical bulletin (exterior lights, moisture accumulation): this document informs of the condensation and or water droplets visible on inside of exterior light lenses. The document also informs how to service the issue.
  • 2015831 - STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS: Volkswagen: exhaust heat shield, replacement guidelines. Heat shields are to be inspected after completion o any type of repair to the underbody (exhaust system transmission, etc.), and if damaged, replaced. *pe
  • 0302 - VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL: Installing new style switch for the throttle position sensor. *tt
  • 0101 - SEATS: Subject regarding latch system lower anchors and tethers for children, installing / retrofitting. *tt
  • 9805 - UNKNOWN OR OTHER: Information on maintenance intervals. *yc
  • 9701219701D - LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH: Conditions regarding exterior door locks cannot be locked or unlocked with key when ambient temperature is below freezing. *yc
  • 57 9702 - LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH: Procedure for obtaining door lock key code if a new key must be cut. *ak
  • 00 9706 - POWER TRAIN: Chart identifies which transmission control modules (tmc) are available for various states. *ak
  • 15 9701 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS: Toothed belt runs towards outside, wears out/ jumps off, and cracks. *ak
  • 9704169709F - POWER TRAIN: Subject on the automatic transmission control module can additionally recognize two diagnostic trouble codes (dtc) not currently shown in the repair manual. *yc
  • 9704109702F - POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL): Difficulties with shift lever and transmission is hard to shift into reverse gear. *yc
  • 34 9703 - POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL): Transmission pops out of gear/shifter feels like it has a double detent when shifting into gear, and will not maintain shift adjustment. *ak
  • 01 9706 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE: Engine intermittently will not start, possibledtc's stored in tcm dtc memory
Known Recall Investigations
  • Hood latch failure investigation as of 19980701

    Odi has received three reports, including the petitioners, regarding alleged hood latch failures.All of the odi reports indicate the hood flew up while driving.Following a telephone inquiry, volkswagen provided odi with some limited information regarding six additional reports of hood fly-up for model years 1995 and 1996.This investigation was opened to further study this issue.Defect description:"it is possible that on some of the affected vehicles the bolts securing the front hood latch may lose their specified fastening torque over time.Should this happen, the latch could move out of its design position and cause disengagement of the hood striker from the latch.In some vehicles the latch may not have been properly aligned during production.Repeated opening and closing of the hood with an improperly aligned latch could result in damage to the latch.Either condition could result in unexpected opening of the hood and could obstruct a portion of the drivers view of the road while driving, and result in an accident."remedy: "volkswagen of america, inc. Will initiate a voluntary safety recall instructing its authorized dealers to check the hood latch and securing bolts and replace them if necessary."

Most Recent Consumer Complaints and Accidents
CrashFireTowedInjuredDeathsFailure
Date
NoFireN NoneNone20100629

Tl*the contact owns a 1996 volkswagen golf. The contact was driving approximately between 65 and 70 mph in rainy weather conditions with the windshield wipers engaged when suddenly, the windshield wipers stopped working and smoke began emitting from the steering column. The contact pulled over to the side of the road. The engine was turned off. Within a few minutes, the smoke subsided and the contact was able to continue driving normally. The vehicle was repaired by replacing the ignition and the windshield wiper switch. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

NoNoN NoneNone20060719

Dt*: the contact stated that recall # 98v160000, which refers to the hood latch, applied to the vehicle. However, the service dealer refused to perform the recall. After speaking with the service manager, the contact called the manufacturer, who referred the contact back to the service dealer.

NoNoN NoneNone20040915

While driving 55 mph the vehicle's hood flew up without warning. As a result the windshield glass was shattered. Please provide additional information.

NoNoN 1 InjuredNone20020531

Consumer started vehicle and heard a loud popping sound. Then, saw smoke coming from under the hood. He shut off engine and opened hood. Battery had exploded. Battery was factory replacement part installed by dealer. *ak the battery had been replaced three times. Consumer was burned from the battery acid. *yh

NoNoN NoneNone20010528

Oil is leaking from connector sensor and this is getting down into engine. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20010421

After consumer turned vehicle off and then started it back on car alarm came on and stayed on.Consumer looked under hood to see what was going on. Then, consumer smelled smok, and realized that wiring system burned out nothing that was motorized was working. Contacted dealer and dealer was willing to fix problem at owners cost.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone20010331

Door lock cylinder- separated from inner assembly , #2. While in hyway traffic, radio failed, followed by ,in approximately 10 seconds, engine cutting off ( fuel/water guage functioned), coasted to roadside. Attempted to start engine, acted as if battery dead. After 1 hour wait, attempted to restart engine, starter turned slowly but did not start engine. However, standard alarm system sounded. I turned of alarm by inserting key in door (standard procedure). Tow truck gave boost at battery. Vehicle immediately started . The battery low power thing, occurred about two weeks prior, in vw dealer's customer pick up area, after dealer had replaced a headlight fuse/ aligned headlights/wheels. When alarm went off and starter did not turn over engine, service manager immediately arrived w/booster unit and started car. He said battery probably got low from technician holding down brake pedal for extended period of time? Duh? I did not think anything more about problem at the time(denial). Problem h. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20010318

With less than a year of purchase, the vehicle would leak inside on floor on passenger side. Twice taken to dealer for repair. Car was taken in due to engine check light not turning off, and was wrongly diagnosed and therefore wrong part was fixed. When complaint was made that the light continued to light up, the car was once again taken in and throttle body was to be changed. Vehicle now makes a loud noice which was diagnosed to be an engine block.

NoFireN NoneNone20010224

Drove into parking lot. Heard a noise & vehicle stopped. Smoke came from under hood, then flames shot out. Fire department arrived and put out flames. Gave indication of electrical problem, causing fire. Prior to problem ,had taken vehicle to dealership 11 times for engine check light coming on/ door locks, and windshield wipers. Dealership was not honoring extended warranty that was sold.*ak

NoNoN NoneNone20001018

2 sidewall failures out of 6 tires (dot number: mkhcfjwr19 tiresize: 195/60r14)

NoNoN NoneNone20001012

Driving at approx. 30mph, ball joint of front driver's side broke causing front wheel to fall off. Car came to a screetching halt!. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone20000229

The left door has a loud noise when opening and closing. It needs to be welded. Dealer said that volvo isn't responsible, even though it is a problem that has hapened with other volvos. Are there a number of complaints about this failure? Volvo is very much aware of the problem from other vehicles and the dealer won't do anything about this. Please help! *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19991108

The serpentine belt cracked. Yh

NoNoN NoneNone19991005

Consumer took car to dealer for recall repairs, and dealers did not have parts available. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19990104

The rear middle seat belt buckle completely fell apart. It was being used for an infant car seat carrier. When i went to unbuckle the belt, tthe entire buckle fell apart and completely came off the strap. It has already been fixed by dealership at no charge. I am interested in knowing if this is a common problem and how will it with stand an accident? I really do not feel safe using the seat belts without more information. The dealer stated he had never seen anything like it and that there was no damage to any other part of the belt. Pleas help

NoNoN NoneNone19981127

Driver's side door lock cylinder failed. Yh

NoNoN NoneNone19981116

Prior to recall hood latch failed (98v-160). Yh

NoNoN NoneNone19981006

Vehicle has experienced anti lock brakes failure during wet weather conditions on two occasions, one incident resulting in vehicle collision.

NoNoN NoneNone19980428

Electrical fuse failed.

NoNoN NoneNone19980421

Check engine light on constantly, failed oxygen sensor twice. Door lock literally fell out of door and left hole, was replaced. Stereo display faded over life of car (3.5yrs) until now unreadable. Cannot be fixed must be replaced. Car not under warranty anymore. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19980303

Extented warentee not accepted,had to pay parts and labor. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19980214

Oxygen sensors failed.

NoNoN NoneNone19970810

Door moldings falling off.

NoNoN NoneNone19970802

Tires worn prematurely due to alignment pulling.

NoNoN NoneNone19970322

Vehicle experiencing rough idle.

NoNoN NoneNone19970302

Cooling fan failure. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19970301

Check engine light came on while driving.

NoNoN NoneNone19970120

Coolant leaked due to water pump failure. Yh

NoNoN NoneNone19970111

Cigarett lighter adopter, after being pushed in, popped out and the element stayed inside, causing an overheating problem, saw smoke. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19961214

Sun roof makes noise since ownership.

CrashNoN NoneNone19961026

Driver rearended car in front and the driver's and passenger's side air bags didn't deploy . *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19961013

Fitting hose leaking causing power steering to perform poorly.

NoNoN NoneNone19961003

Vehicle stalls when stopping at light, experiencing rough idle as well. Yh

NoNoN NoneNone19960830

Oxygen sensor failed.

CrashNoN 1 InjuredNone19960728

Other: air bags deployed approximately 10 seconds after the impact, also seat belt locked up and can't be reapplied.

NoNoN NoneNone19960616

Transmission failed to engage into 5th gear and is making grinding noise.

NoNoN NoneNone19960402

Engine ecm failed.

CrashNoN 1 InjuredNone19960309

While traveling 30mph, vehicle overcame with smoke, impairing vision. Driver lost control, resulting in an accident. Air bags did deploy upon impact. *ak

NoNoN NoneNone19960228

Bad chip in ecm computer.

NoNoN NoneNone19960220

Windshield cracked. Yh

NoNoN NoneNone19951220

Door panel and handle replaced.

CrashNoN NoneNone19951213

During frontal collision drivers airbag did not deploy. Explain in more detail. Tt

NoNoN NoneNone19941224

Door lock has failed several times.

NoNoN NoneNone

The rubber door molding hs separated away from door for the third time in one and one half years.

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