Problem Reports
Problem with your car? See what our experts say or submit your own.
1997 Volkswagen Golf Problems
High Mileage Automatic Transmissions May Have Shifting Problems
Shifting issues due to internal problems in high mileage automatic transmissions can be difficult to resolve without transmission replacement.
Reverse Gear Failures and/or Noise From Manual Transmission
Reverse gear failures and noise in the manual transmission models are common.
Engine Overheating Due to Damaged Water Pump Impeller
The engine may develop an overheating condition due to a damaged water pump impeller. Our technicians tell us the repair should include replacement of the water pump, thermostat, and flushing the cooling system.
Power Window May Fail Due to Window Regulator
One or more power windows may fail. Our technicians tell us this is commonly due to a failed window regulator which will require replacement.
Difficult to Diagnose Electrical Issues Are Typically Due to Ground Issues
Electrical issues that are difficult to diagnose—and sometimes intermittent—are typically due to ground wiring issues. The most troublesome ground locations are under the battery or at the engine.
Coolant Leak From Oil Filter Housing O-ring
A coolant leak may develop after oil filter replacement. When tightening or loosening the oil filter the filter housing may turn damaging the coolant o-ring seal. The recommended procedure is to hold the filter housing when tightening or loosening the oil filter.
Coolant and Oil Leaks
An engine coolant leak may develop, most commonly from the water pump. The valve cover gasket is also prone to leaking engine oil.
Wrong Anti-Freeze/Coolant May Cause Heater Core Leaks
Heater core leaks are common in this model, more so if the wrong anti-freeze/coolant is used in the cooling system.
Check Engine Light Due to Oxygen and/or Coolant Temperature Sensor Fault
The Check Engine Light may illuminate as a result of a oxygen sensor and coolant temperature sensor fail. Replacement if the failed part will be necessary to correct this issue.
Shifting/Drivability Issues Due to Throttle Body Failure
Throttle body failure is not uncommon and can lead to shifting issues with the automatic transmission and other drivability concerns.
Hard starting due to coolant temp or oxygen sensor faults
Poor drivability symptoms—including hard starting—can be caused by coolant temperature sensor and oxygen sensor faults.
Engine Misfire Due to Failed Ignition Coil, Spark Plug, or Ignition Wire
An ignition coil or spark plug may fail unexpectedly resulting in an engine misfire and possible illumination of the Check Engine Light. Vehicles equipped with spark plug wires may also develop a misfire caused by a failed spark plug wire.
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