Used Volkswagen e-Golf 2014-2020 reliability review

What should I look for in a used Volkswagen e-Golf?

All the usual caveats apply in terms of making sure the alloy wheels are in good shape, that there are no horrible scrapes along the bumpers and bodywork and that the interior doesn’t have nasty stains on the seats or carpet.

In addition to that, you’ll want to make sure that the car comes with all of its charging cables and that they’re in good condition. Replacing them can be expensive as these are not your average domestic plugs and have to safely carry large amounts of electricity to charge your car.

Recalls

There have been three recalls issued for the standard Golf of this period that could also affect the e-Golf. We recommend you check that any remedial work has been carried out before you purchase a used car.

It has been identified that due to a programming issue with the On-Board Supply Control Unit it is possible that the failure of one of the vehicle lights (dipped beam/main beam/daytime running light/rear fog light or indicator) may not be recognised by the control unit and therefore not shown in the instrument cluster. It is also possible that vehicle lights may be shown as faulty when they are not. Furthermore, a failure of a dipped beam may not trigger a replacement response (activation of sidelights). A light failure without a display in the instrument cluster or without replacement response can pose a danger of an accident, especially in the dark.

The door child locks may disengage without driver knowledge. Though the door remains close it is possible for the door to then be opened from the inside.

Front-wheel bearing housings with insufficient hardness may have been fitted. This can lead to a fracture of a wheel bearing housing which can affect the directional control of the vehicle.

Is a used Volkswagen e-Golf reliable?

In our latest What Car? Reliability Survey, the e-Golf managed an impressive third-place finish out of 14 cars in the electric car category. As a brand, Volkswagen came 22nd out of 32 manufacturers featured.

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