Catalytic converter - common fault???
The catalytic Converter had to be replaced.
The car is only 4 years old and this major work had to be carried out.
There must be a common fault with catalytic convs.
The Car is fine, but the cost to run the car is very high.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 28th March, 2007
An excellent all-rounder
Hardly anything to report, except the brake light switch failed at 47000 miles. A quick and easy repair by a VW specialist.
Solid build quality, both inside and out.
Great driver ergonomics and comfort.
A good sized boot, but this makes the rear seat space a little tight.
Fantastic fuel economy - regularly 50mpg+ at approx 80mph.
Looks good and still looks modern even though it's the previous model.
Good, knowledgeable and helpful dealer network.
Great residual value, probably because it is such a good car.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 20th March, 2007
Excellent solid all rounder with neat touches
Centre console rattled - fixed myself by discreetly wedging 2 small blocks of card between transmission tunnel and dashboard.
Clutch pedal slightly squeaky.
Clock very fiddly to set.
Mechanically and electrically (touch wood) very sound. Hope it stays that way.
Performance is adequate rather than outstanding, but still has plenty of poke to keep up with fast moving traffic. Handling is rather "safe" but certainly not "soggy" or "lifeless" like some other reviewers have described. The engine is generally very smooth and doesn't complain too much when pushed.
The interior is rather unassuming, but very neatly finished off with the usual German-quality plastics and there are lots of neat touches present like the damped glove-box lid, the individual reading lights for rear-seat passengers and the tactile operation of the switchgear. Plus of course there is that gorgeous red and purple dash lighting. The trip computer display is thoughtfully positioned in the instrument cluster rather than on the centre console which aids visibility. The boot has lots of useful features like bottle straps, luggage tie-down hooks and is a large useful size.
Dealer-wise the sales section has been very impressive. However I will reserve further judgement until the car requires a service or (hopefully not) fault repair.
Overall a sound package and would have no hesitation in recommending a Golf to someone.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 14th August, 2006
UPDATE FROM ORIGINAL AUTHOR.
This car is still continuing to drive really well. However a very annoying squeak developed from the rear seat catch. Fixed myself with a few sprays of WD40 and has been fine ever since.
Rattle from glove-box lid, but I can't call this a fault as due to the damping action, the lid requires a slightly firmer shove than normal to ensure both lugs engage into place (before only 1 lug was engaging)
Also this car lacked the in-dash cup holders (which I was aware of at the time I bought the car). When I went to my VW main dealer they quoted £100 for parts and labour! I tracked down a cup holder off eBay for £20 and fitted myself; very easy to do so.
The air-con is extremely powerful. You will freeze like hell on the coldest setting. Turning the temperature dial slightly higher makes for a more comfortable environment.
I'm still very happy with this car and always look for an excuse to drive it.
I to had a Golf Match same year, what a bag of nails sold it after 14 months it drove me up the wall with endless faults!!!
Bought an 03 Golf 1.6. My battery is always dying, not leaving lights or radio on, radio is wired up properly. Have been to 3 garages, none know how to fix it. Love the car but it won't start at least one day a week. Think it could be starter/throttle problem myself. Anyone had any issue like this?
Don't see it being that causing your battery to die, I'm going to get one tomorrow.
29th Mar 2007, 04:29
I am sorry, but this review is naff. A catalytic converter is a wear and tear item and can wear out quickly. Not heard of many other problems with these on Golf. Did you take you car to VW? Or get it done the cheaper route? VW may have paid something towards it. What about the rest of the car? - sounds like you didn't comment on the good bits!!! (ie- the rest of the car)