Recalls: Volkswagen Mk.3 Golf
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Volkswagen Mk.3 Golf
- In March 1994, a recall was issued for Volkswagen Mk.3 Golf vehicles due to a fuel hose which may leak and pose a fire hazard (March 1994).
- In February 1996, a recall was issued for 1994 and 1995 model year Volkswagen Mk.3 Golf vehicles. In these vehicles, the anti-slide clip may be in the wrong location – this could result in roof racks becoming detached (PRA 1996/2711).
- In May 1996, a recall was issued for 1994 and 1995 model year Volkswagen Golf VR6 vehicles. In these vehicles, the cooling fan components could fail and cause the engine to overheat (PRA 1996/2809).
- In March 1997, a recall was issued for 1994 Volkswagen Golf vehicles because the insulation of cables for the window lifter could become damaged – this could lead to short circuits that rendered the windows inoperable (PRA 1997/3099).
Problems and faults: Volkswagen Mk.3 Golf
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
Problems and faults: Volkswagen Mk.3 Golf
- Loss of power, stalling or uneven idling may be due to vibration of the mass airflow sensor.
- The vehicle may stall or not start due to a defective #3 relay.
- Cupping (or scalloping or chopping) on the rear tyres may be caused by too much positive rear toe – this can be fixed by replacing the rear-axle stub shafts.
- For VR6 variants, backfires due to faulty plugs may dislodge the idle control damper from the rear of the engine, causing a rough or uneven idle.
