2015 Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen problems

SUSPENSION

Rear spring broke just like VW Campaign Code: 42J2 / 42J3 / 42J5, but I am being told my VIN isn't covered.

NHTSA complaint #11745652 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2015 Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the camshaft module and variable valve timing (VVT) gears needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,900.

NHTSA complaint #11700267 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PTC auxiliary heater core connection point failure . It was reported that the wrong type of metal was used for the main electrical connection point for this part causing significant over heating further leading to melting and burning plastic. This then introduces potentially dangerous fumes into the vehicle cabin via the HVAC system. If unaddressed this would likely cause fire damage. The problem has been reproduced by multiple vehicle owners and happens during cold conditions as it supplies heat to the cabin prior to the engine hitting optimal operating temperatures. No warning messages or codes are thrown as a result of this issue. It is a hazard and could cause harm to operators of the vehicles affected.

NHTSA complaint #11699778 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

PTC auxiliary heater core failure causing near fire event. The failure causes the main power input to melt causing a burning plastic smell and smoke. The problem has been reproduced by multiple vehicle owners and happens during cold conditions as it supplies heat to the cabin prior to the engine hitting optimal operating temperatures. No warning messages or codes are thrown as a result of this issue. It is a hazard and could cause harm to operators of the vehicles affected.

NHTSA complaint #11692499 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

STEERING

While operating my 2015 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen, the ignition key becomes stuck in the steering column and does not release as designed. This appears related to known steering column defects and recalls (NHTSA Campaign 18V464000 / 19V615000). My dealer states my VIN is not covered, but this is a known issue for my model year. This creates a safety hazard as it may prevent the vehicle from being shut off or parked securely.

NHTSA complaint #11679903 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

AIR BAGS

Clock spring failure at 10 years 1400000 miles causing airbag light to come on. Airbag in steering wheel presumably doesn't work properly. The car has been looked at by a dealership who quickly confirmed clock spring failure, but falls outside of VW warranty replacement for this vehicle. There was no warning prior to failure of the clock spring.

NHTSA complaint #11673267 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

In the last year, my car has experienced multiple instances of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) warning light, check engine light, and a flashing glow plug light on the dashboard. Despite multiple visits and repairs at Sheehy Volkswagen of Springfield, these issues persist, particularly in sub-freezing temperatures. Upon independent inspection of the engine compartment, I found multiple exposed wires, broken wires, and poorly repaired broken wires. The most significant concerns are as follows: Repeated DPF Issues: Over the last three years, the DPF warning and related issues have recurred each winter. Initial attempts to rectify the issue included a DPF regeneration procedure, which temporarily cleared the fault codes but did not address the underlying problem. The DPF was finally replaced in mid-2024, yet the same problems manifested with a brand new component just months later. Extended Repair Time: Sheehy Volkswagen of Springfield had my vehicle for a total of six months (Dec-23 to May-24), during which they were unable to diagnose or fix the problem despite escalating the case to Volkswagen HQ (Business Case Numbers: BT1167682 and BT1177805). This delay is unacceptable. Poor Customer Service: Throughout this period, customer service was unsatisfactory. I was frequently passed between customer service representatives, none of whom were sufficiently informed about the ongoing repairs. Incorrect Diagnosis and Repairs: After replacing the DPF, ECM, temperature sensor, and wiring harnesses, the issue persisted. It was eventually suggested that a wiring problem might be to blame, yet no comprehensive solution was provided. Incompetence and Safety Concerns: Upon retrieving my vehicle, I noticed white smoke emanating from the engine compartment, which I discovered was due to the coolant reservoir being overfilled. Additionally, an independent inspection revealed exposed and poorly repaired wires, posing a serious safety hazard.

NHTSA complaint #11633263 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

In the last year, my car has experienced multiple instances of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) warning light, check engine light, and a flashing glow plug light on the dashboard. Despite multiple visits and repairs at Sheehy Volkswagen of Springfield, these issues persist, particularly in sub-freezing temperatures. Upon independent inspection of the engine compartment, I found multiple exposed wires, broken wires, and poorly repaired broken wires. The most significant concerns are as follows: Repeated DPF Issues: Over the last three years, the DPF warning and related issues have recurred each winter. Initial attempts to rectify the issue included a DPF regeneration procedure, which temporarily cleared the fault codes but did not address the underlying problem. The DPF was finally replaced in mid-2024, yet the same problems manifested with a brand new component just months later. Extended Repair Time: Sheehy Volkswagen of Springfield had my vehicle for a total of six months (Dec-23 to May-24), during which they were unable to diagnose or fix the problem despite escalating the case to Volkswagen HQ (Business Case Numbers: BT1167682 and BT1177805). This delay is unacceptable. Poor Customer Service: Throughout this period, customer service was unsatisfactory. I was frequently passed between customer service representatives, none of whom were sufficiently informed about the ongoing repairs. Incorrect Diagnosis and Repairs: After replacing the DPF, ECM, temperature sensor, and wiring harnesses, the issue persisted. It was eventually suggested that a wiring problem might be to blame, yet no comprehensive solution was provided. Incompetence and Safety Concerns: Upon retrieving my vehicle, I noticed white smoke emanating from the engine compartment, which I discovered was due to the coolant reservoir being overfilled. Additionally, an independent inspection revealed exposed and poorly repaired wires, posing a serious safety hazard.

NHTSA complaint #11633263 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Supplementary auxiliary electric heater ground connector melted and could have caused a fire. Original part #5Q0963235B. A recall (17V-62) for this part was active for various Audi and VW models but for whatever reason my car was not included. Car was brought to Valenti VW on 3/1/24 for inspection after burning smell was emitting from vents. Dealer was unable to locate the source of the problem. Discovered the defective heater myself during fall season when heat was necessary. Please see attached photos. I feel I am entitled to reimbursement for the costs associated with getting this dangerous situation repaired.

NHTSA complaint #11630163 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

AIR BAGS

The contact's partner owns a 2015 Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30 MPH, he observed that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact also heard an abnormal soft clicking sound in the cabin while turning the steering wheel to the left or to the right. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V483000 (Air Bags); however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA complaint #11627212 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

STEERING

The emissions modification calibration by Volkswagen causes the coolant to be exposed to elevated temperatures due to higher exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) use to control emissions. These elevated higher temperatures degrade the coolant faster than designed and lead to precipitates falling out of solution in the factory filled G13 coolant. This causes buildup and deposits to form throughout the cooling system, particularly in the heater core which can block proper coolant flow & lead to coolant system failure, specifically of hoses associated with the heater core. When these fail the engine can over heat, and stop which causes loss of steering, propulsion and braking abilities. There is a similar problem on 2012 models with the TDI engine, which has been addressed but the 2015 models are being stranded on the roads creating a safety hazard to the drivers of the vehicles and other motorists on the road.

NHTSA complaint #11616323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE

The emissions modification calibration by Volkswagen causes the coolant to be exposed to elevated temperatures due to higher exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) use to control emissions. These elevated higher temperatures degrade the coolant faster than designed and lead to precipitates falling out of solution in the factory filled G13 coolant. This causes buildup and deposits to form throughout the cooling system, particularly in the heater core which can block proper coolant flow & lead to coolant system failure, specifically of hoses associated with the heater core. When these fail the engine can over heat, and stop which causes loss of steering, propulsion and braking abilities. There is a similar problem on 2012 models with the TDI engine, which has been addressed but the 2015 models are being stranded on the roads creating a safety hazard to the drivers of the vehicles and other motorists on the road.

NHTSA complaint #11616323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SERVICE BRAKES

The emissions modification calibration by Volkswagen causes the coolant to be exposed to elevated temperatures due to higher exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) use to control emissions. These elevated higher temperatures degrade the coolant faster than designed and lead to precipitates falling out of solution in the factory filled G13 coolant. This causes buildup and deposits to form throughout the cooling system, particularly in the heater core which can block proper coolant flow & lead to coolant system failure, specifically of hoses associated with the heater core. When these fail the engine can over heat, and stop which causes loss of steering, propulsion and braking abilities. There is a similar problem on 2012 models with the TDI engine, which has been addressed but the 2015 models are being stranded on the roads creating a safety hazard to the drivers of the vehicles and other motorists on the road.

NHTSA complaint #11616323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

Both rear coil springs failed. One broke at the top and bottom and one broke at the bottom. The incident date is the date that it was found. I don’t know how long they have been this way.

NHTSA complaint #11581521 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TDI Auxiliary heater (PTC) brown ground wire melting and causing a terrible plastic burning smell inside cabin. Wire likely will cause a fire. Many reports of this happening to other individuals on the Internet forum TDIforum.com

NHTSA complaint #11561553 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

In 2019, VW issue a recall (37M2) Shift Lever Micro Switch for failing resulting in noncompliant Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention. The recall was issued for 2015-2019 Golf and 2017-2019 Golf Sportwagen, HOWEVER, in Canada, the recall included 2015-2019 Golf Sportwagen. I have a 2015 Golf Sportwagen (USA) with a failing Shift Lever Micro Switch. There is no different between the Canadian and US Model for this part. I believe that VAG should include 2015 models in the recall.

NHTSA complaint #11555465 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

I earlier made a report about my issue- but since then I discovered that BOTH rear springs were broken - multiple times- Repair was completed and I’ve attached photos of old parts Additional research shows that VW has an active recall campaign open on rear springs for the 2013 and 2014 Sportwagen and some 2015, but not the 2015 that I own….

NHTSA complaint #11543674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

POWER TRAIN

The contact owns a 2015 Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen. The contact stated that while her son was stopped at a gas station, he shifted the gear shift lever to park and the hazard warning lights illuminated; however, none of the four door latches would lock as needed. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the gear shifter assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to parts not being available. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

NHTSA complaint #11540573 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES

The contact owns a 2015 Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen. The contact stated that while her son was stopped at a gas station, he shifted the gear shift lever to park and the hazard warning lights illuminated; however, none of the four door latches would lock as needed. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the gear shifter assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to parts not being available. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

NHTSA complaint #11540573 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2015 Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle started to run rough. The contact shifted the vehicle into park(P) when she reached her destination and smelled an odor of gasoline. The contact observed that gasoline was leaking out of the fuel tank under the wheel well. The contact stated that the driveway was wet from the gasoline. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had attempted earlier in the day to fuel the vehicle and was unable to fill the fuel tank. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuel tank, fuel pump seal, fuel tank hardware, passenger’s side rear trailing arm bolts, heat shield nuts, purge valve, and evap canister needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The contact related the failure to a recall repair performed on the vehicle under NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V647000 (Fuel System, Gasoline, Engine and Engine Cooling). The failure mileage was approximately 68,000.

NHTSA complaint #11537410 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2015 Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle started to run rough. The contact shifted the vehicle into park(P) when she reached her destination and smelled an odor of gasoline. The contact observed that gasoline was leaking out of the fuel tank under the wheel well. The contact stated that the driveway was wet from the gasoline. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had attempted earlier in the day to fuel the vehicle and was unable to fill the fuel tank. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the fuel tank, fuel pump seal, fuel tank hardware, passenger’s side rear trailing arm bolts, heat shield nuts, purge valve, and evap canister needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The contact related the failure to a recall repair performed on the vehicle under NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V647000 (Fuel System, Gasoline, Engine and Engine Cooling). The failure mileage was approximately 68,000.

NHTSA complaint #11537410 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

SUSPENSION

Broken rear suspension coil spring 08/2023- found part laying on the ground under my car-

NHTSA complaint #11537285 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.