2008 Volkswagen Jetta / Rabbit / GTI Volkswagen Jetta / Rabbit / GTI 2008

We are 103,000+ car owners sharing real-world car information.

Join Us

2008 Volkswagen Jetta / Rabbit / GTI repairs by problem area

Engine (35%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (11%)

Brakes and Traction Control (3%)

Suspension and Steering (10%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (25%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (11%)

Other (6%)

Chart based on 462 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the 2008 Volkswagen Jetta / Rabbit / GTI.

2008 Volkswagen Jetta / Rabbit / GTI repair cost distribution

$2500+ (1%)

$1000 - $2499 (9%)

$500 - $999 (12%)

$100 - $499 (26%)

< $100 (52%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 270 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2008 Volkswagen Rabbit 4dr Hatch

twincharged 140hp 1.4L I4 6-speed automated manual FWD

Volkswagen Rabbit in Israel
Oct 2008 - Mar 2010
Oct 2009

16120 mi
The man at the shop found that there is kind of "bump" at beginning of drive. Software was updated with reflash, solved partly. Computer of transmission replaced. Car is OK. 
Mar 2010

18600 mi

$110
While driving on a highway, I felt that the engine is not having its actual power, like a fuel blockage. Car was scanned by computer, and that's what showed the turbo-sensor probem. Replaced sensor. 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen Rabbit 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 105hp 1.9L I4 Diesel 5-speed manual FWD

Volkswagen Rabbit in Germany
Sep 2009 - Jun 2022
Jan 2017

75640 mi

€400
Bearings replaced 
Apr 2018

79980 mi

€100
Replacement [brakes] 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen Rabbit 4dr Hatch

170-horsepower 2.5L I5 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Volkswagen Rabbit in Illinois, United States
Dec 2009 - Aug 2010
Dec 2009

37076 mi
Replaced Evaporator Purge Valve under warranty 
Mar 2010

39675 mi
Replace LDP Pump under warranty Replace Rubber Door Seal under warranty 
Aug 2010

44627 mi
Rear Door would not open (Handle did not engage latch/lock). Reattached latch rod that disconnected inside door Reattach loose rear door handle cable/rod under warranty. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in New Jersey, United States
Aug 2010 - Mar 2012
Oct 2011

48300 mi

US $300
malfunctioning wheel bearing passenger side rear wheel 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Texas, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2018
Mar 2012

46000 mi
Rear doors do not unlock with remote consistently. Dealer could not duplicate. Edit: Battery was low. Replaced battery and have had no further problems. 
Jun 2012

49000 mi
Replaced AC compressor under warranty. 
Jul 2015

83300 mi
Replaced radiator fan. Replaced air conditioning refrigerant. 
Jan 2016

79700 mi

US $200
Replaced headliner. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Ontario, Canada
Aug 2009 - Apr 2016
Feb 2015

144460 mi

C $35
CEL on, code read Evap valve leak 
May 2015

148820 mi

C $250
Radiator fans died, the bigger one was working over time and was extremely loud. Changed both fans 
Oct 2015

156240 mi

C $300
Exhaust was coming in through cabin vent. Discovered cracked flex pipe. Mechanic replaced the flex pipe and there is no sign of exhaust fume in cabin anymore. 
Mar 2016

164300 mi

C $1200
Main pulley rubber part was worn and the rest had slight vibration. Changed entire pulley system 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Maryland, United States
Aug 2009 - Dec 2013
Dec 2009

39000 mi
windshield wiper washers didn't work 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Pennsylvania, United States
Apr 2011 - Mar 2012
Sep 2011

39000 mi
oil consumption test. determined that oil consumption was within spec. car needs 2 quarts every 1200 miles. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in California, United States
May 2011 - Aug 2011
Jun 2011

138000 mi

US $670
pcv valve, and timing belt now in shop again,transmission 
Jul 2011

140000 mi

US $2055
replaced tranmission with a used one; rebuilding transmission would have been between $3500.00 and $5200.00 
Volkswagen Rabbit in California, United States
Aug 2014 - Apr 2015
Apr 2015

97000 mi
Various electrical quirks displayed, including an occasional failure to open the trunk lid and difficulty starting. New battery fixed these issues. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Delaware, United States
Sep 2015 - Jan 2022
Dec 2017

138000 mi

US $500
Replaced drive shaft with a failing CV joint, . Shaft was seized on, so it required additional time to complete the service.  Ball joint was replaced as well. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Maryland, United States
Jan 2014 - Mar 2015
May 2014

42100 mi

US $3000
dryer unit disintegrated and spread throughout the system. Pump was replaced twice only to fail after a couple of weeks. A specialist recognized the "black sludge/ residue" in the coolant lines. Required complete clean and new pump 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Maryland, United States
Jul 2012 - Nov 2017
Mar 2015

75000 mi

US $250
Purge valve went bad - replaced. Spark plugs replaced. 
Apr 2016

86700 mi

US $750
- Left CV boot leaking - 4 new tires - alignment 
Aug 2016

90000 mi

US $14
Check Engine light: P0455 Engine felt jerky. Took 2 attempts to start car after fill up. Replaced the purge valve, problem went away. 
Oct 2016

92500 mi

US $50
Threw codes: P0691, P0322, P0106. Replaced crankshaft position sensor (P0322) and all codes went away. Car drives well. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Georgia, United States
Aug 2011 - Feb 2012
Aug 2011

53800 mi

US $1800
Both cooling fans replaced. Transmission valve body harness replaced. 
Sep 2011

56000 mi
Valve body harness broken, $800 (VW America picked up the tab) 
Jan 2012 Transmission valve body and valve body harness broken and replaced. $2000 (VW America covered with extended warranty on valve body. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Alberta, Canada
Nov 2011 - Jan 2012
Jan 2012

48980 mi
Only unrepaired item...small stress crack in windshield. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Ontario, Canada
Jul 2008 - Jul 2019
Dec 2010

23560 mi
engine light on, reset no fault found 
Mar 2011

24800 mi
Engine does not heat up after 20 minutes when ambient temperature is colder than -15C. TOld by dealer that this is a design fault in the 2.5 L engine. 
Dec 2013

55180 mi

C $1000
Height mechanism on drivers seat failed. Seat frame replacement is the only fix. 
Mar 2016

74400 mi

C $850
Thermostat failed Rust over both front wheel wells 
May 2016

76260 mi

C $54
rust over wheel wells, bottom driver door 
Apr 2017

83080 mi

C $400
failed abs sensor on rear wheel 
Jun 2017

84320 mi

C $1300
rear wheel bearings and abs sensors 
Jul 2017

84320 mi

C $900
radiator replaced 
Volkswagen Rabbit in British Columbia, Canada
Apr 2010 - Jun 2011
May 2010

42780 mi
Left rear wheel bearing repaired under warranty Left rear wheel bearing repaired under warranty 
Volkswagen Rabbit in British Columbia, Canada
Mar 2008 - Apr 2015
May 2008

620 mi
Louvers on dash hvac vent non operable. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Florida, United States
May 2008 - Mar 2011
Jul 2010

12000 mi
Foul smell when turning on air conditioner. It was fixed under warranty. No charge for fixing it. 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen Rabbit 4dr Hatch

170-horsepower 2.5L I5 5-speed manual FWD

Volkswagen Rabbit in Ontario, Canada
Dec 2008 - Jun 2011
Jan 2009

8060 mi
There was water leaking into the cabin. They replaced the back windows seal. It should be fixed. 
Feb 2010

19840 mi
The driver side power lock switch was faulty. It only worked half the time. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Ontario, Canada
Jan 2008 - Jun 2018
Feb 2008

186 mi
HVAC system non-functional on day three of ownership. Repaired under warranty 
Feb 2009

8060 mi
Door well ice buildup cause door frame to bend. VW has a TSB out on this problem. Fixed in two days under warranty. http://www.golfmkv.com/forums/attachment.php?s=ccb7f2b371065cff170b26fcc609f451&attachmentid=13110&d=1184246514 
Dec 2009

22940 mi
Valve on fuel pressure purge system needed to be replaced after CEL and gas cap light came on. 
Feb 2010

24180 mi
CEL on. Dealership said it had to do with the fuel tank pressure purge valve. Had been replaced after a similar CEL a month ago. Dealership suspects drastic weather changes (which are occurring) can affect function of the valve, tripping the sensor. 
Jul 2011

37820 mi
Door lock stopped working, so car alarm would not arm. Dealer replaced door lock mechanism. Problem solved. Owner thought alarm was the problem, not the lock. 
Mar 2012

44640 mi
Differential broke apart into the transmission and clutch. Dealer replaced entire transmission, differential and clutch under the powertrain warranty. No warning, unclear why this failed so catastrophically. Dealer was surprised. 
Oct 2013

61160 mi
Dealer noticed a hole in the catalytic converter assembly. Replaced entire assembly, including the converter under the emission system warranty. 
Oct 2014

70360 mi

C $919
Heard creaking and low popping noise during low speed steering. Dealer reported front strut mounts were seizing. Front struts and wheel bearings replaced, re-aligned. T-stabilzer links re-used. 
Jun 2015

75020 mi

C $450
Heard a whine / squealing from the engine. Dealership replaced alternator pulley and belt. Problem fully corrected. 
Feb 2017

78120 mi

C $200
Sway bar was loose. Repair was made. 
Sep 2017

80600 mi

C $125
Sway bar was becoming loose. Replaced. 
Dec 2017

83700 mi

C $1000
Wiring to hatch reverse lights had worn out, rear backup lights no longer working. Wiring was re-done. Rear wiper arm had cracked, wiper blade no longer moved. Wiper motor fine, arm replaced. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Wisconsin, United States
Sep 2011 - Mar 2016
Oct 2012

26300 mi
Replaced audio component head unit/cd changer due to malfunction. Malfunction occurred when attempting to load CD in to 6 disc changer. Replacement covered by VW CPO warranty. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in California, United States
Sep 2008 - Sep 2012
May 2009

14000 mi
Sirius receiver was not recognizing the radio network. Could not activate radio with the provider. Dealer found receiver to be faulty. Ordered a new receiver to be installed later. Installed new sirius receiver. Problem solved 
Oct 2011

54000 mi
CD player would show an error code and not play CD's. Google showed that it required a complete replacement or battery unplug and reset. Did battery reset and works fine. CD player would show an error code and not play CD's. Google showed that it required a complete replacement or battery unplug and reset. Did battery reset and works fine. 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen Rabbit 2dr Hatch

170-horsepower 2.5L I5 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

Volkswagen Rabbit in California, United States
Mar 2010 - Jun 2011
Apr 2010

15000 mi
Tightened B pillar trim (rattle), replaced drivers side door seal (wind noise). Replaced wheel (peeling clear coat), replaced side skirt (bowed). Tightened B pillar trim (rattle), replaced drivers side door seal (wind noise). All fixed under warranty. Replaced wheel (pealing clear coat), replaced side skirt (bowed). Both under warranty. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Florida, United States
Dec 2010 - Sep 2014
Jun 2014

96000 mi

US $700
AC compressor replaced 
Volkswagen Rabbit in California, United States
Apr 2014 - May 2014
May 2014

58000 mi
Not the first time I've had this problem, the valve body was bad and I had it replaced once but they installed the wrong part and had to reinstall it again. Turns out the re-installed the wrong part again and now it was replaced again. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in California, United States
Jul 2013 - Sep 2016
Jun 2014

66000 mi
Vacuum pump replacement Replace defective part 
Dec 2014

68000 mi

US $105
Defective Transmission Valve Body which was covered under extended warranty. Vacuum pump is leaking oil, gasket need replacement. Recirculation flap motor needs replacement. 
Feb 2015

68000 mi
Replaced the gasket around the vacuum pump that should have been done when the vacuum pump was replaced. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Maryland, United States
Jul 2015 - Jun 2018
Jul 2017

70900 mi

US $400
CV Boot Joint wore down and had to be replaced. 
Feb 2018

82000 mi

US $350
Shock absorber repair 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Alberta, Canada
Mar 2009 - Mar 2011
Apr 2009

22940 mi
Engine Speed Sensor Replaced 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen Rabbit 2dr Hatch

170-horsepower 2.5L I5 5-speed manual FWD

Volkswagen Rabbit in Texas, United States
Dec 2012 - Jul 2014
Feb 2014

109600 mi

US $350
Battery replaced 
Jul 2014

111000 mi

US $400
Airbag warning light came on and horn was not working. Replaced the clock spring on the steering wheel 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Texas, United States
Nov 2008 - Jan 2012
Apr 2009

12000 mi
Front strut mounts replaced to correct low speed steering noise 
Volkswagen Rabbit in New York, United States
May 2012 - Jun 2013
Sep 2012

33000 mi

US $400
Frozen caliper, caliper replaced 
Volkswagen Rabbit in California, United States
Mar 2009 - Apr 2019
Apr 2018

117000 mi

US $2000
Tie rods & control arms were worn out (still original). Those were replaced, and I elected to upgrade my shock absorbers and springs to lower my car while they were already doing suspension work. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Massachusetts, United States
Dec 2008 - Mar 2017
Jul 2009

18000 mi
Vibration felt in front end. Steering wheel vibrates at highway speed. Could be a tire issue although shop was unable to replicate it. 
Jan 2011

67700 mi
The fuel filler cap area was cleaned. Debris caused a fuel filler cap light to come on, followed by a MIL light. After cleaning the light went out. No further issues. 
Sep 2015

92000 mi

US $300
Passenger door would not lock (alarm would not arm). Door latch parts replaced. 
Mar 2017

119000 mi

US $4100
Damage to block, oil pan cracked away from block. I was driving on the highway and I tried to avoid a cloud of debris (as were other vehicles). I could hear some of the debris pinging on the car. At that moment the engine quit. very stran 
Volkswagen Rabbit in California, United States
Jan 2018 - Mar 2018
Mar 2018

70000 mi

US $350
Headliner falls down, replaced by third party upholstery shop. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in New Mexico, United States
Sep 2011 - Jan 2016
Nov 2012

68300 mi

US $20
CEL indicated a small evaporative leak. I reset the CEL and it came back on a week later. After checking VW forums for the issue, I replaced the purge valve. This appears to have resolved the issue. 
Sep 2015

104000 mi

US $550
Door lock module failing. Symptom is the 'lights on' warning chime has stopped sounding when opening the door with lights on and keys out. VW online forums suggest it is a common issue with the door module. A/C takes extended time to start cooling and does not cool very much. Search of online VW forums indicate it is likely the A/C compressor solenoid needing replacement. Replaced all 4 struts/shocks, mounts, bearings, bump stops and stretch bolts. (note that original mounts were in good condition and could have been reused. Bearings and bump stops would need replacement.) 
Oct 2015

104700 mi

US $310
Had 3rd party shop replace a/c compressor solenoid. 
Jan 2016

108000 mi
Door lock module never fixed. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Quebec, Canada
Oct 2012 - Oct 2021
Mar 2013

76260 mi

C $900
The rear window broke into pieces for no apparent reason as we were putting the bike rack on the trunk. 
Jun 2014

84940 mi

C $40
The exhaust pipe disconnected in the middle of the car. 
May 2015

92380 mi

C $760
Replaced both links due to clacking noise in the front (ends loose). AC has a leak, recharged with colorant in fluid in order to find the hole later. The flex pipe broke off (disconnected) from the exhaust pipe behind the engine. A new flex pipe was welded to the exhaust system. 
Aug 2016

107880 mi

C $730
One of the rear caliper was seizing and my disk disintegrated prematurely. Had to change one caliper and both rear brakes. Parking brake broke loose when yanking on it a few months back. My wiper transmission broke. One of the rubber donut in the articulation wore off and the arm disconnected itself. 
Sep 2016

110360 mi

C $1000
Tires starting to wear uneverly, suspension needed to be changed 
Jun 2017

117800 mi

C $560
Replaced 2 tension pulleys from the belt system + both belts. They were making noise. The mechanic had a hard time removing one of them. It got stuck to the open position after removing the belt. Coil #1 replaced ABS sensor replaced on passenger rear wheel. But sensor touching Wheel bearing... so bearing will need to be replaced soon. 
Aug 2017

122140 mi

C $200
The ABS sensor was not working because of a rear wheel bearing being rusty and slightly deformed. So the bearing was changed (rear right), and the sensor was changed. The check engine light has been on since 3 months, code : misfire on cylinder #1. The coil has already been replaced, so we try to change the spark plugs to see if it removes the check engine light. It did not. 
Nov 2017

125240 mi

C $240
The starter broke, but the mechanic now understood all the previous problems since the summer. Mechanic repaired starter temporarily. The head gasket has a leak : that's why I was having a misfire code on coil #1, and smoke out the back on startups, and having to top off coolant regularly. Put leak stopper fluid in the coolant tank in hopes that it will clog the head gasket leak... so far it holds well! 
Dec 2017

127720 mi

C $60
The rear exhaust pipe disconnected from the rest. Got welded back on. 
Feb 2018

131440 mi

C $125
Driver side tie rod end needed to be changed. 
Jan 2021

156860 mi
ABS sensor had to be replaced Front Brake caliper replaced 
Sep 2021

164300 mi

C $20
Exhaust center pipe disconnected from the muffler. Glued it back together with mesh and JB Weld Epoxy. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Minnesota, United States
Aug 2015 - Dec 2016
Dec 2016

97000 mi
Hatch latch will sometimes not lock or unlock. Repair shop claims the lock actuator was starting to fail. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Minnesota, United States
Oct 2010 - Mar 2011
Dec 2010

57000 mi

US $25
Interior door handle broke off, breaking window switches. 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Texas, United States
Aug 2015 - Jun 2016
Dec 2015

108000 mi

US $600
Radiator Leak. Needed to be replaced. 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen R32 2dr Hatch

250-horsepower 3.2L V6 6-speed automated manual AWD

Volkswagen R32 in Rhode Island, United States
Jan 2010 - Nov 2011
Jul 2011

36000 mi
Warning light indicating left headlight failure. Driver's side HID bulb after only 3 yrs. Dealer agreed to handle replacement of this VERY expensive bulb under factory warranty. Here's hoping 2nd bulb fails under warranty as well. 
Volkswagen R32 in Colorado, United States
Feb 2008 - Apr 2010
Jul 2008

3000 mi
Had front grill replaced with holeless/plateless grill as per VW TSB. 
Volkswagen R32 in Florida, United States
Sep 2010 - Dec 2014
Oct 2010

34000 mi
Master seal (between transmission and motor) found to be leaking. 
Jan 2011

47000 mi
Low coolant light appeared when I picked up the car. No leak. 
Jan 2012

37700 mi

US $215
Water pump failed at end of 10 hour drive. Serpentine belt failed as result. Engine over-heated, but temperature gauge showed normal. Engine froze, inoperable. Car towed to dealership. VW warranty covered long-block engine replacement. 
Jun 2012

47000 mi

US $380
Owner requested Haldex service Rough shifting, dealer reset computer Car has tall block from January engine failure with cylinder coils from failed engine. Engine stumbles at idle. Mechanic "reseated" the cylinder coils, said that fixed it, but it did not. 
Aug 2012

47800 mi

US $192
Engine stumbled at idle. Previous repair unsuccessful. Assigned different mechanic. Scope showed misfire #2 cylinder. Swapping #2 coil with #3 coil moved misfire to #3 cylinder. Coil replaced, not in warranty, though "powertrain" is. Headliner separation, drooping over rear 60% of interior. VW "courtesy" replacement. (Vehicle resides in Florida). 
Volkswagen R32 in Maryland, United States
Jan 2010 - Mar 2011
Jul 2010

37000 mi
Check engine light came on 
Dec 2010

42000 mi
Inserted foam in each door to prevent ice damage. Replaced seals in both doors 
Volkswagen R32 in Michigan, United States
Nov 2011 - Jan 2013
Apr 2012

69000 mi

US $98
DSG malfunction. After cold start, car fails to engage 2nd gear. Dealer could not reproduce problem due to warm weather and no code was thrown. Problem has happened around 10 times. 
Volkswagen R32 in Washington, United States
Jul 2012 - Jul 2018
Aug 2014

71000 mi

US $377
Wheel bearing began making noise 
Jan 2017

94000 mi
Replaced catalytic converter due to CEL. 
Volkswagen R32 in Maine, United States
Oct 2013 - Dec 2015
Aug 2014

24100 mi

US $400
strut mount 
Sep 2015

31000 mi

US $450
A/C Controller leak 
Volkswagen R32 in California, United States
Jun 2015 - Jun 2018
Dec 2016

65000 mi

US $635
Replaced tensioner pulley which had frozen and the main engine belt that broke. Also replaced two other pulleys on engine. Repair shop stated the bearing in these pulleys on German cars wear out. 
Volkswagen R32 in Illinois, United States
Feb 2008 - Nov 2010
Sep 2008

4000 mi
Buzzing passenger door speaker. TSB exists, but dealer has never heard of it! 
Nov 2008

5500 mi
Dealer added TSB foam to door panel which made buzzing worse. 2nd attempt added 'more' insulation, and seems to have worked. Dealer removed passenger seat to re-attach pulled seat backing. 
Dec 2008

7000 mi
Buzz in passenger door panel fixed. 
Volkswagen R32 in Delaware, United States
Jun 2015 - Sep 2018
Jun 2018

108000 mi

US $800
Replace CV boot Worn serpertine belt replaced. Coolant leak. Hole was found in reservoir. 
Volkswagen R32 in Virginia, United States
Sep 2007 - Feb 2011
Nov 2010

37900 mi

US $1000
Lumbar support motor was inop. Dealer replaced harness under warranty. Starter assembly in steering column was faulty, "clicking" on first start-up. Caused door locks to act strangely, not functioning correctly when increasing and decreasing speed past 10 mph. Dealer replaced assembly, problem solved. 
Volkswagen R32 in California, United States
Feb 2013 - Dec 2014
Mar 2013

50000 mi

US $436
AC stopped working. Defective valve found, replaced and system recharged. 
Apr 2014

54500 mi

US $100
Lost a HID low beam. Replaced it and had the car serviced. 
Volkswagen R32 in Virginia, United States
Dec 2011 - May 2013
Feb 2012

24000 mi
a/c pressure sensor leaking refrigerant. replaced switch, recharged system. 
Jun 2012

30000 mi
rear axle seals weeping. Replaced seals. small rattle in steering coloumn 
Jul 2012

31000 mi
I found and fixed a loose bolt on the steering coloumn U-joint that was causing the joint to rattle back and forth after the dealer was unable to. 
Volkswagen R32 in Wisconsin, United States
Apr 2012 - Aug 2017
Aug 2014

57600 mi

US $430
Idler pulley was replaced and belt. Pulley was making a sound. 
Volkswagen R32 in Texas, United States
Nov 2009 - Feb 2016
Dec 2010

29000 mi
Popping noise from right strut bearing. Dealer replaced both strut bearings. Problem fixed. 
Aug 2012

40800 mi
Replaced springs and struts to correct 1/2 inch difference in height between right and left front wheels. 
Mar 2014

55000 mi

US $410
Right front strut bearing replaced 
Volkswagen R32 in Maryland, United States
Dec 2011 - Oct 2019
Feb 2012

32100 mi
Replace noisy serpentine belt tensioner 
Dec 2012

39000 mi
Fuel smell in vehicle, installed fuel tank ventilation valve assembly kit per recall 209P 
May 2015

62100 mi

US $310
A/C sensor failed, causing system to leak. Sensor replaced, system recharged. 
Oct 2016

70200 mi

US $40
One of two horns replaced 
Jul 2017

72500 mi

US $110
Replace headlight bulb 
Volkswagen R32 in Kansas, United States
Dec 2011 - Sep 2016
Nov 2012

35300 mi
Driver side rear differential output shaft seal leaking. Replaced seal. Covered under powertrain warranty. 
Jan 2013

36200 mi
Driver side door sensor failed. This caused the car to think the door was always closed. Bearings in tensioner pulley were failing. Replaced pulley. 
Volkswagen R32 in California, United States
Nov 2010 - Jul 2013
Jul 2011

32700 mi
moisture in taillight 
Volkswagen R32 in Texas, United States
Jun 2008 - Mar 2010
Oct 2008

18000 mi
Replace strut bearings 
Volkswagen R32 in Michigan, United States
Mar 2008 - Jun 2012
Aug 2008

5000 mi
Occasionally the radio loses all presets and can't access the Sirius tuner. At the time VWoA had advised that a software update would be available in the future. The car was in service for 1 day, but the issue was not resolved due to the software update.  
Apr 2012

48000 mi
Performed VW service bulletin to replace the Mechatronic unit, replaced fluid per proceedure, also replaced internal fluid filter. 
Volkswagen R32 in Ohio, United States
Mar 2009 - Jun 2022
Feb 2011

24500 mi

US $80
TSB 57 08 15 12/10/2008 Cowl water that is flowing into driver door area, and on freezing, could deform driver door on opening. Install parts and gasket material to inside fender well area and door to divert this water flow. 
Jul 2011

28000 mi
Driver door latch malfunction--replaced under warranty 
Sep 2011

29000 mi
Mechatronic unit of the DSG tranny diagnosed for slow downshift into first gear on a rolling stop. Setting within the unit found at 82/spec of 87, and reset to 88. 
Dec 2011

35000 mi
The tensioner pulley seized and broke the serpentine accessory belt 
May 2014

54000 mi
Small cooling radiator fan not working. Electric fan control module removed and replaced 
Nov 2014

58400 mi
Getting intermittent high revs at idle (1100) on a warm engine in a stopped mode. Had VW analyze; found no codes, and cleaned mass air flow sensor, and installed new air filter. No change to problem—waiting for dealer to schedule a return. 
Feb 2015

61100 mi
Follow-up to 11/2014 service--no cause of continued intermittent high idle revs found--battery tested OK--no codes found 
Mar 2015

62000 mi

US $196
Driver side headlight dim--replace HID bulb 
Jun 2015

64000 mi
power window switch on driver's door does not always activate the driver and/or passenger windows 
Sep 2016

74000 mi
Replace Haldex clutch which developed noise on slow speed turns left or right. Part replaced under the Fidelity extended warranty--Gold Plus--as purchased from the dealer after the expiration of the OE warranty at five years-60.000 miles. 
Dec 2016

75000 mi
Driver seat got "locked" in the adjustable position on the seat rails. Not able to be moved via the driver bottom seat lever, or the top seat cable-lever. Corrected--NC--, but to return car for the same problem via the top seat lever only. 
Jan 2017

63000 mi

US $269
Driver seat top handle cable-operated seat control broke. Seat unable to be operated manually forward to allow a passenger to enter into rear of vehicle. 
May 2017

78000 mi

US $404
Install new "adjustable" [WHITELINE] front control arm rear bushing kit to bring the front wheel alignment caster specs into OE manufacturer's specified range--out-of-range prior to changes due to normal wear. 
Oct 2017

80000 mi

US $474
R&R both rear axle shaft seals R&R right rear spring 
Nov 2017

80000 mi
Check on auto adjust headlight system--headlights out of focus 
Feb 2018

83000 mi
Replacement of air baffle under engine due to improper re-installation at last oil change in 9/2017. Rear three retaining bolts fell out, and, on backing out of drive in heavy snow on driveway, the "drooping" baffle was torn at the rear end. 
Jul 2021

107600 mi

US $210
Install customer spark plugs 
Aug 2021

108025 mi
Broken rear coil spring--install new set Install new poly rear differential bushing kit 
Feb 2022

112000 mi

US $369
cleaned mechantronic harness and sealed due to no replacement part available 
Jun 2022

114000 mi

US $197
remove and replace tie-rod end front right outer and inner 
Volkswagen R32 in Pennsylvania, United States
Nov 2008 - Feb 2011
Jun 2010

44000 mi
Gas gage stopped working. 
Volkswagen R32 in Massachusetts, United States
Aug 2008 - May 2013
Sep 2008 There was a missing interior trim piece in the trunk. 
Jun 2009

5000 mi
air conditioning did not blow cold. found out that i needed a high pressure switch and the part had to be ordered. High Pressure switch was installed and AC now works fine. The Drivers door would lock automatically even if the door is open! Dealership told me i need a new door lock module and they didn't have any in stock so they needed to order the parts and i have an appointment on 7/11/09 to have it installed 
Jul 2009

6000 mi
new door lock module was replaced, door locks functioning as intended now. repair took only 45 minutes. 
Feb 2011

16000 mi
Recall on the Mechatronic unit of the DSG transmisstion. Car would jerk upon going into 1st gear and some times would "Thunk" when shifting into reverse. Recall replaced the mechatronic unit. cruise control not working. Dealer "forgot" to repair it while it was in for recall work on another issue. This is the second time the dealer "forgot" to look at it. 
Jun 2011

21000 mi
cruise control was not working, dealer determined that a switch needed to be replaced but they did not have one in stock. drivers side headlight was out. Second time in six months. Dealer determined that the "igniter/ballast" was bad and had to order parts. dealer replaced drivers side headlight bulb and "ballast/igniter" dealer installed new cruise control switch. works perfectly now new bulb that was installed is not aimed properly. the light is shining to the left. Dealer tried to level the bulb during this trip but was unsucessful. Will need to drop it off at a later date to have them look at it again. 
Jul 2011

21000 mi
had another trip to the dealer, explained to them that the passenger side bulb was not now aimed properly. Was told bulb had fallen out of "holder". Theyalso aligned the drivers side headlight After the last trip to dealer, i was driving at night and my headlights were aimed at the road signs above the highway, had little light on the road ahead of me. They had the car for 2 days, replaced what they called a Defective Bulb" 
Dec 2011

23000 mi
Auto Leveling headlights are still shining too high. Dealership still unable to correct. 
Jul 2012

27000 mi
ongoing problem with autoleveling headlights. lights shine too high and to the left and right. dealer adjusted lights but they are now too low. i adjusted them myself at home and they are nearly perfect now. 
Volkswagen R32 in Maryland, United States
May 2009 - Jun 2018
Dec 2010

40000 mi
Serpentine Belt snapped & shredded due to seized & broken tensioning pulley. 2 idler pulleys damaged from belt. Replaced all of them. 
Mar 2013

74000 mi
noise from strut mounts, they were replaced 
Oct 2016

124700 mi

US $1000
AC Compressor pulley broke 
Mar 2017

132000 mi

US $1200
Cooling fans and thermostat stopped working - replaced. 
Jul 2017

136000 mi

US $600
DSG fluid leak from Mechatronic unit 
Volkswagen R32 in Texas, United States
Jun 2008 - Mar 2010
Nov 2008

5000 mi
Vehicle occasionally stumbles or stalls after being refueled. There may be a problem with the 2 piece tank design and the evap canister/purge valve that makes the car overly sensitive to "topping off;" drawing fuel into the canister and soaking it.  During pre-delivery inspection, dealer neglected to remove the rubber spring spacers on the front suspension, which are designed to elevate the front end of the vehicle 1.5 inches to prevent scraping the front valance during shipping. Spacers removed. Rear license plate light fixture fell out of bumper...was improperly assembled and mounting plate was broken Dealer replaced entire fixture. 
Volkswagen R32 in Maryland, United States
Aug 2009 - May 2012
Dec 2009

31000 mi
DSG Transmission jerky and rough at low speeds; "rev hang" at high speeds when should be upshifting. 
Jan 2010 Cruise Control does not work approximately 1 out of every 10-15 vehicle starts. If vehicle is shut down and restarted, problem generally goes away. Shop unable to replicate on this trip. Returned within the week for Cruise control issue because the problem had re-occurred during my drive. Took to shop and left car running so they could test while issue was happening; problem successfully replicated and issue located; parts on order. 
Feb 2010

37000 mi
Cruise Control repair parts installed and system tested for 5 full days while working with VWoA. Problem eventually rectified. 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen Jetta / Rabbit / GTI

Engine not specified

Volkswagen R32 in Greece
Mar 2011 - Dec 2012
Mar 2012

31000 mi

€1000
A motor belt was loose 
Sep 2012

39680 mi

€500
oil leak, TSB 
Volkswagen Rabbit in Pennsylvania, United States
Sep 2009 - Mar 2010
Oct 2009

27000 mi
Brake Lights out 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen Jetta / Rabbit / GTI 4-door

turbocharged 4-cylinder automated manual 2WD

Volkswagen GTI in Bashkortostan Rep., Russia
Jun 2008 - Jan 2017
Dec 2016

69440 mi
lights are always going out 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen Jetta / Rabbit / GTI 2-door

6-cylinder automated manual AWD

Volkswagen GTI in Alabama, United States
Feb 2008 - Jun 2008
Jun 2008

1000 mi
I brought in the car for what I considered to be a DSG glitch in June, '08; VW acknowledged the troublesome behavior in question but said it was "normal". No fix. 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen GTI 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Volkswagen GTI in British Columbia, Canada
Jul 2012 - Dec 2013
Jan 2013

54560 mi
Engine light on. Started running rough on freeway. Dealer said 2 ignition coil-packs were failed or failing. Replaced under warranty. Engine light is now out. Car runs like new. Goes like stink! 
Volkswagen GTI in Ontario, Canada
Nov 2008 - May 2014
Sep 2010

31620 mi
Driver side door would not lock with the key fob.  
Volkswagen GTI in Massachusetts, United States
Apr 2008 - Sep 2008
Jul 2008

5000 mi
Brought my car in for the 5000 mile service. Warning light came on on the way home. Brought back to dealer. Oil filter failed, cylinder misfiring, could not repair. VW is putting us in a new '09 GTI to avoid further inconvenience for us. 
Volkswagen GTI in Minnesota, United States
Jul 2011 - Apr 2013
Apr 2013

70000 mi
Tensioner was making noise, they replaced it and the timing belt at no charge. 
Volkswagen GTI in New York, United States
Jun 2008 - Nov 2010
Jul 2009

12000 mi
Loud clunk heard from front subrame or suspension upon acceleration, braking or turns. One click from each acceleration direction imlies loose bolt holding front subframe to unibody A/C weak. Tightened down the high/low pressue switch and recharged system with freon.  Clunk Repair was not successful the first time (bolts were tightened), and was not successful this second time around. This time lower control arm bushings were replaced. The clunk was back on the drive back home from dealer 
Aug 2009

13000 mi
"could not replicate knocking noise" For subframe knocking - they changed all subframe bolts. Solution lasted for about a day at most, then started clicking again Performed TSB that was originally released for Passats to replace 2 bolts and install 2 shims. (2) 7M3-499-349-A - plate/shim (2) N-908-235-01 - BOlt 
Sep 2009

14000 mi
Dealer broke control arm bolt during previous visit. Replaced for free. 
Volkswagen GTI in New Jersey, United States
Aug 2016 - Oct 2016
Sep 2016

88000 mi

US $50
Exhaust clamp rusted through, creating a slight buzz. Replaced clamp 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen GTI 4dr Hatch

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed automated manual FWD

Volkswagen GTI in California, United States
Jul 2012 - Jul 2017
Oct 2012

58000 mi

US $360
Cylinder 3 coil pack failure caused vehicle to go into limp mode. Undrivable 
Nov 2012

59200 mi

US $60
Turbocharger hi-pressure hose to intercooler o-ring failure 
Oct 2013

71200 mi

US $700
Engine check light and subsequent code revealed a cooling performance warning, engine not warming up correctly. Required new thermostat and coolant flush to correct 
Mar 2014

80000 mi

US $1200
split outer CV Joint boot required replacement of drive-shaft 
Jul 2014

83300 mi

US $160
Intercooler charge pipe disconnected 
Sep 2014

85000 mi

US $200
Changed HID bulbs and igniters, a job that should take no longer than 10 minutes took over 2 hours dues accessibility and component design! 
Jan 2015

74300 mi
CV Joint failure again 
Aug 2015

90600 mi

US $300
Failure of the crankcase ventilation valve in the intake system causing boost pressure loss. Apparently a design fault requiring additional retrofit parts from VW at owners expense. Additional work not undertaken 
Volkswagen GTI in Pennsylvania, United States
Jan 2009 - Jul 2022
Jun 2010

21000 mi
Not enough oil. Engine stopped. Warning came on: your engine stopped because oil is too low. Firestone put in 3 quarts of oil. At no cost. Went to VW. Was told the engine can use up to one quart/600 miles. No damage. Valve stuck. Replaced.  
Dec 2016

57000 mi

US $600
Had to replace the coils. 
Apr 2017

60000 mi

US $283
He backer plate of the right rear brake rusted through and rubbed agains the brake rotor. Needed to be replaced. 
Mar 2018

74000 mi

US $600
Backing plate rusted through - rubbed against rotor - left rear side 
Volkswagen GTI in Ohio, United States
Jan 2009 - Jun 2011
Apr 2010

27000 mi
Leak in high pressure switch allowed loss of refrigerant from A/C. 
Volkswagen GTI in Connecticut, United States
Sep 2008 - Dec 2021
Sep 2009

5000 mi
Sometimes the car fails to start in the morning. Three repair trips so far, but the dealer cannot find anything wrong with it. 
Mar 2011

12000 mi
Steering wheel buttons replaced. 
Volkswagen GTI in Illinois, United States
Nov 2008 - Jan 2010
Jan 2009

9000 mi
Bad fuel pressure sensor. VW replaced unit. 
Volkswagen GTI in Alabama, United States
Sep 2013 - Sep 2015
Jan 2014

US $210
Car had to be towed to replace starter. 
Sep 2014

112000 mi

US $250
Strut mount and bearing bad Headliner defective 
Feb 2015

120000 mi

US $500
Cracked coolant fitting. Had to replace and replenish coolant. PCV valve broken, causing oil consumption and seals leaking. 
May 2015

122000 mi

US $200
A/C compressor took a long time to start pumping, sometimes 5 to 10 min. Found bad small Aux radiator fan and main problem was the Refrigerant Control Valve had malfunctioned requiring replacement and evacuation and recharge of R-134a 
Jun 2015

124000 mi

US $16
Fabric on door panel glue and foam deteriorated causing to fall. Used spray adhesive to glue back but repair looks bad. 
Volkswagen GTI in Ontario, Canada
Apr 2008 - Apr 2012
Dec 2008

8060 mi
Replaced sunglass holder. 
Volkswagen GTI in New South Wales, Australia
- Jun 2010
Sep 2009

9300 mi
Replacement of faulty O2 sensor 
Jan 2010

12400 mi
Securing of fuel line causing rattle 
Mar 2010

15500 mi
Rattle from rear door trim 
May 2010

16740 mi
Rattle from front door trim 
Jun 2010

18600 mi
Replacement of faulty fuel pump 
Volkswagen GTI in California, United States
Feb 2011 - Sep 2019
Dec 2011

59979 mi
Replace crankcase breather tube under warranty 
Dec 2015

106000 mi

US $80
Change out low-pressure fuel sensor P/N: 06E906051K 
Volkswagen GTI in California, United States
Jun 2008 - Oct 2014
Dec 2010

15000 mi
Intermittent long crank when starting. Fault codes found for ignition switch, which was replaced under warranty. 
Jul 2012

21000 mi

US $400
Cylinder misfires due to two failing ignition coils when accelerating quickly. Replaced all ignition coils. 
Jul 2013

26000 mi

US $450
Audio controls on steering wheel, horn, and paddle shifters were not working. Airbag fault light was on. Fixed by replacing contact ring in steering wheel. 
Volkswagen GTI in Ontario, Canada
Mar 2016 - Jun 2022
May 2016

76300 mi

C $700
Corrosion, worn brake parts including calipers. Warranty denied for rust claim on front wings. 
Jun 2018

94860 mi

C $600
Left front bearing. 
Feb 2020

120900 mi

C $4500
DCG transmission stopped working. Used DCG transmission sourced and installed. 
Volkswagen GTI in North Carolina, United States
May 2008 - Apr 2016
Jun 2013

17000 mi

US $225
Airbag fault light came on. Ended up being a faulty clockspring. Volkswagen agreed to pick up 75% of the cost even though the car was under warranty. 
Volkswagen GTI in British Columbia, Canada
Nov 2007 - Dec 2008
Dec 2008

7440 mi
The car was always burning substantial amounts of oil (1 qt / 1500km ). First dealer said it was "within spec", second dealer would look at it but car got totalled before we got there. 
Volkswagen GTI in California, United States
Oct 2013 - Nov 2013
Nov 2013

102000 mi

US $600
Valve cover gasket leaking, replaced 
Volkswagen GTI in Virginia, United States
Oct 2011 - Nov 2020
Mar 2014

60000 mi

US $200
CV boot was torn and was replaced.  Coolant flange leak that was repaired under warranty. 
Feb 2015

73000 mi

US $2000
Coolant pump leak. Oil leak from rear main seal. 
Oct 2015

78300 mi

US $300
Coil packs stopped working 
May 2016

83900 mi

US $1300
Coolant leak. Water pump failure. 
Apr 2017

88000 mi

US $350
Sputtering under acceleration. Coil packs and spark plugs replaced. Creaking from drivers side. CV joint replaced 
Jul 2017

89000 mi
Leaking coolant. Can't find source 
Dec 2017

92000 mi

US $1300
Catalytic converted replaced 
Jun 2018

94000 mi

US $1000
Intake manifold Squealing noise. AC compressor was replaced but ultimately was pcv valve 
Volkswagen GTI in California, United States
May 2013 - Apr 2016
Jun 2013

67000 mi
Drivers door central locking module 
Oct 2013

70800 mi

US $1000
Creaking noise from front end while tuning the stealing wheel. Replaced strut tower bearings 
Apr 2015

84300 mi

US $1750
Cam follower punched a hole in crank case 
Volkswagen GTI in California, United States
Apr 2012 - Jan 2014
Jul 2012

88800 mi

US $55
Support strut under shifter was bent and rubbing on exhaust pipe. Repaired by straightening. 
Dec 2012

97000 mi

US $756
Battery was producing error reports so replaced. 
Nov 2013

111700 mi

US $644
Replaced fuel tank, pump and filter. 
Volkswagen GTI in Ontario, Canada
Oct 2010 - May 2013
Nov 2010

22320 mi
Electronic part of drivers door latch intermittent. I.e. door open indicator, headlight on warning indicator etc. 
Jan 2011

27860 mi
Bad door latch sensor fixed after tech examined car at -15 Celcius ! Replaced part of drivers door latch under warranty. Latch was not *telling* the central locking computer that the door was open. All kinds of bizarre effects of that. 
Sep 2011

29140 mi
Drivers side rear door locking intermittent.  
Nov 2011

29760 mi

C $740
Dealer replaced the rear door latch 
Jul 2012

34400 mi

C $70
rear wiper arm broken. probably caused by stress of winters and snow + car washes. Rear washer also damaged but still useable 
Volkswagen GTI in Greece
Dec 2010 - Jan 2011
Jan 2011 Sometimes and only in the M (manual) mode the second gear could kick in a little harsher. Been checked with no evident cause, had also a dsg software update. I was told there is no problem with it although it was not fixed. 
Volkswagen GTI in Minnesota, United States
Mar 2009 - Apr 2012
Jan 2011

32200 mi
Bad rear left wheel bearing. Replaced under warranty. Replaced window motor: it ran backwards from all the other windows. 
Volkswagen GTI in Wisconsin, United States
Apr 2010 - Apr 2011
Mar 2011

57000 mi
Small oil leak at crankcase breather. Valve was replaced and it fixed problem. 
Volkswagen GTI in California, United States
Sep 2010 - Dec 2013
Oct 2010

40000 mi
Loose subframe 
Sep 2011

47000 mi
Headlight error light intermittent on console. Bulb replaced at no cost. 
May 2013

59400 mi
I believe alternator was replaced. 
Volkswagen GTI in California, United States
Sep 2009 - Nov 2015
Nov 2009

26000 mi
Again reported that DSG surging at low speed, and got VWoA involve. They reflashed the transmission. Problem not fixed. Timing belt replaced under warranty because of failure of tensioner. Symptom: cricket sound noise from timming belt cover. 
Feb 2010

29000 mi
Transmission mount failure. Bolt actually broke off. Replaced mount and main transmission support bolt with new ones. 
Oct 2010

35300 mi
Whining noise when car started. Loud noise when shutdown. PCV valve failure. Had to wait 2 days for replacement to arrive and installation. DSG surging continued to get worse. Went to a different dealer. VWoA released a new Customer Service Program to replace the Mechatronic Unit (due to a faulty bushing in unit, causing exact condition as I have claimed). Part ordered. 
Apr 2011

40500 mi
Replaced DSG mechatronic unit. Still have a clunk when downshift from 2 to 1, but VW says this is normal. 
Volkswagen GTI in California, United States
Jul 2010 - Jan 2014
Oct 2011

42000 mi
PCV valve was replaced. Unsuccessful repair. 
Aug 2012

55200 mi
iPod Dock creates feedback through stereo, repairs under warranty extension as this was in shop just prior to 50k mile extension for this problem. finally fixed in fifth attempt when dealer realized problem was with the dock not cable or audio system. 
Jul 2013

71000 mi

US $1400
Water pump replacement - engine overheating. Replaced timing belt, etc at the same time. 
Volkswagen GTI in Texas, United States
Feb 2011 - Jul 2014
May 2012

53400 mi
Upper strut bearing failure on Drivers (left ) side. Dealer also replaced right side too. And replaced wheel bearings and left side half shaft 
Volkswagen GTI in Indiana, United States
Mar 2009 - Jun 2010
May 2009

32000 mi
an engine fan burned out.  engine fan repaired under warranty 
Volkswagen GTI in Ohio, United States
Feb 2008 - Apr 2017
Mar 2011

40000 mi

US $30
Mechatronics unit replaced on DSG transmission through recall. Transmission would sometimes shift erratically before replacement. Mechatronics unit replaced on DSG transmission. Done free under warranty and part of recall. Transmission shifting rough before repair. A widespread problem with VW DSG transmissions. Had trans filter replaced as routine maintenance. 
Apr 2012

50500 mi
AC high pressure switch replaced and refrigerant added. AC was not blowing cold air, AC unit would not turn on. 
Aug 2012

53700 mi

US $150
Engine would crank but wouldn't start. Cracked and burned out coil pack and other wiring. Small electrical fire. Replaced wiring and 4 coil packs and associated parts. Again had trouble starting after repair. Took back to dealer. Took back in for intermittent starting problem due to unsuccessful repair of previous coil pack problem. Also had dealer check problem with car not sensing that the driver's door was open (no chimes, no dome light, etc.). Continued to have hard start problems. Diagnosed as fuel tank pump not holding pressure and fuel filter needing replaced. Estimated repairs-$450. Opted not to repair items. Will get rid of vehicle soon. Warning: Don't buy VWs. 
Oct 2013

65300 mi

US $200
Replacement of HID headlight bulb. 
Aug 2015

78800 mi

US $50
Loud exhaust. Shop put on a patch between muffler and exhaust pipe. 
Volkswagen GTI in California, United States
Apr 2008 - Oct 2014
May 2008

2000 mi
Weak A/C performance / Center air vent rattles 
Dec 2011

35000 mi
Ignition coils packs and spark plugs were replaced for misfires Mechatronics transmission valve body unit replaced for jerky shifting 
Feb 2012

37000 mi
Timing belt sqeaking noise replaced timing belt and tensioners 
Jul 2014

68500 mi

US $800
cam follower, hpfp, cam chain, cam tensioner replacement 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen GTI 2dr Hatch

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed manual FWD

Volkswagen GTI in New York, United States
Jan 2017 - Mar 2018
Feb 2017

88000 mi

US $30
Diagnose brake check light on intermittently beginning in January. Problem was damaged wire harness. Chose not to fix as yet. 
Volkswagen GTI in Ohio, United States
Jan 2009 - Dec 2011
Dec 2009

16000 mi
Horn stopped working and blew fuses. Dealer found a short in the horn and ordered a new part to replace it. 
Mar 2010

19000 mi
Ice buildup inside door caused damage to the bottom front corner of door when door was opened. 
Volkswagen GTI in Indiana, United States
Feb 2008 - Nov 2010
Mar 2008 The wiper blade had a streak portion, so they replaced the entire arm. 
Aug 2008

6000 mi
Rear washer diffuser cap had disappeared. Dealer ordered replacement, installed on subsequent visit. Same problem occurred in same time frame in 2002 on previous new 2002 GTI. 
May 2010

28000 mi
Flaking paint on 1 wheel center cap. 
Volkswagen GTI in Virginia, United States
Sep 2010 - Apr 2011
Oct 2010

54000 mi
Window switch replaced on drivers side. Rattles not fixed. 
Volkswagen GTI in Georgia, United States
Nov 2007 - Jul 2018
Nov 2009

23000 mi
Replaced fuel sensor. 
Mar 2011

36000 mi
Oil leak around valve cover. Gasket replaced and  defective PCV valve replaced. 
Sep 2011

43000 mi
Rear hatch struts would no longer hold the hatch open. The dealer replaced under warranty. 
Jul 2015

91000 mi

US $100
One coilpack went bad, but replaced all 4. 
Sep 2015

95000 mi

US $70
Cleaned carbon deposits from intake valves. Replaced DV valve. 
Sep 2016

109000 mi

US $25
#1 Coilpak failed. 
Oct 2016

109800 mi

US $300
Drooping Headliner replaced. 
Apr 2018

123000 mi

US $305
AC pressure switch went bad and leaked all Freon. Switch was replaced and system recharged. 
Volkswagen GTI in Washington, United States
Oct 2008 - Mar 2010
Oct 2008

7000 mi
Torn passenger side CV-boot. Unknown cause for tear. 
Volkswagen GTI in Ontario, Canada
Aug 2008 - Mar 2012
Apr 2009

16120 mi
Engine cooling fans kicking in when engine is not even at operating temp. Fans replaced under warranty. 
Oct 2009

22320 mi
Sporadic fuel pressure 
Sep 2010

37200 mi
Failed ignition coil. Coil and burnt connector/wiring replaced under original warranty. 
Feb 2011

40520 mi
Broken driver's side lumbar support 'bird twitter' sound from engine when cold 
Mar 2011

43400 mi
Supposed to have repaired broken lumbar support, but still not working. Also did not re-install the seat correctly. Annoyed. 
Apr 2011

44640 mi
Water found in spare tire wheel well. Source traced to faulty seal in right tail light. 
Jun 2011

47120 mi
Fixed lumbar. Fixed leaking tail light seal. 
Volkswagen GTI in Illinois, United States
Dec 2011 - Jun 2013
Jul 2012

38000 mi
Passenger side (small) cooling fan seized. 
Volkswagen GTI in Massachusetts, United States
Mar 2009 - Sep 2014
Jul 2009

40000 mi
Car makes a clunking sound when making turns. I've pretty much dropped the problem with the dealer, going to try and perform the fix myself. I suspect that it is the infamous (on the forums, at least) loose subframe bolt issue.  
Jul 2013

108700 mi

US $180
AC pressure switch needed to be replaced. AC system was then recharged. 
Jun 2014

126000 mi

US $7
Bad fuel cap gasket was causing CEL 
Jul 2014

126700 mi

US $75
Bad coil pack 
Aug 2014

128000 mi

US $40
Xenon bulb needed to be replaced 
Volkswagen GTI in Massachusetts, United States
Jun 2010 - Aug 2016
Apr 2011

25300 mi
Fuel line rattle, TSB. 
Jul 2016

54000 mi

US $435
Turbo blow off vale failure 
Volkswagen GTI in New York, United States
Dec 2007 - Mar 2011
Jun 2009

15000 mi
Check engine light - Low-pressure fuel sensor replaced. 
Jan 2011

36000 mi
Noise from front drivers side suspension when increasing or decreasing throttle during slow turn. Control arm bushing replaced based on TSB recommendation. 
Feb 2011

37000 mi
Sway bar linkages replaced under warranty 
Volkswagen GTI in Georgia, United States
Feb 2010 - Jun 2011
May 2010

42000 mi
TPMS light on and off intermittently. Re-calibrated system, but light came on within 10 miles after leaving. Replaced TPMS control unit. Light back on with in 10 miles again. Loud popping sound heard and felt when cornering. Replaced suspension bushings and sub-frame bolts. Found that oil was down nearly three quarts after only 6 weeks of owning the car. Changed the oil (it was due anyway) and will monitor regularly. Either left the dealership way down, or is burning a significant amount of oil. Finally discovered faulty TPMS sensor in FR wheel. Replaced and light hasn't come back on in 2 days (where it was on nearly constantly before). 
Volkswagen GTI in Virginia, United States
Oct 2013 - May 2016
Oct 2014

80000 mi

US $1000
Both fans needed replacement 
Oct 2015

89200 mi

US $300
The moonroof was opening and closing all by itself, even with the car parked and turned off. Two dealers were not able to fix this! Took it to Eurowerks, and so far, so good. 
Volkswagen GTI in Texas, United States
Sep 2008 - Jun 2017
Apr 2009

10000 mi
Complained of inconsistent idle quality. Can feel cylinder 'misses' that the ECM doesn't detect. Occurs at traffic light stops. Dealer kept all day, idled thru 1/4 tank of gas, said they couldn't feel it. Did not charge anything. 
Jan 2012

49000 mi
Replaced PCV assembly 
Mar 2012

50000 mi

US $180
Engine would not respond to throttle & CEL was flashing; code unreadable at dealer, required reflash of ECU; this resolved problem. 
Nov 2016

100700 mi

US $100
replace passenger door electric lock mechanism; door would not lock or unlock most of the time. 
May 2017

106000 mi

US $150
compressor regulator went bad and high pressure sensor went bad; replaced regulator, have not replaced sensor yet. 
Jun 2017

108000 mi

US $65
Replaced AC pressure sensor 
Volkswagen GTI in Georgia, United States
Oct 2010 - Jun 2011
Nov 2010

43000 mi

US $381
Dealer replaced left front CV joint 
Dec 2010

43000 mi

US $784
grinding sound coming from suspension. Dealer lubed and all joints. problem solved. 
Volkswagen GTI in District of Columbia, United States
May 2009 - Jun 2022
Mar 2011

36000 mi
Trip computer that measures trip time driven, trip distance, avg trip mpg, instant mpg, etc. was not resetting on cold starts like it is supposed to. The computer was replaced and has worked properly ever since. 
Feb 2017

78000 mi

US $250
Replaced front axle assembly in order to replace torn CV boot. 

Return to top

2008 Volkswagen GTI 2dr Hatch

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed automated manual FWD

Volkswagen GTI in New York, United States
Apr 2008 - Jun 2016
Aug 2014

62000 mi
Leak turbo 
Volkswagen GTI in Oregon, United States
- Feb 2008
Feb 2008

100 mi
Oil leak in one of the lines feeding into the oil cooler/filter housing. More annoyance than real problem. Was slightly discouraged to find a leaking car (haven't seen any of my cars leak oil for over 25 years), but all is well now. 
Volkswagen GTI in Texas, United States
Jul 2008 - Jul 2010
Jul 2009

12000 mi
Rear hatch was not aligned properly (not a problem or fixable) even though it clearly is off.  Rattle, could not replicate. 
Jul 2010

23000 mi
Only problem when sold was rattling speakers in doors when music playing. 
Volkswagen GTI in Alabama, United States
Oct 2009 - Apr 2011
Apr 2011

32000 mi
AC stopped blowing cold. Shop said it was a pressure switch. New switch installed and system recharged under warranty. Also ordered part for TSB issue for the DSG transmission. Part ordered but not installed. Car traded for 2011 GTI 4 door TSB for mechatronic unit (DSG). Ended up trading car for a new 4 door model. Repair was not reason for trade... have a kid on the way.  
Volkswagen GTI in Illinois, United States
Feb 2008 - Sep 2014
Mar 2010

40000 mi
DSG hard shifting issues and surging at low speed. Dealer reflashed ECM and TCM. 
Dec 2012

72000 mi

US $83
The low-speed radiator fan (electric) seized up and needed to be replaced. The fan was replaced. 
May 2013

82000 mi

US $500
Intake runner flapper motor that controls variable valve timing was failing intermittently, causing the MIL to be illuminated. 
Volkswagen GTI in Virginia, United States
Jun 2008 - Oct 2009
Jul 2009

42000 mi
Megatronic Unit replacement. Transmission reprogramming. The Megatronic unit had to be pulled off the factory line in Wolfsburg, Germany. Fuel pump sensor replacement. 
Volkswagen GTI in Illinois, United States
Sep 2008 - Apr 2010
Jan 2009

5000 mi
Both of the 12V outlets did not work after only 3K. I took the car in at 4900K for service and fuses were replaced and outlets now work.  
Volkswagen GTI in California, United States
May 2013 - Sep 2015
Aug 2013

80900 mi

US $550
Wheel bearing failed and was replaced successfully. 
Jan 2014 Cam follower. Light on, mechanic recommended replacement. The 2008 VW GTI is an expensive lemon. 
Jul 2014

87000 mi

US $1320
Thermostat was stuck open. Required replacement. $720. Turbo Bypass Valved was frayed (the stock one is made out of plastic, a bad choice). Not only did it affect power, but it caused oil to leak. $600. 
Dec 2014

91000 mi

US $430
Two of four ignition coils were faulty. Symptoms included loss of power and misfires. 
Volkswagen GTI in Arkansas, United States
Dec 2008 - May 2009
Jan 2009

9000 mi
Light bulb in right mirror blinker (LED inside sideview mirror) went out.  
Mar 2009

12000 mi
A terrible rattle at idle, diagnosed as TSB for fuel line rattle.  
Volkswagen GTI in North Carolina, United States
Apr 2012 - May 2012
May 2012

54000 mi
Driver door lock would make repeated clicking noises. Dealer replaced lock mechanism, then a week later the new lock stopped working and I had to climb in from passenger side. Took it back to dealer, supposedly fixed now. 
Volkswagen GTI in Illinois, United States
Feb 2009 - Apr 2012
Apr 2009

9000 mi
Front Passenger Seat Belt release button rattling. Rattle behind glovebox. I believe it is the common VW Fuel Line Rattle. Could not replicate the day I took it in. DSG transmission shifting poorly and surging at low speed. New Mechatronic unit ordered. Repaired Seat Belt. Rattle is gone. New Mechatronics unit installed in the transmission. Surging gone. Trans seems to shift more smoothly. 
May 2009

9000 mi
Transmission when downshifting into 1st while coming to a stop causes a slight vibration through the car and often "thuds" into 1st gear. Was told transmission was acting normally. 
Dec 2009

15000 mi
Car was having sporadic very hard 2-3 upshifts while in "D" mode. Dealer could not replicate. No repair made. Car had noticeable rattle behind glovebox during cold weather and at idle. When dealer had car, apparently rattle was not present. Returned to dealer for sporadic very hard 2-3 upshifts while in "D" mode. Took tech in car while owner drove. Was able to replicate hard 2-3 upshift multiple times. Tech noted problem. Owner told dealer needed to call VW for help in finding repair Returned car to dealer for software update to transmission computer. Repair successful. Very hard 2-3 upshift has not returned. 
Dec 2010

18000 mi
CDC Hardware Error displayed when trying to play CDs in changer. Replacement head unit ordered New head unit delivered and replaced. Fixed the CDC Hardware Error problem. Fuel line rattle. Repaired using TSB. 
Jan 2011

18000 mi
on/start radio volume always at set level. old radio and manual state if low volume at off, will be low volume at on. but higher/set volume when turned on than when turned off. dealer acknowledged, said this is how new radios work. no fix. 
Mar 2011

19000 mi
Rear hatch / trunk light not working. Rear hatch also not closing properly when holding in the VW Emblem latch mechanism. Hatch open sensor broken, causing both problems. Hatch thinks it is always closed. Replacement sensor ordered. Same radio "on" volume problem. Volume always at approx level 5 when turned on, even if at lower volume when turned off. Dealer said radio is indeed not working properly. Ordered a new head unit. 
Apr 2011

20000 mi
Head unit was replaced in hope of repairing ON volume issue. New head unit does the same thing. Told "this is how they work now" Rear hatch sensor was replaced. hatch closes properly now and rear hatch light comes on properly. While replacing rear hatch sensor, technician left scratches on the bumper clear bra, improperly installed rear trim, and left pry marks along trim. new trim pieces ordered. new clear bra ordered. 
May 2011

22000 mi
Replaced interior trim and put on new clear bra. However, during interior trim install, they noticed prior damage and have ordered another new trim piece to be installed later. 
Jun 2011

25000 mi
Returned for repair of additional damaged part. Arrived at dealer. Replacement part was damaged out of box. Dealership cut me a check for value of parts and labor. 
Volkswagen GTI in Oklahoma, United States
Nov 2013 - Nov 2014
May 2014

67000 mi
REPLACED FAULTY INJECTORS, REPLACED PLUGS, WIRES, COILS. CLEANED INTAKE HEADLIGHT OUT Replace the left headlight. Owner supplied. 
Volkswagen GTI in Tennessee, United States
Sep 2008 - Jul 2011
Jul 2010

15000 mi
Software revision level check for engine management system and transmission control system. Reported as being latest levels. 
Volkswagen GTI in California, United States
Jan 2016 - May 2017
Mar 2016

135000 mi

US $2650
Replaced coil packs Replaced thermostat Both headlight bulbs replaced 
Volkswagen GTI in Maryland, United States
Oct 2010 - Feb 2014
Nov 2013

34600 mi
Mechatronic unit replaced under warranty. Transmission shifts were very rough. 
Volkswagen GTI in California, United States
Aug 2008 - Nov 2011
Dec 2008

5000 mi
Carpet pulling up.  
Mar 2010

23000 mi
Jerky transmission, recall. 
May 2010

24400 mi
Recall for jerky DSG transmission performed in May. I complained and complained but it was "Normal" until the recall came out. It surged and jerked on light throttle. 
Sep 2010

28000 mi
The loose carpet on the drivers side was attached again Aux audio jack was replaced 
Jan 2011

21800 mi

US $45
Headlamp out  Moisture in rear tail light 
May 2011

37700 mi
A updated valve of some sort was installed car was making wierd noises 
Volkswagen GTI in Ohio, United States
Jul 2010 - Jun 2012
Jan 2011

36500 mi

US $45
Rear brake lightbulb replaced. 
Dec 2011

48000 mi
Fuel pump went out 

Return to top

2007.5 Volkswagen GTI 2dr Hatch

turbocharged 200hp 2.0L I4 6-speed automated manual FWD

Volkswagen GTI in Victoria, Australia
Sep 2011 - Jun 2022
Jan 2011

37200 mi
Air conditioning and ventilation, repair 
Oct 2011

40300 mi

A $150
Fuel, intake, or emissions system repair. Engine: fuel, ignition, intake, and emissions systems; also accessory drives, repair 
Jan 2016

71300 mi

A $200
PCV Valve Poor idle. CEL. Replaced Pressure Control Valve (PCV). However it was noted the part was physically damaged and may have been since it was installed at 60,000km. 
Feb 2018

96720 mi

A $150
CV Boot split. CV Boot replaced. 
May 2018

99820 mi

A $500
Fuel Pump 
Aug 2019

10540 mi

A $50
DIY aftermarket PCV valve 
Jan 2020

11470 mi

A $500
Waterpump leak 
Jan 2021

117800 mi

A $15
Replaced vacuum pump o ring due to leak. 

Return to top

See TrueDelta's information for all Hatchbacks, Wagons, and Convertibles.
See TrueDelta's information for all Volkswagen models.

2008 Volkswagen Jetta / Rabbit / GTI Repair Histories

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently 2008 Volkswagen Jetta / Rabbit / GTI problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.