Other Volkswagen Golf (2004 - 2009) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Who knows.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    They probably think it's a reliable Volkswagen, but I know better.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Having said it is the most unreliable car I've ever owned, it's also the best car I've ever owned, so I probably would buy another Golf, but I'd have my fingers crossed for a more reliable one.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    I'm currently looking at the 2012 Audi A3 and kidding myself it's not a Volkswagen.

  • Buying experience

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £9,800

    When did you buy the car?

    September 2006

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Car was keenly priced for a VW dealer, but the customer service was poor.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Bought the 1.4 because my son was learning to drive at the time and insurance costs were a big factor.

    What was the dealer like?

    First and hopefully last car I'll be buying from Arnold Clark. Not a pleasant experience.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    The car drives well, if a little underpowered. Handling is good and it copes well with town driving and motorway journeys.

    What's it like to park?

    Visibility is not great, but I suppose that reflects the build quality.

  • Living with it

    1 out of 5 1.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    A lot has gone wrong with this car. Within the warranty period I had: Replacement radiator and fan Replacement CD player NOx sensor Ignition lock 2 ignition coils. A third ignition coil failed outwith the warranty. The fuel filter also failed, as did the ABS sensor (£400) and the Pre-cat exhaust downpipe (£360). The most unreliable car I've ever owned. The dashboard lights come on so frequently i had ti invest in a code reader to diagnose the latest problem and turn off the lights.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Car is ideal size, ample space for 5 adults. Boot space is sufficient for my purposes.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Not much.