2021 Volkswagen Golf: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2021 Volkswagen Golf: 1 recall, 7 owner complaints and up to 33 mpg combined.
Recalls
1 vehicle recall from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Backup camera Vehicle recall #20V716000 · 2020 · 32,048 vehicles
What's wrong: Volkswagen group of america, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 atlas cross sport, tiguan lwb, jetta nf, jetta gli, golf gti, atlas fl and arteon vehicles. The rear view camera could malfunction during an ignition cycle, leading to a black screen or infotainment system freeze. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "rear visibility."
Why it matters: A black or frozen rear view image reduces the driver's visibility when reversing, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 0 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Electrical (3): the most common themes are stalls / loses power (2), door / lock issues (2), electrical failure (2).
- Brakes (2): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Steering (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
- Airbags (1): no single recurring theme in the descriptions.
The 2021 Volkswagen Golf has 7 owner complaints, ranking #29 of 34 Golf model years for complaints (well below the 42 average). Complaints peaked in 2024 (3 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 2 years old. Neighboring years: 2020 (6 complaints, 2 recalls), 2022 (81 complaints, 0 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4 L 4-cyl turbo | Manual 6-spd | Front-Wheel Drive | 29 | 39 | 33 | Regular |
| 1.4 L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic (S8) | Front-Wheel Drive | 29 | 36 | 32 | Regular |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2021 Volkswagen Golf.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
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FAQ
Does the 2021 Volkswagen Golf have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 1 vehicle recall for the 2021 Volkswagen Golf. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2021 Volkswagen Golf problems?
Owners have filed 7 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are electrical (3), brakes (2), steering (1).
What gas mileage does the 2021 Volkswagen Golf get?
EPA ratings run up to 33 mpg combined (1.4 L, Manual 6-spd), across 2 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2021 Volkswagen Golf repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.