Electrical System Related Problems of the 1997 Volkswagen Golf

Table 1 shows three common electrical system related problems of the 1997 Volkswagen Golf.

Table 1. Electrical System related problems of Volkswagen Golf

Problem Category Number of Problems
Horn Assembly problems
1
Alternator/generator/regulator problems
1
Ignition problems
1

Horn Assembly problem #1

Horn can't be located when the wheel is turned.

Alternator/generator/regulator problem #2

No summary.

Ignition problem #3

The ignition broke in April 2000 & was replaced by dealer. On 9/1/2000, white, odorless smoke came from left side of steering column. On 9/18/2000, brown smelly smoke came from same area. Car towed to dealer. Dealer kept for 3 days, couldn't find problem, said car was safe. On 9/24/2000, brown smelly smoke came from steering column on 3 occasions. Car towed to dealer. Dealer kept car five days, couldn't find problem. The car is now at another repair place. I am terrified to drive this car. I think the problem is directly caused by the ignition replacement. Very unhappy with dealer and vw USA.


Electrical System related problems in other Volkswagen Golf model year vehicles:



Safety Ratings of Golf Cars
Fuel Economy of Golf Vehicles
Golf Service Bulletins
Golf Safety Recalls
Golf Defect Investigations