Three problems related to automatic transmission have been reported for the 2001 Volkswagen Golf. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 Volkswagen Golf based on all problems reported for the 2001 Golf.
I was driving on the freeway when I bumped the shifter while reaching for my soda. The shifter went into neutral and would not come out until I forced it back into drive. I pulled over into a gas station. I put the car in park and tried to shift back into drive, but the shifter wouldn't budge. I finally got it to go into park after a tow truck driver suggested that I turn the ignition to different positions while pumping the break and pulling on the shifter. It finally released and I drove immediately to the nearest Volkswagen dealership. The malfunction was in the brake light switch so I had to get it replaced. I was charged $40 for the part itself and $230 for the work. I feel that since there is a recall on the 1998-2002 vw beetle and the 1999-2001 vw jetta that there should be one on the 2001 vw Golf as well.
Switch used to verify brake is engaged before vehicle is able to go into reverse or drive has failed twice. First time 10-08-02 at 13,691 miles and 03-02-04 at 36,695 miles. Does not allow vehicle to be driven, moved or go into opposite direction if needed while driving.
The contact states vehicle has experienced problems with the automatic transmission for the past two years. The contact took the vehicle into the dealership. The dealership was unable to duplicate the problem. The manufacturer was contacted. The vehicle is now at a private mechanic. Repairs will be made at contact's expense. No repairs were made.