Table 1 shows one common power train related problems of the 1996 Volkswagen GTI.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Differential Unit problems |
The reverse gear is very weak in standard transmissions. The gear chips then breaks off and falls into the differential causing an explosion of the housing and the loss of all the gear fluid. Replacement of complete unit is then necessary. This will be my third transmission in 56000 miles. Local dealers just point fingers to the driver of the car. I also know of three other people that have had the same problem. This has to be more than a mere coincidence. Furthermore, all these incidences occur on Volkswagen Gti's, jettas and gulfs between the years of 1993-1998. It is not the fault of the driver. Something needs to be done. These transmissions are not safe nor reliable.