Miles Bennett
The Volkswagen Golf Mk2 is a popular car, with a strong following. It is considered easy to fix, with robust mechanics, but there are some common issues to look out for. The most frequently reported problems are with the door handles, which can freeze up, especially in cold weather. Other common issues include a Pierburg 2E2 carb that can cause running issues, and heater matrix problems, which can be tricky to fix. When buying a Mk2 Golf, it is important to check for rust, as this can be expensive to repair. Other issues to look out for include reverse light switch problems, second gear grind, and vacuum leaks. Overall, the Mk2 Golf is a reliable and practical car, and with regular maintenance, it can be a good choice for those who enjoy working on their own vehicles.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ease of fixing | Generally considered easy to fix, with some exceptions |
| Common problems | Door handles, engine, heater cores, headliners, seat release handles, reverse light switch, second gear grind, brake pads, fuel filter, CV joints, resistor in the heater, suspension, oil leaks, cylinder head, carburettor, water pump, timing belt, etc. |
| Rust | Common issue, especially in certain areas like sills, wheel arches, door bottoms, rear valance, suspension struts, etc. Garaged cars tend to have less rust. |
| Maintenance | Regular maintenance is important for keeping the car in good condition. Oil and filter changes, cam belt and tensioner replacements, and occasional water pump replacements are recommended. |
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What You'll Learn
- The engine is easy to repair, but watch out for oil leaks and blue smoke
- Door handles are a common issue, especially in cold weather
- Suspension refurb may be needed if the car feels unresponsive
- Heater matrix problems are common and tricky to fix
- Rust is a concern, especially on the sills and wheel arches
The engine is easy to repair, but watch out for oil leaks and blue smoke
The VW Golf Mk2 is generally considered a reliable car, with some owners reporting few problems beyond regular maintenance. The engine is also considered easy to repair, but there are a few issues to watch out for.
One of the most common problems with the Mk2 Golf is related to the door handles, which can freeze up or break. Other common issues include problems with the heater matrix, suspension, and reverse light switch. In addition, as with any car, it is important to check for oil leaks and signs of corrosion or rust.
When it comes to the engine, the VW Golf Mk2's engine is generally reliable and long-lasting, but there are a few issues to be aware of. Firstly, it is important to check for oil leaks, particularly from the rocker cover or camshaft seals. In addition, it is worth checking inside the header tank cap for any signs of oil emulsification, which may indicate a blown head gasket.
Another issue to watch out for is blue smoke coming from the exhaust. This could indicate worn valves or valve stem oil seals, which may require a complete cylinder head rebuild, which can be expensive. Therefore, it is important to be vigilant for any signs of blue smoke during a test drive, as this could indicate more serious problems with the engine.
Overall, while the VW Golf Mk2's engine is generally easy to repair, it is important to be vigilant for signs of oil leaks and blue smoke, as these could indicate more serious problems that may require more extensive repairs. Regular maintenance and servicing are key to keeping the Mk2 Golf's engine in good condition and preventing more costly repairs down the line.
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Door handles are a common issue, especially in cold weather
Door handles are a common issue in the Mk2 Golf, especially in cold weather. Owners have reported that their door handles freeze up in cold weather, and that they go through a set of door handles per year. This issue is not unique to the Mk2 Golf, as it is also a problem in the Mk1 Golf.
There are a few potential causes for this issue. One possibility is that the door handles are not designed to handle cold weather conditions, causing them to freeze up. Another possibility is that the door handles are made of low-quality materials that are prone to breaking or malfunctioning. It is also possible that the door handles are not properly installed or adjusted, leading to increased stress on the handles and causing them to break more easily.
To address this issue, owners can try to prevent the door handles from freezing by applying a de-icer or lubricant to the handles before cold weather sets in. If the door handle has already frozen, owners can try to gently heat the handle with a hairdryer or warm water to thaw it. In some cases, the door handle may need to be replaced. When replacing the door handle, it is important to ensure that the new handle is of good quality and is properly installed to avoid further issues.
In addition to door handle issues, there are several other common problems that Mk2 Golf owners may encounter. These include issues with the heater core, headliner, seat release handles, reverse light switch, second gear grind, head gaskets, struts/shocks, brakes, and suspension. Many of these issues can be prevented or mitigated through regular maintenance and proper care of the vehicle.
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Suspension refurb may be needed if the car feels unresponsive
The VW Mk2 Golf is a reliable and affordable car, and its parts are readily available. However, if the car feels unresponsive, a suspension refurb may be needed. The original oil-filled shocks in the Mk2 Golf tend to leak when they get old, so it is recommended to upgrade them to gas-filled shocks.
The front suspension subframe is a known trouble spot, so it is important to carry out a proper inspection. When dismantling the front suspension legs, it is crucial to exercise caution and use spring compressors to prevent potential harm due to the high tension in the standard suspension system.
The rear beam axle is the centerpiece of the Mk2 Golf rear suspension, featuring shock absorbers and springs on either side. The rear shocks and springs replacement is a simpler task than the front. However, the rear lower suspension bolts are prone to rust and may require careful handling or cutting.
In addition to suspension issues, common problems with the Mk2 Golf include door handles, brake pads, fuel filters, CV joints, heater cores, and headliners. Good regular maintenance is key to keeping the Mk2 Golf in good condition.
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Heater matrix problems are common and tricky to fix
The Volkswagen Mk2 Golf is a popular car, known for its strong and practical design. However, one issue that owners commonly face is problems with the heater matrix. This component is crucial to the car's climate control system, but it can be tricky to fix when issues arise.
The heater matrix is essentially a small radiator located behind a bypass valve in the vehicle's coolant system. When the bypass valve is closed, the coolant circulates through the engine as usual, and the heater remains inactive. However, when the valve opens, hot coolant flows into the heater matrix, warming it up and allowing it to blow warm air into the cabin.
Issues with the heater matrix in the Mk2 Golf can lead to a range of problems, from a lack of warm air to wet carpets in the passenger footwell. In some cases, the heater may blow warm air intermittently or not at all, even after replacing the heater matrix with a new one. This can be incredibly frustrating for owners, especially during colder months.
Diagnosing and repairing heater matrix problems can be challenging. One possible cause is a blocked matrix, which can lead to a split, resulting in water leakage and soaked carpets. It's also important to check the pipes leading to and from the heater matrix, as issues with these pipes can impact the heater's performance. Additionally, the water pump impellor should be inspected to ensure it is circulating coolant properly.
To prevent issues with the heater matrix, it's essential to maintain the car properly and address any potential problems early on. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify leaks, clogs, or other issues before they become more significant problems. While the Mk2 Golf is generally reliable, heater matrix issues are a common challenge that owners may encounter. By being proactive and staying informed, owners can minimise the impact of these issues and ensure their cars remain comfortable and functional.
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Rust is a concern, especially on the sills and wheel arches
Rust is a primary concern for prospective buyers of the Mk2 Golf. While the mechanics of the car are robust and easy to repair, corrosion can be costly and time-consuming to fix.
Rust can be found in several areas of the Mk2 Golf. The sills, or the lowest horizontal part of the car body, are a common area for rust to develop. This is due to their proximity to the ground and exposure to road debris and moisture. Similarly, the wheel arches, which house the wheels, are also susceptible to rust because of their exposure to the elements and road debris.
Other areas of the Mk2 Golf prone to rust include the door bottoms, rear valance, suspension struts (both front and rear), the seam where the floor panel meets the sill, and the metal around the base of the windscreen. The lower bulkhead and front suspension subframe are also known trouble spots for corrosion.
When inspecting a Mk2 Golf for rust, it is important to take your time and carry out a thorough inspection. Pay close attention to the aforementioned areas, as they are the most likely to exhibit signs of corrosion. A Mk2 Golf that has been garaged is likely to have less rust, as it has been shielded from the elements and moisture.
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Frequently asked questions
MK2 Golfs are strong, reliable, and easy to fix. However, it is important to note that the ease of fixing depends on the specific issue and your level of mechanical knowledge and experience.
Some common issues with MK2 Golfs include door handles, heater cores, reverse light switches, and brake pads.
Wet carpets in the passenger footwell can indicate a heater matrix problem.
When buying an MK2 Golf, it is important to inspect the body for rust, especially in areas like the sills, wheel arches, door bottoms, and rear valance. Also, check for oil leaks and signs of oil emulsification inside the header tank cap.
Regular maintenance is key. Oil and filter changes are recommended every 5,000-6,000 miles, and the cambelt and tensioner should be replaced every 60,000 miles or four years. Additionally, keep an eye out for common issues like door handle problems and heater core leaks, and address them promptly.
