What years was the Volkswagen Golf made?

The Volkswagen Golf has been produced from 1981 to present.

How do I check for Volkswagen Golf recalls?

Enter your Volkswagen Golf VIN above. Our free tool checks the NHTSA database for any open safety recalls specific to your vehicle.

What does a Volkswagen Golf VIN tell me?

A Volkswagen Golf VIN reveals the exact trim level, engine size, manufacturing plant, safety features, and model year. Our decoder extracts all this data instantly.

1981–2026 Model Years

Volkswagen Golf VIN Check & Specs

Name: Volkswagen Golf
Brand: Volkswagen

Decode any Volkswagen Golf VIN to reveal factory specs, open recalls, and owner complaints.

Works for all Golf trims and engines.

About the Volkswagen Golf

The Volkswagen Golf is a popular hatchback that has been in production since 1981 and continues to be manufactured today.

Before buying a used Golf, it's critical to check the VIN for open safety recalls, accident history, and manufacturing defects. Our free decoder pulls data directly from NHTSA to give you peace of mind.

1981

First Year

Present

Still Made

Model Years

Select Your Golf Year

Choose your model year for year-specific specs, recalls, and common issues.

2026 2025 2024 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 1983 1982 1981

Common Volkswagen Golf Issues

Based on NHTSA complaints and recall data, here are areas to watch when buying a used Golf:

Safety Recalls

Check for unrepaired defects

Transmission

Shifting & reliability

Electrical

Sensors & wiring issues

Engine

Oil consumption & timing

Enter your VIN above to check if your specific Golf is affected.

Other Volkswagen Models

Jetta Tiguan Atlas

Volkswagen Golf FAQ

Check Your Golf VIN Now

Don't buy a Volkswagen Golf without checking the VIN first.