2021 Volkswagen Golf Safety Report
2021 Volkswagen Golf shows strong crash test results but has a recall for rearview camera and isolated electrical/lighting complaints.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Volkswagen Golf
Reliability Score
The 2021 Volkswagen Golf receives a reliability score of 75 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
Known Issues for the 2021 Volkswagen Golf
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Volkswagen Golf:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rear View Camera Malfunction Recall issued for a black or frozen rear view camera image, increasing crash risk when reversing. |
High | Common | N/A miles |
| Exterior Lighting Cracking Headlight lens assembly cracking excessively, impacting light output and potentially a manufacturing defect. |
Medium | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Electrical System Malfunctions Faulty door wiring harness leading to issues like non-functional blinkers, random window rolling, and collision detector errors. |
High | Occasional | N/A miles |
| Power Steering System Failure Red power steering light, flashing/beeping, and steering wheel locking up while driving. |
High | Rare | N/A miles |
| Hill Hold Assist Malfunction Hill hold assist not disengaging quickly, almost causing a rear-end collision. |
Medium | Rare | N/A miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Volkswagen Golf:
Issues reported include faulty door wiring harness affecting blinkers, windows, and collision detectors, as well as auto-dimming mirror response.
Cracking of headlight lens assembly impacting light output.
Power steering system light, beeping, and steering wheel locking up.
Hill hold assist not disengaging quickly, posing a safety risk.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Volkswagen Golf
Is the 2021 Volkswagen Golf safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Volkswagen Golf received an excellent 5-star overall safety rating, with 5 stars in side impact and 4 stars in frontal and rollover tests. However, there is one recall for a rearview camera malfunction and a few isolated complaints regarding electrical and exterior lighting issues.
What are common problems with the 2021 Volkswagen Golf?
The most reported issues, though few in number, include electrical system malfunctions (40% of complaints), exterior lighting problems like cracking headlight lenses (20%), and steering system failures (20%). There's also a recall for the rearview camera.
Has the 2021 Volkswagen Golf been recalled?
Yes, the 2021 Volkswagen Golf has been subject to one recall. This recall (NHTSA ID: 21V157000) addresses a potential malfunction of the rear view camera, which could display a black or frozen image, increasing the risk of a crash.
How does the 2021 Volkswagen Golf perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Volkswagen Golf performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an overall 5-star safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
Are there any issues with the 2021 Golf's electrical system?
Yes, based on NHTSA complaints, there are reports of electrical system issues, including a faulty door wiring harness leading to problems with blinkers, windows, and collision detectors, as well as an auto-dimming mirror not functioning as expected.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: The 2021 Volkswagen Golf offers strong crash protection, but potential buyers should verify that the rearview camera recall has been addressed and be aware of isolated reports concerning electrical system and exterior lighting issues.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Volkswagen Golf
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Volkswagen Golf. The data includes 5 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Volkswagen Golf an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.