Ad-free. Influence-free. Powered by consumers.

Skip to Main Content

Suggested Searches

Recent Searches

Clear History

Suggested Searches

Product Ratings

Resources

CHAT WITH AskCR

Resources

All Products A-Z
Your membership has expired

The payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.

Re-activate
Favorites
Donate

Save products you love, products you own and much more!

Save products icon
Join Now Upgrade

Other Membership Benefits:

Savings icon Exclusive Deals for Members Best time to buy icon Best Time to Buy Products Recall tracker icon Recall & Safety Alerts TV screen optimizer icon TV Screen Optimizer and more
Savings icon Exclusive Deals for Members Best time to buy icon Best Time to Buy Products Recall tracker icon Recall & Safety Alerts TV screen optimizer icon TV Screen Optimizer and more
Join Now Upgrade
Cars Home Appliances Electronics Babies Digital Security Holiday Deals Money Travel Health & Wellness Kids Pet Products News Bill Negotiator All Products A-Z
 
Sign In
Join Now
Explore categories

Cars

Car Research

Ratings & Reviews
SUVs Hybrids/EVs Luxury Cars & SUVs Sedans & Hatchbacks Minivans & 3-Row SUVs Pickup Trucks Used Cars Electric Bikes Bike Racks Car Insurance
All Car Research
All Car Research
Buying Advice & Tools
10 Most Satisfying Cars 10 Most Reliable Cars Best Cars for Short or Tall Drivers Best Cars for Teen Drivers Best Used Cars Interactive Car Finder
Which Brands Make the Best New Cars?

CARS

Which Brands Make the Best New Cars?

Car Buying & Pricing

Best Car Deals Now
Best SUVs Under $30K Best Deals on SUVs Best Deals on Fuel-Efficient Cars Leasing vs. Buying Car Loan Advice How to Buy a New Car Now
All Car Buying & Pricing
All Car Buying & Pricing
Member Savings & Tools
Car Buying Guide Build & Buy Car Buying Service Trade-in Estimator Used Car Marketplace
Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars?

Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars?

Tires, Maintenance & Repair

Ratings & Reviews
Tires Tire Retailers Car Batteries Car Repair Shops Car Seats
All Tires, Maintenance & Repair
All Tires, Maintenance & Repair
Ownership Advice
Find Car Recalls Make Your Car Run Longer Inspect Belts and Hoses Car Repair Assistant Find the Best Car Insurance
Car Reliability Guide

Car Reliability Guide

Key Topics & News

Car Safety
Car Recalls Car Seats Car Safety Guide Safety System Glossary
All Key Topics & News
All Key Topics & News
Fuel Efficiency
Should You Go Hybrid/EV? Save Money at the Pump Most Fuel-Efficient Cars EV Incentives Fuel Efficiency Guide
Listen to the Talking Cars Podcast

CAR NEWS

Listen to the Talking Cars Podcast

All Cars
All Cars

Home

Bed & Bath

Ratings & Reviews
Mattresses Sheets Pillows Toilets Bidet Seats Curling Irons Hair Dryers
All Bed & Bath
All Bed & Bath
Ownership Advice
Cleaning Your Mattress Organize Your Linen Closet Under-the-Bed Storage
Best Mattresses

Top Picks From CR

Best Mattresses

Lawn & Garden

Ratings & Reviews
Lawn Mowers & Tractors Charcoal & Gas Grills Leaf Blowers Pressure Washers String Trimmers Floodlight Cameras Chainsaws Snow Blowers
All Lawn & Garden
All Lawn & Garden
Ownership Advice
Best Charcoal Grills Fix Hidden Dangers in Your Home 5 Expert Tips for Staining a Deck
Best Snow Blowers

TOP PICKS FROM CR

Best Snow Blowers

Home Improvement

Ratings & Reviews
Decking Door Locks Flooring Generators Paints Security Cameras Security Systems Wood Stains Windows
All Home Improvement
All Home Improvement
Ownership Advice
Protect Your Biggest Investment Best Smart Lightbulbs How to Improve Indoor Air Quality
Best Whole-House Generators

Rated and Reviewed

Best Whole-House Generators

Home Safety & Security

Ratings & Reviews
Door Locks & Smart Locks Home Security Cameras Home Security Systems Smoke & CO Detectors
All Home Safety & Security
All Home Safety & Security
Safety Advice
Storm & Emergency Guide Generator Safety Tips Protect Against Indoor Air Pollution
Best DIY Home Security Systems

Survey Results

Best Homeowners Insurance Companies

All Home
All Home

Appliances

Kitchen

Ratings & Reviews
Cooktops Countertops Dishwashers Freezers Microwave Ovens Wall Ovens Ranges Refrigerators
All Kitchen
All Kitchen
Ownership Advice
Tips for Doing Laundry Organizing Your Kitchen Make Your Dishwasher Last
Most and Least Reliable Refrigerators

SURVEY RESULTS

Most and Least Reliable Refrigerators

Small Appliances

Ratings & Reviews
Air Fryers Blenders Breadmakers Coffee Makers Electric Kettles Food Steamers Food Processors Rice Cookers Knives
All Small Appliances
All Small Appliances
Cooking Advice
Small Kitchen Essentials Cleaning Cast Iron Kitchen Appliances for $100 or Less
Best Coffee Makers

TOP PICKS FROM CR

Best Coffee Makers

Laundry & Cleaning

Ratings & Reviews
Air Purifiers Vacuums Robotic Vacuums Washing Machines Clothes Dryers Washer/Dryer Pairs Pressure Washers Steam Mops Laundry Detergents
All Laundry & Cleaning
All Laundry & Cleaning
Laundry & Cleaning Advice
Don't Use Vinegar Here Cleaning a Dirty Oven How to Reduce Indoor Allergens Repair or Replace: Washer
Best Washing Machines

Top Picks From CR

Best Washing Machines

Heating, Cooling & Air

Ratings & Reviews
Air Conditioners Air Filters Air Purifiers Central Air Conditioners Dehumidifiers Thermostats Water Heaters Space Heaters
All Heating, Cooling & Air
All Heating, Cooling & Air
Ownership Advice
Are Smart Thermostats Worth It? 4 Reasons to Consider a Heat Pump Protect Against Indoor Air Pollution
Best Space Heaters

TOP PICKS FROM CR

Best Space Heaters

All Appliances
All Appliances

Electronics

Home Entertainment

Ratings & Reviews
TVs Wireless & Bluetooth Speakers Soundbars Streaming Media Players Headphones
All Home Entertainment
All Home Entertainment
Media Advice
Streaming Services Guide Best Streaming Music How to Clean Your Flat-Screen TV
Best TVs

FIND YOUR NEW TV

Best TVs

Home Office

Ratings & Reviews
Laptops Desktop Computers Printers Computer Monitors Tablets Wireless Routers
All Home Office
All Home Office
Set Up Advice
Organize Your Home Office Choosing a Standing Desk Best Office Chairs
Best Printers From CR's Tests

Rated and Reviewed

Best Printers From CR's Tests

Smartphones & Wearables

Ratings & Reviews
Smartphones Smartwatches Headphones Cameras
All Smartphones & Wearables
All Smartphones & Wearables
Tech Advice
Choosing a Cell Phone Mount Filter Social Media Apps Pre-Owned Tech: Yes or No?
Best Workout Earbuds for Your Fitness Routine

Top Picks From CR

Best Workout Earbuds for Your Fitness Routine

All Electronics
All Electronics
Babies

Digital Security

Digital Security & Privacy

Ratings & Reviews
Antivirus Software Crypto Wallets Password Managers Wireless Routers Home Security Cameras Home Security Systems
All Digital Security & Privacy
All Digital Security & Privacy
Safety Advice
Google Privacy Settings 30-Second Privacy Fixes What Is Smishing? Identity Theft Advice Permission Slip App Security Planner
One app to take back control of your data

CR PERMISSION SLIP APP

One app to take back control of your data

All Digital Security
All Digital Security
Holiday Deals

More

Money Travel Health & Wellness Kids Pet Products News Bill Negotiator All Products A-Z
All Products A-Z
About Us
Our Mission

Take Action

Get involved
Volunteer With Us Add Your Voice Join a Research Project Attend an Event
Issues we work on
Food Safety Car Safety & Efficiency Data Privacy Financial Fairness
Donate
    2012
    New 2026
    Used 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

    Volkswagen GTI

    EPA MPG: NA
    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 2 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.
    Slide #1 Thumbnail Slide #2 Thumbnail
    Slide #1 Thumbnail Slide #2 Thumbnail
    Slide #1 Thumbnail Slide #2 Thumbnail
    Slide #1 Thumbnail Slide #2 Thumbnail

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how used vehicles are holding up in 17 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, and brakes to power equipment and the electrical system.

    The 2012 Volkswagen GTI has been recalled 2 times by NHTSA. View Recalls

    2012 Sports Cars & Convertibles Reliability

    This Car
    NA
    vs. Similar Cars

    Volkswagen vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    See How Other Brands Stack up
    Reliability History
    * Redesign year
    00
    01
    02
    03
    04
    05
    06*
    07
    08
    09
    10*
    11
    12
    13
    14
    15*
    16
    17
    18
    19
    20
    21
    22*
    23
    24
    25
    Overall Reliability Verdict
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA

    NA
    NA

    NA
    NA
    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Major
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Minor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Cooling
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Engine Electrical
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Transmission Major
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Transmission Minor
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Drive System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Fuel System/Emissions
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Exhaust
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Suspension/Steering
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Brakes
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Climate System
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Build Quality
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Electrical Accessories
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Body Hardware
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Paint/Trim
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Noises/Leaks
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    In-car Electronics
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    NA
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.

    Learn more about car Reliability.

    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    UNKNOWN OR OTHER
    May 16, 2018
    If the vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements, there could be an increased risk of a crash, fire, or injury.
    Read Recall Details
    Summary:
    Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Eos, 2012 Passat, 2012-2016 CC, 2015-2016 e-Golf, 2011-2015 Touareg, 2012-2015 and 2017 Tiguan, and 2011-2016 Golf and 2011-2013 GTI vehicles. Modifications made while the vehicles were in an internal evaluation period may cause the affected vehicles to not comply with all of the applicable regulatory requirements.
    What should you do:
    Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles to make them fully compliant or Volkswagen will repurchase them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 29, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 18V329000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 252
    Hide Recall Details
    AIR BAGS
    Aug 04, 2015
    A loss of electrical connection to the driver's frontal air bag will prevent the air bag from deploying in the event of a vehicle crash, increasing the risk of injury.
    Read Recall Details
    Summary:
    Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Volkswagen CC, and Passat, 2010-2013 Eos, 2011-2014 Golf, GTI, Jetta, and Tiguan, and 2012-2014 Jetta Sportwagen vehicles. In the affected vehicles, debris may contaminate the air bag clock spring, a spiral wound, flat cable that keeps the air bag powered while the steering wheel is being turned. This contamination may tear the cable and result in a loss of electrical connection to the driver's frontal air bag.
    What should you do:
    Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install a protective cover over the steering wheel clock spring if the air bag light is off. If the airbag light is on and the steering wheel clock spring requires replacement, dealers will install a new steering wheel clock spring. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on January 15, 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 15V483000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 415825
    Hide Recall Details
    Check Vehicle for Unrepaired Recalls
    Enter a valid 17-character VIN
    Enter a valid 17-character VIN
    Change Vehicle