EXPERT IN AUTO PARTS
4 September 2025 (updated) Table of Contents
The infotainment system of the VW Golf 8 shows various symptoms of malfunctions, which are particularly common in the 2020 and 2021 model years. The display does not turn on, remains black or only partially displays content. Vehicles with the large 10-inch display are particularly affected, with voice control also not working properly. These faults often occur within the first 5,000-10,000 kilometers and can be exacerbated by temperature fluctuations. The reliability of the system is significantly impaired, leading to considerable complaints from drivers.
A systematic check is essential to rectify these electronic faults. The sensitive Volkswagen Golf 8 infotainment control units often require complete software updates or replacement of the entire unit to restore full functionality. In stubborn cases, the only solution is to replace the display or the control unit behind it. The service life of the first generations is significantly reduced, which is why VW has issued several software updates. Preventive measures include regular updates and protection against extreme temperatures.
The start-stop system of the VW Golf 8 causes considerable difficulties, particularly with the 1.5 TSI 130 PS, 1.0 TSI and 2.0 TDI 116 PS engines. The system does not start automatically, switches off while driving or does not restart. These frequent faults occur more frequently between 5,000 and 15,000 kilometers. The 12V battery plays a central role here, as it often does not provide the necessary capacity for the system. The system does not function reliably, particularly in cold temperatures or after long periods of inactivity. The symptoms worsen over time and can lead to complete failure.
Regular maintenance is crucial for the functionality of the Start-Stop system. The sophisticated Volkswagen Golf VIII battery systems require special AGM batteries with a higher capacity and regular checks of the charge level every 10,000 kilometers. Replacing the 12V battery with a more powerful variant often solves the problem permanently. In addition, the battery terminals should be cleaned and the battery management software version updated. The service life of the original battery is often only 3-4 years, well below the usual 5-6 years.
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-26%
Article number: F11-15-021-01-VA
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£101.54
£74.99
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£149.98 / Price per 2 items
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Article number: C2516S
£115.49
Price per item
£230.98 / Price per 2 items
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-48%
NRF Heater matrix
without pipe, with seal ring
Article number: 54342
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£94.69
£48.99price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-25%
NGK Ignition coil
4-pin connector, Connector Type SAE
Article number: 48409
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£47.83
£35.49£141.96 / Price per 4 items
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Article number: EK720
£120.49price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
The key recognition of the VW Golf 8 often fails, even if a new battery has been installed. The key does not work despite a new battery and shows the message "key not recognized" in the display. These weak points occur particularly in the first production years 2020-2021 and affect all variants from the GTI to the GTD to the eHybrid. The problem often manifests itself in the first 1,000-3,000 kilometers and can occur intermittently. The reliability of the keyless go system is severely impaired, which can lead to significant breakdowns. Especially after software updates or at low temperatures, the complaints worsen.
An expert inspection is required to identify the cause of the key problems. The sensitive VW Golf 8 antenna modules in the door handles and in the interior must be calibrated or replaced to ensure proper recognition. Reprogramming the keys or updating the comfort control unit software often helps. In severe cases, the entire keyless system must be replaced. The service life of the key batteries is usually only 1-2 years instead of the usual 3-4 years for other manufacturers.
The assistance systems of the VW Golf 8, in particular Travel Assist and Park Assist, frequently fail and malfunction. The system reports "travel assist not available" or "park assist not available", although all sensors are clean and undamaged. The engines 2.0 TDI 150 PS, 2.0 TSI 190 PS and the GTI Clubsport are particularly affected. These problems occur more frequently between 10,000-25,000 kilometers and can be caused by software errors or defective camera systems. The reversing camera can also fail or provide distorted images. The symptoms worsen in poor weather conditions and in the dark.
Professional maintenance is essential for the driver assistance systems to function properly. The complex VW Golf 8 camera and radar systems require regular calibration every 15,000 kilometers and after every major software update. The windshield camera must be precisely aligned and the radar sensors in the bumpers require special cleaning. Persistent problems often require the control units to be replaced or a complete recalibration at the factory. The service life of the camera systems is limited to 5-7 years, significantly shorter than that of conventional vehicle systems.
The air conditioning system in the Golf 8 has various weak points, which are particularly noticeable in the Variant, Alltrack and eHybrid hybrid models. The air conditioning system does not start or the air conditioning system does not cool sufficiently, especially at high outside temperatures. These common faults often occur between 15,000-30,000 kilometers and affect both manual and automatic air conditioning systems. The service life of the air conditioning compressors is reduced and leaks occur in the refrigerant circuit. Mild hybrid systems in particular show problems with the coordination between the electrical and mechanical drive of the compressor. The symptoms worsen in summer and can lead to complete breakdowns.
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity of the air conditioning system. The sophisticated VW Golf 8 air conditioning systems require annual maintenance with refrigerant testing and replacement of the cabin filter every 15,000 kilometers. The condenser should be cleaned regularly and the electronic control units must be checked for updates. For hybrid models, the coordination between the high-voltage and 12V systems must also be checked. Preventive measures include using the air conditioning system even in winter and regularly disinfecting the system.
The DSG gearbox in the VW Golf 8 has specific problems that differ from previous models. The gearbox does not shift smoothly, jerks when starting off or goes into emergency mode. The combinations with the 1.5 eTSI and 2.0 TDI engines are particularly affected. These weak points often manifest themselves between 20,000-40,000 kilometers and can be caused by software problems or mechanical wear. The reliability of the 7-speed DSG is impaired and unusual noises occur when changing gear. The symptoms intensify in stop-and-go traffic and can lead to costly repairs. The manual gearbox also shows problems with stiff gears.
A systematic check is required to diagnose DSG problems. The precise VW Golf VIII dual-clutch gearboxes require special DSG oil changes every 60,000 kilometers and regular software updates of the gearbox control unit. The clutches have to be completely replaced when they wear out, which incurs considerable costs. In the newer variants with mild hybrid technology, coordination with the electrical system must also be checked. The service life of the DSG clutches is between 100,000-150,000 kilometers, depending on the driving style.
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BOSCH Glow plug
4,4V M 10 x 1, Rod Glow Plug, Length: 130 mm, 10 Nm, 63, Duraterm
Article number: 0 250 403 009
£11.99
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£47.96 / Price per 4 items
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VAG Engine oil
0W-20, 5l
Article number: GS60577M4
£53.49
£10.70
for 1 litre
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VIKA Window switch
Article number: 99591803701
£15.99price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-28%
FEBI BILSTEIN Oil, Haldex coupling
0,85l
Article number: 101172
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£31.99
£22.99
£27.05
for 1 litre
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Based on the experiences of Volkswagen Golf 8 drivers, the following additional problems occur:
| Strengths | Weak points |
|---|---|
| Modern engine technology (eTSI, mild hybrid) | Infotainment system unstable |
| Good chassis tuning | Start-stop system unreliable |
| High-quality interior | Faulty key recognition |
| Efficient engines (1.0 TSI, 1.5 TSI) | Assistance systems fail |
| Extensive safety equipment | Air conditioning problematic |
| Large trunk (especially Variant) | DSG gearbox is jerky |
| Solid workmanship | Weak 12V battery |
| Good handling (GTI, GTD) | Software updates frequently necessary |
The Volkswagen Golf 8 represents Volkswagen's technological progress, but also brings with it new challenges. Digitalization and electrification are leading to more complex systems that are more susceptible to malfunctions. Regular software updates and professional maintenance are crucial for reliability. Despite the problems mentioned, the Golf 8 remains a fundamentally solid vehicle that will achieve a good service life with proper care.
FEBI BILSTEIN Oil sump plug
Steel, Spanner Size: 19, with seal ring
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SWAG Manual gearbox oil
Capacity: 1l
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BREMBO Brake disc
312x25mm, 5, perforated/vented
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ATE Brake caliper
without holder
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SACHS Shock absorber
Gas Pressure, Twin-Tube, Suspension Strut
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Valvoline Engine oil
5W-30, 5l
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FEBI BILSTEIN Brake disc backing plate
Front Axle Left
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MEYLE Gearbox service kit
with accessories, with oil quantity for standard oil change
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EIBACH Coil spring
Rear Axle, Coil Spring, for vehicles with sports suspension
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FEBI BILSTEIN Transfer Case Oil
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