Used 1998 Volkswagen Golf Consumer Reviews
Used Golf for sale
2...
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 1998 Golf, so we've included reviews for other years of the Golf since its last redesign.
Last of the bad designs?
GKnight17, 04/01/2002
1997 Volkswagen Golf GL 4dr Hatchback
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Overall, the Golf III is a decent car. The body rigidity has held, so no squeaks or strange noises from the depths of the dash. However, the locks freeze solid VERY EASILY and this causes your key to bend in unnatural ways. Also, they obviously cut corners in numerous places - the battery died after two years (a cell in the battery died - it couldn't be jumped). Also, the spark plugs coked-up 20K miles early - no warning, just died. Dealer "service" consists of numerous checks for $200-$300. To actually fix/replce something costs extra - not at Honda though. For Hondas, that price includes scheduled part replacement. Could be a dealer-specific issue, though.
Fun and reliable so far
Scott, 05/11/2006
1998 Volkswagen Golf GL 4dr Hatchback
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought this car several months ago with about 68,000 miles, and I've put a couple thousand more miles on it. So far my only maintenance has been scheduled items like replacing the timing belt and new tires.
Driving fun combined with cargo space!
ksagmoen, 04/10/2002
1998 Volkswagen Golf GL 4dr Hatchback
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've had VW's for many years ('80 Rabbit, '88 Golf, and this '98 Golf). In general, they're great cars and I love to drive them. Great gas mileage, great cargo space, and a TON of fun to drive. I highly recommend getting the standard transmission. I wish I would have gotten the CD changer for the trunk. I've had a few problems with this particular vehicle, though. The radiator sprung a leak (at a seam) at 28K miles -- VW wouldn't pay for fixing it. The seat part of the bucket seat tends to flatten out -- I had to replace the driver's at about 25K and I'll have to replace the passenger one soon (51K). I also had exhaust problems, but I think that was my fault.
Great car!
Emelio, 02/15/2018
1997 Volkswagen Golf GL 4dr Hatchback
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The millage on my manual transmission1997 VW Golf GL odometer, reads 181,377...I bought it used from a dealer in 1999 ,it had 36,000 miles. During the years it needed little repair, mainly maintenance such as changing the ignition coil once, the PCV valve and the breather house; the battery and the windshield wipers were replaced under normal maintenance .Oil change every 3000 miles.Now I change it every 4000 miles.It gave me many years of pleasant rides.Last year I charged the AC with cooling agent since I drove for years without AC! Recently I replaced its ignition switch, struts and suspension springs, lower support arm assy's and sway bar links then I installed new door handles and a new Sony 5100BT radio. It did not cost that much.I just cannot part with it ,it brings back too many memories.I drive it to work during the weekdays and will have the engine rebuilt when time comes.It's been a great car for me...
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
This engine won't die!
3stateVW, 06/26/2008
1997 Volkswagen Golf GL 4dr Hatchback
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
After having my first VW at age 17, I went to a new VW at age 22. The Golf was an affordable first car and now, after three kids, I can't get this car to quit. The engine is true VW form as it goes as long as the electronics will let it. The zippiness is a blast on curvy hills. The time in the shop was plenty (two clutch cables, new transmission, and alarm system malfunction) in the first 3 years and then, nothing but regular maintenance for 7 years. Now the seats and door locks are failing, but it still gets 29 mpg after 11 years, 135,000 miles and moving 3 states. As much as we want a new car, this one could keep the gas bills down for years to come.
2...