2005 Volkswagen Golf Review
Price Estimate: $656 - $2,284
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Volkswagen Golf model years
Volkswagen Golf types
- Hatchback
- Diesel
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Long list of standard features, high-quality cabin materials, utility of hatchback design, fuel-efficient diesel engine, fun to drive.
Cons
- More expensive than its peers, mediocre performance of base four-cylinder, some controls difficult to use.
What’s new
With an all-new Golf on the way next year, there are no major changes for the current model.
Edmunds says
Though pricier than the average economy car, the 2005 Volkswagen Golf offers far more amenities, refined driving dynamics and a very fuel-efficient diesel option, all of which make it an attractive hatchback.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
1 listings
- Not Priced
- 139,164 miles
- 21 City / 28 Hwy MPG, Manual
- 113 mi away
- Alarm
- Rear Bench Seats
- Fold Flat Rear Seats
Close
Located in New Castle, DE
The Listed Price is for CASH only. If this car is available for financing the price may vary depending on the Bank/Lenders Approval and any upfront fe...
- Features and Specs:
- 24 Combined MPG (21 City/28 Highway)
- Listing Information:
- VIN:
- 9BWBL61J754004644
- Stock:
- 23819
- Certified Pre-Owned:
- No
- Listed since:
- 08-16-2026
Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
The 2005 Volkswagen Golf consistently wins praise for its impressive fuel efficiency and agile driving experience. Owners frequently highlight its robust torque, which provides surprising strength for mountain climbs and highway passing, even in higher gears. The car’s spacious interior also receives accolades, comfortably accommodating taller drivers and offering ample cargo space with the rear seats folded. Many enjoy the solid road grip and precise handling that make it enjoyable to navigate through city streets and winding roads alike. The build quality, including a quiet diesel engine that minimizes typical diesel clatter and smoke, adds to the Golf’s appeal. Additionally, the sound systems, particularly the Monsoon stereo, are noted for their superior audio performance. Compact dimensions contribute to easy parking, making it an ideal choice for urban environments.
Common Issues
The 2005 Volkswagen Golf is not without its shortcomings, particularly regarding maintenance and reliability concerns. Owners frequently report problems with various components such as the master cylinder, transmission, and suspension components, often occurring soon after the vehicle's warranty expires. This results in higher repair costs, compounded by the difficulty of finding competent VW service providers. The interior materials also come under scrutiny, with several owners experiencing premature wear and tear, such as the peeling of the console coating and breaking of latches. The service from VW dealers is often criticized for being inadequate, with customers left frustrated by the number of return visits needed to address persistent issues. Additionally, while many appreciate the diesel's torque, others express disappointment over engine power and fuel mileage falling short of expectations, particularly with the gas engines. Despite these issues, for those willing to invest in maintenance and repairs, the driving experience continues to offer redeeming qualities.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2005 Volkswagen Golf leaves everyday drivers with mixed feelings primarily shaped by fuel efficiency and driving enjoyment. Those covering long distances appreciate the impressive mileage the TDI engine delivers, frequently achieving figures that surpass other diesel vehicles in its class. Many drivers enjoy the Golf’s nimble handling and ample torque, which makes daily commutes and errands around town engaging. However, repeated mechanical issues and unreliable dealer service can wear down even the most committed enthusiasts. Interior quality garners mixed reviews, with several pointing out premature wear while others commend its overall comfort and usability. The Golf's suitability for taller drivers and versatile cargo space makes it a practical choice for families and solo commuters alike. From its compact size facilitating easy parking to its competent control on diverse terrains, the Golf's charm reflects a balance of wins and caveats for those who embrace the driving experience it offers.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$200/mo for Golf GL
Golf GL
vs
$221/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Reliability
The 2005 Volkswagen Golf has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 4 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
4 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 14E007000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 50
- Defect Description:
- The Gates Corporation (Gates) is recalling certain aftermarket Tru-Flow Water Pumps, part number TFW 41127, sold at certain NAPA Auto Parts and/or installed by automotive service technicians after November 1, 2013 (and manufactured August 2013 through October 2013) that have a black-colored pulley/sprocket or do not have 'US9377' stamped on the water pump housing. These service replacement parts were sold for use in model year 1999-2005 Audi A4, 2000-2006 Audi TT, 1998-2005 Volkswagen Beetle, 1999-2006 Golf, 1999-2008 and 2011-2013 Volkswagen Jetta, and 2000-2005 Volkswagen Passat. In the affected water pumps, the pulley or sprocket that turns the timing belt may develop microfractures causing the timing belt to fail.
- Defect Consequence:
- A failure of the timing belt may cause the engine to shut down, potentially increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Corrective Action:
- Gates will notify owners, and dealers will replace the water pump, free of charge. The recall began during May 2014. Owners may contact The Gates Corporation at 1-303-744-1911.
- Recall Number:
- 07V063000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- N4
- Manufactured from:
- 2000-02-01 to 2005-07-31
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1002000
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN PASSENGER, WAGON, AND CONVERTIBLE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH OR WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL, A BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH MAY MALFUNCTION IF IT WAS INSTALLED INCORRECTLY.
- Defect Consequence:
- THE BRAKE LIGHTS COULD BECOME INOPERATIVE, OR REMAIN ON. FAILURE TO PROVIDE THE PROPER SIGNAL WHEN BRAKING COULD LEAD TO A CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSTALL THE NEWLY DESIGNED BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 27, 2007, AND WILL BE CONDUCTED IN SEVERAL STAGGERED MAILINGS THROUGH SEPTEMBER 21, 2007. VEHICLES WITHIN THE MAKE, MODEL, AND MODEL YEAR OF THIS POPULATION MAY BE INVOLVED IN EITHER THIS RECALL OR 06V-183, BUT NOT BOTH. THE REMEDY IS THE SAME FOR EACH RECALL. VOLKSWAGEN DEALERS WILL APPLY THE REMEDY BASED ON THE VIN NUMBER OF THE VEHICLE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VW AT 1-800-822-8987.
- Recall Number:
- 07E023000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 13128
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN CARDONE MASTER CYLINDERS WITH PART NUMBERS 10-2925, 10-2987, 10-2987MZA, 10-3083, 11-3015, 11-3042, 11-3044, 11-3045, 11-3047, 11-3064, AND 11-3156, AND WITH DATE CODES LOWER THAN DCA7078 SOLD AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE SEAL ON MASTER CYLINDER CAN FAIL AND LEAK BRAKE FLUID.
- Defect Consequence:
- LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID CAN RESULT IN POOR BRAKING PERFORMANCE, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- CARDONE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE ANY DEFECTIVE MASTER CYLINDERS. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING APRIL 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT CARDONE AT 1-800-777-4780.
- Recall Number:
- 04V586000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- VY
- Manufactured from:
- 2004-03-01 to 2004-08-29
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 19284
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE HIGH PRESSURE DIESEL PUMPS WERE PRODUCED WITH AN IMPROPER FASTENER, WHICH COULD ALLOW DIESEL FUEL TO ESCAPE FROM THE PUMP.
- Defect Consequence:
- FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE MAY LEAD TO A FIRE.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DIESEL PUMP. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 8, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT VOLKSWAGEN AT 1-800-822-8987.
Warranty
4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 5 years / 60,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 12 years / unlimited miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
Volkswagen Golf Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(73%)
4(21%)
3(6%)
2(0%)
1(0%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Love this car!
4.63 out of 5 starslizzieinmd, 12/07/2013
2005 Volkswagen Golf GLS TDI 4dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
I bought my 2005 Golf TDI brand new in February 2005. I love the fuel mileage - average of 46-48 mpg and I don't visit the gas station very often. It is a really fun car to drive with what feels like lots of power due to the torque. It is, however, expensive to maintain and not always easy to find a good local VW mechanic. VW dealer service always seems to be sub par (I have been to 3 … different dealers for service). I still would not give up my car because I do love driving it!
Great engine/Gearbox shonkybuild quality
3.75 out of 5 starsDe Spear, 10/26/2010
2005 Volkswagen Golf GLS TDI 4dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
The engine is great and mates wonderfully to the DSG The car has plenty of torque and is responsive I am very disappointed with the quality of the materials used Car dealer service is very expensive. http://ontargetreviews.blogspot.com/2010/09/2005-vw-golf-tdi-20-comfortline.html
Too many problems
4 out of 5 starsKaren Marie, 02/26/2015
2005 Volkswagen Golf GLS 4dr Hatchback (2.0L 4cyl 5M)
Bought Golf GLS M/T new Jan/2006. Had a great run for the first few years. It handles great, is a lot of fun to drive and looks good.
But, once it was out of warranty, the problems started. At about 44,000 miles/7 yrs., the master cylinder (brakes) needed to be replaced, and rotors. Internal engine oil leak - new transmission needed before 50,000 miles. Hood latch broke 2x. Strange … front thumping noise that cannot be diagnosed began in 9th year.
Around year 6 the armrest latch broke. Around year 8 the glove compartment latch broke. And this is from a single driver - hardly ever passengers, no kids - so these things were hardly ever opened.
Loved the car but would not buy again. I traded it in after 9 years and would not buy VW again, as much as I loved the car in the beginning.
Good for the long haul.
4.75 out of 5 starsscvcampdavis, 12/26/2007
2005 Volkswagen Golf GL TDI 4dr Hatchback (1.9L 4cyl Turbodiesel 5M)
I drive about 115 miles round trip to work. All I have ever done is change the oil (about every 12-15k miles), replace a couple head lights, and change the tires. My car has yet to need brakes or any major repair. The perfect stylish, fun to drive, daily commuter!
2005 Golf Features & Specs
Hatchback
GL
| Est. Market Value | $1,829 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 24 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $200/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 18 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Golf include:
- Alarm
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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