Volkswagen Golf 4 GTI

In 1997, Volkswagen introduced the receiver of its key model – the fourth-generation Golf. A few months after the debut, its sports version – GTI – was released. Unfortunately, it did not become a continuation of the iconic GTI, which caused great disappointment among fans of the brand and model. However, the car was in quite high demand. Therefore, today in the secondary market you can find many interesting copies.

Interior

The interior of the Golf 4 GTI is a well-known typical Volkswagen style. It is precisely calibrated, strict and ergonomic. The GTI version received a muted sports notes. Inside, you’ll find a characteristic checkered upholstery on the seats, a golf ball-shaped switching handle and red accents. In addition, you will get realistic and exciting seats of the famous Recaro (found in different color options, for example, Recaro Blue) and adjustable in two planes three-spoke steering wheel with leather braiding. This is where the sports accents end. Characteristic features in the cabin: black interior (front panel, side panels, carpet) and elegant black wood inserts around the center console, ashtray covers and door handles. The backlight of the instrument scales, typical of Volkswagen of that period, is blue. The highest quality materials were used for finishing. Although after several years of operation, typical defects appear - a rubberized coating will climb from the door handles, the center console and the pad on the steering wheel. Often the skin on the steering wheel will climb, and there are scuffs on the driver's seat. It looks disgusting, especially in a car of such a famous brand. With age, plastic elements of the interior begin to creak when passing irregularities. The VW Golf GTI was additionally equipped with comfort and safety systems. In the price lists, the GTI version appeared above the top Highline.

Engines

Most often, under the hood of the Golf 4 GTI got a 1.8-turbo petrol engine in two power options of 150 and 180 hp (respectively 210 and 235 Nm). This engine is considered the best in the history of Volkswagen. It is based on a time-tested design, known for the Golf III, Passat B4 and Audi 80. The engine received a modern 20-valve scheme (for each cylinder 3 intake and 2 exhaust valves), a head with two camshafts and turbocharging. The engine turned out to be relatively reliable, but during operation it needed a caring attitude. The turbocharger required heating and cooling, and the engine oil used was only synthetic, according to Volkswagen recommendations. There are cases of high oil consumption, but no natural causes have been found. It all depends on the operating conditions of a particular instance. It is quite expensive to have episodic problems with the gas distribution system. The characteristic rustle may be a harbinger of replacing the small chain tensioner (up to $ 700), which connects the camshafts, or valve gap hydraulic compensators. There are also failures in the operation of sensors, for example, air flowmeter. Symptoms - floating turns and unpleasant vibrations. Often helps the banal cleaning of the sensor. The turbo engine VW Golf GTI provides quite acceptable fuel consumption - about 8-9 liters in the city. With a more intense rhythm of movement, appetite grows to 10 l / 100 km, which is a satisfactory result. Engine 1.

Suspension

The Golf GTI suspension is almost identical to the civilian versions. On the front axle of McPherson, behind the eternal torsion beam. But the springs are shorter and stiffer. Despite this, there is no discomfort. Overall, the suspension is reliable and cheap to repair. So the shock absorber costs within 50 dollars. Unfortunately, the car is prone to insufficient turnability, which is felt when dynamically entering a sharp turn. Electronically controlled differential helps with a sharp start from the spot.

Common faults

Overall, the VW Golf GTI enjoys a good reputation among owners and is considered a problem car. Most often, the picture is spoiled by small things that are annoying in everyday use. These are lighting control switches, the mechanism of lifting / lowering the windows, external door handles, wipers and the rear window washer. There are cases of failure of the air conditioner compressor.

Of the serious breakdowns - the aforementioned tensioner of the small chain drive camshaft and valve pushers. Ignoring the recommendation to replace the water pump along with the timing system belt subsequently leads to additional costs due to repeated intervention. When properly operated, the turbine nurses 250,000 km. Regular monitoring requires the level and condition of the oil.

The Golf GTI body usually doesn’t bloom. All thanks to galvanizing and good protection against corrosion. Corrosion marks are a sure sign of improper body repair. However, the aluminum rear door handle is sometimes oxidized for nothing.

In versions 1.8 Turbo, with frequent intensive accelerations, the SRUS and drive shafts are subjected to wear. Corrosion attacks the exhaust system too quickly.

According to statistics from GTU, TUV and Dekra, the 4th generation Volkswagen Golf is more reliable than its younger followers. The same goes for the GTI version.

Interior

• Often the skin on the steering wheel will climb, and there are scuffs on the driver's seat.

Engines

• It is based on a time-tested design, known for the Golf III, Passat B4 and Audi 80.
• It is quite expensive to have episodic problems with the gas distribution system.
• The 8 Turbo is the perfect trade-off between operating costs (failures are really rare), fuel consumption and driving pleasure.
• For further “pumping” will need to replace the turbocharger and nozzles.
• In addition, the mileage of any version of the Golf 4 GTI is already more than 200,000 km, which means that some investment is needed.

Suspension

• Overall, the suspension is reliable and cheap to repair.

Common faults

• Overall, the VW Golf GTI enjoys a good reputation among owners and is considered a problem car.
• All thanks to galvanizing and good protection against corrosion.
• Corrosion marks are a sure sign of improper body repair.
• 8 Turbo at frequent intensive accelerations are subjected to wear SRUS and drive shafts.
• Corrosion attacks the exhaust system too quickly.

In the used car market, the Golf 4 GTI is more of a niche product, although intensive searches will yield results. It was offered in 3- and 5-door versions. The engines are considered reliable, as is the whole car. The Golf GTI is pleasant to drive, but it is difficult to call him an outstanding athlete. The well-kept specimen will serve without fail and please its owner for a long time.

• Interior: Often the skin on the steering wheel will climb, and scuffles appear on the driver's seat.
• Engines: Occasional problems with the gas distribution system are quite expensive.
• Suspension: Overall, the suspension is reliable and cheap to repair.
• Faults: Overall, the VW Golf GTI enjoys a good reputation among owners and is considered to be a little problematic car.

Shows, bargaining and re-registration take time: buyers look, promise to think and disappear. Fair price after inspection closes the auction on the spot. If money is needed urgently, the purchase takes away waiting and repeat displays.

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