The 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack, marked by its 1.8-liter turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive system, faces notable issues such as engine oil leaks, high oil consumption, and transmission delays. Electrical system faults like unresponsive infotainment screens and premature suspension wear have been reported. Key recall notices address airbag malfunctions, electronic brake booster problems, fuel leaks, and suspension weaknesses. Positive aspects include its spacious interior and off-road capabilities. Regular maintenance and recall compliance are crucial for reliability. Examining the full analysis reveals a comprehensive understanding of the cars' nuances and prospective ownership costs.
Overview of the 2017 Golf Alltrack

Volkswagen introduced the 2017 Golf Alltrack as a mix between a station wagon and an off-road vehicle. It comes with a 1.8-liter turbocharged engine that produces 170 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque. The car uses a six-speed automatic transmission for smooth driving.
The Alltrack's all-wheel-drive system helps it handle different types of roads. The car's ground clearance is 6.9 inches, allowing it to handle rough terrain but still drive like a typical Golf.
Inside, it offers plenty of space with 30.4 cubic feet for cargo, and you can expand it to 66.5 cubic feet by folding the rear seats. The cabin features quality materials and an easy-to-use infotainment system with a 6.5-inch screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These make the Alltrack a suitable choice for those who need a versatile vehicle that doesn't sacrifice style or performance.
Common problems reported for the 2017 Golf Alltrack
2017 Golf Alltrack: Reported Issues
- Engine Problems
- Issues: Owners have noted oil leaks and high oil use. This often appears as oil stains under the car or frequent alerts for low oil levels.
- Occurrence: These problems are somewhat common and tend to worsen as the car ages.
- Effects: Oil leaks can lower engine efficiency and risk damage if ignored, impacting the car's reliability and performance.
- Transmission Issues
- Issues: Many drivers report delays in shifting or rough gear changes, often feeling jerky movements during acceleration.
- Occurrence: These issues are frequently reported and have persisted over time, hinting at a possible ongoing design or manufacturing problem.
- Effects: These problems affect how the car drives, leading to dissatisfaction.
- Electrical System Faults
- Issues: Problems with the infotainment system, like unresponsive touch screens or system freezes, occur.
- Occurrence: These happen moderately often but have been decreasing, suggesting newer models may have improvements.
- Effects: While mainly inconvenient, these issues can lessen user enjoyment since the system is key to the driving experience.
- Suspension Concerns
- Issues: Premature wear of suspension parts is reported, causing odd noises or uneven tire wear.
- Occurrence: These issues happen moderately often and consistently over the years.
- Effects: They impact ride comfort and could lead to bigger suspension problems if not fixed.
- Brake Issues
- Issues: Some drivers feel vibrations or hear noises when braking.
- Occurrence: These are less common but are consistently noted by some users.
- Effects: Though not critical, they can reduce braking efficiency and cause concern.
- Fuel System Problems
- Issues: Fuel pump failures or leaks have been reported, with signs like engine stalling or a strong fuel smell.
- Occurrence: These are rare but have been rising over time.
- Effects: These problems can harm engine performance and pose safety risks.
- Exterior Paint Issues
- Issues: Some cars show peeling or fading paint.
- Occurrence: These issues are not common and have been steady over time.
- Effects: They mainly affect appearance, which can impact resale value and owner satisfaction.
Recall information specific to the 2017 Golf Alltrack

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack had some recalls due to safety and performance problems, which are important for owners to know about.
- Airbag Issues: There was a problem with the airbag system that might prevent airbags from working properly in a crash.
- Brakes: Some cars had trouble with the electronic brake booster, which could make the brakes less effective.
- Fuel Leaks: A faulty fuel pump might cause fuel to leak, which could be a fire hazard.
- Suspension: Some cars had weak suspension parts that might break and affect how the car handles.
These recalls show areas where the 2017 Golf Alltrack needed fixes.
Regular checks and following recall notices help keep the car safe.
Owner reviews and satisfaction rates for the 2017 model
Owners of the 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack have shared a variety of experiences. Many like the car's all-wheel drive, which helps in different weather. The 1.8-liter turbo engine with 170 horsepower is good for daily drives and some light off-road trips. The interior is roomy and uses quality materials, giving it a nice feel. The wagon shape makes it practical for carrying things.
However, some owners have had issues. The infotainment system sometimes glitches or lags, which can be annoying. A few people feel the fuel economy, at 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, isn't as good as they expected for a compact wagon. There are also some reports of transmission problems, like hesitation when shifting gears.
When it comes to satisfaction, opinions are mixed. Some owners are happy with the car's versatility and comfort, while others are frustrated with ongoing mechanical problems.
It's clear that experiences vary, so checking out the car thoroughly before buying is a good idea.
Comparison to previous and subsequent Golf Alltrack model years

The 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack was the first in its series. It combined off-road skills with an all-wheel-drive system. This model had a 1.8-liter turbo engine that delivered 170 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque. This was different from the regular front-wheel-drive Golf SportWagen.
The 2018 and 2019 models used the same engine but added better interior tech and safety features. New options included a Driver Assistance package with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The 2019 version also got a minor update with a new infotainment system and small design changes.
The 2017 model had some early issues, like transmission problems and occasional infotainment bugs. These issues were less common in later models.
Earlier Golf models didn't have the Alltrack's off-road features or advanced drivetrain, showing how the 2017 model was a big step forward. This shows how the models improved over the years in terms of features and design.
Tips for buying a used 2017 Golf Alltrack
When you're thinking about buying a used 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack, it's helpful to be mindful of a few things to make sure you're getting a good deal.
First, take a look at the car's maintenance history. This can show you how well the car has been taken care of and might give you a heads-up about any future issues.
Next, check the DSG transmission. Some people have had problems with it, so it's wise to have it inspected by a professional.
Here's a simple checklist to help with the buying process:
- Do a Thorough Check: Have a certified mechanic look over the car. Pay special attention to the all-wheel-drive system and suspension parts.
- Look for Recalls: See if the car has had all its recall fixes. You can find this info on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
- Test Electronics and Interior: Make sure all the electronic features work, like the infotainment system.
- Check Tires and Brakes: Look at the tires for uneven wear. Also, check the brakes to see if the pads need replacing, as these can be expensive fixes.
Maintenance recommendations for the 2017 Golf Alltrack

To keep your 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack running well, follow a regular maintenance routine. This helps avoid problems and keeps your car in good shape for a long time. Here's what you need to do:
- Oil Changes: Change the oil every 10,000 miles or once a year. Use synthetic oil for better engine performance.
- Tire Rotations: Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. This helps them wear evenly and last longer.
- Brake Checks: Inspect the brakes at every service visit. Look at the brake pads and fluid levels to ensure safety.
- Cooling System: Check the coolant level and make sure it's clean.
- Timing Belt: Check the timing belt at around 60,000 miles. A worn belt can cause engine problems.
Here's a simple table with these tasks:
| Task | How Often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Change | 10,000 miles | Use synthetic oil. |
| Tire Rotation | 5,000 to 7,000 miles | Helps tires last longer. |
| Brake Inspection | Every service | Check pads and fluid. |
Following these steps will help keep your Golf Alltrack reliable.
Resale value and long-term ownership costs
Owning a 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack means thinking about more than just the buying price. You should consider how much you can sell it for later and what it costs to keep it running over time.
Resale Value
- The resale value depends on things like how many people want it, what shape it's in, and how many miles it has.
- Volkswagens usually keep their value okay, but because the Golf Alltrack is less common, it might not sell for as much as some other cars.
- After five years, the Golf Alltrack might lose about half its value.
Long-Term Costs
- Keeping a car isn't just about gas, but also maintenance and repairs.
- The Golf Alltrack has a turbo engine, so it gets decent gas mileage. It gets 22 miles per gallon in the city and 30 on the highway. But gas prices can change and affect what you spend.
- Upkeep costs are about average for its type, but some owners say fixing it, especially the transmission or electrical stuff, can be pricey.
Quick Facts Table
| Factor | Detail |
|---|---|
| Depreciation | About 50% lost in 5 years |
| Fuel Efficiency | 22 MPG city, 30 MPG highway |
| Repair Costs | Higher than average |
Thinking about these points helps you see what owning a Golf Alltrack might cost and whether it's a good fit for you.
People Also Ask
What Are the Fuel Efficiency Ratings for the 2017 Golf Alltrack?
The 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack gets about 22 miles per gallon in the city and 30 miles per gallon on the highway. This means it's pretty decent on gas for a small car with all-wheel drive, which helps it drive in different weather.
How Does the 2017 Golf Alltrack Perform Off-Road?
The 2017 Golf Alltrack does well off-road because it has a special all-wheel-drive system called 4Motion that helps with grip. It also sits higher off the ground and has an off-road mode, making it good for medium-level off-road adventures while staying comfy.
Are There Any Known Issues With the Infotainment System in the 2017 Model?
The 2017 model's infotainment system sometimes has problems. It can be hard to connect with Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay. People have also noticed that the system may restart or be slow, which can make using it frustrating.
What Are the Towing Capabilities of the 2017 Golf Alltrack?
The 2017 Golf Alltrack can tow up to 2,000 pounds if it has the right equipment. This means it can pull small trailers or boats, making it handy for fun trips or helping with simple tasks.
How Does the All-Wheel-Drive System Work in the 2017 Golf Alltrack?
The 2017 Golf Alltrack has a smart all-wheel-drive system called 4MOTION. It sends power to the front wheels first. If those wheels start to slip, it automatically sends power to the back wheels too. This helps the car stay stable and safe in different driving conditions.
