Volkswagen Golf Problems

The Golf is a better, classier car, but the latest Golf does not have the sharp edge of the previous GTI. So I agree the Focus is the smart choice.

I assume that the cause of the catalytic convertor light coming on is that engine is burning excessive oil and that has contaminated the converter. That’s the only reason I can think of that the dealer wants to check the bores. Have you observed it using oil? It would seem to be an extreme move to install a new engine, but hopefully they will do it as a goodwill gesture.

Like us, it seems you like the idea of the Golf, the quality and driving, but not some of the niggles.

Warranties differ, which means you should always read the fine print. As you discovered, some are not as good as they seem and many also require the owner always to service the vehicle at the dealership that sold the extended warranty.

VW spokesman Karl Gehling replies: "For the MY15 Golf the bi-xenon lights are available as part of a luxury pack. Unfortunately this pack is not available in conjunction with the R-Line package." So it's a win-lose for you.

The Golf is great but questionable beyond the warranty, which rules it out for you. The A3 is a Golf under the skin, so that makes the Mazda3 the safe choice but you should also crunch the numbers on an A-Class and test drive to see if it makes you feel more special than the Mazda for your retirement.

You might just be able to buy a 2010 Subaru Liberty wagon for $15,000, more likely you would have to settle for a 2009 model. The Liberty is a good choice. I would be wary of suggesting the Golf wagon, servicing is relatively expensive and you need to be careful when choosing your car to ensure there are no hidden bugs that might prove expensive down the track. The Kia Sportage is certainly worth a look and should fit within your budget.

That must be frustrating, but our consumer laws are pathetic and my feeling is that you have to be prepared to suffer considerable pain if you head down that path. VW is required to make a reasonable effort to repair the car, and it would appear that they are doing so. That they don't have parts on hand to fix the screen straight away is annoying, and they should be castigated for it. Give them a week or two to fix the glitch in the system and replace the screen before taking any action as to a replacement car or a refund. In the meantime keep a careful record of everything they say and do, so you have that if things turn nasty.

I would not buy a Golf in the second-hand $10,000 range. The Mazda3 is the best car but he'll probably get better value in a Swift, as it's a size smaller. Buying private will mean better value, but ensure he gets an independent mechanical check.

It's still too early to know if VW has put all its troubles behind it and 20,000km is nowhere near enough in any case. We love the Golf but would still recommend that any friend be careful about long-term problems.