Along with the legendary Passat B5, Volkswagen Golf IV is considered one of the most successful and popular models concern on secondary market Belarus. Compact dimensions and cheap service is the secret of such success.
The model began to be produced back in 1997. Despite the similarity to the Golf III, Golf 4 is a separate independent model built on the new A4 platform. The same platform is considered self-driving car based on F4. On the same platform, the concern produced Skoda Octavia, Audi 3, Seat Leon and other cars.
The VW Golf IV family is big. The fourth itself was offered in a hatchback body with 3 or 5 doors. Later, the Golf Variant station wagon and the Bora sedan (Jetta in America) appeared with different body lines. But the Golf Cabrio is essentially the third Golf, designed as the fourth.
Body and electronics
The dimensions of the hatchback make it easy to park and maneuver in the city. Only the low front bumper overshadows the picture - you have to be careful with parking.
VW Golf IV bodies are galvanized and have a 12-year warranty from through corrosion. All elements fit precisely and neatly. The owners say that even after 1-2 winters, in those areas where the chipped paint got to the metal, rust may not occur. So floating gaps and corrosion on a used Golf variant are a sign of poor repair after an accident.
Already in the database, the manufacturer offered two airbags, ABS, power windows, seat belts with pretensioners. After 1999, the system became available for ordering. exchange rate stability ESP, which, together with side and window airbacks, made the fourth Golf a leader in terms of safety in its class.
Three additional package- Highline, Trendline and Comfortline - allowed to expand the options of the fourth Golf. Among them - rain and light sensors, navigation system, air conditioning, climate control.
The sound insulation of the cabin cannot be called exemplary; for rear passengers, a trip along the highway can also be uncomfortable due to the low landing. But the rear seats fit not two, but three passengers, the seats themselves are moderately hard and with lateral support.
The driver's and front passenger's seats are adjustable in height, and the steering wheel is adjustable in height and reach, and lies comfortably in the hands. Dashboard fourth Golf - the triumph of ergonomics and asceticism. The controls are at the driver's fingertips, but do not interfere with him. The cabin provides plenty of space and compartments for storing small items. The trunk volume is 330 liters, under the rug - a spare wheel and a repair kit. rear seats fold down to double the trunk space.
As for electronics, often in the fourth Golf the rear wiper fails - its mechanism turns sour. The same can befall the front. The solution is to replace the part, lubrication only helps for a while. The brake light switch may also fail.
Engines
Basic among gasoline became a 1.4 engine with a power of 75 hp. It was aggregated only by "mechanics". The owners are unanimous: the power of this engine is clearly not enough for Golf, and the need to constantly spin the engine for satisfactory dynamics does not affect its resource in the best way. Of the typical sores, the ventilation system is clogged with crankcase gases, and the oil burner leads to premature wear of the piston rings.
The next in the line of gasoline engines are the popular and most successful 8-valve 1.6-liter 100-horsepower and 16-valve 105-horsepower units with distributed fuel injection. Good dynamics, modest fuel consumption and a resource of 300 thousand kilometers without serious interventions are the secret of their popularity. The main thing is to prevent overheating and change the oil every 90 thousand km.
The disadvantages of these motors include leakage of antifreeze from the cooling system through the thermostat and cracked plastic pipes, as well as malfunctions throttle valve and ignition coils.
With the same 1.6-liter volume, the FSI engine 110 hp with direct injection. But for these character motors the problem is with fuel system and the formation of soot in the cylinder head, which is directly related to the quality of the fuel - after all, the manufacturer recommends 98 gasoline.
The 1.8-liter petrol engine is available in two versions. Atmospheric power 125 hp and turbocharged in 150 and 180 hp. depending on modification. The aspirated engine boasts excellent dynamics, especially in combination with a manual transmission. Turbocharged versions accelerate the fourth Golf to “hundreds” in more than 8 seconds, but when the turbine fails, the cost of replacing it is unreasonably high. Yes, and the nuances of operation and maintenance of the turbocharged Golf will require more.
Two-liter 115-horsepower gasoline unit unpretentious and reliable, but it is worth remembering to replace the timing belt and pump every 90 thousand kilometers. Formed and expensive V5 2.3 (150 hp), VR5 2.3 (170 hp), V6 2.8 (204 hp) and VR6 3.2 (240 hp) unpopular in the market due to the cost of their service.
Concerning diesel engines VW Golf IV, then they all had a volume of 1.9 liters. The weak SDI developed 68 “horses”, and the turbocharged versions of the TDI were already driving noticeably more vigorously: 90, 101, 110, 115, 130 and 150 hp. under the hood, depending on the modification.
The weak point of diesel 1.9 TDI (90 and 110 hp) is the injection pump, which is expensive to repair with high mileage. Even more expensive to maintain, with all its advantages in terms of power and economical fuel consumption - 1.9 TDI with unit injectors (115, 1100, 130 and 150 hp, depending on the version). Among the common shortcomings of diesel engines until 2001, a malfunction of the flowmeter can be noted.
Transmission
For the fourth Golf, 5- and 6-speed manual transmissions were offered, as well as 4- and 5-speed "automatic machines" with a manual shift function. The owners have no complaints about both.
The problem of a loose shift lever in the "mechanics" is solved by the owners by replacing the shift mechanism. 1.6-liter engines with manual transmission have a problem: it is difficult to engage first gear. Recommendations for extending the resource - change the oil in the transmission every 90 thousand kilometers. In general, the box serves 120-200 thousand km. before repair.
The automatic transmission requires an oil change every 60 thousand, despite the manufacturer's assurances that the box is "maintenance-free".
Chassis
The suspension of the VW Golf IV is quite simple, maintenance is inexpensive, and reliability is high. Moderately stiff, efficient suspension holds the road quite well and is generally quite comfortable for the driver.
McPherson struts were installed on the fourth Golf in front, and a simple H-shaped beam at the back.
For top-end, starting with a 1.8-liter engine with optional all-wheel drive rear suspension multi-link, keeping it in good condition will cost much more difficult and expensive.
On average, the stabilizer struts and bushings are enough for 50-60 thousand kilometers. Shock absorbers are handed over after 150 thousand. The rest of the suspension elements live about 100 thousand km. But repairing the suspension of the fourth Golf is not burdensome, because spare parts are not a problem to find, and you can’t call them expensive either.
Depending on the driving style, the front set of brake pads will serve the owner for 20-30 thousand km, the rear ones - 60-70 thousand km. Brake discs are handed over after 80-90 thousand km.
After 100-150 thousand km, it makes itself felt with a knock steering rack.
Total
VW Golf IV - compact, simple and reliable german car. Golf 4 is inexpensive to operate, and frequent breakdowns he does not annoy. For novice drivers or older people with no special requests for a personal car, this will be a really great choice.
Do not miss reviews of other popular models of the concern:
- SEAT Alhambra - read
- VW Passat B5 - read
- Skoda Fabia -read
Along with the legendary Passat B5, VW Golf IV is considered one of the most successful and popular models of the concern in the secondary market of Belarus. Compact dimensions and low maintenance are the secret of such success.
The model began to be produced back in 1997. Despite the resemblance to Golf III , Golf 4 is a separate independent model built on the new A4 platform. The same platform is considered an independent car based on the F4. On the same platform, the concern produced Skoda Octavia, Audi 3, Seat Leon and other cars.
VW Golf IV family on a large scale. The fourth itself was offered in a hatchback body with 3 or 5 doors. Later there was a station wagon Golf Variant and Bora sedan (Jetta in America _ with different body lines. And here Golf Cabrio in fact - the third Golf, designed as the fourth.
The dimensions of the hatchback make it easy to park and maneuver in the city. Only the low front bumper overshadows the picture - you have to be careful with parking.
Bodies VW Golf IV are galvanized and have 12 years of a guarantee against through corrosion. All elements fit precisely and neatly. The owners say that even after 1-2 winters, in those areas where the chipped paint got to the metal, rust may not occur. So floating gaps and corrosion on a used Golf variant are a sign of poor repair after an accident.
Already in the database, the manufacturer offered two airbags, ABS , power windows, seat belts with pretensioners. After 1999, the ESP stability control system became available for order, which, together with side and window airbacks, made the fourth Golf a leader in terms of safety in its class.
Three additional packages - Highline, Trendline and Comfortline - made it possible to expand the options of the fourth Golf. Among them - rain and light sensors, navigation system, air conditioning, climate control.
The soundproofing of the cabin cannot be called exemplary; for rear passengers, a trip along the highway can also be uncomfortable due to the low landing. But the rear seats fit not two, but three passengers, the seats themselves are moderately hard and with lateral support. The driver's and front passenger's seats are adjustable in height, and the steering wheel is adjustable in height and reach, and lies comfortably in the hands. The dashboard of the fourth Golf is a triumph of ergonomics and asceticism. The controls are at the driver's fingertips, but do not interfere with him. The cabin provides plenty of space and compartments for storing small items. The trunk volume is 330 liters, under the rug - a spare wheel and a repair kit. The rear seats fold down to double the boot space.
As for electronics, often in the fourth Golf the rear wiper fails - its mechanism turns sour. The same can befall the front. The solution is to replace the part, lubrication only helps for a while. The brake light switch may also fail.
Engines
The 1.4 engine with a power of 75 hp became the base among gasoline engines. It was aggregated only by "mechanics". The owners are unanimous: the power of this engine is clearly not enough for Golf, and the need to constantly spin the engine for satisfactory dynamics does not affect its resource in the best way. Of the typical sores, the ventilation system is clogged with crankcase gases, and the oil burner leads to premature wear of the piston rings.
The next in the line of gasoline engines are the popular and most successful 8-valve 1.6-liter 100-horsepower and 16-valve 105-horsepower units with distributed fuel injection. Good dynamics, modest fuel consumption and a resource of 300 thousand kilometers without major interventions are the secret of their popularity. The main thing is to prevent overheating and change the oil every 90 thousand km.
The disadvantages of these motors include leakage of antifreeze from the cooling system through the thermostat and cracked plastic pipes, as well as malfunctions of the throttle and ignition coils.
With the same 1.6-liter displacement, the engine was also produced FSI 110 hp with direct injection. But for these engines of character, there is a problem with the fuel system and the formation of carbon deposits in the cylinder head, which is directly related to the quality of the fuel - after all, the manufacturer recommends 98 gasoline.
The 1.8-liter petrol engine is available in two versions. Atmospheric power 125 hp and turbocharged in 150 and 180 hp. depending on modification. The aspirated engine boasts excellent dynamics, especially in combination with a manual transmission. Turbocharged versions accelerate the fourth Golf to “hundreds” in more than 8 seconds, but when the turbine fails, the cost of replacing it is unreasonably high. Yes, and the nuances of operation and maintenance of the turbocharged Golf will require more.
The two-liter 115-horsepower gasoline unit is unpretentious and reliable, but it is worth remembering to replace the timing belt and pump every 90 thousand kilometers. Formed and expensive V5 2.3 (150 hp), VR5 2.3 (170 hp), V6 2.8 (204 hp) and VR6 3.2 (240 hp) unpopular in the market due to the cost of their service.
As for diesel engines VW Golf IV , then they all had a volume of 1.9 liters. The weak SDI developed 68 “horses”, and the turbocharged versions of the TDI were already driving noticeably more vigorously: 90, 101, 110, 115, 130 and 150 hp. under the hood, depending on the modification.
The weak point of diesel 1.9 TDI (90 and 110 hp) is the injection pump, which is expensive to repair with high mileage. Even more expensive to maintain, with all its advantages in terms of power and economical fuel consumption - 1.9 TDI with unit injectors (115, 1100, 130 and 150 hp, depending on the version). Among the common shortcomings of diesel engines until 2001, a malfunction of the flowmeter can be noted.
Transmission
For the fourth Golf, 5- and 6-speed manual transmissions were offered, as well as 4- and 5-speed "automatic machines" with a manual shift function. The owners have no complaints about both.
The owners solve the problem of a loose shift lever in the "mechanics" by replacing the shift mechanism. 1.6-liter engines with manual transmission have a problem: it is difficult to engage first gear. Recommendations for extending the resource - change the oil in the transmission every 90 thousand kilometers. In general, the box serves 120-200 thousand km. before repair.
The automatic transmission requires an oil change every 60 thousand, despite the manufacturer's assurances that the box is "maintenance-free".
Chassis
Suspension VW Golf IV It is quite simple, maintenance is inexpensive, and reliability is high. Moderately stiff, efficient suspension holds the road quite well and is generally quite comfortable for the driver.
Racks were installed in front of the fourth Golf McPherson , Behind - a simple H-shaped beam.
For the top ones, starting with a 1.8-liter engine with optional all-wheel drive, the rear suspension is multi-link, keeping it in good condition will cost much more difficult and expensive.
On average, the stabilizer struts and bushings are enough for 50-60 thousand kilometers. Shock absorbers are handed over after 150 thousand. The rest of the suspension elements live about 100 thousand km. But repairing the suspension of the fourth Golf is not burdensome, because spare parts are not a problem to find, and you can’t call them expensive either.
Depending on the driving style, the front set of brake pads will serve the owner for 20-30 thousand km, the rear ones - 60-70 thousand km. Brake discs are handed over after 80-90 thousand km.
After 100-150 thousand km, the steering rack makes itself felt with a knock.
Total
VW Golf IV - a compact, simple and reliable German car. Golf 4 is inexpensive to operate, and it does not annoy with frequent breakdowns. For novice drivers or older people with no special requests for a personal car, this will be a really great choice.
Volkswagen Golf has long been a cult and leading model for the German concern. After all, since 1974, the Germans have sold over 25 million "Golfiki", and this means a lot. In addition - Golf is not just one of the most popular and massive car, it is also the ancestor of the class of the same name - the “golf class”. But the conversation is not about that, but about the VW Golf fourth generation in the back of a hatchback ... Why about him? Yes, because he is really very good, that's all!
Volkswagen Golf 4 is a car with a classic, interesting and stylish design that has not become outdated even after more than 10 years since its inception. Truly a universal model, because even now the Golf IV looks its own on city streets, on a country road, and even on light off-road conditions (after all, there are versions of the Golf with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive). Depending on taste and preferences, Volkswagen Golf IV can be a three- or five-door hatchback, and for connoisseurs of practicality - a station wagon. But regardless of the body type, the fourth Golf is very good in all respects, and the one-piece galvanized body made it possible to make the assembly of the “German” close to ideal, since in this way the designers were able to minimize the joints between the parts.
The interior of the fourth generation Volkswagen Golf is now obsolete, although to this day there are no complaints about its ergonomics, practicality and functionality. The dashboard has a classic Volkswagen look, it is excellent to read at any time, and its information content will give odds to many more modern models. Wheel comfortable and pleasant, but at the same time quite massive. The center console is without any frills, but everything you need fits on it: air conditioning and music, keys and buttons, and other controls. Finishing materials in the fourth Golf are not the best, but they are of high quality: they look nice, they are pleasant to the touch.
Volkswagen Golf 4, as a true “German”, is perfect for both the driver and passengers. It is comfortable to sit in it, the front seats have a noticeably pronounced profile that holds well in the “saddle”. The rear sofa can easily accommodate three adults, while none of them will feel superfluous. Well, everything is going great in the fourth Golf, but the luggage compartment let us down: the volume of 330 liters is too modest against the background of the general impressions of a German car ... Although, if necessary, the usable volume can be increased to 1185 liters. But stop! There is also a wagon that can offer a more spacious “body”, with a volume of 460 to 1470 liters, depending on the position of the rear seat.
If the car is good, then it is such in everything. So in terms of technical characteristics of Volkswagen The IV-generation Golf has a wide range of powertrains, about which one can say without a twinge of conscience: “Yes, you can roam here!” In total, eight engines were offered to choose from: five running on gasoline and three on heavy fuel. Their power varies from 68 to 130 Horse power. Four transmissions could be installed in tandem with them: a 5- or 6-speed manual, as well as a 4- or 5-speed “automatic”. Well, it is necessary to consider each of the power units.
The base gasoline engine is a 1.4-liter, 75-horsepower, complete with which only “mechanics” is available. Such a “fiery heart” is clearly rather weak, because with it it takes “eternal” 15.6 seconds to reach the first hundred, although 171 km / h of maximum speed look decent. The next in the hierarchy is a 1.6-liter engine, the return of which is 102 horsepower. With it, as with the previous one, “mechanics” can be installed, but an automatic machine with 4 steps is also possible. The 102-horsepower Golf 4 with a manual transmission has good dynamics: a hundred behind in 11.9 seconds, the limit is 188 km / h. A hatchback with an “automatic” in acceleration is slower by exactly 1 second, and in general - by 3 km / h. At the same time, you can’t exactly call such a Golf a leader in terms of economy: in the combined cycle, it eats 7 or 8 liters of fuel, depending on the transmission.
A 105-horsepower unit of the same volume as the previous one is next on the list. Although he has an increase of 3 strength, it does not solve anything here, except perhaps maximum speed 4 km / h higher, while the rest of the indicators are similar.
A 1.6-liter engine with a return of 110 horsepower is another representative of the fourth-generation Volkswagen Golf power range. He is only a couple mechanical transmission with five speeds. The dynamic performance of the engine has been improved for the better, but not significantly - 0.2 seconds faster is a set of hundreds than the previous one, and the top speed is 194 km / h. For 100 km of track, such a unit needs only 6.5 liters of fuel when driving in a combined cycle.
The most powerful and voluminous in the gasoline camp is a 2.0-liter, whose power potential is 116 “horses”. With this “golf heart”, both 4-speed automatic and 5-speed manual transmissions are possible. The first exchanges 100 km / h in 12.4 seconds and is gaining maximum 190, the second - 1 second and 5 km / h faster.
That's all, gasoline engines are over, now it's the turn of three diesel units. The weakest among both diesels and among the whole power line- 68-horsepower engine, 1.9 liters (by the way, everyone on this type of fuel has this volume). Yes, despite a decent volume, the dynamics characteristics of such a Golf are simply terrifying - in 18.7 seconds, which it needs to accelerate to a hundred, you can do a lot of useful things. Yes, and the maximum speed here causes tears - only 160 km / h. But the dynamics are offset by efficiency: in the combined cycle, the 68-horsepower, diesel Golf requires only 5.2 liters combustible mixture. For this motor, only a 5-speed “mechanics” is available in a pair and nothing else.
Next in line is a diesel engine endowed with 100 horsepower. It comes with a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Its dynamics is not impressive, but it is worth noting that it is 5 seconds faster than a less weak one.
And finally, the last and most powerful power unit is a diesel engine with 130 horsepower. Transmission types are similar to the previous engine. Yes, with such a “fiery heart”, the VW Golf 4 looks like a dynamic and rather nimble car - 100 km / h is conquered in 10.5 or 11.4 seconds, depending on the gearbox, but the maximum speed here exceeds 200 km/h Phew, that's it, the engines are finished!
It is logical that it is impossible to say exactly how much it costs today new Volkswagen Golf of the fourth generation, because its release was completed 9 years ago. But the fact is that this “fruit” is represented very widely in the secondary market. Golf 4 in good technical condition can be bought at a price of about 180-200 thousand rubles, but for a copy in perfect condition, you may have to pay about 400-500 thousand Russian rubles. So, for a solid, German car, even a 10-year-old should fork out!
Literally ten years ago, Golf 4 was one of the leaders in demand in the secondary market on a par with the fifth Passat. Today, time, of course, has already taken its toll, but to find a worthy Golf variant 4 is still possible. And it will be an excellent choice for an inexpensive and reliable car with low cost operation and repair.
Golf 4 was launched in 1997, and although the car looks very similar to the previous model, in fact it is a completely different car, built on a different platform. Audi A3, VW Beetle, Octavia A5, Audi TT, Seat Leon and Toledo are assembled on the same platform. The suspension parts for these machines are interchangeable.
Golf 4 was originally produced in a hatchback body with three and five doors. In 1999, the production of a station wagon began, which was labeled "Variant". Golf 4 in a sedan was called "Bora" (for the US market - "Jetta"). It is worth knowing that the Golf 4 Convertible is nothing more than a facelift of the Golf 3 Convertible.
In the "base" Golf had at least two airbags, seat belts with pretensioners, an ABS system, electric windows and electric mirrors. In addition to the basic configuration, there were also "Comfortline", "Trendline" and "Highline". Later, an ESP system could be ordered for a car for an additional fee. On cars of the last years of production, one could also see window airbags (in addition to side airbags). Thanks to this, the car was one of the leaders in passenger safety in its class.
Modifications and characteristics gasoline engines Volkswagen Golf IV
The range of engines was quite wide and began with a 1.4-liter gasoline engine that produced 75 forces. Of course, "drive" on it will not work. Moreover, when driving in a stream, this engine must be constantly spun up to high speed to keep up with the bulk of the machines. And this reduces its resource.
Further, you can designate a 1.6-liter unit with eight valves and a hundred horsepower under the hood, and the same, but a sixteen-valve 105-horsepower. These are the most common and most reliable motors on Golf 4. Such motors easily roll back 300 thousand km without overhaul subject to regular oil changes and avoidance of overheating. True, these motors often crack the tee of the cooling system, but it is quite inexpensive and easy to change.
1.6-liter 110-horsepower FSI engines with direct injection were also produced. But in domestic conditions, he often "got sick" because of the poor quality of the fuel. He is also prone to the formation of soot in the cylinder head.
The 1.8-liter 125-horsepower gasoline unit also had turbocharged versions with 150 and 180 horsepower. The naturally aspirated motor with a manual transmission is considered very dynamic, and with a supercharger, this light machine accelerates to hundreds in just over 8 seconds. The purchase of a turbo version is associated with a certain risk, since far from pensioners drove it to the country, and such a car will be “ushatan” at the most “do not indulge” (it concerns, first of all, an expensive turbine). But in good condition for such a device will ask a lot of money. Remember - after "annealing" on such a machine, you should not immediately turn off the engine, you need to let the engine run for some more time. idling for turbine cooling. And the oil in these units should be changed more often than the manufacturer recommends.
But the two-liter 115-horsepower unit is very unpretentious and reliable. But subject to regular (every 90 thousand km) replacement of the timing kit along with the pump.
Engines V5, VR5, V6 and VR6 (2.3, 2.8 and 3.2 liters) give the fourth Golf excellent dynamics and can boast of durability. But besides that, they are expensive to maintain and repair. Usually, such a car is usually sold only when the time has come for a major overhaul of the motor.
It is worth saying a little about diesel. They are all 1.9 liters. The weakest atmospheric SDI could produce 68 "horses", and engines with a turbine - from 90 to 150. Diesel engines of the fourth Golf are very durable and economical, but in the case of using high-quality diesel fuel, which is not so easy to find in Russia. In general, diesel Golf is worth buying only if you are confident in the good condition of the engine, and plan on long runs on the highway.
The 1.9SDI (AGP, AQM) motor can be called a model of reliability, durability and low maintenance. It has two drawbacks: 17 seconds to hundreds and noise.
Old school 1.9TDIs with 90 (AGR, ALH) and 110 (AHF, ASV) forces have problems with high pressure pumps, which are relatively expensive to repair.
Since 1999, a 115-horsepower 1.9TDI (AJM, AUY) with a pump-injector has gone into the series. Next in diesel series units appeared with capacities of 100 (BEW), 130 (ASZ) and 150 (ARL) horsepower.
Compared to the old 1.9TDI, these engines have higher performance and economy. True, the maintenance and repair of such engines has become significantly more expensive.
The weakest 1.9TDI lacks the expensive twin-disk flywheel and variable geometry turbine.
The undeniable advantage of these diesel engines is the lack of particulate filter, and their common drawback can be called a frequently failing flow meter (on motors until 2001).
Golf 4 was sold with 5 and 6 manual transmissions and 4 and 5 automatic transmissions with manual control. All boxes can be called quite reliable. On the "mechanics" the gearshift lever could sometimes become loose. On the 1.6-liter versions, sometimes there were difficulties with the inclusion of the first gear of the manual transmission. Change of oil mechanical box provided every 90 thousand km, the clutch, depending on the driving style, can last 130-200 thousand km.
In automatic transmission, oil is designed for 60 thousand kilometers. The oil changes partially, since its very high detergent properties, when completely replaced, are able to dissolve all old deposits, which will inevitably disable the box. If the previous owner did not change the oil for a long time, the mileage of the car is high, and the box works flawlessly, then you should not do this either.
On version 1.8 liters or more, the buyer could order the 4motion all-wheel drive system. In the 2.8-liter version and in the R32 version four-wheel drive is already in the database. A car with 4motion makes driving unforgettable, but the cost of repairing this transmission and the complexity of the repair can hurt the owner's pocket. It is worth knowing that in the secondary market, as a rule, either very "shabby" or very expensive Golf 4Motions (which can be called good condition) are sold.
The body of the fourth Golf is very worthy of resisting corrosion. In places of chips, rust does not appear for a very long time. Thanks to minimal clearances and perfectly fitted body parts, aerodynamic noise is absent at any speed. If you see traces of corrosion on the body of the Golf 4, then you are definitely offered a broken car.
Of the body flaws, freezing of door seals during the onset of frost can be noted. To avoid this, pre-treat all the rubber bands in the doorways with silicone grease, which is sold in the form of a spray.
Interior Golf 4 is a strict classic german version. Thanks to the many adjustments of the driver's seat behind the wheel of this car, a driver of any build will comfortably fit.
But using the climate control is not very convenient: its buttons are located far from the driver, and for the settings you have to be distracted from the road. In cars with conventional air conditioning, this inconvenience is not.
Over time, the plastic of the doors and the front panel is wiped off, and "crickets" are populated from the salon. In later versions of the Golf 4, the quality of the interior was improved.
This car does not cause any special electrical problems. Sometimes the rear wiper motor may fail and the front trapezoid will harden. Occasionally it is necessary to change the "frog" of the brake light, located under the pedal.
In versions with automatic transmission, sometimes owners are faced with a blocking of the box selector. To unlock it, remove the connector from the switch and insert it back. If such a "glitch" occurs periodically, then the switch will have to be changed, since it is inexpensive.
On early models, there was a defect in the power windows. Sometimes the owners complained about the failure of the "climate" display and the central lock.
Chassis Golf 4 can be described as comfortable, simple, reliable and inexpensive to maintain. In front - the popular "MacPherson", and in the back - either a beam for front-wheel drive cars, or a "multi-link" for 4x4.
Created with Raphaël 2.1.0Volkswagen Golf 5 can be viewed HERE.
The durability of Golf 4 suspension parts is highly dependent on driving style and speed over bumps. Like most cars, the first to "surrender" are the traction and bushings of the stabilizer (50-60 thousand km). Shock absorbers during active trips will have to be replaced at about 150 thousand km. Other suspension parts serve an average of 100 thousand km, which is very worthy.
The factory front pads will have to be replaced closer to 30 thousand km, the discs will last almost 100 thousand. The rear pads wear out less, they will have to be changed for the first time at about 70 thousand km.
You can repair the suspension of the fourth Golf for relatively little money - there are many options for spare parts for this car on the market for any wallet.
Summing up, we can say with confidence that Golf 4 adopted all the advantages of previous models, adding comfort and safety to them. The car is one of the best in its class and is definitely recommended for purchase (in good condition, of course).
A selection of reviews, video reviews and test drives Volkswagen Golf 4:
Crush Volkswagen test Golf IV:
On the Russian market eight golf-class hatchbacks worth up to 500,000 rubles are presented. These include petrol and diesel versions, three- and five-door European, Japanese or Korean brands. In a word, the choice is the widest.
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Comparison test January 06, 2007 Urban rockets (BMW130, Ford Focus ST, Honda Civic Type-R, Mazda 3 MPS, Opel AstraOPC, Volkswagen Golf GTI) Golf-class models are in the production range of almost all automakers. These are cars without claims, for trips "from point A to point B", even if in many cases they are of very high quality. Sports modifications based on these ordinary, in general, machines are a completely different matter. They use more advanced technologies, sometimes borrowed from higher-end models. They have a character capable of delivering driving pleasure even to the fastidious motorist. It is these flagship representatives of the golf class that will be discussed in our review.
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| Volkswagen Bora" 1998–2004 |
| Volkswagen Golf Cabrio (IV)" 1998–2003 |
| Volkswagen Golf GTI (IV)" 2001–03 |
| Volkswagen Golf R32(IV)" 2002–04 |
| Volkswagen Golf Variant (IV)" 1999–2006 |
At Volkswagen Group interesting development strategy - just look at the history of VolkswagenGolf or Passat. The first generation is a revolution. The second is bug fixes. The third is grinding and polishing. Fourth, fifth, sixth generation - restyling of predecessors.
Volkswagen Golf IV 1997 - 2003 just like that, it is rather a modernization of the previous generation than the debut of a fundamentally new one.
Brief introductory
The number of modifications of the VW Golf IV is able to put a potential buyer into a stupor - the choice is great. Three- and five-door hatchbacks (“hot” and not so hot), Variant station wagon, Jetta and Bora sedans, convertible ... Choose - I don’t want to.
Already in the initial configuration Golf well equipped: at least two airbags, ABS (from the end of 1999 - and ESP, inflatable curtains - from the middle of 2002), central locking, power accessories, height-adjustable steering column.
Body and electrical equipment
The anti-corrosion resistance of the body of the VW Golf IV is very high: this is evidenced, as is the 12-year factory warranty against through corrosion (and 3 years for paintwork), and the fact that even cars that have been on our roads for more than one winter bear traces of rust in only one case - if the car has been in an accident and has been poorly repaired. Cars of the first years of production have complaints about assembly: water often gets into the cabin, the problem is solved by adjusting the position of the door or replacing the seals. The reliability of electrical equipment is also not the best. forte Golf: there are frequent cases of failure of the immobilizer, fuel level sensor, power windows and other electronic machinery.
Engines and transmissions
Ruler Volkswagen engines Golf IV is one of the largest in its class. There are twelve petrol and seven diesel engines to choose from. Our market is in steady demand diesel modifications, and among the gasoline versions, the vast majority of proposals fall on 1.4 16V (75 hp) and 1.6-liter modifications (101, 105, 110 hp). Eight-valve engines are considered the most unpretentious and reliable: according to experts, these engines, with timely maintenance without repair, overcome the bar of 300-400 thousand kilometers. However, these power units have their drawbacks - for example, the instances of the first years of production had difficulty starting the car in the winter.
For twenty-valve 1.8-liter engines, the list of shortcomings is longer: they are sensitive to the quality of fuel and oil, despite compliance with the maintenance regulations, there have been cases of premature timing belt breakage, the chain tensioner connecting the camshafts rarely nurses more than 200 thousand km. Turbocharged versions of the 1.8-liter engine are considered more reliable, however, it is difficult to find an instance with a “live” turbine in our market, and the cost of repair or replacement can completely kill the love for cars with the magic Turbo nameplate.
Powerful versions of the Golf with five-cylinder (2.3 l) and six-cylinder (2.8 and 3.2 l) engines stand apart. They have a timing chain drive, the resource of which is approximately 200 thousand km, so they only require oil and filter changes. There are no complaints about the reliability of these engines, but the repair of these units is expensive.
In order for the Golf to serve faithfully for many years, it is necessary to follow a few elementary rules: motor oil and the filter needs to be changed every 15 thousand, air filter and spark plugs - after 60 thousand, and the timing belt (together with the tension and bypass roller) - every 90 thousand kilometers.
All diesel engines Golf IV - 1.9 liters, with direct fuel injection. This generation of VW diesel engines is rightfully considered one of the best in the world, but it also has its own subtleties of maintenance and operation. Until 2000, the Bosch EDC fuel pump was responsible for supplying fuel to these units, then new diesel engines with pump injectors appeared. In terms of reliability and durability, diesel versions with pump nozzles are preferable, but the cost of repairing these engines can be called astronomical: one nozzle costs at least 650 USD. (and there are 4 in total). Of the faults inherent diesel engines we can note the failure of the air flow sensors from Bosch (mainly due to the untimely change of the air filter).
The Golf IV family was equipped with mechanical 5- and 6-speed manual gearboxes, of course, almost all modifications could be aggregated and "automatic". Manual transmissions are considered less reliable than automatic boxes: there have been cases of failure of the "mechanics" after 200 thousand kilometers.
But there are no complaints about the “automatic machines”. They are considered maintenance-free, but experts advise changing the oil in the "machine" after 60 thousand kilometers or every three years.
Suspension and braking system
Golf IV suspension (McPherson front, semi-independent H-beam rear) is one of the main advantages of the model. Differs in high reliability and maintainability. The resource of suspension parts is average: stabilizer struts and bushings roll stability require replacement every 40-50 thousand km, shock absorbers, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings nursed 80-100 thousand km. And by 100-120 thousand km, the steering rack may begin to tap and leak. Cases of failure of the hydraulic booster pump have been noted.
The main problems of the brake system - ABS sensors fail over time, the sealing washers on the brake hoses turn sour. brake pads wear out by 20-40 thousand km, rear - by 70-80 thousand km of run. brake fluid must be changed every 40 thousand kilometers or every two years.
Summing up
Many are mistaken in believing that the VW Golf is a role model in its class.
Volkswagen Golf IV 1997 - 2003 clearly does not reach the status of the standard, its shortcomings and the TUV reliability rating testify to this. However, the popularity of the fourth generation is beyond doubt, which means that buyers are willing to pay for a big name, reputation, and those advantages that the Golf IV lacks.
Advantages
Large selection of modifications and engines
+ Many offers on the used car market
+ High corrosion resistance
+ Reliable suspension
+ Trouble-free "automatic"
+ Rich equipment already in the initial configuration
disadvantages
Unreliable electrical equipment
- Problems with turbocharged engines
Model history
08.1997:
Premiere of VW Golf IV.
07.1998:
An all-wheel drive version of the Golf 4Motion hatchbacks with a Haldex clutch has been launched.
09.1998:
Bora sedan (Jetta for US market) introduced. The car was discontinued at the end of 2004.
04.1999:
Debut of VW Golf IV Variant and Bora Variant.
10.2002:
Start of production of the most powerful modification of the Golf - 241-horsepower version of the R32.
10.2003:
The VW Golf IV has given up its place on the VW Golf V assembly line.
06.2006:
Discontinuation of the VW Golf IV Variant station wagon.
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Brief specificationsVolkswagenGolfIV1
J1/1J5 |
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body type |
3- and 5-door hatchback |
station wagon (Variant) |
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Dimensions, L/W/H, mm |
4149x1745x1444 |
4397x1735x1485 |
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Wheelbase / track front - rear / clearance, mm |
2511/1513 - 1494/130 |
2515/1513 - 1494/130 |
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Trunk volume, l |
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type of drive |
front or full |
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Suspension front/rear |
independent / semi-independent |
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175/65 R14, 185/60 R14, 195/65 R15, 205/55 R16 |
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EnginesVolkswagen Golf IV 1J1/1J5 |
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Modification |
engine's type |
Marking |
Volume, cm.cu. |
Power, hp |
Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s* |
Fuel consumption (highway/city), l/100 km* |
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1. 6 |
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1. 6 |
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1. 6 FSI |
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1 .8 20V |
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1 .8 20V T |
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1 .8 20V T |
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2.3 VR5 |
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2.3 VR5 |
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2.8 VR6 |
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3.2 VR6 |
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*Manufacturer's data is given for the version of the 5-door hatchback with manual transmission (with the exception of modification 3.2 VR6 - it was produced only as a three-door hatchback) |
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Cost per hour* forVolkswagen Golf IV 1.6 (102 hp), 1999 |
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the name of detail |
Price, c.u. |
the name of detail |
Price, c.u. |
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Oil filter |
Front suspension strut support |
4-13 |
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Air filter |
6-15 |
Front shock absorber |
40-72 |
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Fuel filter |
Rear shock absorber |
34-70 |
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cabin filter |
Tie rod end |
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Timing belt + rollers (set) |
31-59 |
Tie Rod |
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Clutch kit |
Front light |
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Brake pads front |
Back lamp |
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Brake pads rear |
Front wing |
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Front brake disc |
25-55 |
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Front stabilizer bar |
7-15 |
Front bumper |
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Ball joint front |
15-30 |
Rear bumper |
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* The cost is given on average for Minsk, as of 06/01/2010 / ** original spare parts (Volkswagen) |
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PriceVolkswagenGolfIV(1997 - 2003)in the Belarusian car market* |
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199 7 G.in. |
199 8 G.in. |
199 9 G.in. |
200 0 G.in. |
200 1 G.in. |
200 2 G.in. |
200 3 G.in. |
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many offers |
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not many suggestions |
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few offers |
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* The cost is given in USD. (minimum/maximum), as of 06/01/2010 |
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Age, years |
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Average mileage, km |
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Unpretentious, % |
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Minor defects, % |
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Significant defects, % |
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Critical breakdowns, % |
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Condition assessmentVolkswagen Golf IV (1997 - 2003)according toTÜV-2009 |
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Age, years |
Body, chassis, suspension |
electrical equipment |
Brake system |
Ecology |
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Corrosion |
Suspension condition |
Steering play |
Lighting |
Efficiency |
State |
Exhaust system |
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Great |
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Okay |
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satisfactorily |
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poorly |
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very bad |
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