MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

NHTSA // SAFETY RECORD

2022 Volkswagen Golf R

Recall and complaint safety record from NHTSA. This configuration has not been crash-tested.

5Recalls
10Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE VOLKSWAGEN GOLF R

The Volkswagen Golf R is a high-performance compact hatchback - not a sedan - aimed at driving enthusiasts who want serious all-wheel-drive capability wrapped in a practical, understated package. Sitting at the top of the Golf lineup, it competes in the hot hatch segment against rivals like the Honda Civic Type R and Hyundai Elantra N, appealing to buyers who prioritize dynamics without sacrificing everyday usability.

VERDICT

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf R has not been crash-tested by NHTSA, so it carries no Safety Index. Its safety record here is built from 5 recalls and 10 owner complaints on file, giving it a light recall and complaint burden.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • shoppers who want the full federal safety picture in one place
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally regard the Golf R as one of the most polished and well-rounded performance compacts on the market, praising its composed ride, strong all-wheel-drive traction, and refined interior relative to its hot-hatch peers. Most find it strikes an unusually effective balance between everyday practicality and genuine driving excitement, though some note its understated styling may not appeal to buyers seeking a more dramatic presence.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE24V480000

Risk: A rearview camera with a delayed or deactivated image reduces the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2024, and July 16, 2024. Owners may contact VW customer service at 1-800-893-5298. VW's number for this recall is 91US.

Reported 2024-06-27

BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION22V823000

Risk: An inoperative rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed to Audi owners February 14, 2023. Volkswagen owners will receive an owner notification letter once remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are (Volkswagen) 91EK

Reported 2022-11-02

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:RADIATOR ASSEMBLY22V707000

Risk: A damaged coolant hose can leak, causing the engine to overheat, and increasing the risk of fire. In addition, large amounts of coolant spilling onto the roadway can increase the risk of a crash to other vehicles.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the radiator and replace any damaged parts, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 18, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 19Q8.

Reported 2022-09-21

VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY22V542000

Risk: A sunroof switch that is inadvertently pressed can result in unintended auto-closure of the sunroof, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the roof module switch, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 23, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 60F6.

Reported 2022-07-27

ENGINE22V163000

Risk: A loose engine design cover may contact hot surfaces in the engine compartment and melt, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will remove the engine design cover, free of charge. Once parts become available, Volkswagen will provide a free updated engine design cover under a separate Service Action. Owner notification letters were mailed by March 29, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 10H5.

Reported 2022-03-16

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

10 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

0reported crash
0reported fire
0reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsForward Collision Avoidance 5Electrical System 4Steering 3Unknown Or Other 1Back Over Prevention 1Visibility/Wiper 1

Other Golf R years

Last verified 2026-07-03. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings, recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Volkswagen Golf R 2022. Methodology · Disclosure