Volkswagen Reviews 

I originally left a review in January regarding an ongoing breach of contract with Volkswagen. I did not receive a Final Written Response to my complaint, yet the case was closed. That in itself is a clear breach of process and completely unacceptable.

I have since raised a formal dispute with my bank for a chargeback. Despite the matter being in active dispute, Volkswagen have proceeded to issue a default notice. Issuing a default while a formal dispute is ongoing is a breach of agreement.

After my January review, Volkswagen publicly asked me to email with a reference number. I did so immediately and received no response whatsoever.

When I called again yesterday, the situation deteriorated further. The advisor could not locate my file using three separate reference numbers previously provided by Volkswagen. My vehicle registration and VIN number also failed to bring up my records. This raises serious concerns about their internal systems and record keeping.

More concerning, the advisor then discussed airbag issues and named another colleague — clearly referencing the wrong file entirely. I was being given information that did not relate to my case, which constitutes a GDPR breach. This is extremely alarming.

When I asked what I was supposed to do to speak to someone who could resolve this properly, I was told I would need to attend a dealership and ask them to locate the “correct” VIN number myself. It is not the customer’s responsibility to fix Volkswagen’s internal failures.

What began as a straightforward vehicle rejection has escalated purely due to poor handling, lack of communication, and a complete absence of accountability. I have now escalated this matter to my bank and the Financial Ombudsman.

You will likely respond to this review with a generic request to email again. Do not. I expect you to contact me directly and resolve this properly. My vehicle registration is SA23 ZKG. There should be no further excuses for failing to locate my case.

Customer service throughout this entire process has been wholly unacceptable

My car has broken down due to a manufacturing fault of the panoramic roof draining system. I didn’t realise the drainage system has spider traps at the bottom which actually prevents the water properly to drain because it gets filled up with gunk.

Unfortunately now all my electrics have messed up because the water is backed up and flooded all the electrics as well as causing damp all in my car.

This is a known problem in Tiquans which I didn’t realise until I researched it.

I phone up customer services to be dealt with by someone who can hardly speak English and is incompetent of being polite.

I’ve had warranty and paid out for warranties over the years and service charges.

The funny thing is when I phone up the Bury Saint Edmunds branch they tell me it’s something that needs to be maintained.

Well when I bought the car no one told me to maintain it also surely that’s what the service charges for.

Totally incompetent company and I’m cancelling my service charges with them now. I would rather deal with an independent garage.

I am writing this review to express my complete disgust with Volkswagen and, in particular, the Telford branch.
I purchased a car from the Telford Volkswagen branch in February last year, sold to me by Kristian. Initially everything seemed fine. I returned the car in April for a minor issue, which was dealt with without any problems. However, in July, I brought the car back again due to a battery issue — and that is when the situation became unacceptable.
In July, I was suddenly told that the battery issue was due to the car being mapped. This was shocking, as I have never mapped or modified the car in any way. Despite this, Volkswagen informed me that my 2-year warranty was void, meaning they had sold me a mapped vehicle without disclosure and then penalised me for it.
What makes this worse is that Volkswagen stated their records showed no map when the car was inspected in April, yet somehow by July it “miraculously” appeared. I repeatedly asked for proof or evidence that the car was mapped and was met with excuse after excuse. No evidence was ever provided, despite constant requests.
I raised a formal complaint and dealt with the manager at the time, who was rude, dismissive, disrespectful, and completely unprofessional throughout the process. During the complaint, I also became aware — through someone who worked at the branch — that staff were referring to me as “the annoying blonde girl” simply because I was disputing a mis-sold product and standing up for myself. This behaviour is unacceptable, sexist, and deeply unprofessional.
To make matters even worse, the Telford branch closed, and I was told that all paperwork relating to my complaint was lost during the transition. As a result, the complaint was closed with no resolution, and to this day my warranty has never been reinstated.
I delayed writing this review because the entire experience caused significant stress, and the way I was treated made me dread contacting Volkswagen at all. What has happened here is outright illegal — I was sold a vehicle that was not as described and then blamed for Volkswagen’s failure to identify this before sale.
I have never modified this car. Volkswagen’s attempt to shift responsibility onto me instead of taking accountability for their own mistake is disgraceful. Based on my experiences with both Shrewsbury and Telford, it is clear there are serious systemic issues within the Inchcape-run Volkswagen franchises. I am beyond disappointed and would strongly caution anyone considering purchasing a vehicle from Volkswagen — particularly through Inchcape — to think twice

Major fault after just 2,000 miles — VW unwilling to help

Terrible.
Everyone I called told me to call someone else. Everyone washes their hands of my issue. Waited 24 hours for my car to be recovered, only for it to be taken to the wrong place. Still haven't got my car back now. Issue still not resolved.

To
Customer Care / Head Office
Volkswagen UK

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to formally escalate a complaint regarding my vehicle (Vehicle Number: LL75XSV) purchased from ID.7 Volkswagen South Gate on 1st January 2026.

At the time of delivery, I noticed two minor scratches on the vehicle. I immediately brought this to the attention of the dealership staff member, Dornal, who inspected the car and assured me that:

- I would be booked after two days and the scratches would be repaired within two hours, and
- The rear mats were not available at the time of delivery and would be delivered to my home at a later date.

Despite these assurances, it has now been 20–25 days, and neither the scratches have been repaired nor the rear mats delivered.

In addition to this, I am experiencing a serious issue with the vehicle’s charging cable. When I connect the charger at night, the charging automatically stops on multiple occasions without any clear reason. This issue has occurred several times and suggests a possible fault with the charging cable or charging system, which is extremely concerning for a newly purchased vehicle.

Throughout this period, I have attempted to contact the dealership reception several times. Unfortunately, my calls are either unanswered or I am repeatedly told that I will receive a callback, which never happens. On one occasion, I was told I would be contacted the following morning; however, when I called again, I was informed that the staff member was busy and would call later. This level of customer service is unacceptable.

As a Volkswagen customer, I expect all commitments made at the time of purchase to be honored and any vehicle defects to be addressed promptly. I therefore respectfully request your immediate intervention to ensure that:

- The scratches on my vehicle are repaired without further delay,
- The rear mats are delivered immediately, and
- The charging cable and charging system are fully inspected and the fault resolved.

If this matter is not resolved promptly, I will have no option but to escalate the issue further through the appropriate consumer complaint channels.

I look forward to your urgent response and a swift resolution.

Yours faithfully,

Mohammad Sulaman Yousaf Rani
📞 07780789548
📍 London
Vehicle Number: LL75XSV

We have a fault on our VW ID4. We waited two days for roadside assistance. Then the mechanic told us to take it in to the service centre and promised us a courtesy car. He said we would hear from the courtesy car people within an hour. We have waited all day and have had no contact from them. We rang them several times and held on the line for thirty minutes on one occasion but no-one answered. We won’t buy another VW.

First the debacle over the emissions scandal. Then car subject to recalls, necessitating trips to the garage without any assistance getting there and back. Then VW stop supplying a part for an 11 year old car, so car no longer has full functionality (as having to use after-market parts which means some of the functionality of the car has been lost). Overall, a terrible purchase. Will not be buying VW again.

I have a work 24' VW caddy. Its a joke, this car should not be allowed on the roads. VW blocked apple car play lol I mean, what sort of a less inteligent person would come out with this idea. I was going to buy VW Golf next, but naaah thanks. Ill stick to my skoda.

You could start charging 10p for dropping the windows too. Or 1p for everytime You want to turn the radio up. What a massive disapointnent this company is.

THE MULTIVAN IS NOT A FAMILY CAR IT IS A COMMERCIAL VEHICLE - YOU WILL NOT GET A COURTESY CAR WHEN IT GOES IN FOR SERVICE.

Quite how VW have the 'piece of mind' reputation that they do is beyond me.

I called VW 3 garages to get my car serviced - not one of them would touch it and they kept referring to it as a 'commercial' vehicle.

A van centre in Croydon eventually took my car with a 5 week wait - the only courtesy vehicles they provide are 3 seater vans. There are 7 of us.

So, spent a fortune of piece of mind and actually bought a guaranteed headache everytime the car needs a service.

I am extremely disappointed with the customer service I received from VW UK. My experience was nothing short of frustrating.

First, my initial call was answered by an AI that tried to mimic a human operator, which was misleading and frustrating. After being transferred, I spoke to an advisor in South Africa, and the language barrier made communication incredibly difficult. Eventually, I was transferred back to the UK, only to face another communication issue due to the advisor’s unclear accent. It was incredibly challenging to understand and be understood.

Additionally, the confusion around the courtesy car was another major issue. I was told I would receive a courtesy car, but then found out I would have to pay for it, which defeats the purpose of a “courtesy” car. When I questioned this, the staff couldn’t even keep their explanations straight, calling it a courtesy car one moment and a loan car the next. This lack of clarity and professionalism is unacceptable, especially considering the significant amount of money we invest in VW vehicles and warranties.

Overall, my experience reflects a third-rate level of customer service that does not align with the reputation VW claims to uphold. I hope this feedback prompts VW to improve their customer support and communication standards.

Received a letter saying that my ID.4 car has a safety recall and I should book an appointment immediately. I called to book an appointment, sat on hold for ages wile they registered my car and they said that they need the car for 2 days. I said that I will need a courtesy car to get to work etc. They said there would be a cost of £25 which I agreed too. They then said that there are no courtesy cars for 5 months. I said that's not going to work. She said ok no worries and hung up the phone. Great customer service VW.........

This has honestly been the most frustrating company I’ve dealt with as a car owner. Based on my experience in the UK, I would not recommend a VW EV if you don’t live close to a dealer, as you may end up making repeated visits for faults and delays.

I’ve had my ID.3 for about 1.5 years and it has shown recurring error warnings throughout. Although the warranty runs until June 2026, only two faults have been resolved so far. The current fault remains outstanding, and I’ve been waiting two weeks for a service slot and a further two weeks for 12V battery approval (still waiting)

In total, I’ve been to the 2 different branches more than ten times for different issues. The overall experience with service, communication, and internal processes has been extremely disappointing. I’m selling the car next Tuesday and moving on.

Shit. Waste of money.

I’m extremely frustrated with the service I’ve received from Volkswagen regarding the connected services on my ID.3. After weeks of emails and phone calls, the issue is still not fixed, yet I keep receiving automated messages asking if it’s been resolved. When I’ve called, the support has felt scripted and repetitive, with little apparent technical understanding. Remote pre-heating/climate control was one of the main reasons I bought the car, so not being able to use it during a cold snap is unacceptable. I want this escalated and managed by a named person until it’s fully resolved.

I had my service and break fluid change in Telford VW and I can say they are absolutely rubbish and don't wasted your money on them. Can't even change the fluid and refit the break as required. Since the service done I heard loads of brake squeaking sound and I thought it will go away. But it binding the drums all the time and my MOT check found out there was an issue. Because of these idiots and untrustworthy business, I have to spend hundreds to recheck the breakes and the service they have done on my car on top of the lost mileage due to breaks were on all the time while driving. Don't waste money on them.

Had a service done on my car, not only did I not get any explanation regarding the vehicle issues found during the service nor the video of the VHC whilst being carried out, but on my drive home from the workshop the front part of my car’s undertray came away and hit the ground surface whilst I was driving at 70mph on a dual carriageway. When I went back into the workshop with undertray in hand, I was told by the aftersales manager that my undertray is at fault and not the technician who had refitted the undertray after its service. It was a dangerous incident that could have been fatal if the vehicle behind me on the carriageway was an HGV, luckily it wasn’t and so the driver could quickly manoeuvre around my vehicle as I had emergency braked (no idea what the loud crash sound was at first). By blaming my undertray, the Aftersales Manager and technician took no responsibility for the undertray not being securely reattached after carrying out the service that day.

Sitting in my car, lone female, in the dark, at the side of the motorway, crying, 80 miles from home. 2+ hour wait for priority assistance, outsourced to AA, really unhelpful VW staff. Recurrence of the red “drive system fault” warning code, this time at 60mph leading to loss of steering, electrical power and controls, that I was told by the garage/specialist battery centre would recur, because of a likely battery module fault. (They weren’t able to fix the fault four weeks ago because they didn’t have a fault code so VW wouldn’t authorise a replacement). Being told now on the phone that I’ll only be moved to a “place of safety” when assistance does finally come, and not home as my AA policy would normally include. Just the worst, most unhelpful service. Terrible company. Four weeks ago, for this very same fault, I waited 5.5hr to be recovered in temperatures of -4C for a car that was totally dead, yet I was assured there was nothing wrong with it, because it somehow reset itself, despite forums calling the fault “the red triangle of death”. Four weeks ago the VW customer service line refused to escalate my complaint; saying “well I am the complaints line, and I won’t be passing this to my manager”. As predicted, and as I tried to tell VW on that call, the car wasn’t safe and I’m lucky not to have died earlier as its systems shut down at speed on the motorway. This is a car I’ve had for just over a year, it’s done 9000 miles. I will never ever get another one or willingly deal with VW again.

Ice blue metallic paint is starting to change colour on fuel flap on my 14 month old Clubsport GTI. Report it to the dealership at 8 months and they wanted to spray the whole rear quarter. Obviously, I said that their is no way that you are respraying an 8 month old car. I said that I would monitor the paint and by October at the cars first service, I questioned the paint defect again and demanded that the fuel flap gets sorted. As a one off good will gesture, the dealership are going to try and sort the issue out. A one off good will gesture. What about the VW three year paint warranty? Oh sorry, it doesn't meet the criteria of faulty paint according to VW. £47000 I spent on a very sexy Clubsport GTI and I'm treated with a load of B......T. I have spent nearly £70000 in five years at the dealership and never buying another VW.

1★ – Avoid for new vehicle purchases

My company bought a “brand-new” VW Transporter from Marshall VW Loughton. It arrived dirty with obvious paint and prep defects. Their own staff admitted the prep was “very poor”.

I was fobbed off with offers of repair and roof rails instead of a proper replacement, then strung along for months with emails about a refund being “progressed” with VW and settlement figures being requested. Relying on that, the van sat unused on my drive while finance and tax were still paid.

I ended up in court and lost on a technicality about the type of claim – not because the van was fine. In my opinion, Marshall hid behind procedure instead of sorting out a situation they had clearly created. I would not buy from them again.