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Dec 14, 2023

2017

5 tips to find a first-class example of a second-hand Volkswagen Golf Alltrack.

5 tips to find a first-class example of a second-hand Volkswagen Golf Alltrack.

The Volkswagen Golf Alltrack hit Canadian roads for model-year 2017 with 4Motion All-Wheel Drive (AWD), standard turbocharged power, increased ride height, and rugged exterior cladding.

Built on the same MQB architecture as the Golf Sportwagen of its era, the Alltrack variant was a more backwoodsy offering than the standard long-roof Sportwagen, giving shoppers an alternative to machines like the Subaru Outback.

Under the hood, look for a 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower and nearly 200 lb-ft of torque that arriving strongly from under 2,000 revs. Though the Alltrack was discontinued after a short life, used-market shoppers can even seek out a copy with a six-speed manual transmission — making this the last manual-equipped, AWD-equipped station wagon on the market.

Prepare yourself though: not only did the take rate on manual-equipped models surprise VW, but they remained trendy and sought-after even after the Alltrack was discontinued in 2019. Used prices for this model tend to lean high as a result.

MSRP $24,400 to $36,670

Available xenon lighting provided a high-end after-dark drive, and the adaptive cruise control, if equipped, is one of the smoothest around. Key strengths to this anti-crossover model include its long and low cargo hold, easy canine jump-in height, very flexible interior space, and upscale cabin design.

The smooth powertrain and competent AWD system make it a winter-driving beast, too.

Having personally owned a 2019 VW Alltrack for the past four years (manual transmission, of course), I can confirm that a proper set of winter tires (I choose Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3's) turns in a confidence-inspiring winter drive from this spirited station wagon.

Follow the links above for additional features, news, review and specifications on the Volkswagen Alltrack, and read on for five tips to help make sure you find the best used model possible for your dollar. I’ll also provide some insight from my 90,000 kilometres of real-world experience with this machine.

According to the owners’ community, the 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine found in the Alltrack (and numerous other models) can be a source of trouble. Though most owners do not report issues, test-driving shoppers are advised to be on the lookout for poor or sporadic performance at moderate- to full throttle, and for any Check Engine Light (CEL) or warning messages displayed in the instrument cluster.

These can illuminate for hundreds of reasons, including some relating to coil-pack failure, turbocharger failure, vacuum leaks, and more. The engine should pull strong and smooth in the mid-RPM range. If the acceleration feels lumpy or jerky, be sure to have a technician investigate. Some owners choose to pre-emptively replace vacuum lines every few years to fend off leaks caused by ‘dry-rot’ of those lines, too.

In 90,000 kilometres of ownership, I experienced a reliable and trouble-free experience from the engine in my Alltrack, other than the need for a warrantied turbocharger replacement at about 50,000 kilometres which had resulted in poor performance, sluggish acceleration, and a CEL that wouldn't go away.

Over-changing the engine oil ahead of schedule, and consistently running a high-quality fuel from a reputable retailer can help fend off trouble, too. By the way, my Alltrack is still on its original battery and reliably starts at up to 40 degrees below, even with no block heater installed.

Some Alltrack owners choose to modify the engines in their vehicles using non-factory parts and tuning software to generate more power and performance; most do not.

As the Alltrack is a strong candidate for aftermarket tuning, test-driving shoppers should be on the lookout.

Note that use of non-factory engine software or parts can cause damage and wear that isn't covered by remaining powertrain warranty coverage. Dealers can detect the presence of this type of software even if it's removed ahead of a warranty damage claim. For best results, the average shopper should stick to stock and avoid a model that's been ‘chipped’, ‘tuned’, or otherwise modified for maximum peace of mind.

Yearly oil-spray treatment can fend off rust and corrosion, adding long-term peace of mind to your purchase decision. That's especially true if you’ll regularly use your Alltrack in salty northern climates.

To achieve the maximum possible resale value score during an appraisal, a vehicle needs to show no signs of visible rust. In this way, regular undercoating and rustproofing can add years to the life of your Alltrack and maintain a higher residual value.

Seek out a model that's been regularly oil sprayed or protected from corrosion for maximum value and peace of mind. While inspecting the used Alltrack you’re considering, carefully assess the condition of the paint and metal at the lower edge of the hatchback, both inside and out. This is a common area for rust to form.

I had a hand-sized rust spot repaired (under warranty) in this area after just four winters.

Various models built on the MQB platform suffered issues with sunroof drainage, which can cause water to leak into the cabin. This can result in accelerated growth of rust, unpleasant smells, mould, and mildew. A leaky sunroof can also cause physical damage to the vehicle or electronic components within.

On your test drive, carefully inspect the footwell carpeting for excessive dampness or evidence of standing water, and examine the headliner and dome-light console for signs of nearby water staining or wetness. Access the spare tire well beneath the cargo floor and check for water in this area too. If you detect any, the likely cause is a blocked or improperly installed sunroof drain tube which can allow water to overflow into the vehicle.

Dealerships can inspect the sunroof drainage system and replace or add parts to fix this issue. Note that the Alltrack you’re considering may or may not be affected by this issue, and may have had a fix installed already.

Some owners have reported issues with their air conditioner, including the sudden failure of the system during heavy use in hot temperatures a few minutes into a drive. Most have not.

Though this problem is relatively rare against total sales volumes, test-driving shoppers should be on the lookout, since out-of-warranty AC repairs can be pricey and involved. Thankfully, the likely culprit in this case appears to be a faulty pressure switch, which is generally an affordable and easy-to-replace part.

Other issues with air conditioner performance can be caused by a plugged cabin air filter, a refrigerant leak, or an improper refrigerant fill from the factory. On your test drive, be sure the air conditioner works as expected, and that the light on the "AC" button comes on when the system is activated. If you note any trouble, have a professional investigate before you buy.

These tips are designed to help test driving shoppers more easily identify problems reported by some owners. A careful and attentive test drive that focuses on the areas above can help you find a first-class example of a second-hand Volkswagen Golf Alltrack.

Justin Pritchard is a Sudbury, Ontario based automotive journalist and award-winning presenter, photographer, videographer and technical writer. Every week, Justin uses his keyboard, voice and cameras to share his latest automotive reviews and discoveries with his audience, via multiple Canadian television programs, print and online publications.

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