VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2013)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 103,434 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
85%
Total Tests (2024)
103,434
Avg Mileage
93,359 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,445
Is the 2013 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 11 years old, 85% of VOLKSWAGEN GOLFs from 2013 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 103,434 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 93,359 miles.
How does the 2013 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2013 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF has 93,359 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 81,400 miles for a 11-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a VOLKSWAGEN GOLF?
The most reliable year is the 2022 model with a 100% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 69%. The 2013 sits between the two at 85%.
How much does a 2013 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
VOLKSWAGEN GOLF by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 100% | 42 | 48,967 mi |
| 2023 | 96% | 94 | 37,883 mi |
| 2022 | 100% | 50 | 24,291 mi |
| 2021 | 92% | 430 | 30,210 mi |
| 2020 | 94% | 15,098 | 33,191 mi |
| 2019 | 92% | 89,653 | 42,263 mi |
| 2018 | 92% | 111,972 | 51,770 mi |
| 2017 | 91% | 127,682 | 59,928 mi |
| 2016 | 90% | 118,229 | 68,321 mi |
| 2015 | 89% | 121,777 | 77,151 mi |
| 2014 | 87% | 120,417 | 87,379 mi |
| 2013 | 85% | 103,434 | 93,359 mi |
| 2012 | 80% | 98,183 | 101,911 mi |
| 2011 | 78% | 97,916 | 110,696 mi |
| 2010 | 77% | 87,733 | 116,406 mi |
| 2009 | 77% | 85,462 | 116,549 mi |
| 2008 | 74% | 79,283 | 127,518 mi |
| 2007 | 73% | 80,988 | 126,210 mi |
| 2006 | 72% | 60,321 | 126,470 mi |
| 2005 | 72% | 41,401 | 129,877 mi |
| 2004 | 69% | 25,662 | 127,809 mi |
| 2003 | 73% | 31,803 | 140,305 mi |
| 2002 | 73% | 27,474 | 142,659 mi |
| 2001 | 72% | 15,315 | 133,140 mi |
| 2000 | 72% | 8,316 | 132,299 mi |
| 1999 | 71% | 8,442 | 127,276 mi |
| 1998 | 71% | 4,066 | 117,658 mi |
| 1997 | 74% | 3,130 | 113,175 mi |
| 1996 | 74% | 2,930 | 115,178 mi |
| 1995 | 75% | 1,612 | 108,721 mi |
| 1994 | 76% | 946 | 104,165 mi |
| 1993 | 76% | 834 | 105,417 mi |
| 1992 | 77% | 1,734 | 123,399 mi |
| 1991 | 80% | 5,191 | 134,589 mi |
| 1990 | 77% | 5,156 | 130,503 mi |
Checking a specific VOLKSWAGEN GOLF?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2013 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
The 2013 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF is a small family car with a 1598cc diesel engine. 103,434 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2013, the average MOT pass rate is 80%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 93,359 miles at 11 years old, VOLKSWAGEN GOLF owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2013 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF Fuel Costs
The 1598cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2013 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,445 (£120/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 85% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLKSWAGEN GOLF Reliability Trend
Newer VOLKSWAGEN GOLFs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 13 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2013 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
At 11 years old, the VOLKSWAGEN GOLF is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2022 model has the highest pass rate at 100%. With 103,434 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2013 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2013) 77% pass rate (-8%) from 211,536 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (-6%) from 101,969 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2014) 80% pass rate (-5%) from 81,831 tests
- AUDI A3 (2015) 88% pass rate (+3%) from 80,797 tests