VW Golf VI 1.4 TSI, 160 PS, 6-speed manual (2008–2013)

Research for this car

• Generation guide VW Golf 6 (2008-2013): known problems and buying guide

  Buy only with proof of timing chain and DSG work. The chain, the GTI tensioner and the dry DSG cause the big bills.

• Engine guide VW 1.2 TSI and 1.4 TSI (EA111) petrol engines: problems, costs and what to check

  The timing chain and oil use are the known weak points. Buy only with chain paperwork and a clean oil check.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. Ask for timing chain work records. Chain replacement is 800-1,400 EUR, an overhaul 4,000-6,000 EUR (Germany, year not stated). No record: lower the price or walk away.
2. Look under the car for coolant at the water pump, especially above 120,000 km. Check the coolant level.
3. Look for oil on the engine and under the car, especially on 1.6 MPI and turbo petrol engines. Check the oil level on a cold engine.
4. Clear the scuttle drains under the wipers. Lift the floor mat and smell for damp. Water in the footwell is a reason to check the fuse box and the control units in the driver footwell for corrosion.
5. Check springs and dampers, and drive shaft boots. Torn boots are normal wear from about 150,000 km.

From the engine guide

1. Cold-start rattle. A few seconds of metallic rattle on a cold start is the usual sign of a worn chain. Ask whether the chain and tensioner (the part that keeps the chain tight) were replaced, and ask for the dated invoice with the mileage. If not, budget 686 to 1,090 EUR in Germany.
2. Chain stretch reading. Ask a workshop to read the chain stretch values with a diagnostic tester (a computer tool that reads the car's systems).
3. Oil level and top-ups. Check the dipstick. Top-ups every 1,000 to 2,000 km, blue smoke from the exhaust (a sign of burning oil), or rough idle (uneven running at standstill) point to ring or piston work. Ask for the price and the oil-use history.
4. Compressor noise. Listen for a whistle or click as the supercharger engages. Ask for proof of any compressor clutch work on a 2010 or 2011 twincharger.
5. Turbo warnings. A check engine light, or a loss of boost (the turbo's extra air pressure), points to the wastegate or actuator. Read the fault codes with a scanner.
6. Coolant and water pump. Look for coolant leaks and wet stains around the pump. Overheating and leaks are the symptoms. Ask whether the water pump was ever replaced.

Running costs

ADAC figures for 15,000 km a year over 60 months

ADAC versions