VW Polo V 1.6 TDI, 90 PS, 5-speed manual (2009–2014)

Research for this car

• Generation guide VW Polo 6R and 6C (2009-2017): known problems and buying guide

  Timing chains, the DQ200 gearbox and 1.6 TDI EGR and DPF faults are the main risks. Check the chain, gearbox and recall records before you buy.

• Engine guide VW 1.6 and 2.0 TDI (EA189) diesel engines: problems, costs and what to check

  Recall work, EGR and DPF faults and injector repairs are common. Buy with recall proof, a belt invoice and a clean fault memory.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. DPF check. Scan for codes P2002 and P242F. Bad result: stored codes or limp mode. A new filter costs 1,500 EUR (year not stated).
2. EGR valve. Scan for codes P0401 to P0403 and P0407. Bad result: codes, rough idle or limp mode. A new EGR costs 380 to 720 EUR (year not stated).
3. Airbag recall. Ask the dealer for proof that the airbag control unit work is done. Bad result: no proof on a 2014 or 2015 Polo 6R. Have the VIN checked.
4. Sills. Lift the mud flaps and press the sill edges. Bad result: soft or holed metal.

From the engine guide

1. Recall paperwork (no scanner). Ask the dealer for a record of the software update, and of the flow straightener on a 1.6. Bad: no record.
2. Fault memory (needs a scanner). Bad: EGR codes P0401 or P0402, turbo codes P2563 or P2564, or DPF codes such as P2002.
3. Test drive. Bad: judder, lost power or limp mode.
4. Injectors (no scanner). Ask whether the injectors were replaced or revised. Bad: rough running with no injector work on record.
5. DPF (no scanner). Ask how the car was driven and whether the filter was cleaned. Bad: a DPF warning lamp, or short trips only.
6. Coolant (engine cold). Check the level and look for an exhaust smell in the cabin. Bad: any coolant loss. The EGR cooler is a common cause.
7. Timing belt invoice. Bad: no dated invoice for the belt, tensioner and water pump, or past 210,000 km or 5 years with no change.
8. Turbo (needs a scanner). On a 2.0 TDI past about 150,000 km. Bad: boost codes or oil leaks at the turbo.
9. Flywheel (manual only). Drive in 2nd gear at about 1,400 rpm. Bad: a rattle.

Running costs

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

ADAC versions