IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2016–2017 Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (6R/6C)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2016–2017 Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (6R/6C). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2016–2017 period has 2 more issues than the Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (6R/6C) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

DQ200 DSG Mechatronic Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The 7-speed dry-clutch DQ200 gearbox can suffer mechatronic unit failure, causing erratic gear changes, loss of drive, or the gearbox entering limp mode. The accumulator piston and clutch actuator are common weak points.

Most affected: 1.2 TSI DSG, 1.4 TSI DSG

Estimated cost: £800–£2,000Affects: 2010–2017Often appears around: 40,000–80,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Flashing PRNDS on the dash
  • •Judder when pulling away
  • •Sudden loss of drive
  • •Gearbox stuck in one gear

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test drive in stop-start traffic for smooth low-speed shifts
  • ✓Check for PRNDS warning lights
  • ✓Ask about DSG fluid change history

Rear Light Seal Water Ingress

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The rubber seals around the rear light clusters can perish, allowing water to drip into the boot. Over time this can cause rust in the spare wheel well and damage to rear electrical connectors.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £50–£150Affects: 2009–2017Often appears around: 40,000–80,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Wet boot carpet or spare wheel well
  • •Condensation inside rear lights
  • •Musty smell from boot

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Lift the boot carpet and check the spare wheel well for water
  • ✓Inspect rear light seals for cracks or gaps

Sill and Wheel Arch Corrosion

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The plastic sill covers can trap moisture against the metal underneath, causing hidden corrosion. The front wheel arch liners can also trap mud, leading to rust on the inner arch and sill area.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £200–£800Affects: 2009–2017Often appears around: 50,000–100,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Bubbling paint under sill covers
  • •Rust visible at mud flap mounting points
  • •MOT corrosion advisories

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Remove or peel back the plastic sill trims and inspect for rust
  • ✓Check inner front arches for corrosion

Buying Tips for the 2016 Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (6R/6C)

  • ✓Prefer the belt-driven EA211 engines found in the 6C facelift.
  • ✓On DSG models, test for judder on take-off.
  • ✓Check rear light seals for water leaks into the boot.
2015 Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (6R/6C)

Browse 2016–2017 Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (6R/6C) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2016–2017 Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (6R/6C) vehicles.

View 2016–2017 Directory

Other Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (6R/6C) Year Periods

200920102011–201420152016–2017

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