IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2017–2020 Volkswagen Polo Mk6 (AW)

We've identified 5 known issues that can affect the 2017–2020 Volkswagen Polo Mk6 (AW). 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

5
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
1
Minor

The 2017–2020 period has 3 more issues than the Volkswagen Polo Mk6 (AW) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Seatbelt Recall and Handbrake Adjuster

SeriousBrakes

VW recalled early Polo Mk6s for faulty seatbelts that could unlatch themselves (up to October 2018 build) and for a handbrake adjuster that could slip (October 2017–October 2018). A brake servo manufacturing fault also led to a March 2020 recall.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £0 (recall)Affects: 2017–2020Often appears around: Age-related recalls

Typical symptoms

  • •Seatbelt feels loose
  • •Handbrake does not hold on hills
  • •Brake pedal feels soft

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check the VW recall database with the VIN
  • ✓Ask for recall completion certificates

DQ200 DSG Gearbox Issues

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The 7-speed dry-clutch DSG on the Polo GTI and 1.0/1.5 TSI models can develop mechatronic faults, causing jerky shifts or total gear loss. The DQ250 wet-clutch unit on the GTI is generally more reliable but still requires 40k-mile fluid changes.

Most affected: 1.0 TSI DSG, 1.5 TSI DSG, 2.0 TSI DSG (GTI)

Estimated cost: £800–£2,000Affects: 2017–2024Often appears around: 30,000–60,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Judder from a standstill
  • •Flashing PRNDS
  • •Delayed gear engagement

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Drive in stop-start traffic
  • ✓Check DSG service history
  • ✓Watch for warning lights on the dash

Infotainment & Software Errors

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Software glitches can cause various warnings and screen freezes.

Estimated cost: £0–£400Affects: 2017–2021

Typical symptoms

  • •Frozen screen
  • •"Travel Assist unavailable"
  • •Random reboots

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Verify software version
  • ✓Check for warning lights

DPF Clogging on Diesel Models

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

The 1.6 TDI BlueMotion models are prone to diesel particulate filter clogging, especially if used for short urban trips. Regeneration cycles may not complete, leading to limp mode and expensive DPF cleaning or replacement.

Most affected: 1.6 TDI

Estimated cost: £200–£1,500Affects: 2017–2024Often appears around: 20,000–60,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Loss of power
  • •DPF warning light
  • •Limp mode
  • •High fuel consumption

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Ask about typical journey length and driving pattern
  • ✓Check for DPF-related fault codes
  • ✓Inspect DPF for regeneration history

Door Lock Actuator Malfunction

MinorElectrics & Electronics

The central locking actuators can fail, causing one or more doors to lock or unlock erratically. The driver's door is the most commonly affected.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £100–£200 per doorAffects: 2017–2024Often appears around: 30,000–70,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •One door does not lock with the remote
  • •Random unlocking
  • •Interior light stays on

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test all doors with the remote and the key
  • ✓Check if the interior light response matches door openings

Buying Tips for the 2017 Volkswagen Polo Mk6 (AW)

  • ✓Test the infotainment repeatedly.
  • ✓Ensure the rear seatbelt recall has been done.
  • ✓Check for SOS system errors.
2021 Volkswagen Polo Mk6 (AW)

Browse 2017–2020 Volkswagen Polo Mk6 (AW) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2017–2020 Volkswagen Polo Mk6 (AW) vehicles.

View 2017–2020 Directory

Other Volkswagen Polo Mk6 (AW) Year Periods

2017–202020212022–2024

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