IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2013–2016 Volkswagen Up! Mk1

We've identified 5 known issues that can affect the 2013–2016 Volkswagen Up! Mk1. None are considered critical, but they're worth knowing about before you buy.

5
Known Issues
0
Serious
2
Moderate
3
Minor

All Known Issues

ASG Automated Gearbox Issues

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The automated manual gearbox (ASG) is jerky in traffic, slow to engage drive, and prone to clutch actuator failures. The manual gearbox is far more reliable.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£600
Warning Signs:

Jerky low-speed manoeuvres, Slow gearchanges, Grinding noise when selecting drive

What to Inspect:
  • Test in stop-start traffic
  • Check for clutch actuator fault codes
  • Prefer manual if possible
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Ignition Coil / Misfire

ModerateEngine

The 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine can suffer from ignition coil failures leading to misfires, rough idling and poor fuel economy. Coils are inexpensive but should be replaced in sets.

Est. Repair Cost: £80–£200
Warning Signs:

Engine Management Light flashing, Rough idle, Hesitation under acceleration, Poor fuel economy

What to Inspect:
  • Check for misfire codes
  • Inspect coil packs for cracks
  • Test drive for hesitation
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

High-Level Brake Light Leak

MinorBodywork & Rust

Water enters the boot through the brake light seal, causing wet carpets and potential corrosion in the spare wheel well.

Est. Repair Cost: £50–£100
Warning Signs:

Wet boot carpet, Condensation in boot, Musty smell from rear

What to Inspect:
  • Check spare wheel well for water
  • Inspect brake light seal for cracks
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Clutch Release Bearing Noise

MinorGearbox & Transmission

The clutch release bearing can develop a whining or squealing noise, particularly noticeable when the clutch pedal is pressed. Common on higher-mileage cars.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£500
Warning Signs:

Whining noise when clutch depressed, Noise disappears when pedal released, Squeal in neutral with engine running

What to Inspect:
  • Press and release the clutch slowly while stationary
  • Check for noise in neutral with engine running
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Central Locking Actuator Failure

MinorElectrics & Electronics

Door locking actuators can fail intermittently, leaving doors unlocked or triggering false alarm activations. The driver's door is most commonly affected.

Est. Repair Cost: £80–£150
Warning Signs:

Alarm goes off randomly, Door won't lock with remote, Interior lights stay on

What to Inspect:
  • Test all doors with the remote
  • Check for intermittent locking behaviour
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2013–2016 Volkswagen Up! Mk1

  • ✓Manual is much better than the automated ASG.
  • ✓Check boot for water leaks.
  • ✓Listen for clutch release bearing noise.
20122017
Check a 2013–2016 Volkswagen Up! Mk1 by Registration