Is the Volkswagen Polo a Reliable Choice for Drivers?
When it comes to reliability, the Volkswagen Polo has had its fair share of ups and downs. While it is considered a reasonably reliable car overall, it has had several recalls over the years and didn’t perform as well as some of its competitors in What Car?’s reliability survey.
In a ranking of 28 cars, the Polo landed in 18th place, with many owners reporting issues with the air conditioning, engine start-stop system, and infotainment screen. Rivals like the Ford Fiesta, Skoda Fabia, and Honda Jazz were deemed to be more dependable options. Despite this, Volkswagen as a brand placed 22nd out of 32 manufacturers, with an overall score of 90.2%.
Despite these setbacks, the Polo remains a solid choice for a used car. Whether you’re looking for a second vehicle for short trips or a car for your teenager to learn to drive in, the Polo is a reliable option. Additionally, Volkswagen’s established presence in the UK ensures that parts are readily available from both main dealers and independent specialists.
Engine: Owners should be wary of potential issues with the diesel particulate filter in TDI models, as it can become blocked on short journeys. Additionally, the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve is prone to clogging up, so be sure to take any prospective purchase on a thorough test drive.
The 1.2 TSI model features a timing chain that should be replaced every four years or 40,000 miles. If you notice rough idling or coil pack failure, replacements are necessary for the typically smooth-running TSI engine.
Air Conditioning: Keep an eye out for leaks in the air-con’s condensers and radiators, as fixing these issues can be expensive.
Body: Since many Polos are used by first-time drivers, inspect the bumpers, wings, doors, and wheels carefully for any damage.
Windows: Check that the electric windows operate smoothly, as the Polo is known to collect dirt and debris in the window mechanism, causing delays.
Wipers: While rare, the washer fluid pipes can deteriorate over time. Test the wipers to ensure they function properly.
Airbags: Some models may have issues with airbags deploying due to incorrect signals from the accelerator sensor. If you own a 2014 Polo, it’s worth checking with a VW dealer for any potential recalls.
Feedback from a Volkswagen Polo Owner
Chloe Aitchison: “I purchased my 2015 Polo 1.2 TSI in 2017 and have enjoyed owning it ever since. It’s easy to drive and perfect for city commutes. Despite a few costly repairs, including new condensers and suspension arms, I find it economical, comfortable, and fun to drive. I don’t see myself parting with it anytime soon.”
Additional Information to Consider
The 1.2-litre TDI and 1.4-litre TDI BlueMotion models offer excellent fuel efficiency and come with free road tax. Opting for the 1.0-litre triple engine results in a low annual road tax of only £20.
The Polo is highly rated for safety, with the 2009 model achieving a five-star Euro NCAP rating. Later models come equipped with additional safety features such as emergency braking, post-collision braking, and a driver fatigue monitor.
The Polo GTI boasts a powerful 1.8-litre TSI engine and a manual gearbox option, making it a popular choice for performance enthusiasts.
