Brutally Honest VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2009-2017) Buyers Guide & Review

[@georget10i]

Thanks for the video! Here's the summary of it, maybe someone will find it useful: PRE-FACELIFT (2009-2014) 1.2L MPI Petrol - Not mentioned 1.2L TSI Petrol Turbo - Not mentioned 1.4L MPI Petrol - Not mentioned 1.4L TSI Petrol Turbo (GT) - OK 1.4L TSI Pertol Twin-Charged (GTI) - Avoid 1.6L MPI Petrol - Not mentioned 1.2L TDI Diesel - Timing chain problems. Avoid 1.6L TDI Diesel - Timing chain and also flywheels problems. 1.2L may be a better bet POST-FACELIFT (2014-2017) 1.0L MPI Petrol - OK 1.0L TSI Petrol Turbo - Not mentioned 1.2L TSI Petrol Turbo - Not mentioned 1.4L TDI Diesel - Replaces pre-facelift 1.2L and 1.6L. Good engine 1.8L TSI Petrol Turbo (GTI) - Replaces 1.4L Twin-Charged engine. Good engine Avoid the DQ200 auto gearbox Check back camera Check door locks - Don't unlock Check driver's side windows Check windscreen wipers - Don't turn off. Try out wipers Check AC Check Bluetooth Check Bushes and front arms

[@Andrew-lz9dc]

Own a 2017 Polo BlueGT for three years now. Great car, no problems yet.

[@AlexSmith-qs9wg]

I have the same car i do 100 miles a day easy for my job best car ever

[@blacklion8208]

I have a 1.4 manual and the only problem I've had is with the engine light coming on and no one knows why, not even the VW service garage.

[@blacklion8208]

Forgot: It's a 2014 model.

[@keukenrol]

@@blacklion8208 Had the light pop up 2 days ago too on a 1.2 tsi from 2015. Parked the car and when leaving an hour later it was gone.

[@ramiresn2234]

@@blacklion8208it’s the camshaft sensor you need to change. I had the same problem

[@livhuhanishirinda3952]

I have a 2017,1.0 bluemotion DSG for just over 6 years with 205 km's with no issues at all, i think it all depends on how you look after your car.

[@PyroNut94]

Solid little engines, got a stage 1 on this and running 184bhp and 312nm, no issues at all, enjoy!

[@mobilrz]

Had a facelift 1.4 TDI Polo as a daily driver, air con as mentioned can fail, went through wheel bearings front and rear on a 50k mile car. Good points, £0 road tax, pretty frugal and I opted for SEL model so LED headlights.

[@xXturbo86Xx]

Even very early 1.2 TSI engine timing chains can be replaced with the latest ones. There are complete kits on the market that include both timing and oil pump chains,sprockets,chain guides,tensioner, bolts etc. and a lot of videos in here on how to do it by yourself with low expenses compared to what you would pay a shop to do it, and low risk because it's a simple job. I have the CBZB engine (105hp) coupled with the MTH manual. After 12 years it's still using the second replacement chain that was replaced by the dealership on the first oil change. Doesn't burn a single drop of oil. Performance and fuel consumption is still the same. Suspension is still in very good condition according to the MOT. No electrical issues although i don't live in a humid or cold place so that helps i guess. The only issues that i have been having with the car since day 1 is a squeaking seat that i haven't bothered to fix and the fact that you can't lock all doors with a disconnected battery. Only the front doors lock. To keep all doors locked without a battery you have to lock it with the battery on and keep the hood open. Disconnect the battery, and close the hood. When it's time to go, you can unlock only the driver door with the key, lift the hood, connect the battery, unlock the car and you're good to go. No idea if it's the same for other cars. Another thing that bothers me but it's not really an issue but a characteristic, is the bad handling. You can't really drive it fast. Stock suspension has the rear jacked up and over undulations the rear WILL slide out ever so slightly and you have to expect it and catch it. Some would call it "playful" though. With the boot loaded with luggage, it drives so much better. So much more stable and balanced. To the point that i consider adding a balast.

[@portman8909]

I can't say I've had the same issue with "bad" handling on the mark 6 Polo with 1 litre TSI. I'm assuming you are talking about the mark 5 here?

[@calamityyy]

I have the 1.2 TDI BlueMotion from 2010 for about 8 months. Now at 250k km's/155k miles. In that time I have had to replace the following things: - 2x shock absorbers on the rear - hood lock (intermittent wiper setting stopped working, car kept thinking hood was not closed so it stops the wipers from working) - trunk lock (trunk light didnt come on because the car thought the trunk was closed) - driver door lock (couldnt open the door from the outside anymore, only from the inside so had to open another door to get in) - 1x wheel bearing rear - 1x ball joint front - replaced a bolt close to the turbo which was leaking oil - alignment (after alignment it's still bad and driving to one side when i let go of the wheel) - handbrake cable tightened - new 12v battery

[@MauriceNL1]

Not too bad really. Most of them are expected at that mileage.

[@chriswhotton7056]

Had vw's for years on our 8th now a 2012 golf gtd 2.0 fed up with the particulate filter coming on no good for running round town all the time , looking at the polo Gt for the wife great info in video cheers Chris

[@TaraTyzack]

Thanks this has been an incredibly helpful video. I'm looking at a 2015 tsi and you've helped me feel more confident in my choice and definitely reminded me to make sure the mirrors work!

[@alexandrosathanasopoulos9654]

I really like my 2012 TSI DSG Polo because it's a pleasure to drive and with the best (quality wise) interior in it's class BUT it's far from reliable...So far with only 55000 miles I have replace 1) Megatronic, 2) water pump, 3) timing chain, 4) AC compressor 5)the lock mechanism inside the glove box for the front passenger air bag and last but not least 6) throttle body... I bought the car in 2019 with only 21800 miles and I really take good care of it and I service it always on time. The car cost me to buy 8000 pounds and so far I have spend 2400 pounds to fix it! If you want money in your pocket buy a Yaris but if you don't care and you like a more refined feeling then the Polo is for you. In my opinion this version of the Polo is a good choise for a new driver because it will brake down more often in the hands of an inexperienced driver, especially the brittle automatic gearbox. A 12 years old Polo doesn't justify this kind of mentainance cost.

[@monkey555500]

great video...done the rear discs n pads on me dads polo today 64 reg 1.2tsi se ...and the discs will come out without having to undo the caliper carrier bolts no prob on that model just jiggle them a bit....top tip....

[@somnambulist1965]

Had a 2011 Polo 1.2. Air con went ( bill for evaporator was 2k inc labour) timing chain went at around 110k km. All was great before the bills started coming

[@danielwoodland9576]

Mine been mapped on November 2016 still going strong.

[@hognaut]

I've also got a blue gt 17 reg, Amongst other things I had electric folding mirrors fitted and all being well next month I will be having a tuning box and peddle kit fitted that will give me an extra 30hp. I think these are great little cars and have had no problems at all in the 18 months I've owned it. Interesting video guys and would love to know how Robyn gets on with the stage 2 configuration 👌

[@k1lva4a]

I have 1.4 NA DSG 7spd from 2010 and 122k miles on it, so far no problems at all. Mostly city driving

[@hachik0511]

I have the 1.4 NA engine as well and just hit 120K. Part from general wear and tear items, all good. DSG 7 speed 2011.

[@k1lva4a]

@@hachik0511 pretty reliable and practical car not only for city driving, for sure. Mostly the low weight is a big plus in this 1.4NA DSG spec

[@hachik0511]

For the last 2 years I’ve been doing majority motorway driving and it’s been great. Is yours the 3 door or 5?

[@k1lva4a]

@@hachik0511 5 door

[@k1lva4a]

@@hachik0511 5 door

[@roconnor01]

I used to be an avid VW owner of Polo's and Golfs, until I discovered Toyota. I have never had a problem with the Japanese brand, whereas I had plenty of issues with VWs. To be fair to VW, they are lovely to drive and be in, but with my Toyota,I know so long as I have it serviced it will never let me down.

[@alvinnaidoo3432]

You should have serviced your vws as well 😂

[@PatchedThePipe]

Had a 2015 1.2 TSI that I wrote off 😂 went straight for same model as the video 1.4 BlueGt in white and I have been blown away just how much further a full tank of petrol stretches

[@veemart1301]

I uses 2017 , i love my Car , it is s blessing to drive on Germany Rosd 😊

[@leestockton9367]

It's part of the VA Group so the ECM will start giving intermittent faults on the fuel line

[@portman8909]

I've got a 20 plate r-line. No problems after a year of use.

[@CeltSfodster]

I made the massive mistake of buying a used Ibiza Bocanegra with the 1.4 TFSI and DSG quite a few years back. You are not wrong when you say dropkick your wallet!

[@ScottishCarClan]

🥲 was it the engine or gearbox that gave you problems?

[@CeltSfodster]

@@ScottishCarClan engine unfortunately. Had the dreaded oil consumption issue and ended up shitting a piston. Bought it from BCA too so no comeback. 😫 Lost a fair few quid but learned a valuable lesson!

[@blackeunosmk1662]

Is there any competition for the car tested. Think of an alternative car with £20 road tax, 150bhp and an interior quality of a golf.

[@mongoose9438]

Mazda 3 is pretty quality. I think the sport nav trim has 165bhp. £35 road tax too

[@jasonstubbs7472]

Got a 2012 polo timing chain went at 35000 miles. It's now done 70000.

[@BarryB-l8v]

The car , in my opinion, was very good.

[@tristan1546]

Fantastic small car as I own one for 4 years nothing going wrong where it can’t fuilt this car 😊

[@ScottishCarClan]

Great to hear! Which engine do you have?

[@tristan1546]

@@ScottishCarClan I have a polo 1.4 gt in blue colour

[@ScottishCarClan]

@@tristan1546 ah just like the car in the video. Great choice 😁👍🏼

[@geertwijn4640]

Very helpful video mate. What’s your opinion on the 1.4 CGGB type engine?

[@brianlittle4279]

So we are going to look at 2 cars today a 1.2 automatic seat Ibiza fr on a 12 plate and a 2009 vw polo 1.4 automatic any suggestions on what is the best to buy ????

[@eddiejones.redvees]

My son has just sold his 2011 1.2 TDI to his cousin after with 98.000 miles on the clock it had 15.000 on when he got it he at to have a new exhaust fitted a two years ago he only drove it a few miles a year because it job was manly home based he had only minor things go wrong with before the exhaust problem but one was the bonnet release cable snap me previous car was a 2008 1.4 TDI polo which was a great car l now have a 2015 1.6 diesel Astra which is a lot smoother with have the extra cylinder but is doing about the same mpg has the polo since I have been retired I do quite a few motorway miles so a diesel car is OK for me

[@19astrasport]

If you told your insurance company about the mods it will be more expensive. Nice car.

[@julesmarwell8023]

as a rule which must be observed here is this.. WHEN THE WARRANTY RUNS OUT>> dump it as soon as you can.

[@portman8909]

Basically every car then.

[@PatchedThePipe]

Warrantys are not worth the paper their are written in. I had VW Polo and the timing belt pulley "snapped" causing immediate loss of oil pressure which was all over the engine bay. which even the dealer admitted was catastrophic failures but Warranty claimed it was wear and tear. I was lucky to have a decent dealer who paid the £1100 repair bill (and said he would chase the Warranty at the other end)

[@smulle96]

awsome, youve narrowed down my searching, cant wait for a caddy 2k guide :D sub and liked

[@itbestuk]

I was going to buy a 2013 Auto, however, I'm unsure now, it was a first car for my daughter, any other suggested small auto cars?

[@Azan-k3m]

Polo only for its build quality and VW badge for reliability and fun Suzuki Swift also Yaris for reliability but it's a bit boring. Japanese reliability is top notch.

[@PedigreeMongrel]

1.2 tdi 2011 VW pooloo the blue tooth on radio is only available if you pay dealership to unlock In settings then the injector leaked needed replacement and after full service dumped all the oil into coolant head gasket failed cars body is decent but engines are crap avoid get something else they just eat money anything you save on tax or fuel economy you’ll end up spending keeping it running. Regular services oil changes didn’t make a difference if you get a bad one get rid asap

[@Hellndegenerates]

Why do polo drivers think they can beat anything, AP coilovers are amazing.

[@tashabarnes3234]

I just bought an automatic Polo GTI 1.4 2011, what should I look out for issues wise?

[@kitler01]

Oil consumption

[@danielk3893]

@tashabarnes3234 any updates? Looking for one myself :) Check enginenoise, make sure the gearshifts are fast and oil goes fast. Thats what i heard at least. Please respond!

[@tashabarnes3234]

@@danielk3893 I’m loving it but i don’t know a lot about cars. I have noticed that there is a lot of fumes coming from the exhaust. I need to bring it in for a full check (the garage did one and everything was all good apparently) but I noticed the handbrake doesn’t hold the car on a hill properly. Like I said I don’t know much about cars but I’m totally in love with it, every car comes with issues I guess but I was just wanting to know what to keep an eye out for!

[@kitler01]

@@danielk3893 I’d avoid it mate, if you really want one buy the 1.8l. The engines are well known for blowing up and dsg gearbox’s are super expensive to fix every issue is basically 1k

[@lutze5086]

Google it and say your prayers

[@AntiWokeXyCitizen]

My car has also got 4 wheels, an engine, and a steering wheel...

[@hognaut]

Wow, a few extras there, that lot must of cost a couple of bob 😀

[@jas_313]

My apologies if this is a silly question - I’m not much of a car person - but would you recommend a petrol 1.0 polo over a diesel?

[@kallum92]

depends if it 4cyl or 6cyl and how many Ls

[@portman8909]

All new Polos are 3cyl. @@kallum92

[@robindebruin880]

Im looking for a polo bluegt manual so should i be looking for a 2013 and up model??

[@NiamhFlynn-cd8lb]

Looking at buying a 1.2 TSI VW Polo, mileage 52,000 miles. First car, worries about expenses

[@anakshan]

You still looking I got one for sale?

[@Swarnadeep_]

is getting a 2016 1.2 MPI Comfortline worth getting if it has 75k km on it

[@Antonschuurmans]

Considering the whole list of potential faillures on this car I wonder how it gets 8,5 points out of 10 for reliability. This generation Polo is very unreliable. It deserves 5 out of 10 at most.

[@arongecseg3523]

1.4 tsi are not bad engines at all, some fake info hear, 1.4 comfortline is bad tho, and the 2.0 too

[@user-bl7co3vy1i]

is a 2011-12 vw polo 1.2 tsi comfortline reliability good?

[@arontoreky6958]

I've had a 2012 Polo V 1.2 TSI comfortline for a while now, and i didn't have any problems with it. I also have that DSG gearbox, I didnt have any problems with that neither. I really love this car, its amazing to drive, and you can go quite fast with it as well. I absolutely recommend it

[@newbeginnings8566]

Look why take the risk buying VAG products? They are plagued with issues.. Occasionally you might get a decent one but there are too many design issues that lead to big bills..

[@toughhorizon529]

what about a 2015-2017 polo gti?

[@KayDeeDuiker]

What about the 1.4 tdi?

[@pandeni4512]

So which one is better to get as a 1st car? 2013 polo tsi 1.4 or 1.2???????

[@Dee-u4r]

He’s not exactly praising the car is he more like stay away, I’ve never heard of a car with so many issues, also the DSG transmission is well known as the best auto around, odd video indeed!

[@dashcamview5884]

the belts are crap , keep replacing it, the chain is forever

[@derinkamal8403]

1.4 blueGt has the same problem?

[@ScottishCarClan]

If you buy a manual 1.4 blue GT they are pretty reliable

[@St.Moritz121]

I ❤ VW

[@patscanlan2678]

Walk away...........and buy a Honda Jazz!😃

[@frasermay7825]

Liked the Jazz I test drove, but the passenger side front is short on leg room for any trip

[@portman8909]

Granny car

[@ComeJesusChrist]

In summary, don’t buy any of these, just get an older Golf if you wanted a VW!

[@AneliaNdinovami-gt2ot]

Clown

[@deniss1]

Golf 4 1.9 TDI!!!!! Newer models of WV will never be like that one

[@TenPester]

Wee Robyn bobbin ❤

[@bondjamesbond9041]

Simple answer avoid this over rated brand and buy a Toyota, Honda or a Suzuki instead.

[@jdmguy44]

...or Mazda 2. Speaking from experience.

[@bondjamesbond9041]

@@jdmguy44 Yes or a Mazda 2.Good point

[@قرفص]

All slow awful and rusty

[@jdmguy44]

@@قرفص My Mazda 2 skyactiv is mint inside and out, quick for a supermini, looks great, handles, great economy and has been 100% reliable so not sure what universe your living on mate or what your basing your comment on. Far better than any equivalent Eurotrash.

[@Azan-k3m]

​@@قرفص don't know about rust but 2010 swift has a 1.2 litre engine with 94 horsepower 2010 yaris has a 1.33 litre engine with 99 horsepower both are pretty nippy and very reliable. Plus the swift is very fun to drive.

[@ruffiyan]

2011 vw polo 1.2 tsi 105 petrol, is this belt or chain and are the engines reliable or do they have issues?