Volkswagen Polo Common Problems and Solutions
Knocking Noise
Problem:
You can hear a knocking sound coming from the front of the car while driving.
Solution:
This could be a range of issues, but the most common one is, by far, a loose anti-roll bar (ARB) in its chassis mounting bushes. Check that the bar still has its plastic sleeve and if it doesn't, then you've found the problem. You'll need to find an 18mm ARB on our parts list and install it, but this can be a challenging job. You should be able to access the mounting without having to remove the suspension sub-assemblies, which will save you a lot of alignment headaches.
Difficulty level
Cabin Misting
Problem:
The windows are misting up a lot, especially during the colder months.
Solution:
Your air recirculation control is likely to be stuck in the recirculate position. You can simply move the valve to the 'fresh air' position. In some cases, the fuse will have blown, but this is very rare.
Difficulty level
Trouble Starting The Engine
Problem:
The first click of the ignition seems fine, and all of the dashboard lights read as normal. On the second click, the car fails to start.
Solution:
First, check your battery has plenty of charge and refill the charge if it is empty. If the battery is fine, then have a look at the wiring for the starter solenoid. It could be that one has broken and will need to be replaced. We have the wiring for the starter solenoid available to order, and they are very low-cost parts.
Difficulty level
Black Rear View Screen
Problem:
The screen that helps you to reverse is suddenly blank, although the power light is still on.
Solution:
The reverse camera on the Polo Hatch has an annoying habit of just falling off. If that happens when you're driving, then you probably won't notice it until the next time you try to reverse. We have the cameras available for delivery, and they are easy to plug in.
Difficulty level
Car Running Hot
Problem:
The car is running very hot and overheating quickly. You might also smell a sweet aroma when you exit the car after a good drive.
Solution:
This will be a coolant leak either from beneath the water pump or from the black hose that you'll see running along both sides of the engine. Examine both the pump and the hose, and when you've found the problem, you can quickly order a replacement from BreakerYard and install the new one.
Difficulty level
Water Pump
Dramatic Loss of Brake Power
Problem:
The car's anti-lock braking system isn't working, and the ABS warning light is illuminated.
Solution:
You shouldn't drive the car when it has a faulty ABS, so you need to sort this out quickly. The problem will be the control module, which we always have in stock so you can order at any time for quick delivery. Removing the ABS control module can be very tricky so you'll need some steady hands and some patience.
Difficulty level
ABS Control Unit ECU
AC Failure
Problem:
The AC has stopped working, but the fuses are fine, and the motor runs.
Solution:
In most cases, this will just be a case of your AC system needing to be regassed. You can buy regassing kits and do the job yourself, but they aren't cheap, and a mechanic will usually charge around the same price with less risk of an expensive mistake. If regassing doesn't work, then you will have a leak somewhere in your AC system, which you'll need to locate and seal.
Difficulty level
Engine Rattle 1.2-Ltr Petrol Models
Problem:
You can hear a rattling sound coming from the engine, especially during a cold start.
Solution:
The 1.2-ltr model uses a timing chain, unlike other models that use a timing belt. Timing chains don't often go wrong, but they may stretch, which is what that rattling sound is. You may be able to get away with simply tightening the chain, but in rarer cases, you'll need to find a new chain on our drop-down parts menu and completely replace it.
Difficulty level
Timing Chain
Braking Judder
Problem:
The car judders when you apply the brakes.
Solution:
The brake discs on the Polo Hatch are well-known to wear out quickly, usually signified by longer stopping distance and juddering. Your discs will have worn down, and you'll need to order replacement discs from our online store. Don't forget to check your brake pads as well, as these may have been worn down faster because of the discs.
Difficulty level
Brake Disc
Sudden Acceleration Loss
Problem:
You're driving along when the acceleration suddenly drops. The check engine will flash on.
Solution:
If your Hatch was built between December 2013 and December 2014, then it's likely that your housing bolts on the camshaft adjuster will have come loose. Lots of drivers faced with the problem think that this is a simple matter of tightening the housing bolts, but that's only a temporary fix. You're going to need to replace the camshaft adjuster. Type in your registration number on our home page to find a new adjuster.
Difficulty level
Increased Travel On Handbrake
Problem:
You have to pull the handbrake further and further.
Solution:
This caused a recall notice for VW, but it's quite an easy fix. You'll need to take the handbrake assembly apart and readjust it. Then, fit the locking device that VW released as a solution. We sell the locking device, and you can order your low-cost fix quickly and easily.
Difficulty level
Braking Assistance Failure
Problem:
You are gradually getting less brake assistance, but the ABS light does not illuminate.
Solution:
Oil is likely getting into your brake servo through the vacuum lines of the tandem pump. You can order a new vacuum line from us and have it delivered, but a VW dealer may do the work for free if your Polo is still covered under warranty.
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