Seven-speed dry-clutch DSG
The DQ200 seven-speed DSG used with smaller engines can judder, hesitate or suffer mechatronic unit failures.
Used Volkswagen inspection
Volkswagen pre-purchase inspection
Volkswagens are among the most popular used cars in the UK, which means plenty of choice and plenty of tired examples. The gearbox, the timing chain on some petrol engines and water getting into the cabin are where buyers get caught out.
We inspect used Polos, Golfs, Passats and Tiguans at the dealer or the private seller, and test the DSG gearbox properly on the road.
Known problems
What goes wrong on a used Volkswagen
Common on Polo, Golf, Passat, T-Roc, Tiguan, Touran. Not every car has these faults. They're what we look for.
Timing chain stretch on early TSI petrols
The 1.2 and 1.4 TSI engines from about 2008 to 2012 are known for timing chain stretch, and some twin-charged 1.4s for piston damage.
2.0 TDI emissions recall
Diesels from about 2009 to 2015 were part of the emissions recall. Check the update was done, and look for EGR and DPF trouble.
Water pump leaks
Plastic water pump housings on newer 2.0 TSI engines, including the Golf GTI, can leak.
Water leaks into the cabin
Blocked scuttle and sunroof drains can let water in, leading to wet carpets and electrical faults.
4MOTION servicing
Four-wheel-drive Tiguans and Golfs use a Haldex coupling that needs fluid changes. Neglect causes rear-drive faults.
Our inspection
What we check on every used Volkswagen
On top of our standard checklist of up to 180 points.
- DSG behaviour pulling away, at low speed and when warm
- Cold start for timing chain noise on TSI engines
- Damp carpets and blocked drains
- Coolant leaks
- OBD2 scan for engine, gearbox and emissions codes
- Service history, including DSG and Haldex servicing
Prices
Volkswagen inspection prices
Fixed prices, the same for every make and model.
Basic110-point · No road test£69.99
Full135-point · Road test up to 10 miles£99.99
Premium160-point · Road test up to 15 miles£139.99
Ultimate180-point · Road test up to 20 miles£169.99
Questions
Volkswagen inspection FAQs
Should I avoid a used VW with a DSG gearbox?
No, but test it carefully. Smooth pull-away, no clunks and quick, clean changes are what you want. We note anything unusual on the road test.
Does a used VW diesel need the emissions fix?
Diesels affected by the 2015 emissions issue should have had a software update. We check the records and look for EGR or DPF faults.
How much does a used Volkswagen inspection cost?
From £69.99 for Basic up to £169.99 for Ultimate. The price is fixed, with no travel charge, in London.
Can you inspect a used Volkswagen at the dealer or a private seller?
Yes. The inspector comes to wherever the car is, on a forecourt or at the seller’s home or workplace. You don’t need to be there.
RevXpress is an independent inspection company and isn't connected to Volkswagen. Faults listed are common patterns reported for these cars, not a sign that any particular car has them.
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