Volkswagen Amarok Common Problems

The Volkswagen Amarok is a dual-cab ute sold here in two generations. The first (2H, 2011 to 2022) was Volkswagen's own design. It launched with 2.0-litre TDI four-cylinder diesels in single-turbo and twin-turbo (BiTDI) form, first with a six-speed manual only and later an eight-speed auto, and from 2016 added the 3.0 V6 TDI (TDI500, TDI550 and TDI580) that most used buyers now look for. The second generation (2023 on) is built by Ford alongside the Ranger and shares its diesels and 10-speed auto. The V6 2H has a strong following for its power and refinement. The four-cylinder has a patchier record, and parts and servicing generally cost more than for Japanese rivals.

EGR cooler leaks and DPF blockages (2.0 TDI and 3.0 V6 TDI, 2011 to 2022)

Emissions hardware is one of the most reported trouble spots. On the four-cylinder, EGR coolers can fail and leak, and the diesel particulate filter (DPF) is often reported to give trouble at high kilometres. V6 owners report the same pattern: DPF warning lights, frequent regenerations and, in some cases, limp mode. Utes used for short trips suffer most because the filter never gets hot enough to burn off soot. A new DPF from Volkswagen can cost a few thousand dollars. Avoid utes with DPF or EGR "delete" tunes; removing emissions equipment is not legal for road use and can complicate rego and insurance.

Accessory belt failure damaging the timing belt (2.0 TDI, 2011 to 2022)

On the four-cylinder diesels, the serpentine (accessory drive) belt has been reported failing before its 75,000 km change interval. Pieces of belt can get behind the timing belt cover and knock the timing belt out of time, letting valves hit pistons and wrecking the cylinder head or the whole engine. Volkswagen introduced a revised timing belt cover in May 2012, so early utes are most exposed. Specialists suggest replacing the accessory belt when it gets noisy or at 60,000 km, and the timing belt is due every 105,000 km.

Coolant leaks (3.0 V6 TDI and 2.0 TDI, 2011 to 2022)

On 2016 and 2017 V6 utes, a coolant tap in the engine valley (between the cylinder banks) is reported to leak, and an uprated part is said to fix it, so check whether one has been fitted. Coolant leaks are reported on both engines, and left alone they can lead to overheating and serious engine damage. A UK guide also lists water pump failures on the Amarok. Watch the coolant level and look for crusted coolant on top of the V6.

Oil use and oil leaks (3.0 V6 TDI, 2016 to 2022)

Some V6 owners report noticeable oil use between services, and a few have had oil warning lights. Others report leaks from the engine, the gearbox and intake pipes near the turbo, which can cause limp mode when they split. Leaking injector seals leave oily residue around the injectors, and the rear diff pinion seal can sweat, which is usually minor. Costs range from a cheap seal to a turbo pipe or valve replacement, so get any leak diagnosed before you buy.

Weak reverse and clutch problems (8-speed auto and manual, 2011 to 2022)

Many automatic Amaroks have engine torque heavily limited in reverse. The ute can struggle reversing up a slope, out of soft sand or when pushing a caravan or boat. A software update or tune can address it, so ask whether one has been done. Some manuals have had clutch operation problems, and individual owners have described clunks, vibration between gears and tailshaft centre bearing wobble on high-kilometre utes. Have a transmission specialist check any shudder, because driveline damage gets worse with use.

Water in the lights and electrical faults (all 2H models, 2011 to 2022)

Bi-xenon headlights and tail lights can take in water during creek crossings, and water in the tail lights can damage the wiring harness. Owners also report wheel speed sensor faults, parking sensor and camera faults, battery and starter failures, and infotainment freezes on V6 models. Most are modest repairs individually, but several together point to a ute that has been driven hard or through deep water.

Recalls and safety

First-generation recalls include engine bay fuel pipes that could chafe and leak on 2.0 TDI utes, the emissions software update for 2011 to 2012 2.0 TDI (EA189) utes, airbag and belt tensioner propellant on 2016 to 2017 utes, a power steering return hose clip on 2017 to 2018 V6 utes, front seat wiring harness damage and a spare wheel winch cable that could snap. Reported recalls on the new generation cover driveshaft faults and a driver's seatbelt anchor. Have a Volkswagen dealer check the VIN for open recalls, and see our recalls page.

Buying a used Volkswagen Amarok? What to check

• DPF and EGR history: Ask how the ute was used, have it scanned for stored DPF and EGR fault codes, and walk away from any ute with an emissions delete tune.
• Service records: Look for regular servicing, timing belt replacement at 105,000 km on the 2.0 TDI and fuel filter changes every 60,000 km.
• Accessory belt: On a 2.0 TDI, look at the belt condition and listen for squeal or chirp at idle, and ask when it was last replaced.
• Coolant: Check the level when cold and look for dried coolant in the V6 engine valley. Ask whether the uprated coolant tap is fitted on 2016 to 2017 V6 utes.
• Oil and leaks: Check the dipstick, and look under the ute and around the turbo pipes, injectors and rear diff for fresh oil.
• Reverse up a slope: On an auto, reverse up a steep driveway. If it struggles badly, ask whether the reverse torque update has been done.
• Lights and water: Look for condensation in the headlights and tail lights, and for silt or rust under the carpets that suggests deep water crossings.
• Hard use: Check the towbar, leaf springs, rear shocks for leaks, CV boots and tyre wear for signs of heavy towing or off-road work.

Run a PPSR check to confirm there is no finance owing, and use our Volkswagen Amarok buying checklist at the inspection.

The verdict

The best used buy is a 2018 to 2022 V6 (TDI550 or TDI580) with a full service history and no emissions tune. The V6 is generally seen as the more robust and more desirable engine. The 2.0 TDI is cheaper but needs more care, and 2011 to 2012 utes carry the most risk from the belt issue and the emissions recall. Avoid neglected tow rigs and utes with DPF deletes. The Ford-built 2023 on Amarok is still young, so check that its recall work has been done.