The Most Common Issues that Volkswagen Repair Specialists Diagnose May Surprise You

Volkswagen is a household name many people are familiar with. Established in 1937, VW has been known for producing luxury cars traditionally preserved for wealthy people. While the German car manufacturer is recognized for quality, robustness, and durability, your Volkswagen may experience common issues just like any other car on the market.

Whether you have a brand-new Polo, Golf, Taigo, or other Volkswagen model, your car might experience issues like an overactive check engine light, suspension issues, or an overheating engine. Below are some of the most common issues that Volkswagen repair specialists diagnose from time to time and what they could mean. Call us today to book your Volkswagen in for service!

1. Vehicle Overheating

Most VW vehicles are designed with smaller cooling systems that typically hold a small amount of coolant, making them prone to overheating. As a result, the coolant system should be replaced every 60,000 miles to ensure everything remains intact and functional. But if your vehicle does overheat, make sure you stop immediately and get professional mechanical help.

Common causes of engine overheating include:

• Low coolant level.
• Failing coolant reservoir or radiator.
• Defective thermostat.
• Issues with the engine fan.

2. Suspension Issues

If you hear clunking noises while going over potholes or bumps or a clicking sound while turning, it could indicate issues with your car’s suspension. Most Volkswagen suspension problems occur due to faulty ball joints that don’t absorb the shock from the movements or fail to rotate as the steering wheel does. Any faults or issues with the suspension system will likely result in poor driving quality and unusual noises.

3. Coolant Leaks

Coolant leaks are a commonly reported problem in Volkswagen vehicles. In most cases, leaks crop up as a result of weak seals and bearings within and around the water pump. But if you see steam being emitted from the engine, this leak could be coming from the coolant flange.

Additionally, you may notice puddles under your vehicle, which is often a sign of a cracked radiator. Whatever the case, a skilled Volkswagen repair specialist should diagnose and repair the leak to prevent your engine or other components from overheating while you drive.

4. Overactive Check Engine Light

One of the most common issues with VW vehicles is the overactive check engine light that shows on the dashboard even when nothing is wrong. If you see a yellow check engine light, it’s a warning which can be easily fixed. Volkswagen vehicles have been known to trigger a yellow check engine light for even simple issues like a loose petrol tank cap. 

Besides that, other causes of yellow check engine light may include: 

• Faulty Oxygen Sensor – This issue may result from an emissions problem or a clogged sensor that needs to be cleaned out.
• Catalytic Converter – Issues with the catalytic converter could increase harmful emissions and reduce engine performance and fuel economy. 
• Worn Spark Plugs – VW spark plugs don’t need to be changed frequently, but in older vehicles, a yellow check engine light could appear when spark plugs are worn down. If your Volkswagen has faulty or worn spark plugs that cause misfiring, you should have them replaced as soon as possible.

But if you notice a red check engine light, it’s considered an emergency and should not be ignored. In some cases, it could mean your engine is overheating and could quickly catch fire, which is obviously a hazard. Whenever you notice a red check engine light on your dashboard, pull over as soon as possible and call a Volkswagen repair specialist.

5. Oil Problems

While leaks and sludge build-up happen in all types of vehicles, the VW Passat is particularly known to experience engine failure triggered by sludge build-up at a much lower time scale. This problem often happens between 70,000 and 90,000 miles. However, you can often avoid this issue by changing the oil on time as per the manufacturer’s advised schedules. You should also ensure you only use the approved oil listed in the handbook.

How Can a Volkswagen Repair Specialist Help?

While Volkswagen is a popular brand that produces some excellent vehicles, problems can occasionally arise, calling for resolution by a qualified mechanic. All these issues may not be an emergency, but you need to keep up with your regular maintenance to help you keep down major expenses later on. Our Volkswagen repair specialist is dedicated to offering the best service, including diagnosis, service, MOT, and repair. Contact us today to book your vehicle for exceptional service!