Buying a Used Volkswagen Polo Guide - What to Look for
The Polo is one of Volkswagen’s most prized car designs. This hatchback brings a touch of class to the small car club. Spacious and packed with safety and infotainment features, the exterior styling and exterior shape of this car is distinctive and attractive.
In this guide, we’ve got the key factors you should look out for when buying a used Volkswagen Polo. From common mechanical problems to essential checks you should perform on the test drive, we’ve got you covered.
Some of these checks are exclusive to the Volkswagen Polo, whereas others are best practice when purchasing a used vehicle.
Thinking of buying a used Volkswagen Polo? You’ll want to find a trusted dealership. At JJ Premium Cars we perform a 114-point inspection as standard and offer a range of comprehensive warranty options. Shop our lineup of used cars in Peterborough online today.
We stock a wide range of used Volkswagen models. Can’t see what you’re looking for? We regularly update our stock, so we recommend checking what’s available regularly.
Whether you’re looking for an automatic or manual, a petrol-powered or diesel model, all of these options are available in the used Volkswagen lineup. However, you may need a little help choosing your engine type, trim level and deciding whether a car is good value for money.
Engines
- The Volkswagen Polo engine range starts with a non-turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit with 64bhp, 74bhp or 79bhp.
- The turbocharged version increases power to 94bhp or 114bhp.
- The Polo GTI hot hatch comes with a 197bhp 2.0-litre unit
- A 1.6-litre diesel is also available with 79bhp or 94bhp.
Diesel is typically recommended for those who drive longer distances as this is more fuel efficient. For shorter, stop-start journeys, petrol is best.
Used Polo trim styles
Volkswagens come with a glorious range of trim levels. From the entry-level S, SE and Match to the more expressive Beats, ACTIVE and R-Line versions, when it comes to used Volkswagen Polos you’re spoilt for choice. Below we’ve listed the key trim levels you should know about and what makes each one unique.
Used Polo Match
Replacing the S and SE trims in 2020, the entry-level Polo Match is impressively equipped. It comes with many stylish touches and great value as well as plenty of safety features, including front and rear parking sensors.
Used Polo ACTIVE
From its innovative infotainment system through to the 15-inch ‘Galway’ alloy wheels, the used Polo ACTIVE has countless highlights.
Used Polo Beats
For motorists that value a good infotainment system (and the latest tunes), a used Polo Beats is a good choice. This special edition offers distinctive style and sound, with a full suite of Beats speakers and stylish Beats logo seats.
Used Polo R-Line
Exciting, sporty and stylish, the Polo R-Line has its own unique styling and is fun to drive. It has more sporty styling with 16" Galvano Grey 'Sebring' alloy wheels, and R-Line-specific front and rear bumpers.
Used Polo SEL
With everything from 16" 'Las Minas' alloy wheels on the outside to a leather steering wheel and touch-screen navigation on the interior, the SEL is a comfortable and luxurious choice.
Used Polo GTI
With striking exterior and dynamic appeal, the Polo GTI model features 17 inch 'Parker' alloy wheels, sports suspension and 'Jacara' cloth seats. The Used Polo GTI Plus comes with iconic GTI styling, plus LED headlights, tinted rear windows and an Active Info Display.
Used Polo UNITED Edition
The Polo UNITED’s dynamic design comes with attractive 15 inch Dublin alloy wheels.
Common problems to look out for
- High engine oil consumption reported on GTI models with the 1.4 TSI engine - check your oil levels regularly.
- Child lock failure applied to Polos manufactured between 25 November 2015 and 15 April 2016 - check with your dealer that the rear locks were replaced.
- Fuel leak due to cracked fuel filters applied to 1.2-litre diesel engines built between 1 April 2010 and 1 April 2014. These were subject to a recall due to cracked fuel filters. You should check that repair work has been done.
What mileage should you expect from a Volkswagen Polo?
A Volkswagen Polo that has been well taken care of should last 200,000 miles - maybe more. Check that the car’s service record is up to date.
Essential test drive checks
The test drive is your chance to get up close to the car and spot any defects. When you drive you can look out for any performance glitches. Here is a quick list of what to watch out for.
- Bodywork - check for rust or misaligned panels
- Lights
- Check for leaks or suspicious noises
- Brakes and tyres
- Steering and gear changes
- Infotainment and safety features - some will come with Bluemotion technology
- Air conditioning and heating
- Engine oil and coolant levels
- Registration plates
Paperwork, documents and background checks
There are some documents that you should never buy a used car without.
- V5C logbook: Many car buyers will already know that the V5C logbook is essential.
- Service book: If the service records are a little thin on the ground this can be a sign that the car wasn’t taken care of.
- HPI check: The HPI check offers a window into issues that could cause problems further down the line. It highlights some major red flags that you wouldn’t be able to spot just from looking at the car. From finding out if there’s any outstanding finance to checking that the car isn’t stolen property, there are lots of checks encompassed within the HPI. You’ll also get an estimate of road tax and fuel costs to help you budget.
- Car recalls: From time to time a car is recalled due to a fault in the design or a safety issue. There have been a few recalls over the years, including issues with air bags, child locks and fuel leaks. You can check if a used Volkswagen Polo that you’re hoping to buy has been subject to a recall by checking the government website.
- Keys and other essential car accessories: Aside from all the documents and background checks, you’ll want to make sure you have the right keys and car accessories such as car locking wheel nuts.