Common Faults With the VW Amarok
If you’re looking for a sturdy 4×4 with reliability built-in, as well as the odd luxurious feature, then the VW Amarok is a pretty good choice. Volkswagen released the Amarok onto the market back in 2010, so it doesn’t have quite as much history as some of your more storied brands.
However, it became quite a popular choice as a light commercial vehicle quite swiftly after being released in markets around the world. It was a model briefly withdrawn from the market in 2020 but returned in 2023, much to the delight of those who enjoy a rugged off-road vehicle with purpose. In fact, The Sunday Times Driving website said the VW Amarok “bridges the gap between work and play like never before” on its return.
As with any vehicle that is put to work, there comes a point when wear and tear or common issues begin to occur. Whether you’re planning to buy a new or second-hand Amarok, or are just curious as an Amarok owner, let’s take a look at the common faults drivers find on the VW Amarok.
Please note that the following three faults are not for specific models of the Amarok but are more commonly reported faults.
EGR valve issues on the VW Amarok
First up is a common Amarok issue across many of the models. The exhaust gas recirculation valve (EGR) is designed to lower nitrogen emissions by feeding some of the gases into the engine once more. You might notice if this valve fault has occurred if there is an unusually rough idling experience or if the engine light comes on.
As a regularly reported issue, it’s recommended that you have this checked during an annual service.
DPF blockage issues on the VW Amarok
Next is the issue relating to the diesel particulate filter (DPF), another component in place to help reduce emissions when driving. While many vehicles can suffer from DPF blockages, the Amarok seems more prone, especially when the vehicle has only been driven short distances or never really gets above certain speeds due to traffic.
It’s recommended that Amaroks are driven for longer, more sustained periods to help clear blockages and minimise the risk of this issue.
Water pump failure issue on the VW Amarok
A leaking water pump is the last thing you want since it helps to move the coolant around your engine to lower the temperature and keep things running smoothly. When there is a leak in the VW Amarok’s water pump – or any other fault with this component – there is the obvious risk of overheating, but this can lead to more damage within the engine overall.
You should check your water pump regularly and, again, request it be checked as part of a service if it’s not included already. A replacement pump should last you for many years.
Previous recall issues for the VW Amarok
While the above were all common issues noted by drivers of VW Amaroks, there have been specific recalls from Volkswagen over the years, so it’s worth familiarising yourself with them for the specific models. If you’re buying a second-hand Amarok you can ask to check if the following recall faults have been dealt with:
- Potential fuel leaks in the 2010-2013 single-cab model
- Brake calliper loose bolts in the 2014-2015 model
- Software update recall in the 2015 model
- Airbag recall fault for the 2016-2017 model
- Power-assisted steering fault in the 2017-2018 model
Other VW Amarok issues to look out for
As well as all of the above, with any 4×4 or off-road vehicle, there are some common issues to be on the lookout for. This includes the early wearing out of the clutch and drive shafts if your Amarok has been driven a lot off-road. Rust can also occur on the roof if not well maintained, since it’s often out of your line of sight. Finally, electrical faults are not uncommon in many vehicles these days, so make sure your locking system and any media systems on board are all functioning.
At Moot 4×4, we know the joy of owning vehicles like the VW Amarok, and that’s why we want to help you keep yours going for longer. Whatever issues you might be experiencing, you’ll find lots of parts, tools and accessories in our range – including suspension parts for the Amarok and Amarok transmission parts.
Why choose Moot? Because we’re a family business you can rely on and we have everything you need.
Plus, we deliver worldwide! We’ll send out your order swiftly so you won’t have to shop around and you’ll save money on genuine parts.
We’re the only 4×4 store you need — so order online today and get moving with your VW Amarok. Got questions? Get in touch with us and we’ll be on hand to help.