Volkswagen Trouble Codes and Known Issues

Volkswagen has a huge presence worldwide with the Jetta, Golf, Polo, Passat, Tiguan and Amarok. The turbocharged direct-injection TSI gasoline engines (1.4, 1.8 and 2.0) and the TDI diesels account for the most codes, along with the DSG dual-clutch automatic gearboxes.

Most searched models: Jetta / Vento, Golf, GTI, Passat, Polo, Virtus, Gol, Tiguan, Taos, Atlas, T-Cross and Amarok.

Common problems on Volkswagen vehicles

• Timing chain and tensioner on first-generation 1.8 and 2.0 TSI (EA888) engines.
• Oil separator and PCV valve in the valve cover, which cause vacuum leaks.
• Carbon buildup on the intake valves of direct injection engines.
• Plastic water pump and thermostat housing, with coolant leaks.
• Seven-speed dry-clutch DSG gearbox (DQ200): mechatronic unit and clutches.

Tips for diagnosing a Volkswagen

• If a TSI has a camshaft correlation code and chain rattle on startup, do not put it off: a jumped chain damages the engine.
• Use oil that meets the specified VW standard (502 00, 504 00 or 508 00 depending on the engine).
• The DSG mechatronic unit needs a scan tool that can access the transmission module.

Do you have several codes at once? Use the free multi-code diagnosis for Volkswagen: it sorts the codes by priority and shows these make-specific notes. Below are the codes with documented quirks on Volkswagen vehicles.

Make notes are a guide based on well-known common failures. Always confirm with the manufacturer's documentation for your engine and model year.