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1

The car at a glance

Volkswagen Polo Mk5 pre-facelift (6R / 6C)
Photo: Wikimedia Commons · Example of this model

Volkswagen Polo Mk5 pre-facelift (2009–2014)

factory type code 6R / 6C · engine code CBZC (90 PS), CBZB (105 PS); chain-driven

  • 1.2 TSI EA111, 90/105 PS Petrol
  • Manual / Automatic

This Polo is a small used hatchback. The 2009–2014 petrol models offer 90/105 with manual or automatic gearboxes. Watch for and automatic gearbox problems; on 2014 cars, verify the engine code to distinguish the belt-driven EA211.

2

Reliability rating

56
/ 100
Check carefully

Good performance and economy come with a significant chain risk. (VW's automatic gearbox) adds a second expensive exposure. This score is an editorial view of your buying risk. It is not a measured failure percentage.

Concern for this year/engine: 2009–2014: You should focus on condition, service records you can verify, and the exact engine and gearbox. Registration year alone tells you less.

Typical lifespan: 200,000–250,000 km is possible after correct chain maintenance, but early expensive failures are documented.

This is a general assessment of this model and engine, not a guarantee of this individual car's condition.

3

Common problems to look out for

Stretched and trouble

Risk: High

The issue to check is eA111 (engine family code) stretch and trouble. The early chain can stretch or lose tension and jump. Revisions reduced complaints but build year alone is not proof of a safe chain. Cost covers replacement before serious internal damage.

Warning signs
  • Metallic rattle on cold start
  • Timing correlation codes
  • Rough running
Estimated repair
€750–€1,450
What to look out for
See a cold start and get updated complete-kit invoices, not a vague claim the belt was done.

Automatic gearbox and control faults

Risk: High

The issue to check is (seven-speed dry- gearbox code) dry-clutch DSG (VW's automatic gearbox) judder or (combined electronic and hydraulic gearbox control) faults. The seven-speed automatic has dry clutches (not running in oil). You may find worn clutches or faults in its hydraulic or electronic controls. Do not apply a blanket 60,000 km oil-service rule for a wet-clutch DSG (VW's automatic gearbox) to this gearbox.

Warning signs
  • Judder pulling away
  • Delayed reverse
  • Flashing gear display
Estimated repair
€900–€3,500
What to look out for
Test cold and hot, reverse uphill and stop-start manoeuvres. Get a gearbox scan and repair history.

Air-conditioning leaks or pump failure

Risk: Medium

The issue to check is air-conditioning leak or compressor failure. Early cars have compressor-failure reports. Refrigerant loss may instead mean a leaking condenser or pipe. Do not assume a recharge fixes it.

Warning signs
  • Warm air
  • Compressor noise
  • Repeated regassing
Estimated repair
€150–€1,100
What to look out for
Check vent temperature and demand leak diagnosis if refrigerant has recently been topped up.

Boot wiring and latch faults

Risk: Medium

The issue to check is tailgate wiring and latch faults. An owner-workshop guide documents broken wires at the hinge and latch faults. This helps you know what to inspect. It is not an independent measure of how often the fault happens. Evidence for how often this happens is limited, so confidence is lower. There are not two independent sources directly supporting this item. You should check it, but this does not mean it is a proven common fault.

Warning signs
  • Boot will not open
  • Intermittent latch
  • Rear electrical faults
Estimated repair
€100–€450
What to look out for
Try boot repeatedly and check hinge wiring gaiter.

and cooling leaks

Risk: Medium

The issue to check is and cooling-system leakage. Leaks have been reported on early cars. Fault location must be established before agreeing to a pump or housing replacement. Evidence for how often this happens is limited, so confidence is lower. There are not two independent sources directly supporting this item. You should check it, but this does not mean it is a proven common fault.

Warning signs
  • Coolant top-ups
  • Pink deposits
  • Temperature warning
Estimated repair
€180–€750
What to look out for
Pressure-test and check after a fully warm road test.

Worn brakes, tyres and suspension

Risk: Medium

The issue to check is brake-disc wear and suspension deterioration. Buying guides flag rapid brake and tyre wear. At this age also check suspension and do not mistake uneven tyres for a harmless cosmetic issue.

Warning signs
  • Brake judder
  • Lipped discs
  • Clunks and uneven tyres
Estimated repair
€200–€800
What to look out for
Check discs and tyres, drive rough surfaces and check suspension on a lift.
4

Questions to ask the seller

Tick them off as you talk. 0/6 asked.

5

Running and repair costs

Routine servicing / year
€200–€450
Average
Fuel economy
Approximately 5.5–6.8 L/100 km (42–51 mpg imperial).
Average
Unexpected repair risk
Common repairs
High
Unexpected repairs (if they happen)
  • Stretched and trouble€750–€1,450
  • Automatic gearbox and control faults€900–€3,500
  • Air-conditioning leaks or pump failure€150–€1,100
  • Boot wiring and latch faults€100–€450
  • and cooling leaks€180–€750
  • Worn brakes, tyres and suspension€200–€800
6

Final verdict

The good
  • Mechanics generally know this layout well
  • You get useful space in a small car
  • A good example can still be affordable for you to maintain
The concerns
  • Gaps in the history can hide expensive work you may need to pay for
  • A current (National Car Test) does not guarantee the mechanical condition
Our verdict
Check carefully

With a score of 56/100, check this car carefully before you buy. Good performance and economy come with a significant chain risk. (VW's automatic gearbox) adds a second expensive exposure.

Always check this car's actual condition and maintenance history — ideally with an independent inspection.