TransmissionHigh
Automatic gearbox wear from towing and load use
- Typically appears
- 90,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Test kickdown and check for harsh shifts when hot
2011–2020 Volkswagen Amarok · common problems & known faults
A pickup often used for work, so drivetrain and chassis condition tell the real story.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed August 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2011–2020 Volkswagen Amarok are Automatic gearbox wear from towing and load use, Corrosion on the chassis and load bed mounts and Auxiliary belt shredding leading to cambelt failure on 2.0 BiTDI models. 3 of the documented issues are rated high severity · inspect these first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Reliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Volkswagen Amarok.
4.3/ 10
- Critical
- 0
- High
- 3
- Medium
- 4
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Volkswagen Amarok problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
ChassisHigh
Corrosion on the chassis and load bed mounts
- Typically appears
- Age-related
- What to inspect
- Inspect underneath, especially near the rear mounts
EngineMedium
EGR and DPF faults on stop start work use
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Run to temperature and check for warning lights
SuspensionMedium
Sagging rear leaf springs from overloading
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Check ride height and look for cracked leaves
EngineHigh
Auxiliary belt shredding leading to cambelt failure on 2.0 BiTDI models.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Shine a torch down the front of the engine to check the auxiliary belt for frayed edges. Listen for tensioner chatter or squeaking at idle.
EngineMedium
Upper timing chain rattle on cold start due to tensioner bleed-down on 3.0 V6 TDI models.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-100,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Ensure the engine is completely cold. Open the bonnet, start the engine, and listen closely to the rear of the block for a sharp metallic clatter lasting 2-3 seconds.
DrivetrainMedium
Thumping or vibration through the floorpan caused by a torn propshaft centre support bearing.
- Typically appears
- 80,000-120,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Look underneath the middle of the vehicle. Grab the propshaft near the centre support bearing and push it firmly upwards and sideways to check for excessive play or torn rubber.
BodyworkLow
Water ingress into the cabin causing damp carpets, originating from a degraded high-level brake light seal.
- Typically appears
- 5-8 years
- What to inspect
- Inspect the seal around the third brake light for perishing. Check the rear headlining for water stains and feel the carpet underneath the rear bench seat for dampness.
Inspecting a Volkswagen Amarok?
Get a full, tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact car · what to look at, what it costs and how serious it is. Free preview, full report $9.
Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
What ruins an Amarok?
Overloading. Check the rear springs before anything else.
Is a service history essential?
Yes on autos. Gearbox fluid history matters.
Are commercial buyers fussy?
They check the bed, chassis and towbar first.
Which engine is more reliable, the 2.0 BiTDI or the 3.0 V6?
The 3.0 V6 TDI is generally more robust, offering better longevity and towing capability. The earlier 2.0 BiTDI suffers from known EGR cooler failures and auxiliary belt issues that can derail the cambelt. However, the V6 is more expensive to service and requires engine-out timing chain replacements if tensioners fail.
What should I look for regarding the 4MOTION four-wheel-drive system?
Amaroks feature either selectable 4MOTION with a low-range transfer box or permanent 4MOTION using a Torsen differential. For permanent systems, ensure all four tyres match in tread depth to prevent differential wind-up. Selectable systems must be tested in low-range on a loose surface to ensure the transfer motor engages smoothly.
Are there any specific MOT failure points dealers should anticipate?
Aside from chassis corrosion, Amaroks frequently fail MOTs on worn front lower suspension arm bushes and leaking rear wheel cylinders on models with rear drum brakes. Handbrake efficiency is another common failure, usually caused by stretched cables or seized rear shoe adjusters resulting from off-road mud ingress.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.