2013 Volkswagen Saveiro
The 2013 Volkswagen Saveiro is a compact pickup truck primarily sold in South America. It’s known for its versatility and affordability, often used as a work vehicle but also suitable for everyday driving. Two engine options were available: a 1.6L 8V inline-4 engine producing around 101 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque (Gasoline), and a 1.6L 8V inline-4 engine producing around 104 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque (Ethanol). Both engines are typically paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. People often appreciate the Saveiro for its practicality, decent fuel economy, and car-like handling. Common dislikes include limited rear passenger space (in the extended cab models) and relatively basic interior features.
Engine
1.6L 8V Inline-4 (Gasoline)
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes an abnormal amount of oil, requiring frequent top-ups. Blue smoke may be visible from the exhaust. This often occurs with higher mileage engines.
- Solution: Depending on the severity, the solution ranges from using a higher viscosity oil to replacing piston rings or even a complete engine rebuild.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the repair needed
- Recalls: None Found
- Coil Pack Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and a noticeable loss of power. The check engine light will illuminate.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty coil pack(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per coil pack
- Recalls: None Found
1.6L 8V Inline-4 (Ethanol)
- Cold Start Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, especially in cold weather. Extended cranking may be required.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacing fuel injectors, checking fuel pump pressure, and inspecting the cold start system.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the repair needed
- Recalls: None Found
- Fuel Injector Clogging
- Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, and a noticeable decrease in power.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacing the clogged fuel injectors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $80-$600+ depending on the number of injectors that need replacing and labor.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
- Difficult Shifting into Gears
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging certain gears, especially 1st or reverse. Grinding noises may be heard during shifting.
- Solution: Replacing the clutch assembly (including the clutch disc, pressure plate, and release bearing). Inspecting and potentially replacing the shift linkage.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ depending on the parts needing replacement
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Synchronizers
- Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting gears, especially when downshifting. This indicates worn synchronizers inside the transmission.
- Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Worn Shocks and Struts
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, excessive body roll when cornering, and increased stopping distances.
- Solution: Replacing the worn shocks and struts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the parts and labor
- Recalls: None Found
- Damaged Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when driving over bumps.
- Solution: Replacing the damaged bushings (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar bushings).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the bushings replaced and labor
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Faulty Window Regulators
- Description/Symptoms: Windows that move slowly, get stuck, or fail to operate altogether.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ depending on the part and labor
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The battery frequently drains, especially if the vehicle is left parked for an extended period.
- Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the parasitic drain (e.g., faulty sensor, aftermarket accessory). Checking the alternator to make sure it is properly charging the battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the drain and the labor required to find it
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust
- Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the vehicle’s body panels, especially in areas prone to moisture and salt exposure.
- Solution: Repairing or replacing the affected body panels. Applying rust-inhibiting coatings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the extent of the rust damage and the repair method
- Recalls: None Found
- Tail Light Housing Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the tail light housings.
- Solution: Replace the tail light housing.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per tail light assembly
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks can develop on the dashboard, particularly in vehicles exposed to high temperatures and sunlight.
- Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the solution chosen
- Recalls: None Found
- Door Handle Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The interior door handle can break or become difficult to use.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty door handle.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per door handle
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2013 Volkswagen Saveiro, while a practical and affordable vehicle, has its share of common issues. Engine-related problems, such as excessive oil consumption, and fuel injector issues, can be costly to address. Transmission issues, particularly those related to shifting, also appear. Suspension and electrical problems are also present. Rust is a common issue in areas with high humidity, so it’s also important to inspect the body. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with potential costs ranging from a few dollars for minor parts to several thousand dollars for engine or transmission overhauls. Buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and address these issues before buying.