2016 Volkswagen Amarok

The 2016 Volkswagen Amarok is a popular pickup truck known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and off-road capabilities. Engine options available for the 2016 model year include a 2.0-liter TDI diesel engine in various states of tune, as well as a 3.0-liter TDI V6 diesel engine. Transmission options typically consist of a 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic. Owners often praise the Amarok’s car-like handling and strong towing capacity, but some common criticisms include its relatively high price point and the lack of certain advanced safety features compared to its competitors.

Engine

2.0L TDI Diesel

• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, engine overheating, reduced engine performance. The EGR cooler can crack, leaking coolant into the exhaust system.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler with an updated design that addresses the weaknesses of the original part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
• Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, loss of power, black smoke from exhaust, potentially leading to engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace faulty injectors. It is often recommended to replace all injectors at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L TDI Diesel V6

• Intake Manifold Swirl Flap Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, poor fuel economy, engine management light illumination. The swirl flaps inside the intake manifold can become worn or damaged, affecting airflow.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold assembly with an updated design.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, fuel system contamination. Failure can cause metal shavings to contaminate the entire fuel system.
  • Solution: Replace the HPFP, fuel lines, fuel injectors, and fuel tank.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between certain gears. This can be caused by wear and tear on the valve body or solenoids.
  • Solution: Replacing valve body and/or performing a transmission fluid flush with updated fluid. In more severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4000+

Suspension

• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when carrying a load. This can negatively affect ride quality and handling.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs with heavier-duty or upgraded aftermarket springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
• Front Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking or creaking noises coming from the front suspension when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Central Locking System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly, remote key fob not working, or alarm system triggering randomly.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the faulty door lock actuator, wiring harness, or central locking module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Glow Plug Failure (Diesel)
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, engine misfires, excessive smoke.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty glow plugs. It’s recommended to replace all glow plugs at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Exterior

• Tailgate Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening the tailgate, handle feeling loose or broken.
  • Solution: Replace the tailgate handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+

Interior

• Air Conditioning Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not blowing cold air, unusual noises from the compressor.
  • Solution: Replace the AC compressor and potentially the receiver drier.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive.
  • Solution: Update the software. If that doesn’t fix it, replace the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+

Summary

The 2016 Volkswagen Amarok can present owners with a range of issues, from relatively minor electrical glitches to more serious engine and transmission problems. The 2.0L TDI engines can suffer from EGR cooler and injector failures, while the 3.0L TDI engines are prone to intake manifold and HPFP issues. Transmission problems, particularly with the 8-speed automatic, can also be costly to repair. Suspension and central locking malfunctions represent other potential concerns. Overall, while many owners have positive experiences, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in potential repair costs.