2017 Volkswagen Up!

Introduction

The 2017 Volkswagen Up! is a subcompact hatchback available with two engine and transmission options: a 1.0-liter naturally aspirated engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and a 1.0-liter turbocharged engine with a 5-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automated manual transmission. It is known for its compact size, fuel efficiency, and nimble handling. However, certain issues have been reported with the vehicle.

Engine

1.0L Naturally Aspirated Engine, 5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil can leak from the crankshaft seal or camshaft seal, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, leading to improper timing of the engine valves and potentially catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800

1.0L Turbocharged Engine, 5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbocharger can fail prematurely, leading to reduced engine power and performance.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
• Intake Manifold Carbon Buildup
  • Description/Symptoms: Carbon can build up in the intake manifold, reducing airflow and engine performance.
  • Solution: Clean the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300

1.0L Turbocharged Engine, 5-Speed Automated Manual Transmission

• Transmission Control Unit (TCU) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The TCU can fail, causing transmission shifting issues, gear slippage, or failure to engage gears.
  • Solution: Replace the TCU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,500

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchronizer Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The synchronizers can wear out prematurely, leading to difficulty shifting gears, especially when downshifting.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty synchronizers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600

5-Speed Automated Manual Transmission

• Clutch Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The clutch pack can fail, causing transmission shuddering, slipping, or failure to engage gears.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,200

Suspension

• Shock Absorber Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: The shock absorbers can wear out prematurely, leading to a rough ride, decreased handling stability, and premature tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per shock

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain prematurely due to faulty electrical components or parasitic drain.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the faulty components or disconnect the parasitic drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can accumulate inside the headlight assemblies, causing reduced light output and premature bulb failure.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight assemblies or install ventilation kits.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per headlight

Interior

• Door Panel Rattles
  • Description/Symptoms: The door panels can rattle or buzz due to loose or misaligned components.
  • Solution: Reinstall or tighten the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may experience random glitches, such as freezing, lagging, or disconnecting from paired devices.
  • Solution: Update the software or replace the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500

Summary

While the 2017 Volkswagen Up! offers many desirable qualities, there are several issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine and transmission problems can be costly to repair, especially the turbocharger failure and TCU failure. Suspension and electrical issues are less severe but can still affect the overall driving experience. The severity and cost of the reported issues vary depending on the specific component and the extent of the problem.