Used Volkswagen Amarok

What to know before buying: Volkswagen Amarok

From 2 forum threads and 2 press tests · updated 12/10/2026

What the reviews say

• The Amarok II’s 3.0-litre V6 diesel and 10-speed automatic are praised for strong power reserves, including while towing a large trailer over asphalt, gravel and grass.[1]one sourceAmarok II
• The new generation’s leaf-sprung rear end is less stiff than before, giving a smoother, more comfortable ride even with an empty load bed.[1]one sourceAmarok II
• An owner of a 2011 2.0-litre diesel Amarok with a manual gearbox rated it 10/10 after 15,000 km of use; reported average consumption was 8.8 l/100 km.[2]one source

Typical faults

• On Amarok II models with the 2.0 EcoBlue, the oil-pump drive belt runs in oil and can disintegrate, causing loss of oil pressure; the risk is noted from about 80,000 km, alongside frequent AdBlue faults.[3]one sourceAmarok II

  80 000+ km · 2.0 EcoBlue

• On some Amarok II vehicles built in 2023, insufficiently tightened rear propshaft bolts can cause loss of drive; a recall campaign covers the fault.[3]one sourceAmarok II

  2023–2023

• A 2024 Amarok user reports a freezing central screen and malfunctions affecting the digital display, sensors and adaptive cruise control.[1]one sourceAmarok II

  2024–2024

• On a 2021 V6 example, the owner reports that the brake calipers began sticking at 10,000 km.[1]one source

  10 000–10 000 km · 2021–2021 · 3.0 V6

• The same 2021 V6 example required a power-steering replacement at 90,000 km; the owner was told this was a characteristic issue.[1]one source

  90 000–90 000 km · 2021–2021 · 3.0 V6

• A 2010 Amarok report attributes power loss, limited engine speed and stalling to an EGR fault and corrosion-damaged electrical wiring.[4]one source

  2010–2010

Which engine and version to take

• For the Amarok II, favour the 3.0 V6 TDI: neither V6 version carries the 2.0 EcoBlue’s stated belt risk, while road tests praise the V6’s power reserves.[3][1]Amarok II

What to avoid

• Choose an Amarok II with the 2.0 EcoBlue only with convincing service history: its oil-bathed pump belt can disintegrate and cause oil-pressure loss, and frequent AdBlue faults are also reported.[3]one sourceAmarok II

What to check at the inspection

• On an Amarok II with the 2.0 EcoBlue, check oil pressure, belt-service records and AdBlue faults.[3]one sourceAmarok II
• For a 2023-built Amarok II, use the VIN to verify completion of propshaft-bolt recall 39F8.[3]one sourceAmarok II
• During an Amarok II test drive, check gearbox operation and the 4MOTION components; on a high-mileage manual, assess its operation, noises and diagnostic fault memory.[3]one sourceAmarok II
• On a 2024 vehicle, test the central screen, digital display, sensors, adaptive cruise and cabin heating; watch for vibrations around 80 km/h and assess the steering.[1]one sourceAmarok II
• When inspecting a 2021 V6, check the calipers, power steering, AdBlue and DPF faults, plus wiring where it may rub against the frame.[1]one source
• On an older Amarok, test hot restarting, EGR operation and the wiring, including any corrosion damage.[4]one source

Verdict

Sources

1. [1]iauto.lv — Volkswagen Amarok pikapa 2024 / 2025 auto tests ... · forum
2. [2]auto.jautajums.lv — Volkswagen Amarok atsauksmes | jautajums.lv - Auto, moto · forum
3. [3]autoradars.lv — Volkswagen Amarok AM (2022 - 2026): problems and risks · press
4. [4]startmycar.com — Volkswagen Amarok Engine: problems and issues · press

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