2023 Volkswagen up!: known problems and what to check

Known faults on the 2023 Volkswagen up!

Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.

• Power steering that pulls or cuts out

  All engines

  Some owners report the car pulling to one side, or the power steering stopping working.

  At the viewing: Drive on a straight road and at low speed: the steering should feel steady and light.

  Source: Carbuyer: used VW up! buying guide

• Timing belt on the 1.0

  1.0 petrol

  The 1.0 three-cylinder has a timing belt that needs replacing when it's due, a bill of up to about £500.

  At the viewing: Look in the history for the timing belt change.

  If it needs doing: Timing belt (cambelt) change, about £300–£700 (often with the water pump). ClickMechanic

  Source: Carbuyer: used VW up! buying guide

• Airbag, child-lock and sunroof recalls

  All engines

  Recalls covered airbags on cars built in 2013 to 2014, and child locks and sunroofs on some 2015 to 2016 cars.

  At the viewing: Ask a VW dealer to check the VIN, and test the child locks.

  Source: Carbuyer: used VW up! buying guide

Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2023 Volkswagen up!

Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.

1. Has the steering had any work?
2. When was the timing belt last changed?
3. Has all the recall work been done?
4. Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?

What to check on a 2023 car

• Warranty left

  Ask for the date it was first registered and check how much of the maker’s warranty is left, and that it transfers to you. Electric and hybrid batteries usually have a longer, separate warranty.

• Servicing

  Servicing on time with the maker’s schedule keeps the warranty valid. Ask for the service book or the dealer’s digital record.

• Finance

  Nearly new cars are often still on finance. A history check shows outstanding finance, and whether it has been written off or stolen.

• Recalls

  Ask whether any recall work has been done, and check the reg on GOV.UK’s free recall checker.

• Logbook (V5C)

  The name and address should match the seller, and the VIN on the V5C should match the car.

Check for recalls on GOV.UK