The pickup truck that thinks it is a saloon
The Volkswagen Amarok is the premium pickup truck of choice in the UK, positioned above workhorse rivals like the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger on refinement and interior quality. It appeals to buyers who need a capable work vehicle but refuse to compromise on car-like comfort and driving manners. Since the 2016 introduction of its V6 diesel, it has been the only six-cylinder pickup in its class, cementing its status as the premium option.
We track 5 known issues across the Volkswagen Amarok range, including 1 rated as safety-critical. Knowing which variants and configurations to approach with caution can save you from expensive surprises after purchase.
Found a Volkswagen Amarok? Enter the reg to see which of our 5 known issues apply to that exact car, plus full MOT history and mileage checks.
2H (2010–2022) — Engine options included the 2.0 TDI, 3.0 V6 TDI. Our database flags 5 known issues on this generation, 1 of which are rated as safety-critical. The most significant concern is Steering linkage component excessive movement (£200–£400 to address).
The Amarok suffers from premature wear in steering linkage components, particularly track rod ends and steering tie rods. MOT data shows this model fails at 1306.3 times the national fleet average for steering components with excessive movement, primarily affecting 2.0 TDI models at higher mileages. The failure rate is exceptionally high compared to other commercial vehicles and represents a significant safety concern as worn components can separate completely.
Complete failure of steering linkage components can result in total loss of steering control. Worn components cause rapid tyre wear, poor handling, and unpredictable steering response. Replacement typically involves multiple components as wear patterns affect the entire linkage system.
During the test drive, check the steering for excessive play, vibration or pulling to one side. Listen for groaning or whining when turning the wheel at low speed. Power steering fluid level and condition should be checked on hydraulic systems.
The Amarok's parking brake system shows exceptionally high failure rates with MOT data indicating failures at 76.9 times the fleet average. The issue affects both 2.0 and 3.0 TDI variants across all mileage bands and is worsening over time. Common causes include seized brake mechanisms, corroded cables, and worn brake shoes in the rear parking brake assembly.
Inadequate parking brake performance creates a serious safety risk, particularly when parking on inclines. The vehicle may roll away if the parking brake cannot hold it securely. MOT failure is certain with continued deterioration of the system.
Check brake disc condition for lipping or scoring. Test braking at moderate speed for pulling to one side or vibration through the steering wheel. Review MOT advisories for brake-related items.
Amarok shock absorbers show premature failure with MOT data revealing failures at 281.2 times the fleet average, with the highest failure rate occurring surprisingly early at 20-40k miles. The trend is worsening over time. This premature failure affects ride quality, handling, and tyre wear, and is particularly problematic given the vehicle's commercial use profile.
Failed shock absorbers compromise vehicle stability, increase stopping distances, and cause rapid tyre wear. Severe leakage will result in MOT failure. Continued driving with failed shocks affects safety and handling, particularly when loaded or towing.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
The Amarok experiences accelerated wear of suspension bushes with MOT failures occurring at 281.2 times the fleet average, peaking at 60-80k miles. The trend is worsening and affects both 2.0 and 3.0 TDI variants. Common failure points include front wishbone bushes and anti-roll bar links, likely exacerbated by the vehicle's commercial use and higher payload capacity.
Worn suspension bushes degrade handling precision, increase tyre wear, and create noise. While not immediately dangerous, continued deterioration affects vehicle stability and will eventually result in MOT failure. Multiple bushes often require replacement simultaneously.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
The 3.0 V6 TDI engine in the Amarok shows elevated rates of engine management light (MIL) illumination, failing MOT tests at This typically indicates emissions system faults, sensor failures, or ECU software issues specific to this engine variant. The issue affects all mileage bands and requires diagnostic investigation.
An illuminated engine management light indicates stored fault codes that require professional diagnosis. While the engine may continue to run normally, emissions compliance is compromised and MOT failure is certain. Underlying causes can range from simple sensor faults to more expensive emissions system components.
Check all electrical functions systematically: windows, mirrors, lights, infotainment, heated seats, air conditioning. Look for any warning lights on the dashboard. A diagnostic scan before purchase can reveal stored fault codes.
For the full breakdown of all 5 tracked issues with repair costs, see the Volkswagen Amarok common problems page.
Based on 118k real DVSA MOT tests, the Volkswagen Amarok fails more often than average on several items. The biggest outlier is steering rack wear at 472x the fleet average, followed by contaminated with oil, grease etc (51x).
When viewing a specific car, check its MOT history for recurring advisories in these categories. See the full Volkswagen Amarok MOT failure breakdown for data at every mileage point.
Routine servicing (oil and filter change every 10k miles) typically costs £80–£120 at an independent garage.
See the full Volkswagen Amarok service schedule for every interval and cost breakdown.
The Volkswagen Amarok has some well-documented weak points, including 1 safety-critical issue that demand careful checking. The right example, properly maintained, can still be a sound purchase — but cutting corners on the pre-purchase inspection is not advisable. 2017-2020 V6 TDI models are the best Amaroks to buy. The 3.0 V6 introduced in late 2016 eliminated most of the 2.0 TDI's timing chain and fuel pump issues, while the 8-speed automatic gearbox proved far more reliable than the earlier manual. These models also benefit from the refined interior of the mid-life update.
Before committing, check the car's full MOT history, verify the service record is complete, and if possible arrange a specialist inspection. Enter any registration into our free report to see the complete picture.
Get Car Wise maintains a database of known mechanical issues for every popular car on UK roads, tracking the faults that owners, specialists and DVSA data reveal.
When you run a report on a specific Volkswagen Amarok, we cross-reference the exact variant, engine and age against our database of 5 known issues. Combined with full MOT history analysis, mileage verification and DVLA data, you get a complete picture before viewing.
Enter the registration for MOT history, mileage verification, known faults for that exact variant, and a Get Car Wise Score.
This guide was compiled from independent expert reviews, DVSA MOT data, specialist workshops and our own database of 5 known Volkswagen Amarok issues. We are not affiliated with any source listed.