Used Volkswagen T-Roc 2018-present reliability
Category: Small SUV
The Volkswagen T-Roc is good to drive, spacious and reliable. It's a great used buy.
What should I look for in a used Volkswagen T-Roc hatchback?
Lumbar support isn’t standard on the T-Roc, but from April 2018 it became an inexpensive extra from SE spec upwards. Try looking for a car that has this because it will be much more comfortable than one without it.
Also, check that the alloy wheels are in good condition and don’t have any damage, because some models come with 19in wheels that could be susceptible to the odd kerb. The interior plastics are all hard and scratchy and might not stand up to family life as well as the interiors of other Volkswagen Group cars.
What are the most common problems with a used Volkswagen T-Roc hatchback?
Some examples have been subjected to recalls.
The owner’s manual originally supplied with the car misses out on important pages about the passenger protection system, airbags and children trapsort safety. A supplement should be included in the manuals of T-Rocs produced between 1 November 2017 and 31 January 2018.
On affected vehicles, engine compartment covers were fitted that regardless of use (very sporty driving style or poor road condition) and operating period could come loose from their attachment.
Is a used Volkswagen T-Roc hatchback reliable?
The T-Roc finished sixth out of 22 cars in the small SUV class in our most recent reliability survey. It achieved this placing with a terrific overall score of 98.4%. This placed it above the Seat Arona and the Skoda Kamiq but below the Audi Q2 and the Mini Countryman.
VW as a brand finished in 18th place out of 31 manufacturers in the same survey, with an overall score of 90.5%. This result placed them above Audi, Renault and Vauxhall, but below Kia, Mini and Skoda.
Used Volkswagen T-Roc reliability: the owners' view
As part of our annual Reliability Survey, What Car? readers shared their experiences with the T-Roc.
While many owners praised the car for its general dependability, some highlighted persistent issues, particularly with the diesel models. Faulty AdBlue systems and diesel particulate filter (DPF) problems were common complaints, often accompanied by those unwanted warning lights. A few owners mentioned needing repeated visits to the dealers to address these faults, which dampened confidence.
Petrol models were generally more reliable, though occasional problems with the infotainment system and door locks were reported. Readers noted that these issues, while minor, were inconvenient and not always quickly resolved.
Feedback on Volkswagen’s dealer network was mixed. Many appreciated courteous service and thorough diagnostics, but others were frustrated by high repair costs and delays due to part shortages.
While the T-Roc is a popular choice, these issues suggest some room for improvement in both reliability and service efficiency.
