Amarok V6 Problems [Common Issues Explained]

You might be someone who wants to buy a Volkswagen Amarok V6 due to its engine and mileage reliability.

But these reliabilities do not mean the vehicle is invincible to major engine problems.

I have worked on a few VW Amarok trucks in the workshop and most of those are the 2.0l tsi models in other words the V6 Amarok are solid Pickups but there are a few common issues with these that occur over time and this article shares the common problems, let’s jump to it.

The most common Amarok V6 problems are the faulty water pump, overheating, engine noise, and EGR valve failure these occur over time as part of the truck’s wear and tear.

Amarok V6 Problems

The Amarok V6 is an excellent model for heavy work, long distances, extreme temperatures, and rough roads. These conditions make the vehicle vulnerable to the following problems:

EGR Valve Failure

The EGR valve feeds the engine with unburn exhaust fumes to reduce nitrogen dioxide released into the atmosphere. The component also has a cooling effect for smooth engine operation under light loads.

The EGR valve failure is due to a lack of engine maintenance and care. The valve becomes clogged and limits exhaust fumes emission from the engine.

The condition will trigger a check engine light on the dashboard, and the engine will shut off while driving.

Rough idling and engine knocking sounds are other symptoms associated with EGR valve failure. I recommend taking your vehicle engine for inspection and cleaning of the valve. If the problem persists, replace the EGR valve to solve these issues.

Water Pump Fault

The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant from the radiator to the engine and back via the coolant system.

The coolant picks up heat from the engine and releases it into the air at the radiator. A faulty engine water pump will cause coolant leaking, corrosion buildup, noise, and overheating.

Fixing the issue will prevent the engine from experiencing further damage like burnt pistons.

Engine Knocking Noise

The engine knocking sound occurs due to excess carbon accumulation in the combustion chamber and faulty pressure relief valves.

Water and fuel pump failure are other possible causes of the knocking noise. In my personal experience, this rarely happens with these v6s but some owners have experienced only a fraction amount of the v6 Amarok owners.

Faulty Control Module

The control module helps deliver voltage to the car fuel pump and maintains optimum fuel pressure and delivery to the engine within its operating range.

A faulty control module causes power surge, engine hesitation, and rough idling. The low voltage supply to the fuel pump will also result in an overheating engine that stops or shut down the vehicle.

Intake Manifolds Fault

Amarok V6 engine has a series of tubes that allow even air distribution to all the cylinders. The intake manifolds also help cool down the cylinders to prevent the engine from overheating.

Fault in the intake manifolds will result in low idle and vacuum leaks. These vacuum-related issues will inhibit smooth rides and engine operations.

Excess Carbon Buildup

The Amarok V6 engines are ideal for diesel consumption and produce a lot of carbon from the combustion chamber.

These carbon fumes block the valves and prevent incoming air from reaching the engine. The carbon buildup causes the engine to misfire and inhibits fuel efficiency.

Ignition Coil Problems

The Amarok V6 vehicles are vulnerable to ignition coils and spark plug problems. These issues usually cause engine check lights to come on and off.

A defective ignition coil will display P0300 via the P0304 fault codes. Over time all vehicles need coil replacement but with Amarok, most owners complained about needing to replace the coils way before time.

High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure

The high-pressure fuel pump allows the car to run smoothly by injecting fuel into the engine’s combustion chambers.

The high-pressure fuel pump failure means no gas will enter the engine. An Amarok V6 with high-pressure fuel pump issues will display P0087 and P2293 error codes.

Timing Chain Tensioner

The Amarok V6 timing chain tensioner controls the tension on the crankshaft and camshaft sprocket timing chain. It also makes the chain run smoothly by preventing it from rattling and coming off the sprockets.

A worn-out timing chain tensioner will make the engine tremble and release high- pitched noise. Failure to replace the worn-out timing chain, the effect will damage the engine beyond repair.

Positive Crankcase Ventilator

The Amarok V6 vehicles have positive crankcase ventilator valves that are highly vulnerable to premature failures due to aggressive engine performance.

A faulty positive crankcase ventilator valve will result in engine oil leaks, pressure, and oil use. Failure to replace the valve, the engine will experience a surge and emit black smoke through the rear exhaust pipe. Besides that, your Amarok V6 will experience low performance on-road and off-road.

My Thoughts

Volkswagen is a reputable car brand due to the manufacture of solid, high-quality, reliable, and fuel-efficient models. The Amarok V6 is among the most popular models from Volkswagen.

The Amarok V6 models are reliable and fuel-efficient with a luxury touch though they have few flaws. Lack of maintenance and care routine are the reasons for the Amarok V6 problems.

But this Amarok Bakkie/Ute model is still one of the top choices for those looking for a tough pick-up truck.