The Volkswagen T-Roc is a subcompact crossover SUV first released in 2017. Given the fact that the crossover SUV segment is one of the most popular car segments on the current market, the T-Roc is one of the most popular VW models right now. The T-Roc is positioned between the smaller T-Cross and the larger Tiguan.
The T-Roc is based on the famous VW MQB modular platform that is also the basis for many VW Group cars such as the VW Golf, the Audi A3, and many other VAG hatchbacks/crossovers. The T-Roc also shares its engines with most of these which means that all of these are similar when it comes to reliability.
The T-Roc is a decently reliable car, but the most common T-Roc issues are associated with the seat belts, the brakes, the seats, the ignition coils, and the steering system clock spring. The good news is that most of these can be resolved without any issues, but the bad news is that if you fail to do so, you could cause lots of trouble down the line.
All in all, the T-Roc is more or less in line with all the other VAG cars in this segment which means that reliability is highly dependent on how you maintain the car. VWs’ high-tech manufacturing processes are precise and efficient which means that they need precise maintenance as well.
VW T-Roc – Seat belts issues
The VW T-Roc was part of a fairly important recall back in 2021 where more than 3,000 cars were diagnosed with seat belt-related issues in which the seat belt locking mechanism fails to engage. If this does indeed happen, it means that the seat belt is not going to be able to stop you in your position which can lead to serious injuries.
As such, be sure to investigate if the T-Roc model you are looking at comes with defective seat belt locking mechanisms, and if it does, you need to take care of it immediately. The fact of the matter is that we can not know for certain if issues such as these have been repaired and there are probably T-Roc models that still suffer from these issues.
VW T-Roc – Brakes issues
The T-Roc also suffers from peculiar brakes issues in which the brake pedal may not be properly welded which could cause it to detach. This means that if you suddenly engage the brakes with force, chances are that the brake pedal could break and thus impair the ability of the car to stop.
The T-Roc is not the only model that has had issues with this, but some sources state that the T-Roc is actually the most troublesome VW model when it comes to this specific issue. Be sure to take your T-Roc to a dealership in order to find out if the model you are looking at has been affected by this issue.
VW T-Roc – Issues with the seats
The VW T-Roc also suffers from an additional welding-related issue in which the seat headrest may have been improperly welded to the seat backrests. This impairs the seat’s supportive and protective abilities which could pose a significant safety hazard in an event of an accident. VW also issues a recall due to this issue, so be sure to check if the T-Roc you are looking at has had this issue resolved.
Manufacturing issues such as these are not really a rare occurrence across the entire automotive industry which means that many brands suffer from similar issues. However, VW is a brand that seems to experience welding-related issues, especially the T-Roc.
VW T-Roc – Clockspring issue
The dreaded clockspring issue is one of the most common and problematic issues with many modern-day VW models. The steering system clockspring is tasked with controlling many of the car’s steering-wheel-mounted controls such as your volume buttons, your cruise control, your horn, and your airbags.
This could obviously be a really significant issue which means that you need to pay close attention if all of your steering controls and systems work as intended. VW even issued a recall because of this, but even after the recall, more than 1.2 million cars are still suffering from clock spring-related issues, per the NHTSA.
Other problems
- Leaking Oil
- Electrical Faults
- Faulty Brakes
- Suspension Issues
- Poor Fuel Economy
- Unreliable Engine Performance
- Poor Acceleration
- Uncomfortable Seats
- Dashboard Warning Lights
- Gearbox Problems
FAQ Section
How long can a VW T-Roc last?
As is the case with many modern-day VW models, it is still too early to tell how long the T-Roc can last for certain. However, the fact that the T-Roc is made on the VAG famed MQB platform means the T-Roc should follow a similar trajectory as all the other MQB designed cars.
Moreover, the T-Roc also uses engines that can be found in many VAG brands and most of these engines are able to last hundreds of thousands of miles. It’s safe to say that the T-Roc should be able to last at least 200,000 miles without needing major overhauls, but we will have to wait to know for certain.
Is the VW T-Roc better than the VW T-Cross?
The T-Roc and the T-Cross are incredibly similar cars which means that comparing them is not as easy as it seems. The T-Roc costs a bit more, but that is understandable as it is a larger car overall. The engines on offer are the same, but the T-Roc can be had with slightly more powerful engines.
Most people prefer the exterior design of the T-Cross because it looks like an SUV a bit more, but hardly anyone can say that the T-Roc is not a good-looking car. The T-Roc offers more, but the T-Cross is certainly not far behind.
Should I buy a VW T-Roc?
If you are in the market for a compact luxury crossover/SUV, you should indeed check out the VW T-Roc because the T-Roc is one of the most competitive cars in this segment. The T-Roc is not as luxurious nor desirable as some Mercedes, Audi, and BMW models, but what it does offer is great value for money.
The T-Roc can be optioned out to be as good as some higher-end models, but it can also feel cheap and non-VW-like if you don’t pick all the right options. All in all, the T-Roc is indeed a contender, but be sure to weigh your options accordingly.
What are the different Volkswagen T-Roc models?
The Volkswagen T-Roc is available in three different models: 1. The T-Roc S 2. The T-Roc SE 3. The T-Roc R-Line
The T-Roc S model has larger alloy wheels, a sportier interior and exterior styling, as well as an upgraded infotainment system. The T-Roc SE offers additional comfort features, such as a heated steering wheel and power-adjustable front seats. The T-Roc R-Line features a more aggressive body kit, a more powerful engine, and additional safety features.
Are there any VW t-roc engine problems?
Yes, some common engine problems reported with the Volkswagen T-Roc include rough running and misfiring, stalling, and oil leaks. It is recommended to get the vehicle serviced regularly to ensure that any potential problems can be identified and resolved promptly.
