Thank you for using our ownership calculator tool. This article examines the real-world costs and common issues for a 2017 Volkswagen POLO VI (AW1, BZ1, AE1) equipped with the 1.6 TDI diesel engine in the United Kingdom, based on a high-mileage example of 150000 miles.
ESTIMATED MARKET PRICE
In the UK market, a 2017 Polo VI 1.6 TDI with 150000 miles typically sells for £5500-£7500 in average condition. Low-mileage or certified pre-owned examples range from £8500-£10500, while project or high-mileage cars can be found from £4000.
DEPRECIATION — PAST YEAR
Over the past year this model has lost approximately £800-£1100 in value, equating to a 12-15% depreciation rate, largely due to age and rising mileage.
DEPRECIATION FORECAST
Projected future losses: 1 year £700 (resale £4800-£6800), 3 years £1800 (resale £3700-£5700), 5 years £2800 (resale £2700-£4700).
BREAKDOWN FREQUENCY & REPAIR COSTS
The Polo VI is generally reliable but at 150000 miles expect 1-2 minor issues per year. Average repair bills range from £250-£450 for typical non-engine faults.
ENGINE RELIABILITY & REPAIR COSTS
The 1.6 TDI (EA288) earns a 7/10 reliability rating at high mileage. Common problems include EGR valve failure (£450-£650), DPF clogging (£600-£900 with forced regen), and turbo actuator issues (£550-£750). Timing belt replacement is critical and costs £450-£650.
TRANSMISSION & GEARBOX RELIABILITY
The 5-speed manual gearbox is robust with few failures. Clutch replacement at this mileage costs £550-£750. Driveshaft and CV joint issues appear occasionally (£300-£450 per side).
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM & MULTIMEDIA RELIABILITY
Electronics are mostly dependable. Sensor failures (MAF, ABS) cost £120-£250 to fix. Infotainment glitches are rare but head-unit replacement can reach £400-£600.
SUSPENSION & CHASSIS RELIABILITY
Suspension scores 8/10. Common wear items include front wishbone bushes (£180-£280) and rear shock absorbers (£220-£350 per pair).
BODY & EXTERIOR
Good rust protection but wheel-arch corrosion can occur. OEM bumpers cost £180-£320, headlight assemblies £150-£280, and windscreen replacement £220-£350 in the UK.
SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE COSTS
Annual service for the 1.6 TDI averages £180-£280. At 150000 miles include oil and filter (£90), fuel filter (£55), air filter (£35), and timing belt kit if overdue (£450).
TAXES, REGISTRATION & INSURANCE
Road tax is £180-£220 per year (Band G/H). Average comprehensive insurance for a 35-year-old driver is £450-£650 annually in the UK.
FUEL / ENERGY COSTS
Real-world consumption is 4.8-5.5 L/100km. At current diesel prices expect £95-£120 monthly or £1150-£1450 annually for 12000 miles.
TYRES
Factory size 195/55R16. OEM tyres cost £85-£110 each; quality alternatives (Michelin, Continental) £70-£95 per tyre fitted.
FILTERS & CONSUMABLES
Cabin filter £25-£40, oil filter £15-£25, pollen filter £20-£35. AdBlue top-ups (if fitted) add £15-£25 per litre as needed.
TOTAL ANNUAL OWNERSHIP COST
- Fuel: £1300
- Insurance: £550
- Tax: £200
- Servicing & Repairs: £450
- Tyres & Consumables: £200
- Depreciation: £900
- Total: £3600
PROS & CONS
- Strong fuel economy
- Solid build quality
- Low insurance groups
- Spare parts widely available
- High-mileage engine maintenance costs
- Potential DPF/EGR issues
- Firm ride on UK roads
- Dated infotainment
WHAT TO CHECK BEFORE BUYING
Inspect service history for timing belt changes, test for DPF regeneration cycles, check for EGR warning lights, examine suspension bushes, and verify no outstanding finance or accident damage.
VERDICT
At 150000 miles the Polo VI 1.6 TDI remains a cost-effective daily driver if the service history is complete. It offers low running costs but requires vigilance on emissions components. Recommended for buyers comfortable with diesel maintenance; otherwise consider a petrol alternative.
