2017 Volkswagen T-ROC: known problems and what to check
Too few Volkswagen T-ROC cars first registered in 2017 had an MOT during 2025 for reliable MOT figures. Here’s what we do know about the 2017 Volkswagen T-ROC, and what to check before you buy one.
Known faults on the 2017 Volkswagen T-ROC
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
- Built to June 2018
Parking brake software recall (built to June 2018)
Faulty software could let the electronic parking brake release by itself, and cars built up to June 2018 were recalled. Some owners also report the parking brake being slow to release.
At the viewing: Make sure the parking brake holds on a slope and releases cleanly, and ask for proof the recall was done.
Source: Auto Express: used Volkswagen T-Roc (Mk1, 2017 on) review
- Early cars
Headrest and spoiler recalls
Other recalls covered faulty rear headrests and a rear spoiler whose halves could separate.
At the viewing: Ask a VW dealer to confirm the recalls were done.
Source: Auto Express: used Volkswagen T-Roc (Mk1, 2017 on) review
- Diesel
Cambelt due (diesel)
The diesel’s cambelt is due every five years or 130,000 miles.
At the viewing: Ask for an invoice if it’s due.
Source: Auto Express: used Volkswagen T-Roc (Mk1, 2017 on) review
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2017 Volkswagen T-ROC
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- Has the parking brake software recall been done?
- Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?
What to check on a 2017 car
- MOT history
Check the reg below: its MOT history shows what has been failed or advised, and whether the mileage adds up.
- Service history
Look for regular servicing and receipts for big jobs like a cambelt or clutch.
- Finance and write-offs
MOT records don’t show outstanding finance or insurance write-offs. A history check does.
- Test drive
Listen for knocks over bumps, check every warning light goes out, and make sure the gears and brakes feel right.
Looking at a Volkswagen T-ROC?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the Volkswagen T-ROC compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2025 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2024 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2023 | 1,617 | Tyres 14% |
| 2022 | 18,137 | Tyres 21% |
| 2021 | 42,543 | Tyres 23% |
| 2020 | 50,234 | Tyres 25% |
| 2019 | 62,170 | Tyres 27% |
| 2018 | 46,739 | Tyres 28% |
Where this comes from: how many are on the road is from the Department for Transport’s vehicle licensing statistics (DVLA records), counted by the year each car was first registered. Known faults are from UK buying guides, in our own words, with links. How we score