2009-2017 · 2.0 TSI EA113 turbocharged petrol (265-280 hp)
A stylish hot hatch coupe with robust EA113 engine credentials. Popular with enthusiasts and often tuned for 300+ hp. The timing chain tensioner and intake manifold are the main concerns on this engine - listen for cold start rattle and check for rough idle. DSG gearbox needs 40k service intervals or mechatronics failure becomes likely. Many cars have modified software so verify service history carefully. Built on Golf platform so parts widely available and well-documented.
Tensioner ratchet mechanism fails causing chain skip and potential catastrophic engine damage · more· less
Volkswagen introduced a ratchet mechanism into the 2.0 TSI tensioner to compensate for chain stretch, but this design is prone to complete failure - the outer clip breaks off and the tensioner falls apart. Symptoms include rough idle, loud metallic tapping, and barely drivable condition. Pre-2012 engines have the older, less reliable tensioner. Preventive replacement costs €300-400 at an independent specialist, but if the chain skips timing, you're looking at €1,500-2,000 for full chain, guides, tensioner, and sprocket replacement. Listen carefully on cold start for any rattling lasting more than a few seconds.
Intake manifold flapper failure€400 - €1,000
Variable runner flap motor or position sensor fails causing rough idle and flat spots · more· less
This is extremely common on 2009-2011 cars. The variable intake manifold flapper motor or position sensor fails, triggering P2015 error code. Symptoms include rough idle at cold start, flat spotting during acceleration, and poor fuel consumption. Volkswagen won't sell the sensor separately - you need the complete manifold (€350-550 parts) plus 3 hours labor. Independent shops quote €400-600 total; dealers ask €700-1,000. Volkswagen has released revised part number 06J133201BH with improved actuator design. Some owners have negotiated goodwill contributions from VW.
DQ250 6-speed DSG mechatronic unit or clutch packs fail if service intervals not maintained · more· less
The DQ250 wet-clutch 6-speed DSG is generally reliable but requires oil and filter service every 40,000 miles. Common failures include mechatronic unit faults (valve body, sensors), partial or total loss of reverse, and clutch pack wear. Symptoms include flashing gear indicator, jerky shifts, or inability to select gears. DSG specialist repair costs €150-700 for sensor replacement, but full mechatronics replacement costs €1,200-1,500. Clutch pack replacement adds another €1,100+ for parts plus fitting. Manual gearbox Sciroccos are significantly more reliable. Verify service history meticulously on DSG cars.
High pressure fuel pump cam follower wear€50 - €600
Cam follower wears through if not serviced regularly, can damage camshaft and HPFP · more· less
The cam follower conveys camshaft movement to the high pressure fuel pump. If worn to the point of breaking, it causes permanent damage to the camshaft, fuel pump, or both, potentially sending metal particles into the cylinder head. Check every 30,000 km on stock cars, every 10,000 km on tuned cars. Parts cost €30-50, specialist service including inspection costs around €50-80. If you catch it late and need cam/pump replacement, costs jump to €500-600+. This is preventive maintenance that's cheap if done regularly but catastrophically expensive if ignored.
Carbon buildup on intake valves€300 - €800
Direct injection causes carbon deposits on intake valves over time, reducing performance · more· less
All direct-injected engines suffer from intake valve carbon buildup because fuel doesn't wash over the valves. Symptoms include misfires, reduced performance, rough idle, and poor fuel efficiency once carbon prevents valves from moving freely or seating properly. Typically becomes noticeable after 60,000-100,000 km. Walnut blasting is the most effective cleaning method, costing €300-450 at independent specialists (includes manifold removal). Dealers charge €600-800. Chemical cleaning is cheaper (€100-150) but less effective. Consider this preventive maintenance every 80,000-100,000 km.
Water pump and thermostat failure€250 - €1,350
Electric water pump fails typically between 70,000-100,000 km causing overheating · more· less
The EA113 engine uses an electric water pump integrated with the thermostat housing. The factory plastic design is prone to failure after thermal cycling. Symptoms include coolant warning light, engine overheating, or poor cabin heating. Parts cost €400-500 for the integrated assembly. Independent specialist charges €250-400 total including labor (4-6 hours book time). Volkswagen dealers quote €800-1,350. Always replace both water pump and thermostat housing together. Use OEM-spec parts - aftermarket pumps with brass impellers have been known to fail prematurely.
Turbo diverter valve failure€40 - €250
Diaphragm tears in diverter valve causing boost loss and poor performance · more· less
First generation EA113 diverter valves (part 06F 145 710 C) were faulty and broke down after 30,000-40,000 km even with stock software. The diaphragm develops holes causing boost loss. Symptoms include loss of power, poor acceleration, and potential turbo actuator limp mode. Updated OEM replacement costs €40-60. Many owners upgrade to aftermarket performance diverter valves (€80-150) which are more reliable, especially on tuned cars. Labor is minimal if DIY-capable. If combined with turbo actuator issues, total repair can reach €200-250 at a shop.
PCV valve failure€65 - €400
PCV valve diaphragm tears or check valve sticks causing oil leaks and rough running · more· less
The 2.0 TSI PCV valve has two failure points: the rubber diaphragm can tear and the orange check valve on the underside can stick. Symptoms include loud screeching noise from engine bay, rough/choppy idle, oil leaks from valve cover seal or rear main seal, and check engine light. The part costs €30-40, and typical replacement takes 30-45 minutes (€65-185 total at independent shops). One Scirocco owner reported €360 total for complete valve and seal replacement at a specialist workshop. Ensure complete system diagnosis to prevent recurring issues.
Ignition coil failure€150 - €400
Coil packs fail from heat damage causing misfires and rough running · more· less
Ignition coils are subject to heat damage and electrical overload. Symptoms include rough running, stalling at idle, jerking during acceleration, check engine light, and difficulty starting. When one coil fails, others are often close to failing. Individual coils cost €15-50 depending on brand (Bosch, NGK). One owner paid €320 for two coils plus all spark plugs. Expect €150-250 for single coil replacement at a shop, €300-400 if multiple coils need replacement. Driving with failing coils damages the catalytic converter, so address immediately. Consider replacing all four coils preventively if one fails.
Reliable performance platform with well-documented issues
The EA113 engine in the Scirocco R is proven and robust when properly maintained. The two major preventable issues (timing chain tensioner and intake manifold) affect pre-2012 cars more frequently. DSG-equipped cars require disciplined service intervals. Many enthusiast-owned examples have been tuned, so verify complete service history and avoid cars with unknown modification history. Independent VAG specialists can handle all common repairs at significantly lower cost than dealers.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Volkswagen dealer or specialist records essential. Verify oil changes, DSG services (if equipped), and cam follower inspections.
Tires
Check tread depth (235/35 R19 on R models), age, uneven wear. Performance tires wear faster and are expensive to replace.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen for timing chain rattle in first 30 seconds - this is critical.
Body condition
Check for accident damage, panel gaps, alloy wheel kerb damage. Cars built 08/2008-05/2009 had rear hatch strut mount rust issues.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including highway speeds. Bring to operating temperature to check for issues.
Specific for this vehicle
Timing chain cold start rattle
Start completely cold and listen for rattle in first 30 seconds. Any rattle lasting more than a few seconds indicates tensioner/chain wear. This is the single most important check.
Rough idle or flat spots during acceleration
Indicates potential intake manifold flapper failure (very common on 2009-2011). Test from cold start and during acceleration.
DSG operation (if equipped)
Verify 40k service intervals in history. Drive for 15+ minutes. Check for jerky shifts, hesitation, loss of reverse, or flashing gear indicator.
Check for tuning/modifications
Many Scirocco Rs are remapped. Look for aftermarket parts, ask directly about software. Tuned cars need more frequent cam follower checks.
Inspect cam follower wear (if possible)
Request proof of recent cam follower inspection/replacement, especially on cars over 60,000 km or tuned cars.
Verify all electrics function
Test all buttons, switches, windows. 2008-2009 cars more prone to electrical glitches. Window drop issue when removing key is known fault.
Check for boost/power loss
Drive spiritedly to verify full boost. Loss of power indicates diverter valve or turbo actuator issues.
Headlight condensation
Minor misting is normal on Sciroccos and clears after 30 minutes with lights on. Heavy condensation with water droplets indicates leak.
Boot strut operation
Famous weak point - check if boot stays open properly. Inexpensive fix but useful negotiating point.
Rear hatch strut mount corrosion (08/2008-05/2009)Should be replaced
Contact Volkswagen with your VIN to verify all recalls completed. The Takata airbag recall affects most Sciroccos and must be addressed. Fuel leak recall was announced in December 2009 and 2011 - ensure repair work completed before purchase.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (3 years/60,000 miles)Expired on all 2009-2017 models
DSG extended warranty (varies)Check with Volkswagen - may still apply
Bodywork corrosion warranty12 years from new
All Scirocco Rs are now outside original factory warranty. Some DSG gearboxes may have extended warranty coverage - verify with Volkswagen using VIN. Independent extended warranties are available but carefully review coverage exclusions. The 12-year bodywork corrosion warranty may still apply on later models.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.