VW Polo Vivo Engine Warranty: What’s Covered?
The facelifted VW Polo Vivo ships standard with a special engine warranty not offered on any other VW product in South Africa. Here’s what’s covered…
If you’re looking to buy a VW Polo Vivo and are wondering what is covered under the engine warranty, then this article will bring clarity!
- Polo Vivo facelift comes with unique engine warranty
- Engine warranty covers specific components listed here
- Warranty claims can be rejected for various reasons
When the facelifted Volkswagen Polo Vivo launched in South Africa in August 2024, the German firm introduced a new engine warranty specific to this locally built hatchback. Interestingly, the Vivo is currently the only model in VW’s range to benefit from this added cover.
So, what exactly does the Polo Vivo’s engine warranty entail? What is covered and – perhaps just as importantly – what could see the warranty voided? Let’s take a closer look at this engine warranty’s details.
What is the Period of Warranty Cover?

The facelifted Polo Vivo hatchback’s engine warranty is valid for a period of 5 years or 150 000 km, whichever occurs first. It is activated on the date of first registration or the date of delivery to the customer (again, whichever comes first).
For the record, the Kariega-built budget hatchback also ships standard with a 3-year/120 000km vehicle warranty and a 6-year anti-corrosion warranty. However, it does without a standard service plan.
Which Engine Components are Covered?

VW says it warrants that the Polo Vivo is “free from defects in material and workmanship, according to current industrial standards”. In addition, it notes that claims can be made “only at authorised Volkswagen dealers and must be made immediately upon ascertaining the defect”.
VW says the engine warranty covering the repair of defective workmanship is “strictly limited” to the following components:
- Engine block
- Crankcase
- Crankshaft
- Pistons
- Conrods
- Cylinder head, cover and valve gear
- Oil pump
- Timing case
- Coolant pump
- Sealing flange
- Oil sump
- Timing chain
- Oil cooler
- Oil pressure switch
- Impulse sender
- Flywheel
- Camshaft
- Thermostat
What Could See Your Warranty Claim Rejected?

Of course, as with any warranty, the owner must meet certain conditions to keep the cover active. For example, the automaker says any repairs carried out by a workshop “not authorised” by Volkswagen could see the engine warranty claim rejected. The same applies should you fit any components not approved by VW.
Furthermore, in the fine print, the German firm’s local division suggests damage sustained thanks to “improper handling or misuse, including but not limited to any form of competition”, would not be covered. Similarly, VW could void the cover should the owner fail to “adhere to the specified service intervals” (with all services to be recorded in the digital service schedule).
*All information in this article is accurate as written in September 2025. We’d recommend downloading the passenger-vehicle warranty booklet from VW’s local website for the most up-to-date information.
Find a used VW Polo Vivo on Cars.co.za!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the duration of the VW Polo Vivo engine warranty?
A: The facelifted Polo Vivo’s engine warranty is valid for 5 years or 150 000 km, whichever comes first, starting from the date of first registration or delivery to the customer.
Q: Which specific engine components are covered by the Polo Vivo engine warranty?
A: The engine warranty covers components such as the engine block, crankcase, crankshaft, pistons, conrods, cylinder head, oil pump, timing chain, and thermostat, ensuring coverage for defects in material and workmanship.
Q: What can cause a VW Polo Vivo engine warranty claim to be rejected?
A: Warranty claims can be rejected if repairs are performed by unauthorised workshops, non-approved components are fitted, damage results from improper handling or misuse (including competition) or if specified service intervals are not adhered to.
Related content
Volkswagen Polo Vivo (2025) Price & Specs