Hi all, I've just bought a used 2001 Polo and when I took it for a test drive I didn't realise that the windscreen wipers didn't cycle properly - they only work on intermittent and won't switch to constant. Also, the radio is only outputting sound through the left speakers and the cigarette lighter won't charge my sat nav either - really annoying!

The car has a 1 month parts and labour warranty, so I might be able to get the issues fixed F-O-C, but I'd have to drive it from Leamington to Leicester (where I bought it) and they'd have to send it off to Lough borough (most probably for a week) to fix the faults (and that's if they even accept liability for the faults in the first place!). I'm wondering if I could get these faults fixed pretty cheaply at a VW dealership nearby instead, or maybe even source the parts and attempt to fix them myself. What are your thoughts?

This is my first Polo so go easy on me, I'm a bit of a n00b.

Thanks in advance!

1. the wipers - there is a wiper relay which may need replacing. Ring VW parts and get a new one. The relays are near the fuse box. Pull the access panel away (drivers side cubby hole near the door, underneath the headlight switch). If it's not the relay, then the stalk may need to be replaced - this will cost a lot more.

2. radio - pull out the radio and check the wiring at the back of the iso block - the problem is most likely there or at the speaker end at the door. I would suggest start at the back of the radio, then with wiring in the rubber boot running into the door, then the wiring to the speaker (remove door card).

3. the cigarette lighter not working. This is on a fuse which may need replacing. Pull the cubby hole on the driver's side to reveal the fuse panel. On the reverse of the pull panel, there is a card which tells you which fuse is which. Inspect and replace. Also look in the driver's manual to check the fuses.

Welcome to the forum too!

PoloD.

Thanks a lot chap, your help is much appreciated! I'm gonna get on this at the weekend. Wicked! :-D