The light, magnesium cased MQ200 and the MQ250, sized for higher torque, are the most widespread manual gearboxes in the transverse engine VAG models. Both have the same two weak points, and both depend on use.

The bonnet of the 6J Ibiza starts rusting on the folded edge and the front transition lip, from roughly ten years of age. The rust is stronger where there is no underside protection and where the roads are salted in winter.

In the EA211 the water pump and the thermostat are one plastic module, and the pump is driven not by the timing belt but by a separate toothed belt behind the exhaust camshaft. There are usually two problems with it: the plastic housing warps or cracks (slow coolant loss, a sweet smell, rising temperature), or the drive belt ages (a chirping noise, then an engine left with no cooling). The housing is particularly sensitive if oil reaches it: for example from a leaking crankcase ventilation. The module has to be replaced whole: dismantling it warps it in itself.

The rear washer does not spray, because the feed hose has come off. The water then does not go onto the window but inside, into the boot.

On the 6J Ibiza the electric window motor develops a short, and the window starts moving down or up on its own, or does not move at all. This is more common on pre-2015 cars, and the door lock actuators fail as well.

The per cylinder ignition coil of these direct injection, turbocharged petrol engines fails. According to the Haynes service material this and similar simple electrical faults account for roughly eighty per cent of workshop visits.