Gearbox oil

[Bepis]

My Polo has 124K miles and I'm just carrying on with preventative maintenance, I was told when purchasing it had a new box but didn't get any confirmation of this work being carried out, so I'm going on the assumption that the oil has 124k miles on it which is obviously less than ideal.

My question is what oil to use?

I've seen on other forums say to use 75w-90 GL4 or use VW gearbox oil, whereas Castrol's oil finder is saying to use 75W-80 and also some posts being skeptical of VW gearbox oil as they had apparently put the wrong stuff in at the factory, wrecking some gearboxes.

Essentially just need to be pointed in the right direction as I can't find a straight answer

Edit: After giving this thread a read (last couple of pages) viewtopic.php?f=56&t=70555&start=45
Would the same logic hold up for older VW models?

[alexperkins]

Its best to use what VW specify is correct. Some boxes need 75W-80, others need 75W-90. I'd suggest a quick call to your local dealer to see what is spec.

VW genuine gearbox oil generally provides the best shift quality.

[Bepis]

Just gave them a ring, couldn’t tell me what the viscosity was but was £13.20 a litre which is about the same price as the Castrol stuff I was looking at so I’ll just go with OEM.

Thanks for the help

[alexperkins]

Super my pleasure

[Bepis]

Went and picked some up today. For anyone looking for it, the part number is G 055 512 A2

[Bepis]

Finally got a dry enough day and changed the gearbox oil today, took roughly 1.5L while on 4 jack stands, then a bit more when on the ground.
It does seem like the gearbox was changed as the oil wasn't overly dark but gear changes are smoother and no longer crunches going into reverse.

[alexperkins]

Thanks for letting us know. Glad it’s made a difference