Volkswagen Routan problems

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The Volkswagen Routan is a seven-seat minivan and rebadged variant of the Chrysler RT platform, with revised styling, content features, and suspension tuning from the fifth-generation Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country.

Manufactured alongside the Chrysler and Dodge minivans at Windsor Assembly and marketed in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the Routan debuted at the 2008 Chicago Auto Show and went on sale in the United States in September of the same year as a 2009 model. The Routan's minivan variants include the Dodge Caravan, Ram C/V, Chrysler Town & Country, and Lancia Voyager (export)—that by 2009 have ranked as the 13th best-selling automotive nameplate worldwide, with over 12 million sold.

Production of the Routan was halted in 2012 due to high inventory levels, and Volkswagen announced the 2013 model year would be primarily reserved for rental car companies and other fleets, with limited availability to the public at dealer showrooms. This also held for the 2014 model year Routan.

photo of Volkswagen Routan car production

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Volkswagen Routan model years

volkswagen routan 2014 photo
Routan 2014
Volkswagen

2

0

33

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen routan 2013 photo
Routan 2013
Volkswagen

7

0

31

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen routan 2012 photo
Routan 2012
Volkswagen

63

1

25

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen routan 2011 photo
Routan 2011
Volkswagen

173

0

28

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen routan 2010 photo
Routan 2010
Volkswagen

236

2

22

2.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen routan 2009 photo
Routan 2009
Volkswagen

293

6

30

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen routan 2008 photo
Routan 2008
Volkswagen

3

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Volkswagen Routan problems

The Volkswagen Routan, produced from 2009 to 2014, has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners.

Another common problem with the 2009 Routan is a coolant leak at the Y-diverter valve. The plastic Y is prone to cracking every 40k or 50k miles, which can lead to more severe engine problems if not addressed promptly.

The 2011 Routan also has its share of problems, with electrical issues being the most reported. There are 55 electrical complaints, with the most common being the car shutting off while driving, steering locks, and the car seizing. This issue has been reported 9 times, with an average cost to fix of $1,300, an average mileage of 79,000 miles, and an average age of 7.5 years.

Premature wear on brake pads and rotors is another common issue with the 2011 Routan, with 9 complaints. This problem can lead to more frequent and expensive brake repairs, which can be a significant concern for owners.

The 2011 Routan also has difficulty starting, with 8 complaints. This issue can be frustrating for owners, especially if it occurs frequently or during inclement weather. Additionally, there are 7 complaints of the vehicle not starting, which can be a significant safety concern if it happens while driving.

The Volkswagen Routan has an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 8th out of 8 for minivans. The average annual repair cost is $745, which means it has average ownership costs. While repairs are more frequent than average for the Routan, these issues are often minor, so you can expect to make slightly more trips to the shop than normal.

In summary, the Volkswagen Routan has several common problems, with electrical issues being the most significant concern. The 2009 model year has the most reported problems, with the car shutting off while driving, steering locks, and the car seizing being the most common issue. The 2011 Routan also has its share of problems, with electrical issues being the most reported. While the Routan has an average reliability rating, repairs can be more frequent than average, so it's essential to stay on top of maintenance and address any issues promptly.

Volkswagen Routan

What year should I Routan to avoid?

Summary: VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009 ROUTAN VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 2008 THROUGH JULY 2009. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH AN IMPROPER ROUTED WIRE HARNESS THAT MAY HAVE A CONDITION WHERE THE LOWER SLIDING DOOR HINGE BRACKET CAN MAKE CONTACT AND WEAR THROUGH THE WIRE INSULATION.

What are the problems with Volkswagen Routan?

Defective Timing Chain

Volkswagen's EA888 2.0-liter engine has a history of tensioner problems that can lead to a loose timing chain and catastrophic engine failure. A series of lawsuits eventually led to a settlement that offers an extended warranty and potentia…

Does the VW Routan have a Chrysler engine?

In 2011, the Routan was available with a new engine from Chrysler, the 3.6 L V6 producing 283 hp (211 kW) and 260 lb⋅ft (353 N⋅m) mated to a six-speed automatic from Chrysler.

How many miles per gallon does a Volkswagen Routan get?

17/25 mpg city/highway

With regular gas, the Routan gets an EPA-estimated 17/25 mpg city/highway.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Routan years

We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Routan cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen Routan model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Routan model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Routan years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Volkswagen Routan car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Routan , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Engine problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Steering problems
  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Routan vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Routan model years

A total of 16 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Routan model years

There were a total of 8 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Routan model years

There were a total of 47 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 777 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Routan . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Routan vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Volkswagen Routan 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-08
  • Date Complaint: 2024-07-08
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG1CR
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Driver steering wheel airbag deployed while parking van at work. Nothing was hit just went off causing burns and wrist pain and swelling. Wife stated that the front windshield wipers started turning on randomly while driving to work and then airbag blew while parking.
Volkswagen Routan 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-08
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-25
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 2V8HW54XX9R
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: The contact owned a 2009 Volkswagen Routan. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH, the contact suffered a medical emergency and lost control of the vehicle. The contact's vehicle crashed into the rear of a semi-truck. In addition, the contact's vehicle crashed into a ditch. The contact stated that the air bags did not deploy. The paramedics and the Police arrived on the scene. A Police report was filed, however thePolice report information was unavailable. The contact sustained eight broken ribs on the left side and two broken ribs on the right side, injury to the left eye which needed stitches, major trauma to the left lung and bruises and cuts. The contact was taken to the local hospital by ambulance. The vehicle was condemned a total loss. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
Volkswagen Routan 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-23
  • Date Complaint: 2024-06-23
  • VIN: 2V8HW34199R
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Volkswagen dealership does not want to fulfill the recall.
Volkswagen Routan 2011
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-03
  • Date Complaint: 2024-05-07
  • VIN: 2V4RW5DG1BR
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Volkswagen Routan. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 190,000.
Volkswagen Routan 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-15
  • Date Complaint: 2024-03-22
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG6CR
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: My vehicle is shutting off while driving. It randomly shuts off and I see there are other recalls associated with this issue for a different year but same vehicle/model. I am being quoted well over $2,000 in repairs. This vehicle only has 130,000 miles on it.
Volkswagen Routan 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-10
  • Date Complaint: 2024-02-12
  • VIN: 2V4RW3D10AR
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: Battery failure due to parasitic draw from Ignition IOD fuse ( J13fuse) reads 0.9 draw and M11 fuse ( hvac system) reads 0.6 draw. First occurrence 2/10/24 and second occurrence 2/11/24. Informed auto repair shop on 2/12/24 and goes in for diagnostic 2/15/24. Abs control module failure( intermittent ) Egr valve replacement (8/9/24 due to overheating but no warning lights due to overheating was displayed which is strange) Speed control sensor was replaced as well 8/9/24 but still has problems getting stuck or not reading the right speed . Consumes fuel faster than normal as well . Getting about 9 miles to the gallon.
Volkswagen Routan 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-02
  • Date Complaint: 2023-12-17
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG3CR
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: At first it starts off the vehicle will just shut off while you are driving which is very dangerous I have read many people complaining about this it needs to be recalled then the brakes go and then the transmission seal I have done all the maintenance up keep on my vehicle there is no reason for the vehicle did you shut off the way it keeps shutting off and dying for no reason the battery keeps dying by the next morning when nothing is left on in the vehicle it has caused me a great deal of grief and it is very scary when you have children in the car and your vehicle just shuts off on the freeway when everything is electric guess what no breaks
Volkswagen Routan 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-01
  • Date Complaint: 2023-10-07
  • VIN: 2V4RW3D12AR
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: All electrical gauges randomly go on and off, there is a continuous beeping to go along with it, the windshield wipers will go on and off. It seems to happen more in the summer or if it’s raining. It will occasionally stall while doing this, especially in a stationary position (like at a drive through).
Volkswagen Routan 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-24
  • Date Complaint: 2023-07-31
  • VIN: 2V8HW34109R
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2009 Volkswagen Routan. The contact received notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V194000 (Electrical System) however, the parts to do the recall repair were not yet available. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the engine failed to turn over. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the ignition switch failed and needed to be replaced; however, the dealer confirmed that parts were not available for the recall repair. The vehicle had not yet been repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Volkswagen Routan 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-10
  • Date Complaint: 2023-07-13
  • VIN: 2V4RW3D17AR
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Volkswagen Routan. The contact stated that the vehicle was started and driven to her destination; however, after arriving at her destination she attempted to shut off the vehicle, but the vehicle remained running. The contact stated that she disconnected the battery to shut off the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 155,000.
Volkswagen Routan 2012
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-13
  • Date Complaint: 2023-06-22
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG6CR
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
  • Summary: NHTSA Recall 14v396 is probably the best correction to this issue. My van has shut off mid-driving while my children are in the car with me. It is so dangerous in the road. I can't move the steering wheel. Mechanics can't seem to diagnose the problem because the van doesn't give any computer codes when it would shut down. There are similar complaints and I wonder how Volkswagen knows of this issue and has failed to inform the owners of these vehicles. Chrysler had a similar issue and did a recall. I hope Volkswagen would acknowledge this issue.
Volkswagen Routan 2009
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-20
  • Date Complaint: 2023-06-20
  • VIN: 2V8HW34159R
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: While driving the vehicle flashed several of the dashboard waring lights, starting dinging and then stopped, started flashing and dinging again then the vehicle completely turned off. I was able to pull over out of traffic but the vehicle would not restart. None of the interior lights would come one and the emergency lights would not come on. I could not unlock any of the doors. The battery has been replaced with in the last year and is working correctly.
Volkswagen Routan 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-15
  • Date Complaint: 2023-06-06
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG5DR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Routan. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would suddenly shut off. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle operated normally. During the failure, no warning lights were illuminated. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer was contacted regarding the failure, but no assistance was offered. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 130,000.
Volkswagen Routan 2013
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-05-12
  • Date Complaint: 2023-05-18
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG7DR
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Routan. The contact stated while driving approximately 40-50 MPH, the passenger’s side front headrest prematurely deployed without impact. There were no warning lights illuminated. There were no reported injuries. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified about the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.
Volkswagen Routan 2010
  • Date Of Incident: 2023-04-01
  • Date Complaint: 2023-04-21
  • VIN: 2V4RW3D16AR
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The key for the key switch is loose and can fall out in any position. Can come out in the off ; start; run; all positions. The van falls within the right timeline for the key switch replacement recall; but I am told it does not have the right vin #. Can you explain to me why I can not get my defected switch replaced and others can? My vin number does not determine if the switch is bad?

Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Routan

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Routan.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Volkswagen Routan 2009
  • Report Received Date: 2016-02-11
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) is recalling certain model year 2009 Volkswagen Routan vehicles manufactured February 7, 2008, to August 28, 2008. In the affected vehicles, the air bag control units may corrode and fail.
  • Consequence: If the air bag control unit fails, the air bags may not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of occupant injury. Additionally, the air bags may inadvertently deploy, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: VW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the air bag control unit, free of charge. The recall began April 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.
  • Model: Volkswagen Routan 2009
  • Report Received Date: 2015-04-01
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2009 Routan vehicles manufactured June 25, 2008, to July 8, 2009, and 2010 Routan vehicles manufactured October 1, 2009, to August 11, 2010. This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. Road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
  • Consequence: If the ignition key inadvertently moves into the OFF or ACCESSORY position, the engine will turn off, which will then depower various key safety systems including, but not limited to, air bags, power steering, and power braking. Loss of functionality of these systems may increase the risk of crash and/or increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
  • Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch and key FOBs, free of charge. The recall began on June 23, 2015. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 28H1. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 11V151 and 14V396. Vehicles that previously received an ignition switch trim ring as a recall remedy must have their vehicles remedied again under this campaign. Vehicles that have already received a new ignition switch are not covered by this campaign.
  • Model: Volkswagen Routan 2010
  • Report Received Date: 2015-04-01
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2009 Routan vehicles manufactured June 25, 2008, to July 8, 2009, and 2010 Routan vehicles manufactured October 1, 2009, to August 11, 2010. This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. Road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
  • Consequence: If the ignition key inadvertently moves into the OFF or ACCESSORY position, the engine will turn off, which will then depower various key safety systems including, but not limited to, air bags, power steering, and power braking. Loss of functionality of these systems may increase the risk of crash and/or increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
  • Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch and key FOBs, free of charge. The recall began on June 23, 2015. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 28H1. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 11V151 and 14V396. Vehicles that previously received an ignition switch trim ring as a recall remedy must have their vehicles remedied again under this campaign. Vehicles that have already received a new ignition switch are not covered by this campaign.
  • Model: Volkswagen Routan 2009
  • Report Received Date: 2014-07-01
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen of America, Inc.
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
  • Summary: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2009 Routan vehicles. Road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
  • Consequence: If the ignition key inadvertently moves into the OFF or ACCESSORY position, the engine will turn off, which will then depower various key safety systems including but not limited to air bags, power steering, and power braking. Loss of functionality of these systems may increase the risk of crash and/or increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
  • Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will modify the ignition switch, free of charge. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1- 800-822-8987. An interim notice was mailed to owners on August 29, 2014. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 28G1/U8. Note: This campaign is an expansion of NHTSA Recall No. 11V-151.
  • Model: Volkswagen Routan 2009
  • Report Received Date: 2014-02-11
  • Manufacturer: Freedom Motors, Inc.
  • Components: SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: Freedom Motors Inc., (Freedom Motors) of Savaria Vehicle Group (formerly The Liberty Motor Company) is recalling one model year 2009 Volkswagen Routan and certain model year 2008-2010 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country wheelchair accessible vehicles modified by The Liberty Motor Company from February 2008 through January 2011. Over time and with use, the vehicle's rear axle may develop cracks which could lead to axle failure.
  • Consequence: Failure of the rear axle may increase the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Freedom Motors will notify owners, and dealers will replace the affected axles, free of charge. The recall began on April 1, 2014. Owners can contact Freedom Motors at 1-800-561-9600. Freedom Motors' number for this recall is ENGF0216-3.

Latest negative Volkswagen Routan car reviews

  1. Carroll Parisian 2025-02-19

    Vehicle year: 2013

    In 2017, we decided to replace our Routan with a Ford Expedition. While the Routan was a nice looking car and drove well, it had a lot of issues. The leatherette fabric on the seats had been wearing out, tearing, and flaking off for years, especially on the driver's seat. Additionally, there were always things breaking or failing on the car, such as the rear brake lights shorting out every three months. Living in an area with snow and ice, we needed a more reliable SUV. In 2016, we continued to experience problems with the Routan, including the leatherette ripping on the seats and sharp, chrome peeling on the door handles. While these issues were not covered under warranty, we were grateful for the extended warranty we had purchased. We had to replace the rear gasket twice in one year, the belt in the passenger side door holding up the window snapped, and the fan belts in both the engine area and AC gave out. We had to make several trips to the service department within a month of purchasing the car from Ken Garff VW in Orem in November of 2011. While we loved the way the Routan looked and felt, we ultimately decided to sell it before the warranty ended.But I had a bit of bad luck with my car recently. The motor for the AC and heater broke, and then the electrical system went haywire, causing my car to shut off while I was driving. It's currently in the shop, but I'm hoping to get it back soon. I'm starting to think about getting a new car, but I'm not quite ready to give up on this one just yet.

  2. Lucas Langworth 2025-02-16

    Vehicle year: 2011

    The Routan shares the same engine and transmission as Chrysler's Town & Country, however, it is important to note that the T & C recalls do not apply to Routans. It is unfortunate that you have experienced issues with your vehicle, but it is important to note that these issues are not indicative of the quality of all Chrysler products. We understand your frustration and would like to assure you that we take all customer concerns seriously and are committed to providing reliable and high-quality vehicles. Thank you for your feedback.

  3. Kaleb Auer 2025-02-11

    Vehicle year: 2010

    The transmission failed at 55,000 miles and unfortunately, the dealer did not provide coverage for it. Despite multiple repairs, the transmission broke down four more times, resulting in the car being in the shop for 1-2 weeks each time. Additionally, there were issues with the ignition and electronics, and the key had to be replaced due to malfunction. Unfortunately, none of these repairs were covered by the warranty.

  4. Johnpaul Turner 2025-02-06

    Vehicle year: 2010

    Although our VIN is not listed in the recall, we are experiencing all of the same symptoms. We have taken our vehicle to the dealership, but unfortunately, they were unable to provide us with a solution. I am confident that we will be able to find a resolution to this issue soon.

  5. Art Sporer 2025-02-02

    Vehicle year: 2011

    Firstly, these cars are built by Chrysler and unfortunately have issues with the tipm module. Repair costs can be upwards of $1,000 and there is no guarantee that the issue will not reoccur. After conducting some research, I found that many people have experienced this problem, which can cause the car to turn off while driving or prevent it from starting altogether. I have personally experienced these issues with my van, which has 53K miles on it. Additionally, I have noticed that the engine is weak and the transmission is starting to give me problems. There is also a side door that makes noises when I open it. In my opinion, it may be best to avoid these vans. As of 21 February 2017, VW has not taken any action to address these issues. I believe that it is important for companies to respect their clients and take responsibility for any problems that arise. Thank you for considering my experience.

Latest positive Volkswagen Routan car reviews

  1. August Ritchie 2025-02-21

    Vehicle year: 2014

    We usually change cars every few years as leases expire, etc. However, this time it has been a tremendously fun surprise. We have driven the Odyssey and the Sienna (we owned a 2006), and we did not think there was any comparison. The VW is far superior. This car is easy to drive and actually fun. The kids love the room and the dynamic seating arrangements. There is a crazy amount of storage, and the included entertainment package is better than expected. If you are considering this vehicle, do yourself a favor and give it a look. You will love it!

  2. Kiley Crooks 2025-02-19

    Vehicle year: 2009

    We absolutely love this van! With 4,000 miles already on it, we can confidently say that it has exceeded our expectations. The seats are incredibly comfortable and the van has plenty of power. Its performance is fantastic and it takes sharp corners like a well-tuned sedan. On the highway, it gets an impressive 27 mpg, although it only gets 14.7 mpg in the city when the A/C is running. One minor issue we encountered is that the rear ceiling height can be a problem if you opt for the moon roof. The moon roof needs room to slide back, which results in a loss of several inches of ceiling height. This means that the rear seat TV is low enough to block the rear view mirror and that the rear seats can't tip forward because they hit the ceiling. Despite this, we have taken four 8-hour trips with the family and loved every minute of it!

  3. Maynard Kuvalis 2025-02-05

    Vehicle year: 2012

    We found the perfect minivan for our needs at an affordable price. After researching various options, we decided to purchase a Certified Used 2012 Routan SE with Nav and DVD, which only had 2.5K miles, for $24K. Compared to other competitors like Toyota and Honda, we were able to save between 13K to 16K for the same features. The Routan is a convertible, runs quietly, has great power, and looks fantastic. Although it's unfortunate that they won't be producing this model in 2013, there are still some brand new 2012 minivans available at dealerships with excellent options and a $7-8K discount off the sticker price. As first-time minivan owners, we are thrilled with our purchase so far!

  4. Milan Zboncak 2025-02-01

    Vehicle year: 2010

    My family needed a bigger car, but I didn't want to buy a super-sized SUV or crossover. After researching, test-driving, and negotiating, we decided on the VW. It turns out that the VW offers better handling, interior materials, and appeal for a similar price as the Chrysler/Dodge counterpart (and about $3,000 less than Toyota/Honda). I've been happy with previous Dodge and Jeep purchases, so the fact that it's partly Chrysler didn't bother us.

  5. Garfield Schamberger 2025-01-28

    Vehicle year: 2012

    Hello! I wanted to give you an update on my previous posts. At around 28000 miles, I noticed that the oil pressure light was flashing in my Routan. After checking the dipstick, I was surprised to find that the car had very little oil. I ended up adding 2.5 quarts of 5W-20 oil. I was surprised because I have never missed any of my scheduled maintenance. When I took the car to the dealer, they informed me that they have seen this issue with these vans before. Their recommendation was to check the oil level every 3000 miles, as these vans tend to burn oil at an average rate of 1 quart every 3000 miles. For your information, I have changed my engine oil on average every 5500 miles, when the light had indicated that it is time to do so.

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