2012 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.

2012 Volkswagen Routan

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Common 2012 Volkswagen Routan problems

The 2012 Volkswagen Routan has been reported to have a common problem related to the engine, specifically with the timing chain tensioner. This issue is associated with the EA888 2.0-liter engine, which has a history of tensioner problems that can lead to a loose timing chain and potentially catastrophic engine failure. This problem is not exclusive to the Routan, as it has been reported in other Volkswagen models with the same engine.

Another issue reported by owners of the 2012 Volkswagen Routan is related to the transmission. The transmission is known to have issues, particularly with the canister filter housing, which is prone to leaking oil. This issue requires the replacement of the canister filter housing every 50,000 miles, which can be a significant expense for owners.

The 2012 Volkswagen Routan has also been reported to have lower fuel efficiency compared to other minivans in its class. This can be a significant concern for owners who use their vehicles for long trips or daily commuting. The lower fuel efficiency can result in higher fuel costs, which can be a significant expense over time.

In addition to these issues, the 2012 Volkswagen Routan has been reported to have a higher than average annual repair cost. The average annual repair cost for the Routan is $745, which is higher than the average for minivans in its class. This means that owners of the Routan can expect to make slightly more trips to the shop than normal for repairs and maintenance.

It is worth noting that the 2012 Volkswagen Routan has a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 8th out of 8 for minivans. 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 2012 Volkswagen Routan has been reported to have common problems related to the engine, transmission, and fuel efficiency. These issues can result in significant expenses for owners over time, particularly in terms of repair and maintenance costs. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and to factor them into their decision-making process when considering the purchase of a 2012 Volkswagen Routan.

2012 Volkswagen Routan engine

Are Volkswagen Routans reliable?

The Volkswagen Routan Reliability Rating is 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.

What is the transmission problem on the VW Routan?

Some of the most common VW Routan transmission problems are slipping between gears, erratic up or down shifts, or a hard slam when the 62TE transmission engages Drive or Reverse.

Why did Volkswagen stop making the Routan?

Automotive industry analysts were not surprised by VW's decision to drop the Routan because buyers had no reason for selecting the Routan over the similar Dodge Grand Caravan or the Chrysler Town & Country, and the Routan's base price of nearly $28,000 was far more than the basic $21,000 Grand Caravan, while the ...

Does VW Routan have timing chain?

If the timing chain is found to be broken, or the camshaft position is too far out of specification, the timing chain and timing gears will require replacement to restore the vehicle to operating condition.

Are Volkswagen Routans reliable?

The Volkswagen Routan Reliability Rating is 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.

Why did Volkswagen stop making the Routan?

Automotive industry analysts were not surprised by VW's decision to drop the Routan because buyers had no reason for selecting the Routan over the similar Dodge Grand Caravan or the Chrysler Town & Country, and the Routan's base price of nearly $28,000 was far more than the basic $21,000 Grand Caravan, while the ...

Does VW Routan have timing chain?

If the timing chain is found to be broken, or the camshaft position is too far out of specification, the timing chain and timing gears will require replacement to restore the vehicle to operating condition.

Where is the Routan made?

Windsor Assembly plant

Manufactured alongside Dodge and Chrysler minivans at the Windsor Assembly plant in Ontario, the Routan was an attempt by Volkswagen to market a vehicle specifically for the United States.

2012 Volkswagen Routan car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Routan problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Electrical system problems
  • Engine problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems
  • Steering problems
  • Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Volkswagen Routan vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2012 Volkswagen Routan

The NHTSA has received 63 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Volkswagen Routan. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Volkswagen Routan vehicles.

2024-07-08

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 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.
2024-03-22

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-15
  • 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.
2023-12-17

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-08-02
  • 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
2023-06-22

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-13
  • 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.
2022-10-04

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-09-30
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG0CR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: Several times in the last month the car has stopped running without warning. It just shuts off. This has happened in our subdivision travelling at 20mph and most recently on the highway travelling 65mph. The power steering, brakes, everything go dead when the car just turns off and this could cause a serious accident.
2022-02-14

POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-12-31
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG2CR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: On Thursday January 6, 2022, I took my car Volkswagen Routan 2012 to the service center because the check engine light went on and the engine revving. The service center took a week for diagnostic it, then they informed me on January 13, after charging me $180 that it needs a new transmission because it stuck in limp mode (see attached report). I asked the customer service to contact Volkswagen representative because this problem seems to be a manufacture problem, especially the car run less than 85000 miles and all maintenance service done on time with Volkswagen dealership. This mileages are considered very low to have a transmission problem with well maintained car. They took another three weeks to report me by phone that Volkswagen refused completely to take care or to share responsibility for this problem and they rejected my claim.  Because the claim runs by the dealership “service center” on behalf of me, I asked their customer service representative to email me what is Volkswagen final decision and why?  Three days later, the customer service told me by phone “it’s confidential” and they can not email me.
2022-01-04

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-12-30
  • VIN: 2c4rvabg0cr
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Car is stalling out while driving with no warning. Doesn't matter the rate of speed I'm going it just cuts out. Can't turn steering wheel. No codes pop up. No mechanics can pinpoint issue. I have seen quite a few thousand people complaining of the same issue and reported it to vw as well as nhtsa and NO ONE will do a recall. Chrysler did a recall for this same issue but NOT vw. This is a safety issue for not only the owner but other drivers on the road. If I get into an accident or cause one I WILL BE suing nhtsa as well as vw for no recall being done. I have printed out over 100 pages of complaints from others for evidence of complaints. I have already entered the class action lawsuit with others having the same issue. RECALL THE ISSUE OR FACE LAWSUITS.
2021-12-26

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-11-24
  • VIN: 2C4RVACG9CR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: The transmission on our 2012 VW Routan has completely failed. The car will not go into gear and left my wife in a position where she was stranded in traffic. We are the original owners of this vehicle and have followed the recommended maintenance schedule. The engine in this vehicle is a Chrysler Pentastar V6. (The vehicle was built as a joint venture between VW and Chrysler) According to online research Chrysler has recognized a “fatal flaw” in this engine and has extended warranty to customers in order to cover repairs beyond 100,000 miles. We only have 72,000 on our vehicle. I have spoken with VW North America, they told me to plead my case with Chrysler. I spoke with Chrysler and they told me to plead my case with VW. Neither company is willing to recognize that a total transmission failure at 72k miles is [their] responsibility. I am asking for the drivetrain warranty on our vehicle to be extended, due to the “fatal flaw” which has already been identified by Chrysler on the Pentastar V6. VW service is asking me to pay more than $6,000 to repair the vehicle.
2021-11-02

AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-06-17
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG9CR
  • Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
  • Summary: The ignition key inadvertently moves into the OFF or ACCESSORY position, the engine will turn off, which then depowers various key safety systems including, but not limited to, air bags, power steering, and power braking. This has happened to me several times including while driving on the interstate and in traffic. I was able to pull over but it is very difficult when power steering and power breaking goes out. I had children in the vehicle several times when this has happened. Per Volkswagon website, I removed all keychains or anything that would cause the key fob to be weighed down. When I contacted them, they said my van is not under recall even though it is the same exact issue previous models had been recalled for. The only symptom prior was the check engine light was on.
2021-07-31

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-07-22
  • VIN: 2C4RVABGXCR
  • Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: referenced to recall nhsta Id no:11v-151 same issue happens on newer models, the car key ignition switch does not secure the key and that causes the car shut-down in tje middle of highway or road intermittently! ıt does not give any dashboard warning and no codes! all the lights are being gone and even ac shuts off! when ı push the key the lights come back on and the car can be turned on again. similiar problems are poster on youtube: https://youtu.be/ZESy-MnVPZs
2021-07-21

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-04-01
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG2CR
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: The battery started dying randomly several months ago. I have called multiple dealerships and had diagnostics ran twice on the car. Initially I was told there is no draw on the battery. Then it was discovered that the TIPM module needs to be replaced. I then started researching this problem with this vehicle only to find multiple forums full of people having the same exact issue or worse! As in, their car stalls on the highway randomly while driving!! Someone could die! This module fails and in my case causes the fuel pump to continue running even when the car is off which completely drains the battery overnight! Chrysler (same manufacturer of this TIPM) already lost a class action lawsuit and recalled this TIPM but the Volkswagens affected by this same issue were not included leaving those of us now experiencing the same problem in a scary position because we can’t afford to get this fixed as it is very expensive let alone get a new car! It baffles me how well known it is that this part is the same part that’s been recalled but it doesn’t apply to this vehicle. On top of that, I called 3 Chrysler dealerships to explain the problem and was told they don’t work on this vehicle! This is unacceptable! I don’t know how the NHTSA has not done something about this! It seems several class action lawsuits need to filed! Hopefully before someone loses their life!
2021-07-07

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2021-07-01
  • VIN: 2c4rvabg3cr
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
  • Summary: While driving along my vehicle will shut completely off. This happens especially on bumpy roads. Sometime the vehicle will shut off right after starting the engine. The only way I can duplicate the problem is to turn the key completely off and restart the vehicle. This problem is very similar to the recall with the 2010 Volkswagens.
2020-10-26

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2016-11-01
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG1CR
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN ROUTAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THERE WAS A TICKING SOUND COMING FROM THE ENGINE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO STREET VOLKSWAGEN LOCATED AT 8707 PILGRIM DR, AMARILLO, TX 79119, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE FLY-WHEEL WAS DAMAGED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. AFTER REPLACING THE FLY-WHEEL, THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE DEALER LATER REPLACED THE ENGINE HEAD AND FLY-WHEEL HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE VEHICLE WAS LATER TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NO YET REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 45,000.
2020-10-20

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-07-01
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN ROUTAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND RESUMED NORMAL DRIVING. THE CONTACT INITIALLY CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER BY PHONE AND WAS REFERRED TO THE DODGE MANUFACTURER FOR ASSISTANCE. THE CONTACT REACHED OUT TO THE DODGE MANUFACTURER AND SHE WAS REFERRED TO A LOCAL DODGE DEALER FOR ASSISTANCE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO TANNER MOTORS (620 W. WASHINGTON ST, BRAINERD, MN 56401) WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS TEST DRIVEN AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ISSUE COULD POSSIBLY BE LINKED TO A DEFECTIVE WIRELESS IGNITION NODE (WIN) MODULE. THE CONTACT WAS PROVIDED AN ESTIMATE FOR THE REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 99,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
2020-09-21

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-09-20
  • VIN: 2C4RVADG6CR
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: VEHICLE HAS EXPERIENCED STALLING, ENGINE SHUTDOWN, AND DIFFICULTY STARTING MULTIPLE TIMES. ENGINE HAS NOW STALLED MORE FREQUENTLY AT BOTH LOW SPEEDS AND WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY. EACH TIME, RPM'S HAVE GONE TO ZERO AND IT'S COMPLETELY LOST POWER TO STEERING. I'VE HAD TRY AND COAST/NAVIGATE SAFELY TO SIDE OF ROAD, BERM, ETC., STOP, AND RESTART THE VAN. AT TIMES THE DASH LIGHTS WILL FLASH, OTHER TIMES THERE IS NO INDICATION THAT A FAILURE HAD OCCURRED, JUST NO POWER/RPMS. NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT REMAINS, NO CODES DISPLAYED, NOTHING. THE LOCAL VOLKSWAGEN DEALER WILL NOT EVEN ADDRESS THE ISSUE AS THEY DEEM IT A "CHRYSLER PROBLEM". WE NOW TAKE IT TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND REPLACED THE CRANKSHAFT & CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSORS, KEY FOBS, BATTERY, AND HAVE DONE ALL PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE. THE PROBLEM STILL REMAINS. THERE ARE SIMILAR COMPLAINTS (VW, CHRYSLER, & DODGE) FOR THIS EXACT ENGINE & SYMPTOMS THAT MAY BE RELATED TO THE TIPM, THE MAIN CONTROL MODULE. THIS IS A VERY SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE AS IT RANDOM AND CAUSES A COMPLETE SHUTDOWN OF VEHICLE WHILE IN MOTION AND LOSS OF OPERATOR CONTROL.
2020-09-13

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-08-30
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG2CR
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: WHEN GETTING OFF HIGHWAY WHILE AT LIGHT MY CAR SPUTTERED AND STALLED. THE CAR WOULD NOT RESTART AND I HAD TO HAVE TOWED. THE RIGHT SIDE CYLINDER HEAD HAD TO BE REPLACED AT A COST OF OVER $4000. VW IS REPLACING THE LEFT SIDE UNDER WARRANTY FOR 10 YEARS BUT NOT THE RIGHT SIDE FOR SOME REASON SO I HAVE TO PAY. THERE HAVE BEEN MANY PROBLEMS WITH THIS ENGINE AND I HAVE ONLY 89000 MILES. THE ENGINE IN THE VW IS A CHRYSLER 3.6 LITER PENTASTAR. WHILE FIXING THAT IT WAS FOUND THAT THE OIL FILTER HOUSING UNIT WAS LEAKING AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.
2020-06-04

STEERING,SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-02-07
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG9CR
  • Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION
  • Summary: HAD TO REPLACE RIGHT REAR WHEEL BEARING AT APPROXIMATELY 60,000 MILES. HAD TO REPLACE LEFT REAR WHEEL BEARING AT 80,500 MILES. BOTH WHEEL BEARINGS WERE MAKING GRINDING NOISES. RACK AND PINION HYDRAULIC LINE CRACKED AT ELBOW AND HAD TO BE REPLACED. RACK AND PINION PROBLEM OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING CLOSE TO HOME. LOST ALL STEERING IN DRIVEWAY. *TR
2020-05-20

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-05-19
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG1CR
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE OFTEN HAS DIFFICULTY STARTING AND WILL OCCASIONALLY SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING. THE PROBLEM SEEMS SIMILAR TO THE DEFECT DESCRIBED IN SAFETY RECALL 28H1 WHICH ONLY COVERS YEAR MODELS 2009-2010. I DON'T REMEMBER EXACTLY WHEN THE ISSUE STARTED, BUT IT WAS WITHIN THE LAST YEAR, AND THE PROBLEM HAS BECOME MUCH WORSE TO THE POINT FAILURE WHILE OPERATING OCCURS MUCH MORE REGULARLY. FORTUNATELY, I'VE BEEN ABLE TO RESTART AND CONTINUE DRIVING SO FAR, BUT IT WILL SHUT OFF WHEN I'M IDLING, ACCELERATING, OR AT DRIVING SPEED. *TR
2020-04-01

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-22
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG6CR
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: THE DRIVERS HEADREST AIRBAG DEPLOYED WHILE SITTING IN MY GARAGE. ENGINE HAD JUST BEEN STARTED. IF THIS HAD HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING IT COULD HAVE STARTLED DRIVER TO THE POINT OF LOSS OF CONTROL.
2020-01-14

AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2020-01-03
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG6CR
  • Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
  • Summary: I WAS PARKED IN MY GARAGE. WHEN I STARTED THE CAR, THE DRIVER HEADREST EXPLODED FORWARD. IF THIS HAD HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING IT COULD HAVE CAUSED AN ACCIDENT FROM THE SUDDEN MOVEMENT AND LOUD NOISE STARTLING ME.
2019-11-02

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-10-25
  • VIN: 2C4RVACG0CR
  • Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: MY CAR WILL CRANK BUT NOT START. AFTER SEVERAL TRIES IF YOU USE THE KEY FOB YOU CAN GET IT TO START. I HAVE THE CAR LOOKED AT BY TWO TECHNICIANS WHO ADVISED THAT MY VEHICLE WAS MADE BY CHRYSLER EVEN THOUGH IT'S A VOLKSWAGEN AND THAT THIS IS A KNOWN PROBLEM WITH CHRYSLER DODGE VANS FROM 2011 AND 2012 THE PROBLEM THEY TELL ME IS WITH THE FUEL PUMP RELAY THAT WILL NEED TO BE INSTALLED
2019-10-08

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-09-21
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG2CR
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: MY WIFE WAS DRIVING WITH 2 CHILDREN ON THE HIGHWAY AT 70 MPH WHILE THE ENGINE DIES DUE TO THE FUEL PUMP STOPPING TO WORK DUE TO A TIPM FUEL PUMP RELAY FAILURE. CHRYSLER AND DODGE DID THE RIGHT THING, STEP UP VW.
2019-08-20

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-08-19
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG3CR
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
  • Summary: VAN RANDOMLY GOES TO 3RD ON THE HIGHWAY. GOING TO NEUTRAL AND BACK TO DRIVE CORRECTS THE ISSUE. VAN WILL NOT START/CRANK RANDOMLY. VAN TURNS OFF ON THE HIGHWAY RANDOMLY. RANDOM "ENTER SECURITY CODE" ON THE NAV SYSTEM. 129K MILES ON IT. CHRYSLER RECALLED CARAVAN'S AND THE TOWN AND COUNTRY FOR THESE SAME ISSUES. THE TIPM NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. FILING A COMPLAINT WITH CORPORATE VW TO HAVE THEM CORRECT THIS MASSIVE SAFETY ISSUE AS CHRYSLER HAS DONE. HTTP://WWW.CHRYSLERPROBLEMS.COM/TIPM/
2019-06-02

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-05-02
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG2CR
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: THE CAR WILL JUST SHUT DOWN WHILE DRIVING. NO WARNING, NO LIGHTS, NO CHECK ENGINE, NO POWER STEERING OR POWER BREAKS (I HAVE TO PUT ALL I GOT INTO TRYING TO STEER THE CAR TO JUST PULL OVER!). I HAVE TO BRING THE CAR TO A COMPLETE STOP AND RESTART IT. IT HAS HAPPENED ABOUT 3 TIMES. TOOK IT TO 3 GARAGES AND THEY COULD NOT FIGURE OUT THE PROBLEM BECAUSE THE CAR NEVER GAVE ANY COMPUTER CODES WHEN IT WOULD SHUT DOWN. THERE ARE SIMILAR COMPLAINTS AND I'M WONDER HOW VW KNOWS OF THIS ISSUE AND HAS FAILED TO INFORM THE OWNERS OF THESE VEHICLES. IF MY VAN SHUTS OFF ON THE FREEWAY, THIS COULD BE VERY SERIOUS!
2019-04-29

STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2019-04-27
  • VIN: 2C4RVABG6CR
  • Components: STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
  • Summary: DRIVING AT LOW SPEED VAN RACED FORWARD THEN STOPPED ALMOST HIT ANOTHER VEHICLE. NOW WON'T RUN AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON. I WAS IN A PARKING LOT OF A TARGET WHEN HAPPENED

2012 Volkswagen Routan recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2012 Volkswagen Routan.

2012-04-05
  • Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA, INC
  • Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
  • Summary: VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 ROUTAN VEHICLES, MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 15, 2011, THROUGH NOVEMBER 21, 2011. SOME VEHICLES MAY BE EQUIPPED WITH RIGHT REAR HUB AND BEARING ASSEMBLIES THAT WERE NOT FULLY MACHINED.
  • Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN A DECREASE IN DURABILITY, WHICH MAY LEAD TO WHEEL SEPARATION, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
  • Remedy: VOLKSWAGEN WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE RIGHT REAR HUB AND BEARING ASSEMBLY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 20, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT VOLKSWAGEN AT 1-800-822-8987.

Negative 2012 Volkswagen Routan car reviews

  1. Joshuah Padberg 2025-01-09

    This car has had some issues since I purchased it, but I have been able to address them effectively. While it is true that parts can only be purchased from the dealer, I have found reliable mechanics who are able to work on this car. Although I have had to take the car in for mechanical reasons three times, each issue has been resolved and the car has been working well for several months at a time. While the dealer charges for the time the car is waiting for repair, I have found the cost to be reasonable given the quality of service provided.

  2. Camron Jacobson 2024-11-20

    I recently traded in my 2010 VW Routan SEL for a Honda Odyssey. Unfortunately, I had a lot of problems with my VW after only 30,000 miles. I have decided to stay away from Volkswagen in the future and no longer trust them. Thank you for listening to my experience.

  3. Gianni Streich 2024-11-17

    The Routon's unique appearance caught our attention, and as a young couple, we were pleased to drive it without feeling embarrassed. It provided a comfortable ride, especially for our young children who enjoyed the DVD system and Xbox inputs. However, we were disappointed when the van began to shake while braking, and upon inspection, the front rotors were found to be faulty at only 20k miles. Although the dealer fixed the issue, the shaking returned 7k miles later, this time with the back rotors. Due to concerns about future breakdowns, we decided to trade in the van.

  4. Saul Rutherford 2024-10-12

    The VW Routan does not meet my expectations due to its small and cramped interior, which has caused me and my children to hit our heads several times. Additionally, the automatic doors can be quite bothersome. However, I believe Volkswagen has the potential to create unique and innovative vehicles, such as the Eurovans.

  5. Mackenzie Kohler 2024-10-07

    As soon as the 60 mile warranty expired, the transmission light came on. I took it to have an Emissions Test done and unfortunately, it failed. I learned that the torque converter needs replacing. I must say, I'm quite disappointed with my Volkswagen. However, I hope this experience can help others make an informed decision when purchasing a car.

Positive 2012 Volkswagen Routan car reviews

  1. Jeremie Gusikowski 2024-10-18

    We've had this van for around 3 months now and we absolutely love it, except for the gas mileage. Since we drive about 800 miles a week, fuel efficiency is a top priority for us. Currently, we're averaging about 20 miles per gallon. Initially, we were a bit apprehensive about the quality of the van, especially since it's manufactured by Chrysler and even has Mopar branding on some of the engine components and parts. However, we're happy to report that we haven't experienced any issues so far. We've come to realize that just because it's made by Chrysler, doesn't mean it's a typical Chrysler vehicle. VW has definitely improved the comfort and style of this van. Our 3-year-old is particularly fond of the entertainment center.

  2. Janick Osinski 2024-07-19

    Hi there! I wanted to follow up on my earlier comments about my Routan. I've put over 24,000 miles on the car in the past 20 months and unfortunately, I've had to replace my front brakes and rotors twice. The rear rotors have also been turned twice and the rear brakes were replaced as well. The good news is that everything has been covered under warranty so far. However, I'm a bit concerned about having to replace the brakes every year once my lease is up and the service contract is no longer in effect. What are your thoughts on this?

  3. Tyrique Wisozk 2024-07-08

    A minivan? I never thought I would drive one. However, when my wife expressed her desire for a Toyota Sienna, I stumbled upon this vehicle and it completely won me over. It is the only minivan I would ever consider. Not only does it drive like a German sports sedan, but it is also as spacious as a luxury car. The auto boasts power everything, leather Captains chairs in the front and back, which recline to a 180 degree position. The rear seat is comfortable and also has power stowaway seats. The rear entertainment system allows for 2 movies at once, which is great for parents with children of different ages. It is important to note that this is NOT a Chrysler, the suspension VW uses is superb.

  4. Lisandro Quigley 2024-06-27

    One of the best vehicles for ride and comfort I've ever been in. We did have a problem with the brake rotors when we first bought the van, but we had larger rotors installed and have not had any problems since. It's a great van and fun to drive!

  5. Sid Hane 2024-06-10

    Driving to NY from South Carolina three times was a 12-hour trip, but it was surprisingly comfortable and enjoyable. The interior was not very noisy, and the gas mileage was average. I would prefer a model with an engine TDI. The sound system was okay, and the captain seats were especially comfortable for long trips.

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