2012 Volkswagen Touareg problems
The Volkswagen Touareg (German pronunciation: ) is a car produced by German automaker Volkswagen Group since 2002 at the Volkswagen Bratislava Plant. Considered to be the first luxury mid-size SUV from Volkswagen, the vehicle was named after the nomadic Tuareg people, inhabitants of the Saharan interior in North Africa. Originally, the Touareg was developed together with the Porsche Cayenne and the Audi Q7, and as of October 2020, the Touareg was developed together with the Audi Q8, the Bentley Bentayga and the Lamborghini Urus. This family of vehicles are all unibody SUVs with independent suspension. The first generation (2002–2010) offered five, six, eight, ten and twelve-cylinder engine choices.
Development
The Volkswagen Touareg (internally designated Typ 7L) was developed as a joint venture project by Porsche and the Volkswagen Group, involving the Audi and Volkswagen brands. During the initial development phase of the Typ 7L and the early years of its production, Porsche operated as an independent entity, not affiliated with the Volkswagen Group. The sports car market is known for its fluctuations. In response to these market conditions, Porsche's CEO at the time, Wendelin Wiedeking, sought to diversify the company's product range. This strategy included the introduction of Porsche's first four-door vehicle. A team in Weissach, Germany, of over 300, led by Klaus-Gerhard Wolpert, developed the Volkswagen Group PL71 platform. Now it is shared between the Touareg, the Audi Q7, and the Porsche Cayenne. However, there are styling, equipment, performance, and technical differences between them. The Touareg and Cayenne both seat five, while the Q7's stretched wheelbase accommodates a third row for seven passengers.
The Volkswagen Touareg is built at the Volkswagen Bratislava Plant in Bratislava, Slovakia, alongside the Audi Q7. The Cayenne is assembled by Porsche in Leipzig, Germany, at a facility built for Cayenne production.
Due to the demand and the exchange rates of euros against the US dollar, as well as different pricing and environmental policies in the US, the V6 and V8 engine variants make up most of Volkswagen's American Touareg offering. Compared to other Volkswagen-branded vehicles sold in the US, which are aimed at the mass market, Touaregs came in more upscale trims and competed with other luxury crossover SUVs.
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Common 2012 Volkswagen Touareg problems
The 2012 Volkswagen Touareg has several common problems reported by owners. These issues include water leaks, headlight washers malfunction, and sunroof problems.
- Memory Seat Movement: The memory seat of the 2012 Volkswagen Touareg may move on its own, which can be concerning for owners.
- AC Compressor: The AC compressor of the 2012 Volkswagen Touareg may not cycle on for 5 minutes at the end of the day, which can be inconvenient for owners.
- Car Pulling to the Right: The 2012 Volkswagen Touareg may pull to the right when braking and driving, which can be concerning for owners.
In summary, the 2012 Volkswagen Touareg has several common problems reported by owners, including water leaks, headlight washer malfunction, sunroof problems, transmission issues, key stuck in ignition, memory seat movement, AC compressor malfunction, and car pulling to the right. These issues can be frustrating and time-consuming to resolve, but they are essential to address to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the vehicle.
What problems does the 2012 Touareg V6 have?
Top 2012 Volkswagen Touareg Problems
- Tire Wear Can be Problematic. 29 people have reported this. ...
- Odor from HVAC vents. 24 people have reported this. ...
- TDI HPFP Catastrophic Failure. 23 people have reported this. ...
- TDI SOHC Camshaft Wear Issue. 10 people have reported this.
Is the Volkswagen Touareg reliable?
That said, the Volkswagen Touareg overall is not known as an exceptionally reliable vehicle. According to withclutch.com, high-quality used Volkswagen Touaregs have a reliability rating of about 56.05, which is not very reliable compared to other subcompact SUVs.
What is the disadvantage of Volkswagen Touareg?
One of the most common issues that has plagued the Touareg is electrical issues. Over the years, many owners have complained about power windows, door locks, interior lighting, and infotainment system issues. A common problem that has been reported is the vehicle's wiring harnesses.
How long does a VW Touareg engine last?
A typical Volkswagen Touareg has the potential to go for around 300,000 miles with excellent care. This number is solid and something to boast about for VW, though to get to this point, you must keep up with the care of your machine or it will die far sooner.
What problems does the 2012 Touareg V6 have?
Top 2012 Volkswagen Touareg Problems
- Tire Wear Can be Problematic. 29 people have reported this. ...
- Odor from HVAC vents. 24 people have reported this. ...
- TDI HPFP Catastrophic Failure. 23 people have reported this. ...
- TDI SOHC Camshaft Wear Issue. 10 people have reported this.
What is the disadvantage of Volkswagen Touareg?
One of the most common issues that has plagued the Touareg is electrical issues. Over the years, many owners have complained about power windows, door locks, interior lighting, and infotainment system issues. A common problem that has been reported is the vehicle's wiring harnesses.
Is the Volkswagen Touareg reliable?
That said, the Volkswagen Touareg overall is not known as an exceptionally reliable vehicle. According to withclutch.com, high-quality used Volkswagen Touaregs have a reliability rating of about 56.05, which is not very reliable compared to other subcompact SUVs.
Is Touareg expensive to maintain?
The Touareg is a big, heavy, complex 4x4 that was expensive when new and remains just as expensive to fix when older, especially if you use main dealers. And when they are older they are more likely to be suffering from parts wearing out and / or breaking.
2012 Volkswagen Touareg car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Touareg problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Engine problems
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Volkswagen Touareg vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2012 Volkswagen Touareg complaints
The NHTSA has received 25 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Volkswagen Touareg.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-22
- VIN: WVGFK9BP1CD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Touareg. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, he smelled an oil odor and smoke odor in the interior of the vehicle. After a visual inspection, the contact observed oil leaking from underneath the engine compartment. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined the diesel particulate filter needed to be replaced but was unable to locate the part. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 124,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-01
- VIN: WVGFF9BP2CD
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Touareg. The contact stated that the driver’s side seat belt unintendedly unlatched while driving at various speeds. Additionally, the contact stated that the clockspring was defective, causing several failures with the vehicle. The contact stated while tilting the steering wheel, the vehicle drifted away from the intended direction and the windshield wipers would activate to the fastest speed with windshield washer fluid spraying onto the windshield and the horn was blaring uncontrollably. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the contact was provided an estimate for a diagnostic test. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 178,000.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-07
- VIN: WVGFF9BP7CD
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Touareg. The contact stated that there was an abnormal gasoline odor on the driver’s side of the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact looked underneath the vehicle at the gas tank and noticed that gasoline was leaking from the fuel tank onto the exhaust pipe. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number 17V151000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The VIN was not included. The approximate failure mileage was 119,000.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-08
- VIN: WVGEF9BP1CD
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE DRIVER SEAT BELT DOES NOT LATCH PROPERLY AND COMES OFF WHILE DRIVING. MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS ARE REQUIRED FOR THE SEAT BELT TO LATCH AND BE SECURE. THIS PROBLEM STARTED AROUND JULY 2020.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-15
- VIN: WVGFF9BP0CD
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER COMPLETELY SEPARATED FROM ITS OWN FLANGE WHERE IT CONNECTS TO THE EXHAUST HEADER. ULTIMATELY CAUSING AN EXHAUST LEAK AND A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. THIS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING AND UNDER NORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS. DRIVING ON A LOCAL HIGHWAY WITH A SPEED LIMIT OF 55 MPH, WHICH DOES NOT HAVE EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF POT HOLES) .
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-25
- VIN: WVGEK9BP8CD
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THERE HAS BEEN A SUBSTANTIAL CHANGE/DECREASE IN THE PERFORMANCE OF MY 2012 TOUAREG TDI RESULTING IN SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED FUEL ECONOMY: PREVIOUS AVG FUEL ECONOMY WAS APPROX 27MPG AND IS NOW BARELY AVERAGING 16 MPG. NOTICED CONTINUAL DECREASE IN CAR PERFORMANCE AFTER TAKING MY CAR IN FOR GENERAL MAINTENANCE TO GARCIA VW DEALERSHIP IN SANTA FE, NM ON THE FOLLOWING DATES: 3/6/18: GENERAL MAINTENANCE (AIR/CABIN/FUEL/ADBLUE MAINTENANCE/ AND TIRE CHANGE) 4/17/18: REPLACE A FAULTY RADIO WHICH SUDDENLY FAILED (DEALERSHIP HAD CAR FOR 8 DAYS) 6/7/18: CLEAN UP AD BLUE FUEL SPILL IN THE REAR SPARE TIRE COMPARTMENT THE ENGINE NOW RUNS SIGNIFICANTLY LOUDER AND IS REVVING UP AND SURGING AT INTERVALS. IN ADDITION TO THE SUBSTANTIAL DROP IN FUEL ECONOMY, THE AVERAGE SPEED/MPH HAS BEEN LOCKED AT 13MPH AND DROPPED TO 12MPH ON JUNE 1, 2018. CHANGE IN ENGINE BEHAVIOUR: -ENGINE RUNS LOUDER AND IS REVVING UP WHEN IDLING,ACCELERATING, BREAKING,DOWNSHIFTING -SOUNDS LIKE THE FUEL INJECTION IS SLUGGISH WHEN ACCELERATING -STEERING WHEEL FEELS SLUGGISH WHEN TURNING RIGHT AND ACCELERATING THROUGH TURNS. VIBRATING SOUND WHEN TURNING. -STARTING IGNITION: LONGER PAUSE FOR IGNITION TO START AFTER TURNING THE KEY AND FOOT IS ON BRAKE. -SUSPENSION: SUSPENSION OF THE CAR ROCKS BACK AND FORTH WHEN BRAKING AND SOUNDS LIKE THERE'S A TANK SLIDING/ SHIFTING IN THE REAR WHEN COMING TO A STOP. WHEN I INITIALLY HEARD THIS SOUND I OPENED THE TRUNK/CARGO AREA FOR THE SPARE TIRE AND FOUND DRIED AD BLUE SPILLED ALL OVER THE CARGO AREA INCLUDING DIRTY RAGS WHICH HAD BEEN USED TO WIPE UP ADBLUE AND STUFFED IN THE BOTTOM OF THE TRUNK. -AIR CONDITIONER IS EMITTING A VERY STRONG NAUSEATING YEAST ODOR THAT WILL NOT GO AWAY AND ISN'T COOLING EFFICIENTLY. I HAVENT AUTHORIZED OR APPROVED ANY UPDATES MODIFICATIONS TO THE VEHICLE RE: THE 3.0 LITER GEN EPA/CARB MODIFICATIONS: I SUSPECT VEHICLE TAMPERING.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-05
- VIN: WVGEF9BP6CD
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: THIS HAPPENED TO THIS MY 2012 TOUAREG. THE ENGINE RANDOMLY DIED, EVEN ON FREEWAY, WHICH IS TOO DANGEROUS. THE PREVIOUS TIME IN IN JAN,2018 AND THIS TIME WAS ON FEB, 5TH, 2018. I WENT TO VW DEALERSHIP, THEY COULDN'T FIND OUT ANYTHING. SAYING EVERYTHING IS NORMAL AND THEY COULDN'T SUGGEST ANYTHING. BUT IT IS EXTREME UNSAFE FOR ME TO DRIVE THIS CAR. THE ISSUE RANDOMLY HAPPENS. PER HTTP://FORUMS.VWVORTEX.COM/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?4965979-CAR-RANDOMLY-DIES-WHILE-DRIVING-ON-FREEWAY, SEEMS THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE AMONG VW VEHICLES, AND PEOPLE THOUGHT IT IS HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP PROBLEM OR OTHER RELEVANT PARTS. VW SHOULD TAKE IT SERIOUSLY AND FIND OUT THE ROOT CAUSE AND FIX IT. THANKS, LIANG
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-14
- VIN: WVGFK9BPXCD
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: TPMS LIGHT INTERMITTENTLY STARTED BLINKING. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER AND THEY "DIAGNOSED" IT AS THE BACK LEFT SENSOR. I WAS INITIALLY TOLD THAT THE RECOMMENDATION WAS TO NOT CHANGE IT UNTIL I REPLACED TIRES AND THEN I WAS TOLD IT WAS NOT COVERED UNDER MY WARRANTY. I CALLED THE WARRANTY COMPANY AND THEY SAID THAT IT WAS 100% COVERED.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-01
- VIN: WVGFK9BPXCD
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AT 70,000 MILES AND WAS DUE TO THE AD BLUE TANK HEATER.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-03
- VIN: WVGFK9BPXCD
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND WAS A ERROR CODE FOR THE FUEL PUMP. TOOK 4 HOURS OF WORK AND HAD TO BE REPLACED.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-06
- VIN: WVGEF98BP7C
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: FOR MY SITUATION MY VEHICLE SHUT OFF BY ITSELF WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 60 MPH. IT HAS HAPPENED 3 TIMES ALREADY. THE FIRST COUPLE OF TIMES THE DEALER HAS REPLACED THE BATTERY. AFTER THEY REPLACED THE BATTERY THE DEALERSHIP TOLD ME THAT THE CAR LOOKS FINE. WHEN THIS HAPPENED AGAIN FOR THE 3RD TIME, IT REALLY SCARED ME BECAUSE I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. BEFORE THE VEHICLE SHUTS OFF BY ITSELF, ALL OF THE ELECTRONICS TURNED OFF ALSO. THE WEIRD THING ABOUT THIS ISSUE IS THAT AFTER THE VEHICLE IS SHUT OFF BY ITSELF, I AM ABLE TO RESTART MY VEHICLE. AT THIS TIME I BROUGHT MY CAR TO THE DEALER TO LET THEM CHECK OUT WHAT IS GOING ON. THEY TOLD ME THAT THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG THAT EVERYTHING LOOKED RIGHT. THEY WILL RELEASE MY VEHICLE TO ME THIS SATURDAY. MY CONCERN IS I CAN TAKE THE VEHICLE BACK BUT I DON'T KNOW WHEN IS THIS PROBLEM GOING TO HAPPEN AGAIN. I GOT LUCKY THIS TIME BECAUSE THERE WASN'T ANY CARS BEHIND ME ON THE HIGHWAY. WHEN THE CAR SHUTS OFF BY ITSELF, IT CANNOT MOVE AT ALL AND I'M SITTING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE HIGHWAY. IF SOMETHING HAPPENS LIKE THIS WHO WILL TAKE THE RESPONSIBILITY? I ASKED VW OF AMERICA, THEY SAID IF THEY DIDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG THIS TIME THEN I NEED TO WAIT UNTIL THIS HAPPENS AGAIN OR IF THEY CAN FIND SOMETHING WRONG. THIS IS SOMETHING ABOUT SAFETY. WHEN THE MY VEHICLE SHUTS OFF THERE IS NO WARNING SIGN, IT JUST HAPPENS. PLEASE HELP ME TO SOLVE THIS ISSUE. I M NOT SURE IF THE DEALER REALLY CHECKS MY VEHICLE OR IF THEY ARE LYING? *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-11
- VIN: WVGFK9BP9CD
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: AD BLUE HEATING ELEMENT FAILED FOR SECOND TIME ON VEHICLE. FIRST ONE REPLACED AT 58,000 MILES AND SECOND ONE AT 98,500 MILES. VOLKSWAGEN NOT OFFERING ANY FINANCIAL RELIEF FOR SECOND FAILED PART CITING THE PART WARRANTY HAS EXPIRED.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-12
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: WVGEF9BP9CD
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ON HIGHWAY 24 AIRBAG SPONTANEOUSLY DEPLOYED AND I WAS INVOLVED IN MVA. FRONT END OF VW TOUREG SMASHED INTO CONCRETE CENTER POST. TRAVELING ABOUT 65 MPH.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-06
- VIN: WVGEF9BP0CD
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING WHEEL SHAKES DURING HIGH WAY DRIVING. MOSTLY HAPPENS AROUND 80 MPH, HAVE DONE THE ROAD FORCE BALANCING AND 4 WHEEL ALIGNMENTS. THE POWER STEERING WHEEL ALSO HAS A WEAK ASSISTANT TO TURN BACK TO CENTER. HERE IS A YOUTUBE LINK OF DEMONSTRATION OF STEERING SHAKE. HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=GQIK_KW7KGG
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-02
- VIN: WVGFK9BP6CD
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: MY 2012 TDI LUX JUST WENT IN FOR A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND THE DIAGNOSIS WAS THE ADBLUE HEATER HAS GONE BAD. I HAD 55,000 MILES AT THE TIME. I WAS INFORMED BY THE DEALERSHIP THAT THIS PART IS NOT COVERED UNDER THE POWERTRAIN OR EMISSIONS WARRANTIES. I WAS INFORMED THAT THIS FIX WOULD BE AROUND $700 WITH LABOR. IT IS VERY SURPRISING THAT EVEN THOUGH THIS PIECE IS NECESSARY TO THE CAR MEET EMISSIONS THAT IT'S NOT COVERED BY THE EMISSIONS WARRANTY AND THAT FURTHER DRIVING THE VEHICLE WOULD CAUSE THE WHOLE SYSTEM TO FAIL WHICH WOULD RENDER THE CAR IN-DRIVEABLE.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-30
- VIN: WVGFK9BP5CD
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING ON A BUSY STREET, WHEN I STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT. THE CAR STALLED AT THE LIGHT, AND WOULD NOT RESTART. I HAD IT TOWED TO THE NEAREST VW DEALER AND WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE FUEL PUMP (METAL FOUND), AND THAT THEY WERE GOING TO HAVE TO REPLACE THE FUEL PUMP, AND LINE. I FEEL THAT I WAS LUCKY NOT TO HAVE BEEN DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY GOING 50 - 70 MILES AN HOUR, IN WHICH A CRASH COULD HAVE OCCURRED WHEN THE CAR STALLED. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-04-03
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CAR FOLLOWING ME LIGHT ISSUE. LIGHTS ON LOW BEAM VERY BRIGHT (XENON) WITH NARROW BEAM PATTERN. SEEMED AS IF EVERY TIME THERE WAS A BUMP THEY WERE FLASHING ME BUT ITS JUST THE LIGHTS THEMSELVES. THIS CAR SHOULD BE RECALLED AND HEAD LIGHTS REPLACED. NOTICED THIS ON ALL TOURAGES..... *TR
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-21
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I OWN A 2012 VW TOUAREG AND RECENTLY, I HAVE HAD AN ISSUE WITH THE BRAKES. WHEN I COME TO A COMPLETE STOP AT A LIGHT OR FOR A LONG TIME, AFTER 5 OR MORE SECONDS, THE BRAKE PEDAL STARTS TO GO DOWN AND THE CAR STARTS TO ROLL FORWARD. I CAN STOP THE ROLLING IF I PUSH THE BREAKS ALL THE WAY DOWN FURTHER, BUT THE DEALERSHIP SAYS THEY CANNOT REPRODUCE THE ISSUE AND THEREFORE CANNOT CHANGE ANY PARTS OR DO ANYTHING FOR ME. SINCE I AM UNWILLING TO GAMBLE WITH MY BRAKES, ESPECIALLY WITH MY SON IN THE VEHICLE, I HAVE LEFT THE VEHICLE AT THE DEALERSHIP UNTIL THEY CAN REPRODUCE THE ISSUE. I'M NOT SURE IF OTHER PEOPLE ARE HAVING THIS BREAK ISSUE, BUT I WANTED SOMEONE TO BE AWARE. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-04-01
- VIN: WVGEK9BP5CD
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I HAVE A 2012 TOUAREG TDI THAT HAS A STEERING SHAKING PROBLEM WHICH IT HAS EXHIBITED SINCE I PURCHASED IT. VW HAS TRIED TO RECTIFY THE PROBLEM BY ROAD FORCE BALANCING AND INSTALLING NEW TIRES BUT THIS HAS NOT RESOLVED THE PROBLEM. THE STEERING WHEEL SHAKES, OR OSCILLATES, WHEN DRIVING AT SPEEDS REACHING ANYWHERE BETWEEN 65 AND 70 MPH AND HIGHER. THE OSCILLATION CONTINUES UP THROUGH HIGHER SPEEDS WITHOUT SUBSIDING. THE STEERING WHEEL CONTINUOUSLY CYCLES BACK AND FORTH FROM LEFT TO RIGHT WITH ABOUT 1/4 INCH TO 3/8 INCH. THE VIBRATION CAN BE FELT AND SEEN WHEN MY HANDS ARE ON THE STEERING WHEEL. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-25
- VIN: WVGEF9BP7CD
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS THE KEY CAN NOT BE REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION. YOU STOP THE VEHICLE , PLACE IT IN PARK AND THE KEY CAN NOT BE REMOVED. I VIEW THIS AS A SAFETY AND SECURITY HAZARD, THERE HAVE BEEN TIMES WHEN WE HAVE HAD TO STOP AND START THE CAR SEVERAL TIMES FOR THE KEY TO BE REMOVED. A SEARCH ON LINE WILL SHOW SEVERAL OTHER PEOPLE REPORTING THIS PROBLEM, SOME USE A PAPER CLIP TO REMOVE THE KEY. OTHERS WARN OF A BATTERY DRAIN AND STATE THE KEY CAN NOT BE REMOVED IF THE BATTER US DRAINED WHICH MAKES ME THINK THIS IS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. OTHERS HAVE ALSO POSTED YOU TUBE VIDEOS OF NOT BEING ABLE TO REMOVE THE KEY. HTTP://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/WATCH?V=LKTFKHFQ6LC UPDATED 11/24/2014 *JS
FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-18
- VIN: WVGEK9BP7CD
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
- Summary: VEHICLE LOST POWER WITHOUT WARNING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS ON A THREE LANE EXPRESSWAY. WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL IN SPITE OF LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND BRAKES AND COASTED TO STOP ON NARROW BERM. WHEN I TRIED TO RESTART THE ENGINE I SMELLED FUEL AND UPON OPENING THE DOOR DISCOVERED A LARGE POOL OF FUEL LEAKING FROM THE VEHICLE. I HAVE CONFLICTING REPORTS FROM VW. THE DEALER WHO INSPECTED THE VEHICLE CLAIMS THAT A PRIOR FUEL PUMP REPAIR CARRIED OUT TWO MONTHS AGO AT ANOTHER VW DEALER CAUSED STRESS ON A BRACKET SUPPORTING THE FUEL LINE THAT ULTIMATELY GAVE WAY AND LED TO SEPARATION OF THE LINE, LOSS OF FUEL TO THE ENGINE AND THE FUEL LEAKAGE. THE DEALER THAT DID THE ORIGINAL FUEL PUMP REPAIRS CLAIMS THAT THE BRACKET MUST HAVE FAILED DUE TO NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR (THESE THINGS HAPPEN I WAS INFORMED). IF IN FACT THE LATTER DEALER IS CORRECT THAT INDICATES A BROADER PROBLEM THAN SIMPLY A NEGLIGENT REPAIR AND THIS ISSUE MAY IMPACT OTHER OWNERS OF SIMILAR VEHICLES. THAT LEADS TO THE REASON FOR MY COMPLAINT. IS THE DESIGN OF THIS VEHICLE SAFE? *TR
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-26
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- VIN: WVGFK9BP1CD
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE POWER SEAT KNOB/SWITCH DESIGN CAUSES THE SEAT BACK TO RECLINE WHEN ENTERING AND EXITING THE VEHICLE. ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS I HAVE FALLEN/SLID BACK INTO THE SEAT WHEN EXITING BECAUSE THE SEAT BACK WOULD RECLINE. ON SUCH OCCASIONS IT'S LIKE LOSING ONE'S BALANCE AS YOU TRY AND STAND UP BY USING ONE'S BODY TO PUSH OFF THE SEAT. ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS THE HEAVY TOUAREG DOOR UNFORTUNATELY CLOSES AND HAS SLAMMED ON MY LEGS CAUSING BRUISING AND PAIN. WHEN MY PARTNER, WHO HAS A BAD BACK, TRIES TO ENTER AND EXIT THE TOUAREG, THE RECLINING SEAT BACK HAS CAUSED HER TO SLIDE ON THE SEAT AND TWEAKING HER BACK AND CAUSING UNPRECEDENTED HARM. MY CONTINUED FEAR IS WHEN TRYING TO EXIT THE VEHICLE ON BUSY STREETS BECAUSE WHEN I HAVE HAD TO NOT EXIT FULLY BECAUSE OF TRAFFIC, THE BACK SEAT SUPPORT IS GONE CAUSING ME TO ONCE AGAIN SLIDE INTO THE RECLINED SEAT BACK AND GETTING MY LEGS ONCE AGAIN CAUGHT BY A HEAVY DOOR. I HAD THIS ISSUE SINCE MY FIRST WEEK OF OWNERSHIP AND IT IS DOCUMENTED WITH THE DEALER. I RECENTLY FOUND OUT VW RECOGNIZES THE ISSUE AS THEY REENGINEERED THE SEAT KNOB AND BACKING BEZEL TO STOP THIS ISSUE BUT PRIOR TO THE FIX OWNERS ARE NOT ELIGIBLE BECAUSE THEY CONSIDER THIS REENGINEERED FIX TO BE JUST AN ACCESSORY. THE FIX STARTED TO APPEAR WITHIN THE 2013 MODEL YEAR. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-29
- VIN: WVGEK9BP0CD
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE STEERING WHEEL SHAKES AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS 99% OF THE TIME. THE SPEED AT WHICH THIS OCCURS IS IN THE RANGE OF 65-80 MPH. I BELIEVE THIS TO BE A SAFETY CONCERN. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-28
- VIN: WVGEK9BP9CD
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: VEHICLE PULLS TO THE RIGHT AT ALL SPEEDS AND WHICH NECESSITATES CONSTANT INPUT FROM THE DRIVER TO HOLD THE CAR STRAIGHT. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-20
- VIN: WVGEF9BP6CD
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A KNOCKING SOUND WAS COMING FROM THE UNDER CARRIAGE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER WHERE THE DEALER WAS ABLE TO IDENTIFY THE KNOCKING, BUT WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE DEALER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER AND WAS TOLD THEY WERE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM, BUT DID NOT HAVE A SOLUTION AVAILABLE TO REMEDY THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER 9 DAYS, THE MANUFACTURER PROVIDED A SPECIAL SPRAY TO THE DEALER TO SPRAY BEHIND THE BRAKE PADS. THE CONTACT LEFT THE VEHICLE WITH THE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 15 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE 1,200.
2012 Volkswagen Touareg recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2012 Volkswagen Touareg.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Eos, 2012 Passat, 2012-2016 CC, 2015-2016 e-Golf, 2011-2015 Touareg, 2012-2015 and 2017 Tiguan, and 2011-2016 Golf and 2011-2013 GTI vehicles. Modifications made while the vehicles were in an internal evaluation period may cause the affected vehicles to not comply with all of the applicable regulatory requirements.
- Consequence: If the vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements, there could be an increased risk of a crash, fire, or injury.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles to make them fully compliant or Volkswagen will repurchase them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 29, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 Touareg vehicles. The brake pedal pivot pin may be missing a securing clip, allowing the pivot pin to move and the brake pedal to dislodge.
- Consequence: If the brake pedal dislodges, the driver may not be able to apply the brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake pedal assembly to verify the presence of the securing clip and install any missing securing clips, free of charge. The recall began on April 27, 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 46G4.
Negative 2012 Volkswagen Touareg car reviews
Positive 2012 Volkswagen Touareg car reviews
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This is quite possibly the best vehicle I have ever owned, and I've owned quite a few! It even beats out my previous favourites from GM, Chrysler, Ford, Austin Healy 3000, Volvo, and even the Volkswagen Group (Porsche & Audi). The fuel mileage is exactly as advertised, averaging 20-29mpg overall. I've taken it on two 5,800 mile round trips from California to Ohio, via southern and northern routes, and it averaged an impressive 28.5mpg at speeds up to 105mph! The tire wear (Pirelli) is only at the halfway point, and the brake pads are still at 9mm. The vehicle speed control even maintains speed when ascending long grades (like in New Mexico and Arizona), although it's not as effective when descending. While waiting for delivery of my Vdub, I was given a rather late model Infinity SUV, but it was a complete joke! It felt like a buckboard with confusing controls. But my Vdub? It handled a 6 inch watery marsh with no problem at all!
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Your Touareg sounds like a fantastic vehicle! Even after seven years and 86000 miles, it's still going strong with no major repair requirements. The car shows no significant signs of age and is pleasant and comfortable to drive. It's a shame that VW has discontinued it, as you would buy another one if anything were to happen to this one. Thank you for sharing your positive experience with us!
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This is a must-see/drive vehicle. When you can average over 29 mpg in about 90/10 highway/city driving, it's pretty sweet.
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I hope you're doing well! I noticed that you were looking for a mid-size SUV to accommodate your growing family while still preserving the fun-factor of driving. After test driving a few options, I found that the gas and diesel ML series, while beautiful and luxurious, were a little slow and sloppy in handling compared to the others. The X5 looked great and is the standard bearer in terms of ride, but it was too common and expensive. The Cayenne S was equally fun but fuel thirsty and expensive. However, I found that the Touareg was luxurious with crisp handling, and the hybrid was extremely well-powered with a slight improvement in efficiency, which was a welcome bonus. I hope this helps you make a decision!
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This is a fantastic machine! I think VW really went all out to enter the SUV market (including the emissions scandal!). It still looks and drives great even at 95,000 miles. Although I did have a freak repair, a water cooling system valve malfunctioned on the PA Turnpike and the engine temp rose above 200. I limped in to a dealer by driving no faster than 55, which held the engine to 200. The dealer had never seen this problem before and I think they told me the entire VW system showed just one other instance. But since then, nothing major has happened! I drove it all over my favorite southern Utah parks, on- and off-road, and felt secure and comfortable the entire time. It also has great passing power on the highway when the turbo kicks in.
Other years of Volkswagen Touareg
Are you having problems with your 2012 Volkswagen Touareg?
Colten Langworth 2024-07-09
I purchased my 2012 Touareg certified used with only 12k miles on it. Despite taking it back to the dealer twice for the steering wheel shake at 65-75 mph, the issue has yet to be resolved. Despite their efforts, including new tires and alignment, the problem persists. It is disappointing to hear that other VW Touareg drivers are experiencing similar issues. The steering wheel shake makes longer trips uncomfortable and detracts from the overall driving experience. As a confident car owner, I expect a resolution to this issue and will continue to work with the dealer until it is resolved.
Giovani Marks 2024-07-02
I recently traded in my 2007 Volvo XC90 for the 2012 Touareg TDI. Unfortunately, after only 7 months and 8400 miles, I have decided to trade it in. Although I loved the styling, comfort and gas mileage, I had to take it in for service 6 times due to AdBlue pump issues, check engine light coming on frequently and the brakes squealing when in reverse. It was quite a headache and I found myself making too many trips to the service department. I had high expectations for what I paid for it, especially since I chose it over the Audi Q5 and the BMW X3 (which cost less). I must say, I am quite disappointed.
Jules Jacobs 2024-05-22
I have owned both a 2010 Touareg TDI and a 2012 Touareg Lux TDI, and while I have found the key/fob ignition system in the 2012 model to be less convenient than the keyless start system in the 2010 model, I have still enjoyed my ownership experience. In the 'Lux' model, the key fob can be a bit tricky to operate properly, but it is manageable. Occasionally, I have had difficulty removing the key fob from the dash socket, but this is a minor inconvenience. Overall, I have been satisfied with my Touareg and would recommend it to others.
Art Ritchie 2024-02-11
I traded in my beloved '05 V8 Exec for this 2012 TDI Exec back in July 2012. Since then, I've spent a lot of time behind the wheel, racking up almost 20,000 Kms. Overall, I find this to be a very good and capable vehicle. However, it seems that this particular one may have been built on a Friday afternoon by a Slovakian worker.