2007 Volkswagen Derby

Introduction

The 2007 Volkswagen Derby was a compact sedan that was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produced 105 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. Optional engines included a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produced 150 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter V6 that produced 170 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a five-speed manual, a four-speed automatic, or a six-speed automatic.

Owners of the 2007 Volkswagen Derby generally praised the vehicle for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some owners reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior.

Engine

1.6-liter four-cylinder

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Timing chain tensioner failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling, reduced power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200
• Carbon buildup on intake valves
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, rough idle, misfires
  • Solution: Clean intake valves
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

2.0-liter four-cylinder

• No Issues Found

2.5-liter V6

• Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, burning oil smell
  • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Transmission

Five-speed manual

• Clutch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears
  • Solution: Replace clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700

Four-speed automatic

• Transmission slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or erratic shifting, loss of power
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500

Six-speed automatic

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front strut mounts failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
• Rear shock absorbers failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or unstable ride, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of electrical power, dimming lights, battery warning light
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery discharges quickly, difficulty starting the vehicle
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system, replace battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Exterior

• Door lock actuator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors will not lock or unlock, keyless entry does not work
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200

Interior

• Sunroof leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the interior through the sunroof
  • Solution: Replace sunroof seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
• Power window motors failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows do not operate
  • Solution: Replace power window motors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Summary

The 2007 Volkswagen Derby is a generally reliable vehicle, but it has some common issues that owners should be aware of. The most severe issues include transmission failure, which can be expensive to repair. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and can be fixed for a reasonable cost. Overall, the Derby is a good value for the money, but potential buyers should be prepared for the possibility of some repairs.