2007 Volkswagen Van

The 2007 Volkswagen Routan is a minivan produced by Chrysler for Volkswagen, based on the Chrysler RT platform. It offered a comfortable ride and spacious interior, appreciated by families. However, it was also criticized for lacking the refinement expected of a Volkswagen and having some reliability issues. Engine options include a 3.8L V6 producing 197 hp and 230 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.0L V6 producing 251 hp and 259 lb-ft of torque. Both were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.8L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump can fail, leading to overheating. Symptoms include engine overheating, coolant leaks, and a whining noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• EGR Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: EGR valve malfunction can cause rough idling, poor acceleration, and the check engine light to come on.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

4.0L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The water pump can fail, leading to overheating. Symptoms include engine overheating, coolant leaks, and a whining noise from the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• EGR Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: EGR valve malfunction can cause rough idling, poor acceleration, and the check engine light to come on.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

Transmission

• 6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engines)

  • Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting between gears. May also include slipping.
    • Solution: Software update, valve body replacement, or transmission rebuild/replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (Software) - $3000+ (Rebuild/Replacement)
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, or poor acceleration.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+

Suspension

• Worn Struts and Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace the struts and shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Sway Bar Link Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front or rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Electrical

• Power Sliding Door Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Power sliding doors failing to open or close properly, or not responding to the remote or buttons.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the power sliding door motor, wiring, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• TPMS Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) light staying on, even when tire pressures are correct. Faulty sensors.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty TPMS sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 per sensor + labor
• Radio/Entertainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Radio not working, speakers cutting out, or CD player malfunctioning.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the radio unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on repair or replacement)

Exterior

• Power Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors can get stuck, have issues with the rollers, and cause the doors to not open smoothly.
  • Solution: Replace the rollers, tracks, or door motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Tail Light Assembly
  • Description/Symptoms: Tail light lenses become loose or brittle.
  • Solution: Replace taillight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Interior

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks failing to lock or unlock.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: HVAC system blowing only hot or cold air, or not blowing air at all.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the HVAC system, including the blend door actuator, blower motor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+

Recalls

• None Found

Summary

The 2007 Volkswagen Routan, while offering a spacious interior and comfortable ride, is prone to a range of mechanical and electrical issues. Engine oil leaks, water pump failures, and EGR valve problems are common. The transmission can experience harsh shifting and torque converter issues. Electrical problems, particularly with the power sliding doors and TPMS, are also frequently reported. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but some repairs, such as transmission work, can be quite expensive. Careful inspection and maintenance are crucial for owners of this vehicle.