2008 Volkswagen Sharan

2008 Volkswagen Sharan

The 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is a seven-passenger minivan that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and versatile seating arrangements. However, the Sharan also had its share of problems.

Engine

• 2.0L TDI
  • EGR Valve Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The EGR valve fails to open or close properly, causing the engine to run poorly and emit excessive emissions.
    • Solution: Replace the EGR valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found
• 1.4L TSI
  • Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
    • Description/Symptoms: Carbon deposits accumulate on the intake valves, reducing engine performance and fuel efficiency.
    • Solution: Have the intake valves cleaned by a mechanic.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or break, causing the engine to lose power or shut off.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 6-Speed Manual
  • Shifter Linkage Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The shifter linkage can break, making it difficult or impossible to shift gears.
    • Solution: Replace the shifter linkage.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
• 6-Speed DSG
  • Mechatronic Unit Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission, can fail, causing the transmission to shift erratically or not at all.
    • Solution: Replace the mechatronic unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: The front control arm bushings can wear out prematurely, causing the vehicle to pull to one side or experience excessive vibration.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use.
  • Solution: Identify and fix the electrical component that is causing the drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source of the drain
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails to charge the battery, causing the vehicle to lose power.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The door lock actuator fails, making it difficult or impossible to lock or unlock the doors.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Bumper Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear bumper sags due to weak mounting points.
  • Solution: Reinforce the rear bumper mounting points.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system fails to function properly, causing the vehicle to become too hot or too cold.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty component in the climate control system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the faulty component
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is a spacious and comfortable minivan, but it has its share of problems. Some of the most common issues include EGR valve failure, carbon buildup on intake valves, timing chain issues, shifter linkage failure, mechatronic unit failure, front control arm bushing wear, battery drain, alternator failure, door lock actuator failure, rear bumper sagging, and climate control malfunction. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage.