2008 Volkswagen Sharan

The 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is a versatile MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) known for its spacious interior and practicality, particularly appealing to families. Engine options included various petrol and diesel engines. For example, a common option was the 2.0L TDI diesel engine, producing around 140 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally appreciate the Sharan’s comfortable ride and ample cargo space. However, common dislikes include reported issues with electrical components and the car’s overall reliability as it ages.

Engine

2.0L TDI Diesel

• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve can become clogged with carbon deposits, leading to rough idling, reduced power, and the engine management light illuminating.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacing the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the turbocharger, loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacing the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: DPF light illuminating on the dashboard, reduced engine performance, and potential limp mode. This can be caused by a blocked or damaged DPF.
  • Solution: Attempting a forced DPF regeneration, cleaning the DPF, or replacing it if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Petrol Engines (General)

• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, and the engine management light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty coil pack(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ per coil pack.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Manual Transmission (General)

• Clutch Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting gears, and a high biting point on the clutch pedal.
  • Solution: Replacing the clutch disc, pressure plate, and potentially the flywheel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Automatic Transmission (If Applicable) No Issues Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, particularly over bumps, and imprecise handling.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ per corner, depending on the bushing and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Central Locking Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to lock or unlock with the remote or interior switch, potentially affecting all doors or just a single door.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing the faulty door lock actuator(s) or addressing wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to go up or down, or making grinding noises during operation.
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery constantly needing to be jumped or replaced.
  • Solution: Parasitic draw test, repair the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Door Sills/Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the lower edges of the doors and around the wheel arches.
  • Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, treating, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per affected area, depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Display Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels missing or fading on the instrument cluster display, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Volkswagen Sharan, while practical, can present owners with several common issues as it ages. Engine problems, particularly with the 2.0L TDI relating to the EGR valve, turbocharger, and DPF, are a significant concern. Electrical issues like central locking and window regulator failures are also common. Rust on the exterior is another potential problem area. These issues range in severity from minor inconveniences to more costly repairs, potentially costing owners several hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on the specific problem and its extent.