2010 Volkswagen Routan

The 2010 Volkswagen Routan is a minivan that was essentially a rebadged Dodge Grand Caravan/Chrysler Town & Country. It offered a more European-inspired styling and interior, hoping to appeal to a different demographic. Engine options included a 3.8-liter V6 producing 197 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.0-liter V6 producing 253 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. People liked the Routan for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and relatively affordable price point. Common dislikes included its uninspired driving dynamics, reliability issues, and the fact that it wasn’t a “true” Volkswagen, as it was manufactured by Chrysler.

Engine

3.8L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various points, including the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket. This can lead to oil consumption and potentially engine damage if not addressed. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires can be caused by faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors. Symptoms include a rough running engine, reduced power, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s), spark plugs, or fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

4.0L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar to the 3.8L V6, the 4.0L V6 can also experience oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and other seals. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires can be caused by faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors. Symptoms include a rough running engine, reduced power, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil(s), spark plugs, or fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The 6-speed automatic transmission can develop issues with harsh shifting, slipping between gears, or failing to shift at all. These symptoms can be caused by worn valve body components or internal damage.
  • Solution: In some cases, a valve body replacement or transmission rebuild is required. A fluid change can sometimes help if caught early.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $3,500+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: The suspension components, such as struts, shocks, and sway bar links, can wear out over time. This can result in a bouncy ride, poor handling, and clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replace the worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The power sliding doors can experience issues with opening or closing properly. This can be caused by faulty motors, sensors, or wiring.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio/Entertainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The radio or entertainment system can experience malfunctions, such as not turning on, displaying error messages, or having distorted sound.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty components or replace the unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The power sliding doors can experience issues with opening or closing properly. This can be caused by faulty motors, sensors, or wiring.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2010 Volkswagen Routan, while offering a comfortable and spacious interior, suffers from similar reliability issues as its Chrysler counterparts. Engine oil leaks and misfires are common, and the 6-speed automatic transmission can be problematic. Electrical issues with the power sliding doors and entertainment system are also frequently reported. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to costly repairs. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and budget accordingly.