2011 Volkswagen Touareg
2011 Volkswagen Touareg
The 2011 Volkswagen Touareg is a luxurious midsize SUV that comes with a variety of engine and transmission options. It offers a comfortable ride, a spacious cabin, and a potent engine lineup. However, it is not without its share of problems.
The Touareg comes with three engine options: a 3.6-liter V6 with 280 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, a 4.2-liter V8 with 360 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter V6 TDI diesel with 225 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include an 8-speed automatic transmission for the V6 engines and a 6-speed automatic transmission for the V8 engine.
Engine
3.6-liter V6
- Fuel Injector Failure: Description/Symptoms: The fuel injectors can fail, causing the engine to misfire, run rough, and lose power. Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector. Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+
4.2-liter V8
- Timing Chain Failure: Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or break, causing the engine to lose timing and potential engine damage. Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioners, and guides. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
3.0-liter V6 TDI Diesel
- Turbocharger Failure: Description/Symptoms: The turbocharger can fail, causing a loss of power and decreased fuel efficiency. Solution: Replace the turbocharger. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
Transmission
8-speed Automatic Transmission
- Mechatronic Unit Failure: Description/Symptoms: The mechatronic unit, which controls the transmission’s shifting, can fail, causing the transmission to malfunction. Solution: Replace the mechatronic unit. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
6-speed Automatic Transmission
- Solenoid Failure: Description/Symptoms: The solenoids that control the transmission’s shifting can fail, causing the transmission to shift roughly or not shift at all. Solution: Replace the faulty solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Suspension
Air Suspension Failure: Description/Symptoms: The air suspension can fail, causing the vehicle to sag or ride unevenly. Solution: Replace the air suspension components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
Front Control Arm Bushings: Description/Symptoms: The front control arm bushings wear out causing noises while turning, under braking, or driving over bumps. Solution: Replace the control arm bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
Electrical
Battery Drain: Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use. Solution: Diagnose and repair the electrical system. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
Alternator Failure: Description/Symptoms: The alternator fails, causing the battery to not charge and the vehicle to stall. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation: Description/Symptoms: The headlights develop condensation inside, impairing visibility. Solution: Replace the affected headlights. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Interior
- Panoramic Sunroof Leaks: Description/Symptoms: The panoramic sunroof can leak water into the cabin. Solution: Replace the sunroof seal. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Summary
The 2011 Volkswagen Touareg has several potential issues that can be costly to repair. The most severe and expensive issue is the timing chain failure on the 4.2-liter V8 engine. Other common problems include fuel injector failure, turbocharger failure, air suspension failure, and electrical issues. Overall, the Touareg’s reliability is below average, and it is essential to consider these potential problems before purchasing or owning one.