2012 Volkswagen Routan

The 2012 Volkswagen Routan is a minivan offering a blend of German engineering and American practicality. It was offered with a single engine option: a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine producing 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired exclusively with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Routan’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and available features like rear entertainment systems. However, common complaints revolve around reliability issues, particularly with the electrical system and some engine components, as well as the perception that it is a rebadged Chrysler Town & Country/Dodge Grand Caravan with a higher price tag.

Engine

3.6L Pentastar V6

• Oil Filter Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The oil filter housing, often made of plastic, can crack or warp, leading to an oil leak. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil filter housing assembly. Upgraded aluminum versions are available.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Purge Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The purge valve can fail, causing rough idling, stalling, difficulty starting, and a check engine light with codes related to the evaporative emissions system (EVAP).
  • Solution: Replacement of the purge valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (62TE)

• Rough Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The 62TE transmission is known for potential issues with rough shifting, slipping between gears, and delayed engagement. These problems can stem from valve body issues, solenoid failures, or general wear and tear.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, solutions range from a transmission fluid flush and filter change to valve body replacement, solenoid replacement, or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the rear shock absorbers leading to a bouncy or unstable ride, especially when loaded or towing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning power sliding doors are a common complaint. Issues can include doors not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises. These problems can be caused by faulty door latches, damaged wiring harnesses, or a malfunctioning sliding door motor.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the specific cause (latch, wiring, motor) and repair or replacement of the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ (depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio/Navigation System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the radio or navigation system, including the screen freezing, system not powering on, or malfunctioning speakers.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The TIPM controls many of the vehicle’s electrical functions. Failures can manifest in a wide range of issues, including fuel pump relay failure (leading to stalling), power window/door lock malfunctions, and lighting problems.
  • Solution: TIPM replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Sliding Door Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The motor for the power sliding door fails, which will either not allow the door to open, or will not allow the door to close.
  • Solution: Replacing the power sliding door motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more of the power windows fail. The window may not move up or down, or it may move erratically.
  • Solution: Replacing the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2012 Volkswagen Routan, while offering a comfortable and spacious ride, is prone to several common issues. The most concerning are electrical problems related to the sliding doors and TIPM, which can be costly to repair. Engine oil leaks and transmission issues are also areas of concern. While not all vehicles will experience these problems, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential pitfalls and factor them into their purchase decision. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.