2015 Volkswagen Touareg
The 2015 Volkswagen Touareg is a mid-size luxury SUV known for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and off-road capability. In 2015, the Touareg came standard with a 3.6L V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. A 3.0L TDI V6 diesel engine producing 240 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque was also available, as well as a Hybrid variant. All engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Touareg’s build quality, quiet cabin, and available technology. Some common complaints include the high cost of maintenance, occasional electrical glitches, and relatively poor fuel economy (especially with the gasoline engine).
Engine
3.6L V6 Gasoline
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gasket or seal is the typical repair. In some cases, the entire oil filter housing needs replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
- Recalls: None Found
- Ignition Coil Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light. Often caused by a failing ignition coil.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty ignition coil.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
3.0L TDI V6 Diesel
- Dieselgate Emissions System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: This engine was affected by the Volkswagen Dieselgate scandal. After the emissions fix, some owners have reported decreased fuel economy, reduced power, and increased frequency of Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration.
- Solution: The emissions fix was implemented by Volkswagen under a settlement agreement. There’s no “fix” for the side effects reported by owners, although some have explored aftermarket tuning options (which may void the warranty or run afoul of emissions regulations).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Variable, depending on the chosen solution and whether it involves aftermarket modifications.
- Recalls: Affected by the Dieselgate recall.
- High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Sudden engine stalling, difficulty starting, metal shavings in the fuel system. HPFP failures are a known issue with common rail diesel engines.
- Solution: Complete fuel system flush and replacement of the HPFP, fuel injectors, and potentially other fuel system components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $8,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- AdBlue System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) injection system can experience failures, leading to warning lights, limp mode, and potential emissions test failures. Problems can arise with the AdBlue injector, pump, or level sensor.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the specific component failure and replacement of the faulty part.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Hybrid Engine
No Issues Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (All Engine Options)
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during light acceleration, especially at low speeds. Can also manifest as harsh shifting.
- Solution: Torque converter replacement is the most common fix. Sometimes, a transmission flush and fluid change can temporarily alleviate the symptoms.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, slipping between gears, or failure to shift. The valve body controls the flow of transmission fluid, and problems with it can significantly impact transmission performance.
- Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild. In some cases, the entire transmission may need replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $5,000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system, if equipped, can experience failures with the air struts, compressor, or valve block. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting unevenly, failing to raise or lower, or displaying warning lights.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty air strut, compressor, or valve block.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per component.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: A persistent parasitic drain on the battery can cause the battery to die overnight or after a few days of inactivity. This can be difficult to diagnose as it can be caused by various electrical components.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the source of the parasitic drain and repair or replacement of the faulty component. This often requires specialized electrical testing.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Central Convenience Control Module Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Problems with the central convenience control module can lead to issues with power windows, door locks, interior lighting, and other convenience features.
- Solution: Replacement of the central convenience control module. Programming may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may leak, become misaligned, or fail to open or close properly.
- Solution: Sunroof track lubrication, realignment, or component replacement (motor, cables, etc.)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Navigation System/Infotainment System Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, slow response times, or complete failure of the navigation or infotainment system.
- Solution: Software updates (if available), replacement of the head unit, or repair of individual components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2015 Volkswagen Touareg can be a rewarding vehicle to own, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Diesel engine owners may face expensive repairs related to the fuel and emissions systems. Owners of any Touareg variant should pay close attention to the transmission for potential issues. Electrical problems, while not always severe, can be frustrating. The air suspension, if equipped, is another area where failures can lead to significant repair costs. Overall, pre-purchase inspections and a thorough review of the vehicle’s maintenance history are highly recommended. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.