2016 Volkswagen Touareg

The 2016 Volkswagen Touareg is a mid-size SUV that offers a blend of luxury and capability. The most common engine option is a 3.6L VR6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, but a 3.0L TDI V6 diesel engine rated at 240 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque was also available. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Touareg’s comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and off-road capabilities. Common complaints revolve around higher maintenance costs compared to other SUVs and some reliability concerns.

Engine

3.6L VR6

• Coolant Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak from the thermostat housing and water pump. Can cause overheating and engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the thermostat housing, water pump, and coolant.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and a check engine light. Often caused by a failing ignition coil.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L TDI V6

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, DPF light illuminated on the dashboard, and potential for limp mode. Can be caused by frequent short trips that don’t allow the DPF to regenerate properly.
  • Solution: Perform a forced DPF regeneration, or replace the DPF if it’s severely clogged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (replacement can be expensive)
  • Recalls: Recall number 23X1 addresses the Dieselgate emissions issue and may involve software updates that affect DPF performance.
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sudden engine stalling, difficulty starting, and metallic debris in the fuel system. HPFP failures can contaminate the entire fuel system.
  • Solution: Replace the HPFP, fuel injectors, fuel lines, and fuel tank, as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4000 - $8000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between certain gears. Can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn valve body components, or software issues.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change, or replace the valve body. A software update may also be available.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly, compressor not running, suspension malfunction warning light. Can be caused by leaks in the air springs, a faulty compressor, or issues with the control module.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air spring, compressor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per component
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery overnight or after short periods of inactivity. Can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (diagnosis can be time-consuming)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, system crashes, Bluetooth connectivity issues. Can often be resolved with a software update.
  • Solution: Update the infotainment system software, or replace the unit if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update resolves the issue) - $1000+ (for replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, leaking, or making unusual noises. Can be caused by a faulty motor, damaged tracks, or clogged drain tubes.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or drain tubes.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking with the remote or interior switch.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Volkswagen Touareg, particularly with the TDI engine, can experience some relatively expensive issues, primarily relating to the fuel and emissions systems. The VR6 also has some common coolant leak issues. Electrical problems such as battery drains and infotainment malfunctions also occur, though usually at a lower cost to repair. Air suspension issues, if equipped, can also be expensive. While the Touareg offers a comfortable and capable driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of these potential maintenance costs.