2017 Volkswagen Constellation

The 2017 Volkswagen Constellation is a medium to heavy-duty truck primarily sold in South America, designed for various commercial applications. Information readily available on common issues for this vehicle is limited in the US market. It is offered with various engine and transmission options depending on the specific model within the Constellation range and the region it’s sold. These include diesel engines from Cummins and MAN, paired with manual and automated manual transmissions. While appreciated for its robust build and versatility, owners sometimes report issues related to the durability of certain components given the demands of commercial use. Common complaints often revolve around the availability of specific parts and specialized repair expertise in certain areas.

Engine

Cummins ISF 3.8L Diesel

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, black smoke from exhaust, whistling noise from the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, engine knocking.
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

MAN D0836 Diesel

• Cooling System Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, visible leaks around hoses and radiator.
  • Solution: Replace leaking hoses, radiator, or water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, increased emissions, engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Eaton Manual Transmission

• Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears, burning smell.
  • Solution: Replace clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Gear Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission popping out of gear, especially under load.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

ZF Automated Manual Transmission

• Shift Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Delays between gear shifts, rough shifting.
  • Solution: Recalibrate the transmission control module (TCM) or replace faulty solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mechatronic Unit Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete loss of gear selection, transmission fault codes.
  • Solution: Replace the mechatronic unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced load capacity, uneven ride height, noise from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shock Absorbers
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Sensor Failures (ABS, Wheel Speed)
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illumination, reduced braking performance, error codes.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, lights not working, starting issues.
  • Solution: Repair or replace damaged wiring harness sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Chassis Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on frame, axles, and suspension components.
  • Solution: Clean and treat the rust, apply protective coating. In severe cases, replace affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Door Latches
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing doors, door not latching properly.
  • Solution: Replace the door latch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent heating or cooling, blower motor failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the blower motor, heater core, or AC compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate gauge readings, blank display, warning lights not functioning.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Volkswagen Constellation, while a robust commercial vehicle, can experience issues common to heavy-duty trucks. Engine and transmission issues, particularly with specific diesel engine options and automated manual transmissions, can be costly. Suspension and electrical problems also contribute to overall maintenance costs. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs potentially reaching several thousand dollars depending on the problem and the extent of the damage. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic familiar with heavy-duty vehicles.