2018 Volkswagen Constellation

Introduction:

The 2018 Volkswagen Constellation is a medium-duty truck available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The 18.3-liter Cummins ISX15 engine produces 450 horsepower and 1,450 lb-ft of torque, while a 12.8-liter Cummins ISL9 engine is available with ratings of 360 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque or 380 horsepower and 1,150 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 10-speed automatic transmission, a 13-speed manual transmission, and a 12-speed automated manual transmission.

Owners have praised the Constellation for its powerful engines, comfortable ride, and spacious cabin. However, some issues have been reported with the vehicle.

Engine

18.3-liter Cummins ISX15

• Fuel injector failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, loss of power, increased fuel consumption
  • Solution: Replace fuel injectors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: N/A
• EGR valve failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine hesitation, decreased acceleration, black smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace EGR valve
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

12.8-liter Cummins ISL9

• Turbocharger failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, increased exhaust smoke, whistling sound from engine
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

10-speed automatic transmission:

• Shifting issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, delayed shifts
  • Solution: Replace transmission control module or transmission fluid filter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

13-speed manual transmission:

• Clutch failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, slipping gears, grinding noise
  • Solution: Replace clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: N/A

Suspension

• Leaf spring breakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or banging noise, sagging suspension
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting vehicle, dead battery
  • Solution: Test and replace faulty electrical components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Cracked headlights:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracked or broken headlight lens
  • Solution: Replace headlight assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or buzzing noise from dashboard
  • Solution: Tighten loose bolts or replace dashboard components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate control issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning air conditioning or heating system
  • Solution: Repair or replace climate control unit or AC compressor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2018 Volkswagen Constellation has some reported issues, but overall, it is a reliable and capable medium-duty truck. The engine and transmission issues, while expensive to fix, are not widespread. The other issues tend to be minor and inexpensive to resolve.