2012 Volkswagen Routan
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2012 Volkswagen Routan. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
1 recall names the 2012 Volkswagen Routan. Newest first.
Volkswagen IS recalling certain model year 2012 routan vehicles, manufactured from november 15, 2011, through november 21, 2011. some vehicles may be equipped with right rear hub and bearing assemblies that were not fully machined.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This could result in a decrease in durability, which may lead to wheel separation, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the right rear hub and bearing assembly, free of charge. the safety recall began on april 20, 2012. owners may contact volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987.
Owner complaints
63 complaints1 involved a crash2 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Air bags
Driver steering wheel airbag deployed while parking van at work. Nothing was hit just went off causing burns and wrist pain and swelling. Wife stated that the front windshield wipers started turning on randomly while driving to work and then airbag blew while parking.
- Electrical system
My vehicle is shutting off while driving. It randomly shuts off and I see there are other recalls associated with this issue for a different year but same vehicle/model. I am being quoted well over $2,000 in repairs. This vehicle only has 130,000 miles on it.
- Electrical system · Service brakes
At first it starts off the vehicle will just shut off while you are driving which is very dangerous I have read many people complaining about this it needs to be recalled then the brakes go and then the transmission seal I have done all the maintenance up keep on my vehicle there is no reason for…
At first it starts off the vehicle will just shut off while you are driving which is very dangerous I have read many people complaining about this it needs to be recalled then the brakes go and then the transmission seal I have done all the maintenance up keep on my vehicle there is no reason for the vehicle did you shut off the way it keeps shutting off and dying for no reason the battery keeps dying by the next morning when nothing is left on in the vehicle it has caused me a great deal of grief and it is very scary when you have children in the car and your vehicle just shuts off on the freeway when everything is electric guess what no breaks
- Electrical system · Engine · Unknown or other
NHTSA Recall 14v396 is probably the best correction to this issue. My van has shut off mid-driving while my children are in the car with me. It is so dangerous in the road. I can't move the steering wheel. Mechanics can't seem to diagnose the problem because the van doesn't give any computer codes…
NHTSA Recall 14v396 is probably the best correction to this issue. My van has shut off mid-driving while my children are in the car with me. It is so dangerous in the road. I can't move the steering wheel. Mechanics can't seem to diagnose the problem because the van doesn't give any computer codes when it would shut down. There are similar complaints and I wonder how Volkswagen knows of this issue and has failed to inform the owners of these vehicles. Chrysler had a similar issue and did a recall. I hope Volkswagen would acknowledge this issue.
- Electrical system · Power train
Several times in the last month the car has stopped running without warning. It just shuts off. This has happened in our subdivision travelling at 20mph and most recently on the highway travelling 65mph. The power steering, brakes, everything go dead when the car just turns off and this could cause a serious accident.
- Power train · Unknown or other
On Thursday January 6, 2022, I took my car Volkswagen Routan 2012 to the service center because the check engine light went on and the engine revving. The service center took a week for diagnostic it, then they informed me on January 13, after charging me $180 that it needs a new transmission…
On Thursday January 6, 2022, I took my car Volkswagen Routan 2012 to the service center because the check engine light went on and the engine revving. The service center took a week for diagnostic it, then they informed me on January 13, after charging me $180 that it needs a new transmission because it stuck in limp mode (see attached report). I asked the customer service to contact Volkswagen representative because this problem seems to be a manufacture problem, especially the car run less than 85000 miles and all maintenance service done on time with Volkswagen dealership. This mileages are considered very low to have a transmission problem with well maintained car. They took another three weeks to report me by phone that Volkswagen refused completely to take care or to share responsibility for this problem and they rejected my claim. Because the claim runs by the dealership “service center” on behalf of me, I asked their customer service representative to email me what is Volkswagen final decision and why? Three days later, the customer service told me by phone “it’s confidential” and they can not email me.
- Electrical system · Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
Car is stalling out while driving with no warning. Doesn't matter the rate of speed I'm going it just cuts out. Can't turn steering wheel. No codes pop up. No mechanics can pinpoint issue. I have seen quite a few thousand people complaining of the same issue and reported it to vw as well as nhtsa…
Car is stalling out while driving with no warning. Doesn't matter the rate of speed I'm going it just cuts out. Can't turn steering wheel. No codes pop up. No mechanics can pinpoint issue. I have seen quite a few thousand people complaining of the same issue and reported it to vw as well as nhtsa and NO ONE will do a recall. Chrysler did a recall for this same issue but NOT vw. This is a safety issue for not only the owner but other drivers on the road. If I get into an accident or cause one I WILL BE suing nhtsa as well as vw for no recall being done. I have printed out over 100 pages of complaints from others for evidence of complaints. I have already entered the class action lawsuit with others having the same issue. RECALL THE ISSUE OR FACE LAWSUITS.
- Engine · Power train
The transmission on our 2012 VW Routan has completely failed. The car will not go into gear and left my wife in a position where she was stranded in traffic. We are the original owners of this vehicle and have followed the recommended maintenance schedule. The engine in this vehicle is a…
The transmission on our 2012 VW Routan has completely failed. The car will not go into gear and left my wife in a position where she was stranded in traffic. We are the original owners of this vehicle and have followed the recommended maintenance schedule. The engine in this vehicle is a Chrysler Pentastar V6. (The vehicle was built as a joint venture between VW and Chrysler) According to online research Chrysler has recognized a “fatal flaw” in this engine and has extended warranty to customers in order to cover repairs beyond 100,000 miles. We only have 72,000 on our vehicle. I have spoken with VW North America, they told me to plead my case with Chrysler. I spoke with Chrysler and they told me to plead my case with VW. Neither company is willing to recognize that a total transmission failure at 72k miles is [their] responsibility. I am asking for the drivetrain warranty on our vehicle to be extended, due to the “fatal flaw” which has already been identified by Chrysler on the Pentastar V6. VW service is asking me to pay more than $6,000 to repair the vehicle.
- Air bags · Engine · Service brakes
The ignition key inadvertently moves into the OFF or ACCESSORY position, the engine will turn off, which then depowers various key safety systems including, but not limited to, air bags, power steering, and power braking. This has happened to me several times including while driving on the…
The ignition key inadvertently moves into the OFF or ACCESSORY position, the engine will turn off, which then depowers various key safety systems including, but not limited to, air bags, power steering, and power braking. This has happened to me several times including while driving on the interstate and in traffic. I was able to pull over but it is very difficult when power steering and power breaking goes out. I had children in the vehicle several times when this has happened. Per Volkswagon website, I removed all keychains or anything that would cause the key fob to be weighed down. When I contacted them, they said my van is not under recall even though it is the same exact issue previous models had been recalled for. The only symptom prior was the check engine light was on.
- Electrical system · Steering · Unknown or other
referenced to recall nhsta Id no:11v-151 same issue happens on newer models, the car key ignition switch does not secure the key and that causes the car shut-down in tje middle of highway or road intermittently! ıt does not give any dashboard warning and no codes! all the lights are being gone and…
referenced to recall nhsta Id no:11v-151 same issue happens on newer models, the car key ignition switch does not secure the key and that causes the car shut-down in tje middle of highway or road intermittently! ıt does not give any dashboard warning and no codes! all the lights are being gone and even ac shuts off! when ı push the key the lights come back on and the car can be turned on again. similiar problems are poster on youtube: https://youtu.be/ZESy-MnVPZs
- Electrical system
The battery started dying randomly several months ago. I have called multiple dealerships and had diagnostics ran twice on the car. Initially I was told there is no draw on the battery. Then it was discovered that the TIPM module needs to be replaced. I then started researching this problem with…
The battery started dying randomly several months ago. I have called multiple dealerships and had diagnostics ran twice on the car. Initially I was told there is no draw on the battery. Then it was discovered that the TIPM module needs to be replaced. I then started researching this problem with this vehicle only to find multiple forums full of people having the same exact issue or worse! As in, their car stalls on the highway randomly while driving!! Someone could die! This module fails and in my case causes the fuel pump to continue running even when the car is off which completely drains the battery overnight! Chrysler (same manufacturer of this TIPM) already lost a class action lawsuit and recalled this TIPM but the Volkswagens affected by this same issue were not included leaving those of us now experiencing the same problem in a scary position because we can’t afford to get this fixed as it is very expensive let alone get a new car! It baffles me how well known it is that this part is the same part that’s been recalled but it doesn’t apply to this vehicle. On top of that, I called 3 Chrysler dealerships to explain the problem and was told they don’t work on this vehicle! This is unacceptable! I don’t know how the NHTSA has not done something about this! It seems several class action lawsuits need to filed! Hopefully before someone loses their life!
- Air bags · Electrical system · Power train
While driving along my vehicle will shut completely off. This happens especially on bumpy roads. Sometime the vehicle will shut off right after starting the engine. The only way I can duplicate the problem is to turn the key completely off and restart the vehicle. This problem is very similar to the recall with the 2010 Volkswagens.
- Engine · Power train
TL* the contact owns a 2012 volkswagen routan. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was a ticking sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was taken to street volkswagen located at 8707 pilgrim dr, amarillo, tx 79119, who diagnosed that the engine fly-wheel was damaged…
TL* the contact owns a 2012 volkswagen routan. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was a ticking sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was taken to street volkswagen located at 8707 pilgrim dr, amarillo, tx 79119, who diagnosed that the engine fly-wheel was damaged and needed to be replaced. After replacing the fly-wheel, the failure continued. The dealer later replaced the engine head and fly-wheel however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was later taken back to the dealer who diagnosed that the engine was defective and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was no yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 45,000.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2012 volkswagen routan. The contact stated that while driving at an unknown speed, the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact restarted the vehicle and resumed normal driving. The contact initially contacted the manufacturer by phone and was referred to the dodge…
TL* the contact owns a 2012 volkswagen routan. The contact stated that while driving at an unknown speed, the vehicle stalled without warning. The contact restarted the vehicle and resumed normal driving. The contact initially contacted the manufacturer by phone and was referred to the dodge manufacturer for assistance. The contact reached out to the dodge manufacturer and she was referred to a local dodge dealer for assistance. The contact took the vehicle to tanner motors (620 w. Washington st, brainerd, mn 56401) where the vehicle was test driven and the contact was informed that the issue could possibly be linked to a defective wireless ignition node (win) module. The contact was provided an estimate for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 99,000. The vin was unavailable.
- Electrical system · Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
Vehicle has experienced stalling, engine shutdown, and difficulty starting multiple times. engine has now stalled more frequently at both low speeds and while driving on highway. each time, rpm's have gone to zero and it's completely lost power to steering. I've had try and coast/navigate safely…
Vehicle has experienced stalling, engine shutdown, and difficulty starting multiple times. engine has now stalled more frequently at both low speeds and while driving on highway. each time, rpm's have gone to zero and it's completely lost power to steering. I've had try and coast/navigate safely to side of road, berm, etc., stop, and restart the van. at times the dash lights will flash, other times there IS no indication that a failure had occurred, just no power/rpms. no check engine light remains, no codes displayed, nothing. the local volkswagen dealer will not even address the issue as they deem it a "chrysler problem". we now take it to an independent mechanic and replaced the crankshaft & camshaft position sensors, key fobs, battery, and have done all preventative maintenance. the problem still remains. there are similar complaints (VW, chrysler, & dodge) for this exact engine & symptoms that may be related to the tipm, the main control module. this IS a very serious safety issue as it random and causes a complete shutdown of vehicle while in motion and loss of operator control.
- Engine
When getting off highway while at light my car sputtered and stalled. The car would not restart and I had to have towed. The right side cylinder head had to be replaced at a cost of over $4000. VW IS replacing the left side under warranty for 10 years but not the right side for some reason so I…
When getting off highway while at light my car sputtered and stalled. The car would not restart and I had to have towed. The right side cylinder head had to be replaced at a cost of over $4000. VW IS replacing the left side under warranty for 10 years but not the right side for some reason so I have to pay. There have been many problems with this engine and I have only 89000 miles. The engine in the VW IS a chrysler 3.6 liter pentastar. While fixing that it was found that the oil filter housing unit was leaking and needed to be replaced.
- Steering · Suspension
Had to replace right rear wheel bearing at approximately 60,000 miles. had to replace left rear wheel bearing at 80,500 miles. both wheel bearings were making grinding noises. rack and pinion hydraulic line cracked at elbow and had to be replaced. rack and pinion problem occurred while driving close to home. lost all steering in driveway. *tr
- Electrical system
The vehicle often has difficulty starting and will occasionally shut off while driving. The problem seems similar to the defect described in safety recall 28H1 which only covers year models 2009-2010. I don't remember exactly when the issue started, but it was within the last year, and the problem…
The vehicle often has difficulty starting and will occasionally shut off while driving. The problem seems similar to the defect described in safety recall 28H1 which only covers year models 2009-2010. I don't remember exactly when the issue started, but it was within the last year, and the problem has become much worse to the point failure while operating occurs much more regularly. Fortunately, I've been able to restart and continue driving so far, but it will shut off when I'm idling, accelerating, or at driving speed. *tr
- Air bags
The drivers headrest airbag deployed while sitting in my garage. Engine had just been started. If this had happened while driving it could have startled driver to the point of loss of control.
- Air bags · Seats
I was parked in my garage. When I started the car, the driver headrest exploded forward. If this had happened while driving it could have caused an accident from the sudden movement and loud noise startling me.
- Fuel/propulsion system
My car will crank but not start. After several tries if you use the key fob you can get it to start. I have the car looked at by two technicians who advised that my vehicle was made by chrysler even though it's a volkswagen and that this IS a known problem with chrysler dodge vans from 2011 and 2012 the problem they tell me IS with the fuel pump relay that will need to be installed
- Electrical system
My wife was driving with 2 children on the highway at 70 mph while the engine dies due to the fuel pump stopping to work due to a tipm fuel pump relay failure. chrysler and dodge did the right thing, step up VW.
- Electrical system · Engine · Structure › Body
Van randomly goes to 3RD on the highway. Going to neutral and back to drive corrects the issue. Van will not start/crank randomly. Van turns off on the highway randomly. Random "enter security code" on the nav system. 129K miles on it. Chrysler recalled caravan's and the town and country for these…
Van randomly goes to 3RD on the highway. Going to neutral and back to drive corrects the issue. Van will not start/crank randomly. Van turns off on the highway randomly. Random "enter security code" on the nav system. 129K miles on it. Chrysler recalled caravan's and the town and country for these same issues. The tipm needs to be replaced. Filing a complaint with corporate VW to have them correct this massive safety issue as chrysler has done. http://www.chryslerproblems.com/tipm/
- Engine
The car will just shut down while driving. No warning, no lights, no check engine, no power steering or power breaks (i have to put all I got into trying to steer the car to just pull over!). I have to bring the car to a complete stop and restart it. It has happened about 3 times. Took it to 3…
The car will just shut down while driving. No warning, no lights, no check engine, no power steering or power breaks (i have to put all I got into trying to steer the car to just pull over!). I have to bring the car to a complete stop and restart it. It has happened about 3 times. Took it to 3 garages and they could not figure out the problem because the car never gave any computer codes when it would shut down. There are similar complaints and I'm wonder how VW knows of this issue and has failed to inform the owners of these vehicles. If my van shuts off on the freeway, this could be very serious!
- Engine · Steering · Vehicle speed control
Driving at low speed van raced forward then stopped almost hit another vehicle. Now won't run and check engine light on. I was in a parking lot of a target when happened
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11010011Vehicle Concerns Before Recall Repair Available
- 11008861Fluid requirements
- 11008846Wind & Water Leak Checking
- 10253483Engine Exhaust Flap Limited Warranty Extension
- 10253186RHR Navigation Map Enhancements
- 10253177Satellite Radio Overview
- 10252942Damage to Data Link Connector (DLC) from Aftermarket Devices (Cannot Communicate with Vehicle OBD System)
- 10252941Washer Level Sensor
- 10252940Cluster Warning Lights Coming On, Windshield Wipers Will Not Turn Off, and/or Headlights Will Not Shut Off
- 10252937Vehicles equipped with Immobilizer 4 (Download) ? Adapting Keys after Vehicle Lock Set Replacement
- 10252922Washer Level Sensor
- 10252918Turn Signals Will Not Activate after TIPM Replacement
- 10252908iPod Connection Tip
- 10252902Bluetooth Compatibility
- 10252900GPS Antenna Concerns
- 10252225Vehicles Equipped with Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone ? Pairing of Android Phones
- 10252224RNS 315 Navigation ? Bluetooth Module Location
- 10252221All Navigation Radios-All Models
- 10252220All Vehicles with Bluetooth Phone Kit Installed ? Streaming Audio from Phone to Radio
- 10252208AC Compressor Replacement, Refrigerant Circuit Flushing Requirement
- 10250695Carefree Maintenance Coverage for Interim Oil Changes for Certain 2009 ? 2015 MY Volkswagen TDI Clean Diesel Engine Vehicles Registered in the State of Minnesota Only (US Dealers
- 10250686Section 3.30.2 Volkswagen Carefree Maintenance Policy Modifications
- 10249138Airbag / Pyrotechnic Safety Belt Deployment Inquiries, update to contact information due to retirement.
- 10245617Reporting procedure for A/C compressor replacement regardless of the reason for failure. Update to model year applicability and new warranty GFF labor operation number
- 10244075Front Brake Judder And / Or Vibration
- 10244072Rattling Noises from Engine Compartment Area or Exhaust System
- 10244069Third Row Seating
- 10244045Volkswagen Elsa Newsletter
- 10243065VW Elsa Newsletter
- 10243063VW Elsa Newsletter
- 10243062VW Elsa Newsletter
- 10243058VW Elsa Newsletter
- 10243047VW Elsa Newsletter
- 10243044VW Elsa Newsletter
- 10243039VW Elsa Newsletter
- 10243038VW Elsa Newsletter
- 10243037VW Elsa Newsletter
- 10243036VW Elsa Newsletter
- 10243034VW Elsa Newsletter
- 10243029VW Elsa Newsletter
Every Volkswagen Routan model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.