2012 Volkswagen Routan Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The most significant concern is the potential for the vehicle to stall while driving, leading to a loss of power steering and braking, a critical safety risk.
- Widespread electrical system issues, often linked to the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), are a major contributor to the Routan's poor reliability.
- Owners report frequent engine problems, including stalling and rough idling, alongside transmission issues like hard shifting and slipping.
- While there is only one recall for a rear hub and bearing assembly, the sheer volume of complaints points to systemic quality concerns.
2012 Volkswagen Routan
The 2012 Volkswagen Routan, a rebadged Chrysler minivan, offers a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, but its ownership experience is significantly marred by a "Below Average" reliability rating. Prospective buyers should be acutely aware of the prevalent issues, particularly concerning the electrical system and engine, which can lead to unexpected stalling and loss of critical power assists. While it shares its platform with well-known Chrysler and Dodge minivans, the Routan has its own set of documented problems that warrant thorough pre-purchase inspection. With 115 complaints and 355 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), this model presents a higher-than-average risk for costly repairs.
Critical Failure Risk
The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) is a common failure point, leading to various electrical malfunctions.
Early detection can help you avoid a $3,000-$7,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Savvy used-car shoppers who are mechanically inclined or have a trusted mechanic, and who prioritize interior space and comfort over long-term reliability.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a dependable, worry-free family vehicle.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2012 Volkswagen Routan Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2012 Volkswagen Routan.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline or E85
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Minivan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 20
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Most Common Issues
1. Electrical System
Most reportedUsage: 39 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 21 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Synthetic Recommended) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake System Inspection
Est. shop cost: $70 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2012 Volkswagen Routan reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Volkswagen Routan is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 115.
How practical is the 2012 Volkswagen Routan for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2012 Volkswagen Routan?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Volkswagen Routan is 6.2/10. Overall score is 6.2/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.2/10. Tuning 2.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Volkswagen Routan?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Synthetic Recommended) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake System Inspection at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $2,000. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (TIPM) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500+).
What engine is in the 2012 Volkswagen Routan?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.
What transmission does the 2012 Volkswagen Routan use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Volkswagen Routan, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2012 Routan require Gasoline or E85 gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Gasoline or E85.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Volkswagen Routan?
EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Volkswagen Routan?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2012 Volkswagen Routan?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Volkswagen Routan, body style is minivan.
What drivetrain does the 2012 Volkswagen Routan use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Volkswagen Routan, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Volkswagen Routan?
NHTSA ratings: Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2012 Volkswagen Routan good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 2/10. The 2012 Volkswagen Routan, a rebadged Chrysler minivan, is not a platform suited for performance tuning.
What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2012 Volkswagen Routan?
Top complaint category: electrical system (39 reports, 33.9% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Volkswagen Routan?
This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.