What are the most common problems with the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

The 2016 Volkswagen Touareg offers a comfortable ride and capable all-wheel-drive system, making it a competent SUV for various conditions.

How many recalls does the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg have?

The 2016 Volkswagen Touareg currently has 2 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg a good buy used?

Verdict: High risk. The 2016 Volkswagen Touareg offers a comfortable ride and capable all-wheel-drive system, making it a competent SUV for various conditions. Potential buyers should be aware of significant reliability concerns, particularly regarding engine issues related to water ingestion. Two recalls were issued, one critical for the brake pedal and another for the TPMS, underscoring the need for thorough pre-purchase inspection. The high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggests a complex vehicle with numerous potential issues. Despite its luxury appointments and towing capacity, the Touareg's 'Below Average' reliability verdict and the documented engine failure mode make it a purchase that requires careful consideration. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg.

2016 Volkswagen Touareg Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

High risk

Key Takeaways

The 2016 Volkswagen Touareg offers a comfortable ride and capable all-wheel-drive system, making it a competent SUV for various conditions.
Potential buyers should be aware of significant reliability concerns, particularly regarding engine issues related to water ingestion.
Two recalls were issued, one critical for the brake pedal and another for the TPMS, underscoring the need for thorough pre-purchase inspection.
The high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) suggests a complex vehicle with numerous potential issues.

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Overview

2016 Volkswagen Touareg

The 2016 Volkswagen Touareg is a midsize SUV that blends a premium feel with practical utility. It boasts a comfortable ride, standard all-wheel drive, and a respectable towing capacity. Under the hood, it's powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. However, its 'Below Average' reliability rating, driven by a notable engine failure mode and other reported issues, requires careful consideration for used car buyers. Two recalls were issued, one concerning the brake pedal and another for the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The vehicle also has a high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), indicating a complex system with potential for various issues.

Critical Failure Risk

Water enters the air filter housing, saturating the filter and potentially leading to engine stalling, loss of power, or hydrolock. This is a design flaw where water from the headlight area can be funneled into the air intake.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$8,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns2

Service Bulletins295

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Engine22

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers who prioritize a comfortable and capable SUV experience.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Volkswagen Touareg Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 19

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 22 reports

2. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL

Usage: 6 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Engine Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Brake System Inspection - Tire Rotation - Inspect Adblue Fluid - Inspect Hybrid Components - Inspect Windshield Wiper & Washer Systems - Reset Service Interval Indicator/Display

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (6 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

2 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg is 7.4/10. Reliability score is 7.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 67.

How practical is the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg is 5.9/10. Overall score is 5.9/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Engine Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Brake System Inspection - Tire Rotation - Inspect Adblue Fluid - Inspect Hybrid Components - Inspect Windshield Wiper & Washer Systems - Reset Service Interval Indicator/Display at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $750 - $950. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,000 • Max: $8,000).

What engine is in the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).

Is the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2016 Volkswagen Touareg, while a capable SUV, presents a challenging platform for performance tuning.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

Top complaint category: engine (22 reports, 32.8% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Volkswagen Touareg?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Lexus RX and 2016 Acura MDX.