What are the most common problems with the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg?

The most critical ownership concern is the **engine's vulnerability to water ingress**, potentially leading to stalling, loss of power, and catastrophic failure. This issue is linked to the air intake system's design and can occur even when the vehicle is parked.

How many recalls does the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg have?

The 2017 Volkswagen Touareg currently has 1 recall on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The most critical ownership concern is the **engine's vulnerability to water ingress**, potentially leading to stalling, loss of power, and catastrophic failure. This issue is linked to the air intake system's design and can occur even when the vehicle is parked. A single recall exists, categorized as 'Unknown Or Other,' related to internal-use vehicles sold without meeting all regulatory requirements. The remedy involves Volkswagen repurchasing these vehicles, indicating a significant compliance issue. While overall safety ratings are 'Not Rated,' the Touareg is equipped with standard safety features like Electronic Stability Control and side curtain airbags. Fuel economy is rated at 17 MPG city and 23 MPG highway, resulting in a combined 19 MPG. The 3.6L V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and All-Wheel Drive provides capable performance, but the engine's susceptibility to water damage is a major red flag. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg.

2017 Volkswagen Touareg Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Ethan Miller15 sources analyzed

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The most critical ownership concern is the engine's vulnerability to water ingress, potentially leading to stalling, loss of power, and catastrophic failure. This issue is linked to the air intake system's design and can occur even when the vehicle is parked.
A single recall exists, categorized as 'Unknown Or Other,' related to internal-use vehicles sold without meeting all regulatory requirements. The remedy involves Volkswagen repurchasing these vehicles, indicating a significant compliance issue.
While overall safety ratings are 'Not Rated,' the Touareg is equipped with standard safety features like Electronic Stability Control and side curtain airbags.
Fuel economy is rated at 17 MPG city and 23 MPG highway, resulting in a combined 19 MPG.

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Overview

2017 Volkswagen Touareg

The 2017 Volkswagen Touareg offers a comfortable and capable driving experience, but its 'Below Average' reliability rating is a major concern for used car shoppers. The primary issue is the engine's vulnerability to water ingestion, which can lead to costly failures. With 34 complaints and 186 TSBs, potential buyers must be aware of its known weaknesses and prioritize thorough pre-purchase inspections.

Critical Failure Risk

Water entering the engine through the air intake system due to clogged drain valves. This can lead to engine seizure, stalling, and power loss.

Early detection can help you avoid a $5,000-$15,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Engine19

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

Savvy used car shoppers who prioritize a comfortable and capable premium SUV and are willing to undertake rigorous pre-purchase inspections and potentially higher maintenance costs.

+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a low-maintenance, worry-free vehicle.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Volkswagen Touareg Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain: AWD/All-Wheel Drive
EPA Combined MPG: 19

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 19 reports

2. Steering

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Brake System Inspection (Parts: Brake Fluid) - Power Steering Fluid Level Check (Parts: Power Steering Fluid) - Ribbed Belt Inspection

Est. shop cost: $150 - $300

10,000 mi

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

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (7 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

1 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 34.

How practical is the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg for daily use?

Practicality score is 4.5/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 19 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg is 6.4/10. Overall score is 6.4/10 (Mixed). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 4.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Volkswagen Touareg?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Brake System Inspection (Parts: Brake Fluid) - Power Steering Fluid Level Check (Parts: Power Steering Fluid) - Ribbed Belt Inspection at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (estimated cost Min: $5,000 • Max: $15,000).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg?

Base MSRP is $49,495.

What engine is in the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg?

EPA combined estimate is 19 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg?

12 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Volkswagen Touareg?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg, seating capacity is 5.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).

Is the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg good for tuning?

Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2017 Volkswagen Touareg, while a capable SUV with standard all-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic transmission, presents significant c...

What are the most common engine problems on the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg?

Top complaint category: engine (19 reports, 55.9% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg?

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.