The Volkswagen Routan is a minivan that often confuses buyers. On the outside, it looks like a classic Volkswagen, but its roots trace back to Chrysler. This mix brings both strengths and weaknesses. If you are thinking about buying a used Routan, knowing which years to avoid can save you money, frustration, and headaches. Many Routan owners have faced mechanical problems, expensive repairs, and safety concerns that could have been prevented with careful research. In this article, you will find a detailed guide to the Volkswagen Routan years to avoid, clear reasons why, and practical advice for anyone considering a Routan. You will also find comparison tables, real-world examples, and answers to questions buyers often ask.
History Of The Volkswagen Routan
The Volkswagen Routan was launched in 2008 for the 2009 model year. Volkswagen wanted to enter the North American minivan market but did not develop a new vehicle from scratch. Instead, it partnered with Chrysler, using their Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan as the base. The Routan had unique styling, a Volkswagen badge, and some changes inside, but most parts were Chrysler’s.
Production lasted until 2014, with sales peaking in the early years but dropping quickly as reliability problems became known. The Routan was discontinued after 2014, and Volkswagen did not release another minivan for the US market.
Why Do Some Routan Years Have More Problems?
Not all Routan models are the same. Certain years have higher rates of mechanical breakdowns, recalls, and customer complaints. The reasons include:
- Chrysler platform issues: Many Routan problems are inherited from the Chrysler minivans they are based on.
- Engine and transmission changes: Some years used engines or transmissions with known defects.
- Cost-cutting: Later years saw fewer updates and lower build quality.
- Lack of Volkswagen-specific engineering: Most Routans were not truly engineered by Volkswagen, so they missed out on VW’s usual reliability standards.
Understanding these reasons helps explain why some Routan years are riskier than others.
Volkswagen Routan Years To Avoid
While every used car can have issues, some Routan years stand out for serious, repeated problems. Here are the years most experts and owners agree you should avoid:
2009 Volkswagen Routan
The first Routan model year is the most troublesome. Many buyers hoped for a true Volkswagen experience, but the 2009 Routan brought disappointment.
Main problems:
- Transmission failure: Sudden breakdowns, rough shifting, and high repair costs (often over $3,000).
- Electrical issues: Power sliding doors, instrument clusters, and sensors often malfunction.
- Brakes: Premature brake wear, sometimes needing replacement after only 20,000 miles.
- Engine stalling: Random engine shutdowns while driving, which caused safety concerns.
Owners report frequent trips to the mechanic and costly repairs. Many problems trace back to Chrysler’s Town & Country platform, which had similar issues.
2010 Volkswagen Routan
The 2010 Routan continued many of the same issues. Volkswagen made few changes, so buyers saw repeated failures.
Main problems:
- Transmission issues: Even after some updates, the transmission remained unreliable.
- Electrical glitches: Door locks, windows, and dashboard electronics often stop working.
- Suspension: Clunks, rattles, and worn-out components after moderate mileage.
- Recall notices: Multiple recalls for airbags, brakes, and electrical systems.
The 2010 Routan is often considered one of the worst minivans for reliability in its class.
2011 Volkswagen Routan
The 2011 Routan saw a new engine, but this did not fix reliability. Some issues shifted, and new ones appeared.
Main problems:
- 3.6-liter V6 engine: Introduced in 2011, this engine is known for oil leaks, overheating, and premature failure.
- Transmission: Still problematic, with jerky shifting and sudden limp mode.
- Electrical system: Battery drains, flickering lights, and malfunctioning sensors.
- Brake problems: Continued fast brake wear and expensive repairs.
Owners often report oil consumption, rough engine idle, and random electrical faults.
2012 Volkswagen Routan
Some improvements came in 2012, but many issues remained. This model year still suffers from big complaints.
Main problems:
- Engine reliability: The 3.6-liter V6 continued to have oil leaks and overheating.
- Transmission: Unpredictable shifting and failures.
- Sliding doors: Power doors often jam or fail to close.
- Interior quality: Trim pieces and controls wear quickly or break.
The 2012 Routan is not as bad as earlier years, but it is still not recommended for buyers who want dependable transport.
2013 And 2014 Volkswagen Routan
Production was limited in these years, with most Routans sold to fleets. Problems were fewer, but the Routan’s core issues remained.
Main problems:
- Limited updates: Few improvements, so older problems stayed.
- Electrical faults: Sensors, batteries, and door controls still malfunction.
- Parts scarcity: As the Routan was discontinued, finding replacement parts became harder.
- Resale value: Low resale value due to poor reputation.
These years are less risky than 2009–2012 but still not ideal for buyers seeking long-term reliability.
Summary Table: Routan Year-by-year Reliability
Here is a summary comparing Routan model years and their main reliability issues:
| Model Year | Engine | Main Issues | Recommended? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | 3.8L V6 / 4.0L V6 | Transmission, electrical, brakes, engine stalling | No |
| 2010 | 3.8L V6 / 4.0L V6 | Transmission, electrical, suspension, recalls | No |
| 2011 | 3.6L V6 | Engine leaks, transmission, brakes, electrical | No |
| 2012 | 3.6L V6 | Engine, transmission, sliding doors, interior | No |
| 2013 | 3.6L V6 | Electrical, parts scarcity, limited updates | Not recommended |
| 2014 | 3.6L V6 | Electrical, parts scarcity, resale value | Not recommended |
Credit: www.youtube.com
Common Routan Problems Explained
To help you understand why these years are risky, let’s look at the most common Routan problems in detail.
Transmission Failure
The Routan’s transmission is the biggest concern. Many owners report sudden breakdowns, rough shifting, and expensive repairs. The transmission is a Chrysler unit, not a Volkswagen design, and is known for:
- Premature failure: Often before 80,000 miles
- Limp mode: Transmission stops working, leaving the van undriveable
- Repair costs: $2,500–$4,000 for replacement or rebuild
One non-obvious insight: Transmission problems often start with minor symptoms, like delayed shifting or slipping. Ignoring these signs can lead to total failure.
Electrical System Issues
The Routan’s electrical system is another weak point. Problems include:
- Power sliding doors: Doors may not close, jam, or drain the battery
- Dashboard glitches: Warning lights, gauges, and sensors malfunction
- Battery drain: Electrical faults cause the battery to die quickly
Many owners report power door failures after just a few years. Repairing these doors can cost $700–$1,200.
Engine Problems
The Routan’s engines, especially the 3.6-liter V6, suffer from:
- Oil leaks: Gaskets and seals fail, causing leaks and low oil levels
- Overheating: Cooling system problems lead to engine damage
- High oil consumption: Some engines burn oil quickly, needing frequent top-ups
A practical tip: Routan owners should check oil levels often and watch for leaks under the van.
Brake Wear
Brakes on the Routan wear out fast. Owners report needing new brake pads and rotors every 20,000–30,000 miles, much sooner than most vans. This adds to maintenance costs.
Interior And Build Quality
Trim pieces, buttons, and controls on the Routan often break or wear out. The quality does not match typical Volkswagen standards. This is especially true for sliding door handles, dashboard controls, and seat levers.
Routan Recalls And Safety Issues
Safety is a big concern for any family vehicle. The Routan has been subject to several recalls:
- Airbags: Defective airbag modules, sometimes failing to deploy
- Brake systems: Faults with brake boosters and lines
- Electrical fires: Some models had wiring issues that could cause fires
You can check current recalls using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. Always confirm any used Routan has had recall repairs completed.
Comparison: Routan Vs. Other Minivans
Many buyers compare the Routan to similar minivans. Here’s a data table showing how the Routan stacks up against the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna:
| Minivan | Reliability Score (out of 10) | Common Issues | Average Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Routan | 4 | Transmission, electrical, engine leaks | $3,200 |
| Honda Odyssey | 7 | Transmission (older models), sliding doors | $2,100 |
| Toyota Sienna | 9 | Minor electrical, brakes | $1,800 |
This comparison shows the Routan’s reliability is much lower than popular competitors. Repair costs are also higher.
What Makes The Routan Attractive?
Despite its problems, some buyers choose the Routan for:
- Volkswagen styling: Unique looks compared to other minivans
- Comfortable ride: Good suspension and quiet cabin
- Features: Power doors, leather seats, DVD players
However, these strengths rarely outweigh the reliability risks, especially for families or buyers wanting low-cost ownership.
Non-obvious Insights About Routan Ownership
Here are two insights that many beginners miss:
- Parts and repairs can take longer than expected. Because the Routan was discontinued and shares parts with Chrysler, some repairs require special ordering. You may wait weeks for parts that are common for other minivans.
- Resale value is much lower than rivals. Even if you buy a Routan for a low price, selling it later will be difficult. Many dealers avoid Routans, and private buyers know about the reliability issues.
These insights are important for anyone thinking about buying or selling a Routan.
When Is A Routan A Good Buy?
There are rare cases when a Routan makes sense:
- Fleet sales: Businesses needing a cheap minivan for short-term use
- Low-mileage, well-maintained models: If you find a Routan with full service records, low miles, and all recall repairs done, it can be a reasonable risk
- DIY mechanics: Buyers who can repair their own vehicles may save on labor costs
If you are not in one of these groups, it’s safer to choose a different minivan.
Credit: www.vwproblems.com
Tips For Buying A Used Routan
If you still want to buy a Routan, follow these steps:
- Check service records: Make sure the van has regular maintenance and recall repairs.
- Inspect the transmission: Look for smooth shifting and no warning lights.
- Test all electronics: Doors, windows, and dashboard should work perfectly.
- Check for oil leaks: Look under the van and around the engine.
- Ask about brake replacements: Frequent brake jobs suggest ongoing problems.
- Get a pre-purchase inspection: Hire a mechanic with experience in Chrysler minivans.
These steps can help you avoid the worst Routan problems.
Alternatives To The Volkswagen Routan
If you want a reliable minivan, consider these options:
- Honda Odyssey: Strong reliability, good resale value, and many features.
- Toyota Sienna: Excellent reliability, all-wheel drive option, comfortable interior.
- Chrysler Pacifica: Modern design, improved reliability over older Chrysler minivans.
These models have higher upfront prices but lower long-term costs.
Routan Ownership Costs
Owning a Routan can be expensive. Here is a table comparing yearly ownership costs:
| Minivan | Yearly Maintenance | Yearly Repairs | Total Yearly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Routan | $600 | $1,400 | $2,000 |
| Honda Odyssey | $500 | $900 | $1,400 |
| Toyota Sienna | $450 | $700 | $1,150 |
These numbers show that Routan ownership costs are noticeably higher, especially for repairs.
Real-world Examples
To illustrate, here are two real-world Routan owner stories:
- Sarah from Michigan: Bought a 2010 Routan with 80,000 miles. Within a year, she needed a new transmission, costing $3,200. The power doors stopped working, needing $900 in repairs. She sold the van for a loss after two years.
- Mike from Florida: Bought a 2012 Routan for a low price. He spent $1,500 on brake repairs and $600 on electrical fixes in the first year. Parts took weeks to arrive. He now regrets not buying a Honda Odyssey.
These stories highlight the risks and costs of owning a Routan.
Credit: www.thetruthaboutcars.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Volkswagen Routan A Reliable Minivan?
No, the Volkswagen Routan is generally not reliable. Most model years have problems with the transmission, electrical systems, engine, and brakes. Compared to other minivans, the Routan ranks low for dependability.
What Is The Best Routan Year To Buy?
There is no truly “good” Routan year. If you must buy one, choose a 2013 or 2014 model with low mileage and complete service records. Even these years are not highly recommended, but they have fewer problems than earlier models.
How Much Does It Cost To Repair A Routan Transmission?
Repairing a Routan transmission often costs between $2,500 and $4,000. Transmission failure is common in 2009–2012 models. Repairs can take longer due to parts scarcity.
Are Routan Parts Easy To Find?
No, Routan parts can be difficult to find. Many parts are shared with Chrysler minivans, but some are unique to the Routan. Since production ended in 2014, some parts may require special orders and longer wait times.
Should I Buy A Used Volkswagen Routan?
For most buyers, it’s better to avoid the Routan. The risks of high repair costs, poor reliability, and low resale value make it a poor choice. If you need a reliable minivan, consider the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna instead. For more details, check out the Consumer Reports reliability ratings.
Buying a used car is always a big decision. With the Routan, careful research can prevent expensive mistakes. If you plan to buy one, use the advice in this article to protect yourself and your wallet.
Finding the right minivan is about more than price or features. Reliability, safety, and ownership costs matter most. The Volkswagen Routan, despite its style and comfort, often falls short in these areas. If you want a vehicle you can trust, look beyond the Routan years to avoid and choose a minivan with a proven track record.
