TroubleAtlas Score
VOLKSWAGEN ROUTAN (2009–2014): Technical Data, DTC & Service Schedule
Built 2009–2014 · all production years covered on this single page
3.6L V6 • Gasoline
© Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA
TroubleAtlas Score
An independent value score for the Volkswagen Routan (2009–2014) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Scorecard · each voice 0–10
Reliabilityn/a
Safety & recallsn/a
Repair cost3.5
Parts & repairability8.0
Maintenance & durabilityn/a
Documentation & support8.9
Independent · Verified · Never for sale
Every figure on this Volkswagen Routan (2009–2014) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.
The Volkswagen Routan (2009–2014) uses Castrol Edge 5W-30 engine oil. Its battery is group H6 (BCI), rated at 600A cold-cranking amps. It is powered by a 3.6L V6 engine. Its OEM tyre size is 215/55 R16. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.
Common problems
Common repairs
Fluids & lubricants
Battery
Fault codes (OBD2)
Dashboard lights
Parts comparator
Accessories & tools
Tyres
Recalls & TSB
Complaints
Workshops nearby
COMMON PROBLEMS
Transmission fault signal (TCM)MODERATE
The transmission module detected a fault — check separate transmission codes.
Related codes: P0700
Misfire / Loss of cylinderMODERATE
Rough running, idle vibration, power loss.
Related codes: P0300
Thermostat: coolant temperature lowLOW
Thermostat stuck open — engine does not reach operating temperature.
Related codes: P0128
Battery/system voltage lowLOW
System voltage below 10V — check alternator, battery or wiring.
Related codes: P0562
P0011LOW
Check with an OBD2 scanner.
Related codes: P0011
COMMON REPAIRS
Front brake pads
Difficulty: Medium
1.1h
€77 – €99
Rear brake pads
Difficulty: Medium
1.2h
€84 – €108
Engine oil change
Difficulty: Easy
0.4h
€28 – €36
ABS Module
Difficulty: Hard
2.7h
€189 – €243
AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS
Prices may vary by area and workshop.
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
OFFICIAL LABOUR TIMES (OLP)
Standard labour hours from a database of 6.6M+ real shop operations, with an indicative labour-cost estimate for your country.
Brakes8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| ABS Module | 2.7h | € 121–€ 202 |
| ABS Pump | 3.4h | € 153–€ 255 |
| ABS Tone Ring | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Front | 1.1h | € 49–€ 82 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Rear | 1.1h | € 49–€ 82 |
| Brake Bleed - All Four | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Brake Booster | 3.4h | € 153–€ 255 |
| Brake Booster Check Valve | 0.4h | € 18–€ 30 |
Cooling8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Coolant Bypass Pipe | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Coolant Flush | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Coolant Reservoir | 0.7h | € 31–€ 52 |
| Coolant Temperature Sensor | 0.7h | € 31–€ 52 |
| Cooling Fan Assembly | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Cooling Fan Motor | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Cooling Fan Relay | 0.4h | € 18–€ 30 |
| Engine Oil Cooler | 2.7h | € 121–€ 202 |
Electrical8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airbag - Driver | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Airbag - Passenger | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Airbag - Side | 2.7h | € 121–€ 202 |
| Airbag Module/Computer | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Alternator | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Alternator Belt | 0.7h | € 31–€ 52 |
| Amplifier | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Antenna | 0.7h | € 31–€ 52 |
Engine8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Camshaft Position Sensor | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Camshaft R&R | 10.8h | € 486–€ 810 |
| Connecting Rod Bearings | 20.2h | € 909–€ 1515 |
| Crankshaft Position Sensor | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Crankshaft R&R | 27.0h | € 1215–€ 2025 |
| Cylinder Head R&R | 8.1h | € 364–€ 607 |
| Cylinder Head Resurface | 10.8h | € 486–€ 810 |
| Engine Mount - Front | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
Exhaust8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Injection Check Valve | 1.1h | € 49–€ 82 |
| Catalytic Converter - California | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Catalytic Converter - Direct Fit | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Catalytic Converter - Universal | 2.7h | € 121–€ 202 |
| Downpipe | 2.7h | € 121–€ 202 |
| EGR Cooler | 4.1h | € 184–€ 307 |
| EGR Tube | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| EGR Valve | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
Fuel system8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Charcoal Canister | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| EVAP Purge Valve | 1.1h | € 49–€ 82 |
| EVAP Vent Valve | 1.1h | € 49–€ 82 |
| Fuel Cap | 0.1h | € 4–€ 7 |
| Fuel Filler Neck | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Fuel Filter | 0.7h | € 31–€ 52 |
| Fuel Filter - In-Tank | 2.7h | € 121–€ 202 |
| Fuel Injector - Single | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
HVAC8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| AC Accumulator | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| AC Clutch Coil | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| AC Compressor | 3.4h | € 153–€ 255 |
| AC Compressor Clutch | 2.7h | € 121–€ 202 |
| AC Compressor Oil Add | 0.7h | € 31–€ 52 |
| AC Condenser | 3.4h | € 153–€ 255 |
| AC Evaporator | 8.1h | € 364–€ 607 |
| AC Expansion Valve (TXV) | 5.4h | € 243–€ 405 |
Steering8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Center Link/Drag Link | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Electric Power Steering Module | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Electric Power Steering Motor | 3.4h | € 153–€ 255 |
| Idler Arm | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Pitman Arm | 1.6h | € 72–€ 120 |
| Power Steering Fluid Flush | 0.7h | € 31–€ 52 |
| Power Steering Gear Box | 4.7h | € 211–€ 352 |
| Power Steering Hose - High Pressure | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
Suspension8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Line | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Air Spring/Air Bag | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Air Suspension Compressor | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Air Suspension Height Sensor | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Air Suspension Valve Block | 2.7h | € 121–€ 202 |
| Ball Joint - Lower | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Ball Joint - Upper | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Ball Joints - Upper and Lower | 4.1h | € 184–€ 307 |
Transmission8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Kickdown Cable | 1.1h | € 49–€ 82 |
| Neutral Safety Switch | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Overdrive Solenoid | 2.7h | € 121–€ 202 |
| Shift Cable | 2.0h | € 90–€ 150 |
| Shift Linkage | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Transmission Control Module | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Transmission Cooler Lines | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
| Transmission Filter | 1.4h | € 62–€ 105 |
WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY
Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.
🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
📋 RECALLS & TSB (8)
NHTSA 16V083000
Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Date: 11/02/2016
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (VW) is recalling certain model year 2009 Volkswagen Routan vehicles manufactured February 7, 2008, to August 28, 2008. In the affected vehicles, the air bag control units may corrode and fail.
NHTSA 14V055000
Suspension › Rear › Axle › Non-Powered Axle Assembly
Date: 11/02/2014
Freedom Motors Inc., (Freedom Motors) of Savaria Vehicle Group (formerly The Liberty Motor Company) is recalling one model year 2009 Volkswagen Routan and certain model year 2008-2010 Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country wheelchair accessible vehicles modified by The L…
NHTSA 10V252000
Electrical System › Wiring
Date: 10/06/2010
VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009 ROUTAN VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 2008 THROUGH JULY 2009. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH AN IMPROPER ROUTED WIRE HARNESS THAT MAY HAVE A CONDITION WHERE THE LOWER SLIDING DOOR HINGE BRACKET CAN MAKE CONTACT AND WEAR T…
NHTSA 12V147000
Suspension › Rear
Date: 05/04/2012
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.
NHTSA 14V396000
Electrical System › Ignition
Date: 01/07/2014
This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring.
Volkswagen Group of Ame…
NHTSA 09V244000
Equipment › Other › Owners/Service/Other Manual
Date: 01/07/2009
VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING 18,500 MY 2009 ROUTAN VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." THE OWNER'S MANUAL WAS PRINTED WITHOUT THE FMVSS NO. 208 REQUIRED INFORMATION EXPLAINING THAT NO OBJE…
NHTSA 15V194000
Electrical System › Ignition › Switch
Date: 01/04/2015
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2009 Routan vehicles manufactured June 25, 2008, to July 8, 2009, and 2010 Routan vehicles manufactured October 1, 2009, to August 11, 2010. This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag sys…
NHTSA 11V151000
Electrical System › Ignition › Switch
Date: 01/03/2011
VOLKSWAGEN IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 ROUTAN VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 2009 THROUGH JUNE 2010. SOME VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE INADVERTENT IGNITION KEY DISPLACEMENT FROM THE RUN TO ACCESSORY POSITION WHILE DRIVING CAUSING THE ENGINE TO SHUT OFF.
COMMON OBD2 CODES TO CHECK
P0420
P0420
Powertrain
P0171
P0171
Powertrain
P0300
P0300
Powertrain
P0128
P0128
Powertrain
P0455
P0455
Powertrain
P0700
P0700
Transmission
P0442
P0442
Powertrain
P0172
P0172
Powertrain
P0401
P0401
Powertrain
All documented fault codes for this vehicle
The most documented diagnostic codes for this model, by system and severity. Tap a code for the full guide.
P0455
powertrain
LOW⏱ 0.62h avgP0442
powertrain
LOW⏱ 0.62h avgP0440
powertrain
LOW⏱ 0.78h avgP0420
powertrain
MEDIUM⏱ 1.24h avgP0300
powertrain
HIGH⏱ 1.22h avgP0172
powertrain
MEDIUM⏱ 1.13h avgP0171
powertrain
MEDIUM⏱ 0.95h avgP0730
transmission
MEDIUM⏱ 1.25h avgP0700
transmission
HIGH⏱ 1.25h avgP0401
powertrain
MEDIUM⏱ 1.25h avgP0011
powertrain
MEDIUM⏱ 5.4h avgU0100
network
HIGHP0562
electrical
MEDIUM⏱ 0.58h avgP0128
powertrain
MEDIUM⏱ 0.88h avg
DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS — UNIVERSAL GUIDE
88 warning lights classified by urgency. Appears on your vehicle? Check the urgency level.
Show all dashboard warning lights
🔴 IMMEDIATE STOP — pull over
Oil Pressure WarningEngine
Engine Temperature WarningCooling
Brake System WarningBrakes
Immobilizer / Key FaultSecurity
Doors OpenChassis
Hood Open DualChassis
Trunk Open DualChassis
Ignition MalfunctionEngine
WheelEngine
Lights Ignition Steering MalfunctionChassis
Dsg Transmission Too HotTransmission
Electronic Parking Brake EngagedBrakes
Brake System MalfunctionBrakes
Brake WearBrakes
Engine CoolantEngine
Engine Oil Pressure LowEngine
12V Alternator MalfunctionElectrical
Cruise Control MalfunctionADAS
Brake PedalBrakes
Front Assist Collision WarningADAS
Differential Lock MalfunctionEngine
AdblueFuel
Error In Hybrid SystemElectrical
Central Warning LightLighting
🟠 WARNING — check soon
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) / Check EngineEngine
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)Emissions
Battery / Charging SystemElectrical
Low Fuel WarningFuel
ABS WarningBrakes
Brake Pad Wear IndicatorBrakes
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)Brakes
Power Steering WarningSteering
ESC / Stability Control FaultChassis
Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)Chassis
Transmission Temperature WarningTransmission
Transmission / Gearbox FaultTransmission
Airbag / SRS WarningActive safety
EGR / Exhaust Gas Recirculation FaultEmissions
Catalytic Converter / Emissions FaultEmissions
AdBlue / DEF Level LowEmissions
Coolant Level LowCooling
Hybrid / EV System WarningHybrid
EV Charge System FaultHybrid
12V Battery (Hybrid/EV Auxiliary)Hybrid
Suspension Fault / Air SuspensionSuspension
CAN Bus / Network Communication FaultNetwork
Water in Fuel FilterFuel
Diesel Injector FaultFuel
Steering Angle Sensor FaultSteering
Turbo / Boost Pressure FaultEngine
Regenerative Braking Fault (Hybrid/EV)Hybrid
AdBlue Level Low (VW) (Volkswagen)Emissions
EPC — Engine Control (VW) (Volkswagen)Engine
Glow Plug Fault (VW) (Volkswagen)Engine
DSG Fault (Volkswagen)Transmission
TpmsTyres
Open Rear LidEngine
Ignition Switch Starter ButtonEngine
Electronic ImmobilizerEngine
Fuel Tank Almost EmptyFuel
Front Fog Lights Switched OnLighting
Parking Lights Switched OnBrakes
Driving Lights Burned OutLighting
Adaptive Front Lighting System MalfunctionLighting
Headlight Range Adjustment MalfunctionLighting
🟡 MONITOR
Fuel Cap / Evap SystemEmissions
4WD / AWD SystemDrivetrain
Bulb Failure WarningLighting
Headlight Range / Leveling FaultLighting
Service / Maintenance DueMaintenance
A/C System FaultHvac
Clutch Wear WarningTransmission
Cruise Control / ACC FaultADAS
DPF Regeneration (VW) (Volkswagen)Emissions
🔵 INFORMATION
Engine Temperature Low (Blue)Cooling
Glow Plug / Diesel PreheatEngine
Traction Control / ESC OffChassis
Seatbelt ReminderActive safety
Rear Fog Light IndicatorLighting
Lane Departure / LDWS WarningADAS
Forward Collision Warning (FCW/AEB)ADAS
Blind Spot Monitor FaultADAS
Rear Parking Sensor / Camera FaultADAS
Windshield Washer Fluid LowMaintenance
Door Open WarningBody
Hood / Trunk Open WarningBody
Gear Shift Indicator (Manual)Transmission
Sport / Performance Mode ActiveTransmission
REPORTED COMPLAINTS & PROBLEMS (NHTSA)
780 owner complaints filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Volkswagen Routan across model years 2009–2014. These are real, verified reports submitted by vehicle owners.
16 crash reports 8 fires 47 injuries
Complaints by model year (most reported first)
Model year 2009293
Model year 2010240
Model year 2011175
Model year 201263
Model year 20137
Model year 20142
Most reported components (all years)
Electrical System430
Engine183
Service Brakes95
Steering70
Power Train66
Unknown Or Other54
Sample reports
WE HAVE HAD SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHERE THE VAN COMPLETELY SHUTS OFF EVEN WHILE RUNNING. REPORTED IT TO OUR LOCAL VW DEALER AND HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT IT MIGHT BE AN IGNITION PROBLEM WHICH IS PART OF A RECALL. WAS INFORMED THAT AT THIS TIME THE… (MY 2009)
MY 2012 VOLKSWAGEN ROUTAN HAS ONLY 87K MILES AND THE CAR WILL CRANK BUT WILL NOT START, AND OR WHILE DRIVING THE CAR'S IDLE BECOMES ROUGH AND DROPS TO THE POINT OF SHUTTING OFF WHILE DRIVING. MY WIFE DRIVES THIS CAR WITH MY DAUGHTER AND… (MY 2012)
MY 2009 VOLKSWAGEN ROUTAN DIES WHILE DRIVING. I'VE ON THE VEHICLE FOR TWO YEARS AND THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING THE WHOLE TIME. THAT USUALLY HAPPENS AT LOWER SPEEDS (UNDER 35MPH). IT HAPPENS WHEN I'M GOING STRAIGHT AND WHEN I'M TURNING C… (MY 2009)
REPLACED FUEL PUMP AFTER ISSUES WITH ENGINE REFUSING TO TURN OVER. NEXT DAY AFTER REPAIR THE VEHICLE REFUSED TO START; TOWED TO GARAGE FOR DIAGNOSIS. ONE MECHANIC WAS ABLE TO START IT AND ANOTHER NOT. COMPUTER DIAGNOSIS CAN'T FIND THE IS… (MY 2011)
Source: NHTSA complaints database (U.S. data.gov). Figures cover production years 2009–2014.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Volkswagen Routan have any safety recalls?
Yes — 8 official NHTSA recall campaign(s) affect this model, mainly: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH, SUSPENSION:REAR:AXLE:NON-POWERED AXLE ASSEMBLY, AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE. Check the recalls section for your exact year/VIN.
What does fault code P0300 mean on the Volkswagen Routan?
Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0128 mean on the Volkswagen Routan?
Coolant temperature below thermostat regulating temperature — thermostat stuck open or faulty This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0011 mean on the Volkswagen Routan?
A Camshaft Position Timing Over-Advanced or System Performance (Bank 1) This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
Are steering problems common on the Volkswagen Routan?
Yes — 145 of 771 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the steering. One owner reported: “VAN HAS STALLED WHILE DRIVING ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS. POWER STEERING IS LOST. VEHICLE WILL THEN START RIGHT BACK UP. THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS FOR A MINIVAN USED TO TRANSPORT MULTIPLE CHILDREN. NO C…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are engine problems common on the Volkswagen Routan?
Yes — 317 of 771 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the engine. One owner reported: “The contact owns a 2009 Volkswagen Routan. The contact received notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V194000 (Electrical System) however, the parts to do the recall repair were not yet availab…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are electrical problems common on the Volkswagen Routan?
Yes — 319 of 771 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the electrical. One owner reported: “The contact owns a 2009 Volkswagen Routan. The contact received notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V194000 (Electrical System) however, the parts to do the recall repair were not yet availab…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
What tyres does the Volkswagen Routan (2009–2014) use?
The original OEM tyre size for the Volkswagen Routan (2009–2014) is 215/55 R16. Compatible alternative sizes: ["245/45R19", "225/65R17", "225/65R16"]. See the Tyres section on this page to compare offers from the main suppliers.
What is the right battery for the Volkswagen Routan (2009–2014)?
The battery specified for the Volkswagen Routan (2009–2014) is group H6 (BCI), with a cold cranking rating of 600A. See the Battery section on this page for the main cross-references between brands.
What engine oil should I use on the Volkswagen Routan (2009–2014)?
The engine oil specification for the Volkswagen Routan (2009–2014) is Castrol Edge 5W-30. Always use the viscosity grade approved by the manufacturer: a different oil can reduce engine protection and void the warranty. Check the change interval in the Maintenance section.
Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Volkswagen Routan (2009–2014)?
Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.
How often should the Volkswagen Routan (2009–2014) be serviced?
Routine maintenance for the Volkswagen Routan (2009–2014) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.
This spec sheet is updated with data verified from OEM sources and shop databases. If you spot an inaccuracy or have additional data on the Volkswagen Routan (2009–2014), let us know — every correction improves quality for all users.