2012 Volkswagen Routan Problems: 3 Known Issues
2012 model year · 1,290+ owner reports · Updated October 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,290+ owner reports, the 2012 Volkswagen Routan has 3 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure ($300-$1,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure with 500 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $200 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 3 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls3 recalls
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
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 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. Road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
SUSPENSION:REAR
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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Volkswagen Routan problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,290+ owner reports, the 2012 Volkswagen Routan has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure, Transmission Shudder and 'Routan Shake', Steering Column Clockspring Failure. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Volkswagen Routan reliable?
The 2012 Volkswagen Routan has 3 known issues documented across 1,290+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Volkswagen Routan problems?
Repair costs for known Volkswagen Routan issues range from $200 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure, typically costs $300-$1,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2009-2014 Volkswagen Routan TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure?
As a rebadged Chrysler Town & Country, the Routan inherits the notorious TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) failure that plagued Chrysler/Dodge minivans. The TIPM is the main fuse box and relay center that controls virtually every electrical system. When it fails, symptoms ra… Repairs typically run $300-$1,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2009-2014 Volkswagen Routan Transmission Shudder and 'Routan Shake'?
Routan owners widely report a characteristic shudder during acceleration and at cruising speeds, which one owner reports a VW engineer called the 'Routan shake'. The 62TE 6-speed automatic transmission (shared with Chrysler) develops torque converter shudder and rough shifts. Som… Repairs typically run $200-$3,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2009-2014 Volkswagen Routan Steering Column Clockspring Failure?
The clockspring in the steering column — the spiral cable that connects the steering wheel airbag, horn, and cruise control to the vehicle — is a common failure point on the Routan (inherited from the Chrysler Town & Country platform). When it fails, the horn stops working, cruis… Repairs typically run $300-$700. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.