2012 Volkswagen Routan

○ Not enough data
2012 Volkswagen Routan
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:52:02.910Z

Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

Complaints
63
Recalls
1

Campaigns on file for 2012

Investigations
0

None on file

Top problem
Electrical system

62% of complaints

Complaints per year

2008: 3 complaints 2008 2009: 293 complaints 2009 2010: 240 complaints 2010 2011: 175 complaints 2011 2012: 63 complaints 2012 63 2013: 7 complaints 2013 2014: 2 complaints 2014
2008: 3 complaints 2008 2009: 293 complaints 2009 2010: 240 complaints 2010 2011: 175 complaints 2011 2012: 63 complaints 2012 63 2013: 7 complaints 2013 2014: 2 complaints 2014
2008: 3 complaints 2008 2009: 293 complaints 2009 2010: 240 complaints 2010 2011: 175 complaints 2011 2012: 63 complaints 2012 63 2013: 7 complaints 2013 2014: 2 complaints 2014

2012: 63 complaints

View as data table
YearComplaints
20083
2009293
2010240
2011175
201263
20137
20142

Known problem areas

Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.

Electrical system

62% · 39 reports
Show complaint excerpts

At first it starts off the vehicle will just shut off while you are driving which is very dangerous I have read many people complaining about this it needs to be recalled then the brakes go and then the transmission seal I have done all the...

NHTSA ODI report, 2023-12-17

Also filed under Service brakes

Takata recall. Having problems starting van on first try. Van will stall a few times before starting. Sometimes the battery is drain. Battery has been tested=good! This has been happening for 3 months.

NHTSA ODI report, 2017-10-30

My husband was at a light and pressed the gas to go, when he noticed that he entire vehicle had turned off. Steering, brakes, and all electrical.

NHTSA ODI report, 2013-05-06

Also filed under Steering and service brakes

Engine

33% · 21 reports

Steering

13% · 8 reports

Fuel/propulsion system

13% · 8 reports

Service brakes

11% · 7 reports

Safety timeline

1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

  1. R
    2012-04-20Suspension12V147000 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…

    Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the right rear hub and bearing assembly, free of charge. The safety recall began on April 20, 2012. Owners may contact Volkswagen at…

Buy-smart checklist

2012 Volkswagen Routan — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

  • Electrical system: 39 reports on file for this year.
  • Engine: 21 reports on file for this year.
  • Steering: 8 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

  • Recall 12V147000 · Suspension

FAQ

Is the 2012 Volkswagen Routan reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2012 Volkswagen Routan?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 62% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2012 Volkswagen Routan have?
1 recall on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.