Top 5 Failures of the Volkswagen Touareg

[@slowboat6021]

had our 2004 V10 for 6 years, its towed a camper trailer over at more than 20000km of Australia's roughest dirt roads. its got 260k km on it and runs like a train, it's a beautiful car to drive. I'd get another one for sure. Sure it's high maintenance, I do all the servicing myself which saves a lot of dough. Going to a dealer for repairs is an impoverishing experience... But if it payed for your learnings Mr Humble, it was money well spent.

[@tgozanski]

Three years ago I bought a 2004 Touareg with 115k for $1400. It was a gamble since the car was obviously not taken care of by the original owner (a doctor). After spending about $500 to fix the air-ride and other minor issues, I'm happy to say that this was one of my best deals ever. I've logged 50k and haven't had anything serious go wrong, although one of the rear windows doesn't work, hatch only works after clicking button multiple times, and the check engine light has never gone off as well as tire monitoring. The power of the V8 is astonishing and it always starts. I will drive it until the wheels come off and feel I have a long time left. Great Car!!

[@ryanfay1]

Timonius G to open the rear hatch with the fob you have to hold it for 3 secs then open it.

[@panama-canada]

It always starts lol. If you have to mention this on a modern vehicle… well….

[@UnitedLoyalist]

​@@panama-canada 2004,but yeah, you'd be surprised at how many just decide when they do or dont😂

[@yolowrue2582]

How’s the 4.2 treating you? Did you have to do the chains? Looking at a 06 touareg 4.2 with 80k miles

[@mexglx]

Almost same thing. I bought an '04 V8 from a doctor. Mine was unloved too. I paid a bit more than you but interior was pretty nice except buttons. I have done the timing belt, all the fluids and filters, brakes, tires. A few real PITA issues like a BCM that melted down, a aux water pump that was pushing coolant into the wiring harness and had to rebuild the Tranny valve body. I think I can get 50K miles out of this now. I have 4 corner air, I also did the RF air spring after it failed. Every now and then I have a different thing to fix. Like the TPMS module and sensors when I did the tires. I got steering wheels buttons from a junker that were pristine, tow hitch from a junker. They know me well at the local pick-n-pull to get cheap modules and buttons etc.

[@brawlioelias]

Dude you literally described all the issues I have been dealing with the last 4 years. I do love the car tho but it's becoming more expensive to maintain at over 150k miles. Still will keep it as my post apocalyptic vehicle...

[@kelvinp7899]

VW just bought back my 2012 TDI with 80,000 miles. With the exception of the Def heater, which I got reimbursed, absolutely nothing went wrong with it. I was on my third set of tires and second brakes. Regularly got over 30mpg. I'm actually here because I'm thinking on buying an older one, love these things.

[@hulk1406]

2005 Touareg VR6 with 192k miles. I daily this thing 50 miles a day. Planning a 2000 mile trip this coming year. I love this damn thing.

[@95blckfirebird1]

Hi, have you ever had an issue where your car shutters, jerks or gets stuck at 40mph at a low rpm?

[@mfgunit]

Just bought 04 Touareg V8, 140k miles, I'm lovvvvvvvviiiingggg it.

[@alexg8460]

Hey man how is the toureg , do you have any problems?

[@TheCoolOwen]

My employer has a 04 Touareg V8 as a company car and I got to drive it for the first time. About 155k miles. It’s an interesting unit to drive and my favorite company car.

[@rileyshane78]

You will not love it long

[@Kiwiprofesor]

how's it going?. I'm looking at a 2005 with 150k

[@mfgunit]

@@Kiwiprofesor I sold my touareg this summer for 2k. One of the Catalytic converters crapped out, and it was more to replace it than the car was worth.

[@tahirbaig7998]

I still drive a 2011 touareg and runs like a charm at 270k km

[@itsthenewsouth]

Loving my 2005 Touareg V8, guess the previous owner dealt with all that crap cuz mine runs like a beast, even at 176K mi.

[@jkeith7848]

haha, I have an 06 and the previous owner dealt with nothing, I'm dying over all the issues, but love my car to bits!

[@rileyshane78]

My wife had one and it was the worst money pit. Terrible terrible terrible car.

[@itsthenewsouth]

@@rileyshane78 Wasn't long after that post I went through multiple batteries within months, and eventually sold it. Great features and solid build, but agreed, a money pit.

[@czanel4899]

Listening to your brain droppings is like reliving history of my 2004 v10 tdi. Only three problems out of your list i experienced. Still THE BEST CAR/TRUCK I EVER OWNED.

[@KENNYNGB]

thanks for the input, just got mine 2004 90000, we shall see

[@hollistarnes5578]

I love my 2013 TDi...bought it used, so I have had a few maintenance issues. Overall I love this car; it gets great mph on the highway, great pick up, awesome towing capacity, luxury interior.

[@mikemiklavic1930]

Holli Starnes how’s it been I’m looking at a 2012 for my girlfriend any issues and how’s your mpg?

[@jnetwork7159]

X2 on that. Are you pulling over 30mpg on the highway? Looking at a '13 for my wife. Thanks!

[@rinabeean]

⁠@@jnetwork7159I have a 2014 TDi and I am extremely happy with it. I get over 30 highway mph. Has a 26.5 gallon tank I believe so I get about 600 miles per tank, though it is expensive to fill up, around 135 where I live. I do mostly standard road driving though with lots of stoplights so my fuel lasts a super long time. My oil cooler just went out, the thing basically exploded and I’m paying 2400 to have it fixed at the moment but it’s worth it. The thing is a freakin tank unlike all these newer cars that have literal styrofoam in the bumpers. Handles like a dream, even if you wanna speed. It’s probably my favorite car I have ever owned. No electrical problems or anything like this guy mentions, I’m at 98k miles and she’s still going strong outside of the oil cooler.

[@TheHonarable1]

I've fixed a few things on my 06 V8 but reguardless, I really love this truck! I have the air suspension with locking center and rear diffs. Its can tow more than most vehicles its size, it's can tackle some serious off road situations and on top of all of that, its a great family car that isn't out place at an expensive restaurant. Its hard to find a vehicle that does everything well, even today. I think the early Touaregs with the all those early options will eventually be classics.

[@ogalief]

I'm looking at buying the exact same car (2004-2006 V8). One thing that I want to know is, how do you find the audio quality? Is it better than most cars, or is it pretty average?

[@TheHonarable1]

+Kyran I would say the audio quality is slightly above average. The problem is the navigation system is extremely antiquated. It takes many inputs to enter new destinations and of course the map is nothing special. What I ended up doing was connecting my phone via Bluetooth to the aux input and I only use the stock hey do you need as an amplifier. I use my phone for navigation and to stream music.

[@TheHonarable1]

+Kyran I meant to say I use the stock head unit as an amplifier

[@ogalief]

Thanks for getting back to me on that, I read a few places that the nav system is a huge pain in the arse. Thank God we have Google maps on our phones! I was also reading that you can upgrade the nav system on the early Touaregs to the newer RNS-510 from the 2009 models. You apparently need an adaptor though. The nice thing is that it shows the navigation directions in the instrument cluster and you can control the Bluetooth through the steering wheel. Once I get the car, I'm definitely going to consider upgrading the head unit.

[@TheHonarable1]

+Kyran yeah that's true the multifunction display does display the directions in the instrument cluster but I decided to go to Bluetooth route so I don't even use it. Good luck with your search and let us know how that head unit swap goes. Take care

[@johnmccarley8416]

Former fellow VW tech too. right when the touaregs came out, 12 recalls within the first year. But still love them.

[@tnycman]

All the things you mentioned, i had with my Touareg, great car but so much hassle.

[@lifeliver9000]

My Touareg is awesome it now has 300,000km on the clock and pull a large boat all over the country and I do off road. Flawless 2005 model. I’ve decided to drive it into the ground as it ticks all the boxes so this might take along time. Will buy again for sure.

[@kylestarfaux]

These types of videos are so helpful for consumers looking to purchase a new vehicle. I wouldn't buy a Touareg regardless but it's really awesome that an experienced tech like you will take the time to share information like this. However, I would think that Volkswagen wouldn't be too happy with one of their techs making videos like this. Do you not have any concerns about angering VW or your specific dealership when making these types of videos?

[@HumbleMechanic]

+theo retical First off, thank you so much for the kind words. As far as the VW thing. I don't worry about it. I am SURE there are people in the VW world that HATE what I do. And there is an open invite to anyone to be on the show. If they would like to provide a different prospective That is awesome. Plus I knew from day one of Humble Mechanic, it may cost me my job. I report on my experience. Some times that is super positive.Other times it is not. That is just how it is. There are a lot of VW corp folks that love the show. My dealer is another situation. They discount what I do. They can't understand how some random tech can build a following. The truth is, it works out better for me that way. The less companies understand what I do, the less I have to compete with them. That is better for them too. Because in a contest, I would destroy them. I realize that comes off as smug, but it's the truth.

[@kevinbeck6419]

I own one an love it an suv that weighs a lot 6,494 lbs an can still do 155 mpg 0 to 60 in 7.8 sec an i have no had a prob with it

[@yurets3400]

T6

[@spinnetti]

lol.. We were one of the first suckers; We still have our 04' v6. On delivery it had 1/2 gallon of water in a taillight, and nobody knew how to replace it. Once we got beyond the driveshaft failure, trans software issues, hvac blower motor, sun roof leaks, seat airbag wiring, horrible remote range (still sucks), wood trim cracked, TPMS and light bulb issues, and non-stop 4wd workshop faults its been just fine. Our tires and brakes have been great and never had to have it aligned - couple sets of tires and only one set of new front rotors (never replaced rears), one battery, Cats twice (that sucked as second time was not warranty), one alternator, and belt/plugs/coil packs in 12 years (engine has been flawless). Removed and de-coded TPMS to eliminate that, and driveshaft was replaced under warranty. Bulbs have still been a pain, and the headlight extractors both broke (had to cut them off). Worst has been the trans where you give it gas trying to pull out in traffic and absolutely nothing happens.. scary as *&^T! Still herky-jerky in the trans, but still runs and drives pretty much same as new. Seems horrible when I think back on it, but it's still tight and drives nice and tows my race car just as well as day one - but trailer lights won't work right lol. Update... Had a coil pack pop and just did a fuel pump. Still like the damn thing! (had a coil pop in my 13' Bug too - what's up with these damn things? - been going bad for 20 years now... would think they'd have them figured out by now). 2017 - had the rear seat belt failure where I had to unbolt the belt to get the seat up. Had a 2nd drive shaft (cheap parts now) and had a devil of a time getting the old one out. Still have it though, 14 years so far! lol

[@quintonulm2435]

Still have it? Lol

[@TheRealMrRoboto]

I have one... I'd never let it go for the world... Best SUV ever.... v10 TDI... MONSTER Torque... amazing handling.

[@S42069]

2 years later.. is the story the same?

[@gedd6750]

I too have a V10 ,great car ,had mine tuned as well ,will destroy most cars.

[@rowlandaloriba6931]

TheRealMrRoboto I have one and it's a shit car for repairs.

[@marinusscholtz9342]

Me too, same V10. Will never sell it!

[@jnsweat11]

I'm getting ready to buy v10 tdi

[@kentforde]

you are a touareg god! 2004 V8. I HAD TO CUT THE Back seatbelt. i was crying during your video. it covered All everything! loVE YOU! GOT TO BE one of the best touareg Messiahs!

[@dekaem66]

The V8 also had bad ground cables from the engine mount to the frame. The welded connection of the cable will develop high resistance and drop up to a volt and a half. I’ve done several vacuum and tandem pumps for oil leaks on V10s. V6 TDIs have oil leak problems at the oil pan. The apparent fix is replacing bolts and coating the new ones with sealant.

[@alexgray1905]

For whatever is worth, we have a 2013 Tuareg TDI, basic model absolutely no options which now has 105,000 miles on it. The vehicle has performed without any problems except for the adblue heater which was replace at no charge. We buy new tires every two years, do the prescribed maintenance but change the oil and filter every 5,000 miles as opposed to 10,000 miles. I could not be happier with this VW vehicle. We purched this car brand new from VW ... and they gave us $$$ back after the diesel gate :)

[@HumbleMechanic]

We love our 2015! It’s had a few emissions things that required replacement. But it’s been under warranty

[@mikeb8344]

Dash blower motor has been replaced on both mine (07 VR6 and 08 FSI V8)...might want to add that. Some of my personal solutions are BF Goodrich All Terrian TA's for the tire issue (had mine on for nearly 60k), Vertex Solution for center main bearing, and I understand you can delete TPMS. My general rule is fewer options fewer headaches.

[@Bsaint]

Had a Tiguan was fun but love my Touareg probably the best car I've ever owned.

[@Joseph-fe8zw]

I absolutely love them! Don’t think I could drive anything else.

[@HM-rx2hx]

I have 05 5.0 Treg with ABT package. Really good handling and goes like a rocket.

[@kald1523]

Had almost all of these problems with my 05 V8, still love the thing to death

[@moriahmulamba4510]

is it still a good car my parents want to buy it for me for a first car im a teenager?

[@cesarreyes2845]

This my first VW Touareg I've put 75k before I had a rear ended I was so happy with VW drove the Touareg to The Grand Canyon Yosemite and sequoia. It felt like the Vw own the road I felt like I could drive it the way I wanted and the vehicle would responded to my commands without any trouble overall I've never been so happy about a car I always tend to find something about cars that I've driven but with the Touareg I honestly couldn't find anything I was very happy with this Vw sorry I found something maintenance is very expensive but it's necessary to keep your vehicle in good working condition

[@EC-ol8nz]

VW mechanic, job security 😄 great overview!

[@GERntleMAN]

I am surprised how reliable my 2004 R5 manual is. Bought it with 265.000km and did a lot of bushings, two wheel bearings, a propshaft (I damaged the old one while doing wheel bearings), all brakes and a big service. Basically what I always do when buying a car. Air compressor for the suspension for 250€, two valves in the struts for 25€ and a few plastic covers. Some little electrical stuff like rebuilding the softclose motor on the bootlid but all in all, great car. We deove 6100km from Lübeck to Nafpaktos in Greece through Italy and back and consumed on average 7,9L/100km. Can't complain for 275/45 19 wheels and fully loaded close to 3t. Once you've done everything after ~250.000km, you're good to go for the next 100-200k. And considering it is really cheap to buy, it doesn't hurt to be thorough. Bought mine in sorry state for 3500€ and invested 2000€ so far. That is a joke. That's one or two services on a new car and I did three already

[@Jsailor1210]

Loving my 2016 Touareg! Absolutely beautiful car, amazing ride, and tows great too.

[@AhmadK100.]

How's 2017 touareg Wolfsburg?

[@ellebass6988]

What have you been able to tow with it?

[@Jsailor1210]

@@ellebass6988 I have a 22 foot boat. With trailer it weighs 5600lbs

[@C_R_O_M________]

The problem with this testimony is that it comes from a VW mechanic where he encounters ONLY troubled vehicles. I don't think that the majority had those issues.

[@HumbleMechanic]

WOW, of all these "TOP 5 Fails" videos I have done, you are the first person to take that side of the table. THANK YOU! I can attest that in 2004 almost all the Touaregs had those issues. But from then on, they have been pretty good.

[@vadimnesen8060]

C_R_O_M__________ I found a chart somewhere online that shows reliability by year and some cars are horrible one year and great the next. I guess buying new cars is risky. preowed seems to be the smart choice :)

[@C_R_O_M________]

vadim nesen indeed. I follow the rule of never purchasing a first year production vehicle. Let them pass the early "illnesses" on somebody else's hands, let the reports fill the internet about (un)reliability. It's safer and much more economical to buy a properly maintained used vehicle.

[@mrb9642]

Question: On the TDI’s, what’s the overall reliability of these engines? Seems to me that these should go well over 300k miles, but I’ve heard rumors of issues with the NOX sensor, turbo’s and timing chains. The biggest issue is that the mechanics that understand and can diagnose and repair is slim. When they are working fine, the TDI Touareg is an absolute beast.

[@atx-cvpi_99]

I would stay away from the V10 TDI Touaregs.

[@jasperjordan6972]

Thank you very informative and as a 08 Touareg v6 owner this car is scary when it's good it's a great car but when you have to work on it it's a nightmare

[@tuolumne9]

Touareg is expensive to repair but it still a great ass car. Triple sealed doors, AMAZING body build quality, and refinement that far outclasses anything else in the immediate class. Not to mention, most of these issues were resolved with Touareg 2, which was a huge seller in Europe, Russia, and China. Hardly a car that was a sales failure.! Oh yeah! Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne share this platform. People don't bitch about their "problems" as much as Touareg. Problems are very real with TReg, but the bitching has a lot to do with people expecting Toyota Highlander simplicity and reliability from what is essentially not only a luxury SUV, but a super-premium luxury SUV. Same goes for Phaeton.

[@MigPinho]

vw toareg

[@davidhancock91]

I had an 04, V8 petrol. No serious problems . Some of the plastics were cheap and fiddley. Car overall Was solid and reliable. No electrical issues. Sold it with 230,000km on it. Went like a rocket, terrible fuel economy. Now I have a 2011 3l TDI . Great car. Aircon fan replaced at 200,000km. Very smooth, quiet, powerful and economical. Everything works perfectly after 211,000km. Tyres wear exceptionally well for a 2.2t SUV. Perelli Scorpions have just been rotated balanced and aligned after 27,000km , minimal wear. Replaced the original battery after 11 years. Not bad longevity. I am about to replace all fluids and filters, and intend keeping it for quite a few more years.

[@MrVerdugo17]

Thank you for the videos keep up the good work I just bought my 2005 with 136,000 miles everything is fine well-maintained I checked the records Carfax one owner do you think if I continue with all the services I can hit 200k?

[@zackzuniga4716]

I have a 2005 v8 as well at 126,000 miles. Just had a clunking noise happen under the center console, might be a propshaft or driveshaft thing, not sure yet. Sounded like I was dragging something underneath around 40-60 mph. It's going to be taken into the shop next week.

[@quadpit]

In my experience a lot of VW issues are hit and miss. I owned a 2004 Golf TDI for 12 years, almost 200,000 miles and it was a great car. Replaced broken front spring, did the timing belt/water pump at 100k, typical maintenance and it was super reliable, great fuel economy with that diesel torque that I hauled my quads with on trailer while still getting over 40 mpg. Others complained about reliability but mine was outstanding although when something went wrong it seemed like it was twice as expensive and twice as complicated to repair. I can see that for the Touareg as well but the electrical would make me worried as tracking down those issues can be extremely frustrating. I would love a Touareg but will stick with my FJ Cruiser for now but do envy the luxury of the VW.

[@CowenJE]

batteries in my touareg tires have lasted 9 years replaced and still working on 2004 VW

[@jeffreytrias9950]

2004 Touareg (former) owner here. And had major problems with mine. TPMS battery needed change every year! New tires every 15 months. Drive shaft problem happened at 66000 miles. KESSY system failed and cause 2 battery changes and 3 calls for jump starts in 6 months!

[@jasonk2732]

What your thoughts on the 3.0 TDI engine in the early second gen?(2009/2010)

[@Thepandorasbox]

Did you pull the trigger? I'm looking at a 2015 TDI

[@ZacharyRocket]

Just bought a 2016 Lux TDI Touareg at 86,000 miles. Using the CarFax report, I believe the transmission fluid was never changed. I know on the 2L TDI with DSG the transmission came with the leveling straw behind the drain on the DSG transmission. I'm wondering if it is the same story or should be the same story for these 8 speed transmissions from Japan. BTW you're awesome! Thanks for all the pointers and insights!

[@15venzan]

Good Video. 04 Touareg V8 owner. You nailed it man

[@HumbleMechanic]

LOL Thank you. It was a tough time for that car.

[@e34mpower525i]

HumbleMechanic so probably a dumb question but looking at purchasing a Touareg and was wondering I imagine most of the electrical gremlins have been figured out and there are fixes for them for the early generation am I correct assumption? Also are there any ways to get around the tires/alignment issues i.e specific brand of tires etc thanks in advance

[@eranadavis1440]

Toureg are one of the most underrated 4 x Wheel Drive SUV out there .These things are just great

[@desertwind16v]

I really wanted to do the VW or Audi program at UTI (I actually went around the same time as you, although at the Chicago location) but after watching a bunch of your videos on these problems in kind of glad I ended up at Toyota. Don't get me wrong we have our fair share of problems, but some of yours seem like a nightmare in comparison. Keep up the great job on your videos. I love what you do on your channel, super entertaining and being a fellow tech I relate to pretty much everything.

[@HumbleMechanic]

+desertwind16v right on man. Funny, that's the same campus I went to. I finished in late 03.

[@desertwind16v]

+HumbleMechanic Wow that's pretty wild! I did in April of 04, small world. If you somehow remember seeing a black Scirocco in the parking lot, that was mine.

[@HumbleMechanic]

+desertwind16v hell yeah. I finished up the VW program in Feb of 04. At the time I drive a blue 91 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX.

[@antonlancevic652]

German Touareg GP V10 TDI @2008, 186Kkm, 2 times changed propshaft bearings, once DPF filters, no other issues, just service it according to manual(changing of oil/battery/filters/etc).

[@neamtialin]

I am looking to get an 08 r50 v10 with 225k km. Would you be confident in such a car?

[@antonlancevic652]

@@neamtialin Depends on previous owner servicing. If I was to buy such a car now, I would like to check injection(correction in groups 13-14 close to +-0 and pumps in 23-24 must have correction between 10 to -50 on 2000rpm) with VCDS as min. as well as turbo performance (if boost and air quantity is equal between cylinder banks during acceleration on a 3rd gear in manual mode from 1700rpm to 3000 rpm (i.e. in VCDS logging to file mode)). I would also insist on opening cylinder head cover to check state of camshafts, it is very much common practice that people don't change oil in right interval (it's not just 15000km it is 15Kkm OR 250 hours of driving whatever comes first) and camshafts dying as a result. Another must have check is to play with suspension i.e. max low and max high (xtreme level) at least 2 times to see that it is ok (no errors, compressor is not working all the way round). Do not forget to check voltage on running engine (13.8-14V is a must) otherwise alternator has a problem. Also lock central diff and do some driving on a parking, it should not produce strange sounds and no error must appear. R50 engine(CBWA) is the same as other euro4 V10 tdi (BLE) except it has injectors from 2.5TDI (Touareg R5, Transporter) which are better flowing then BLE ones (thus CBWA injectors are cheaper then BLE ones due to higher availability... ) and an ECU with very slightly changed injection quantity on higher RPM.

[@neamtialin]

@@antonlancevic652 Thanks! You seem to know your stuff. My only experience with larger diesels is my previous 2.5 AKE v6, on wich I had to replace the VP44 injection pump and was going to replace the worn out camshafts but somebody totalled the car. I still have the parts though. So in order to touch an r50 will have to sort myself with a VCDS kit, wich was in the plan anyway, once I figure out how to get one form US without paying the ridiculous import tax. At the moment the nearest r50 touareg is in UK, and registering one in Ireland will cost an absolute fortune, an option would be to register it as a commercial vehicle but have to give up the rear seats, wich defeats the purpose for me. The road tax for a private r50 is about 2400€/year here and the insurance is sky high also. Need to become a millionaire before such toys are out of the roads and replaced by teslas.

[@beri232]

Good video. I had considered the Touareg and the Tiguan but after this video I think I'll stay with Toyota and Lexus. Volkswagon charges a hefty price here in Canada and anyone I've talked to that has owned one has sold it and griped about electrical issues. No thanks!

[@HumbleMechanic]

Yea VWs generally require more love than other brands.

[@beri232]

HumbleMechanic .... By love, you mean money. Lol

[@HumbleMechanic]

beri232 yeah that's not wrong. Hahahaha

[@thermalgeothermal451]

beri232 Similar issues with my BMW 5 series.

[@MrErikw26]

BMW Bring Money With you. Beautiful cars though

[@charlesdavid5137]

Oh no! I have an '04 Touareg! I bought it about a year ago and I was seeing some of the TPMS, tire and brake wear already, but I thought that would be the extent of the engineering challenges. I put a new fuel pump in a couple months back and just put a new HVAC blow motor last week. Thanks for the heads up Humble Mechanic! Great video as always! -Charles

[@ogalief]

+Charles David I'm about to buy one of the same year as well, and I am researching the crap out of it! The good thing is that you can get a mechanic plug a VAG-COM into the car and disable the TPMS (you really don't need it anyways). It's a five minute job to do! Also, the original fuel pumps and blower motors in the 2004 were garbage and wore out prematurely. Since you replaced them with more recent and updated parts, you hopefully shouldn't have a problem with them again. Once all the POS parts on the 2004 fail and are replaced with updated parts, the 2004 is generally a pretty reliable truck! Just seems to have a mid-life crisis as all the older designed parts fail

[@charlesdavid5137]

+Kyran Mcgowan I actually recently got VAG COM. It's really a necesity when you have a VW/Audi product. I'll have to look into the TPMS thing. I have to say my overall impression of the 40 valve V8 Touraeg is nothing short of, " this is the most amazing vehicle ever..."I know the parts can be expensive and the repair procedures extensive at times, but this is a great ride and I would buy it all over again if given the opportunity. Bently Manual, VAG-COM, Patience and an open mind.

[@ogalief]

Charles David Man, you're really getting me pumped! And you're right, owning a Touareg (or any VW for that matter) is all about your mindset going in. As long as you do your homework (as you have) and know what you're getting into, you'll have a great experience! Also, I'm looking at the 4.2 V8 as well. The gas mileage isn't that much worse than the V6, and you get ~100 more HP. What a great engine! Can't wait to get this car.

[@charlesdavid5137]

+Kyran Mcgowan I never knew that much about the Touareg, except the funny name, before I bought it. What an amazingly complicated over engineered tough high performance beautiful machine...It began to make a bad noise on start up and I was all ready to buy a new chain tenioner as I began to suspect that component failed. I bought new plastic pads from Gremany in case it was just the pads and an entire gasket set to replace when I did the job. Then I learned that the bolts that hold the cam caps must be replaced and I was about to make that purchase when I read that this is common issue. And if it showed up at the dealership VW would not pay the dealer for the work as the oil bleeding out of the hydraulic tensioner was simply anoying and dissapears as oil pressure builds up.I don't really know what the reality is right now. I plan on eventually doing something to the tensioner system, however I'm recovering from a bad motorcycle accident and I have lost the ability to complete much of what I have begun.

[@ogalief]

Charles David Man, that repair must cost a fortune! Especially since it involves the tensioners (which I hear are really hard to access). Thank god for those sites like Club Touareg, which provides great resources for stuff like that. And sorry to hear about your accident, hope you make a good recovery. But that sorta thing is one of the biggest things that I'm worried about. Since this car is so over-complicated, it's really hard to diagnose some of the problems. Also, does your car have the Kessy system? If so, has it given you any issues, or does it work as it should?

[@funkyfender1]

The name toureg is after an African tribe and it's actually pronounced (I'll write it phonetically) twah reg... just saying!

[@funkyfender1]

Oops Touareg!

[@jpherrmann2617]

thats how they say it in long island too lol

[@leehan73]

Your first spelling was correct for the African tribe, somehow VW managed to add an A into the spelling when it came to naming the car!

[@MrOzozah]

طوارق ط ط ط 🌚

[@wanaraz]

What does TWAH REG Mean?

[@Serps-ii9zc]

I'm kind of surprised no mention of the nightmare of problems the V10 TDI from the Touareg has. I really wanted one when I found out they existed and how much they've depreciated, then I spent a little time on the TDI forums and the internet in general researching them, common problems and what not, never.... never, sooooo many common and somewhat major problems with that engine.

[@luisdelacruz3349]

I loved that SUV. I have a question in my mind about months, which year or generation it's better? I was thinking in a 2008 V8 Touareg.

[@HumbleMechanic]

T3 is best. T2 is still pretty dang good. They are just old so who knows the maintenance history

[@luisdelacruz3349]

@@HumbleMechanic Thanks, after this recommendation, I'm going to buy that 2008.

[@mateomat1788]

@@luisdelacruz3349 how is your 08 touareg running? I'm thinking buying 08 v8 next week

[@luisdelacruz3349]

@@mateomat1788 It's working really good, I recommend, totally.

[@mateomat1788]

@@luisdelacruz3349 thanks for your recomendacion be safe

[@candidemetay1296]

VW owner and I hear ya! Regardless The touareg is a great truck and theres many things to be bragged about as well. When you buy used expect some issues now and then and that goes for any vehicle.

[@rcraigbateman]

2005 V6 165k miles .. still going

[@MrVerdugo17]

Robert Bateman I just bought my yesterday also 2005 136k miles I’ve checked car fax everything was done at a vw deliver well-maintained. No check engine light or nothing! I hope it treats me well.

[@anhelDondee]

Alan verdugo how is the car now?

[@johnclarkbrost]

I have my moms 2005 VR6. The dealer offered her $1k for trade…so I purchased for a dollar. No TPMS. Were now at 250k miles. Starting at about 200k some major items needed replacing. Over the last 10 years I’ve put about 13k into it. Transmission replaced with rebuilt transmission, differential replaced, brakes, fuel pumps, light bulbs, brakes, suspension parts. So it isn’t cheap to fix or run. But these are pretty normal parts of a car that just wear our. I also have all terrain tires because I live in the north and drive all kinds of crazy places with it and pull a boat. Its not the cheapest rig to run but it’s very comfortable and capable. I don’t pay for full coverage. The body hasn’t rusted. It’s dead quite and smooth on my back during long road trips. It’s worth jt. Had I purchased a used QX 80, or Land Cruiser or GX…or ridge line….I’d still have some maintenance…so…I feel like had I even paid $5k…I’d be driving a nice car at a price I can afford.

[@hailawho]

Ditto

[@o5mar1]

clogged a/c drain causing a swimming pool in the car.. those were fun

[@seanfreeman1639]

Got an 04 V8 as a gift. I'm also have a 2002 Toyota sequoia. The Sequoia is very big so it's expensive to fix. So hoping the Toaureg is a little less.

[@LuckyBuff4949]

Please stick to keeping in context to the model YEAR!!!

[@feloniousmonk3049]

I have a 2014 Lux TDI. Battery is 8 years 5 months old, a gnarly 108F heat spell for days straight finally killed it this beginning of Sept 2022. PIA to change out the battery under the drivers seat, it's really heavy in a diesel TDI. It's an infant with 65k miles on it.

[@rafaelmendoza6604]

my 2012 Touareg 3.6L V6 has been solid. Im up at 110k miles. it does wear its brakes pretty rapidly

[@HumbleMechanic]

+Rafael Mendoza the newer gen Touaregs are fantastic

[@HoldDaMayo]

Also love my 2013 V6 Touareg... but yes, goes through brakes quickly!! Water pump went out, covered under warranty.

[@thomaswalters1532]

HumbleMechanic. what do you think of longevity issues of a vw touareg 2011 executive do you thik its a long term good reliable car

[@redzoom7857]

Mike Mayo I bought my '14 Lux brand new and my water pump went out too @ 25k, but warranty, so no biggie. Reliable otherwise.

[@phasehonda]

Thinking to get a used 2012 3.6L V6 FSI. What should I look out for? The mileage done is only around 40,000 miles

[@damionandrew-waenga8065]

I drive a VW Touareg R50 V10 TDI - 218k, rear tailgate arm plays up, new battery at 2k, new brakes at 2k but still the best SUV I've ever driven. Power for towing, power to 4x4 and reliable asf.

[@deZeeuws]

nice video can you make a Top 5 Failures of the Volkswagen golf mk 5 ?

[@HumbleMechanic]

It's next on the list. I actually thought I did that one already. Haha. Thanks for the suggestion

[@Alzandor]

Hey Humble Mechanic, I am thinking of buying a 2015 touareg. Does that model still have the issues you were mentioning. Could you please tell me the issues that year model is known to have

[@jalebjaba1487]

Great video,our abs,tracs on ,and now it’s pulling weird ,it’s A 2005 Touareg. Does the abs ,trac light contributes to the way the engine run. You’re absolutely correct about all you answers,especially getting A technician who knows it. Wish you were reachable. Thanks

[@zac.6960]

Buy a Touareg and you'll never buy anything else!

[@HumbleMechanic]

When they are right, they are awesome

[@nividagt3168]

#Zac. i really want to buy a 3.0 v6 tdi 2007-08 but i dont know if they are reliable

[@jsmaldokj]

@@nividagt3168 yhe v6tdi was a beast, light wieght decent on consumption and all the torque you need plus some more

[@radaflex5217]

I bought Q7 after I own Touareg for 4 years, and I can tell Q7 is much better...

[@lyricalintellectual4life879]

Pain in the ass thats all they are

[@Bori421]

Good Video just bought a 2008 Touareg 2. Hope it treats me well.

[@jayepizzlenyc4171]

Touareg 2 v8 2008 Just got my Cam shaft replaced . Car runs like a beauty. Only thing i hate about this car. Touareg loves premium⛽

[@liulu4523]

Great video for Volkswagen Owner. I'm looking forward a 2014 or newer VR6 Touareg, are those problems also appeared in the new Touareg?

[@bryanpennartz6420]

Ever get a decent answer to this?

[@teddy0139]

I’m also looking for a video about Treg 2. I have 2014 V6 model and can’t find many info about any common problems, so I can prevent them

[@HumbleMechanic]

That’s because they are pretty solid cars.

[@greenstoic4029]

liu lu I’ve had two VR6 Touaregs (2013 and 2012). Both didn’t give me any problems at all and I drove them hard both on and off road. Great trucks.

[@RonGabriel]

We bought a used 2012 Touareg three and half years ago, replaced tyres after 40,000km and didn’t have any of the issues that you spoke of.

[@kamata93]

This is more about the very first years of the Touareg. After the facelift many were resolved. 2gen one (what you have) is much better designed vehicle.

[@intrepidmilotic5999]

I have a 2010 Tiguan 4Motion and thinking about trading it for a 2004 Touareg v6 3.2 because i need some cash now :/ my Tiguan does not have any problems 93k miles on it. what do you think? so many people say Touareg have no problems.

[@NiHaufly]

Well i have Touareg 2004 and it's fantastic idk what people are bitching about? maybey they just don't look for they're cars in the first place and run them down and ruin them.. huh

[@jahonlouie]

I absolutely love my 2009 V6 FSI Touareg. I got lucky with only an older one owner who religiously maintained it. I would say the T2 models are the best in that they have 4xmotion with a real mechanical locking center diff unlike the newer T3 which is all electronic 4motion (Haldex). Also, the T2 (2008-2010) have a lot of fixes and upgrades including a quieter cabin compared to the T1. I'll gladly give up the extra mpg for the added weight if that means I have a locking center differential. :)

[@fatsubsonic]

Incorrect. I have a T3 with *4Xmotion* (low range) 8speed. They do not use Haldex but a Quattro (torsen) with a Normal 38:62 F/R bias upto 20:80 and 60:40 depending on which axle has more traction. I also have a center lock function for 50:50 and if rotate dial another click i also engage the rear Mechanical 100% Lock. I also have height and damping adjustable Air Suspension which is a close loop system for faster adjustments and less chance of contamination, the old system was open to asmosphere. With my spare set of wheels running BFG MT i have never been stuck (so far)

[@qiwang745]

what years of the touareg are these 5 failures focused on

[@jameslarson7452]

Qi Wang 2004

[@johnnieprice3684]

Qi Wang

[@tandesron5346]

Thank God i'm going for 2008 Touareg V6. 200=300HP Properly used and well maintained SUV..

[@jobannycruz9803]

I have the 1Gen V8 love it never getting rid of it.

[@jsmaldokj]

Toureg first gen is one of the best cars ever, also saved my life head on collision at highway speed 70 each vehicle,

[@HumbleMechanic]

things like that make us realize that the little wacky issues, are not that big of a deal. SAFETY is so much more important.

[@jsmaldokj]

@@HumbleMechanic so true, i love that my 20ae gti has atleast 6 airbags for the driver and passenger. No car in my budget we i bought that car offer that.

[@LaurelAndree]

Just bought a 2014 R line with 69,000kms wish me luck! 🎉

[@justmystyle5154]

Bought a used Touareg yesterday brought it home last night the next morning car won't start. checked the battery and it's fine. changed battery on the key pad and still nothing. after a couple times starting the car the key was stuck. Finally got the key out but still won't start. FRUSTRATING! can anyone help?

[@HumbleMechanic]

You really need a VW/Audi scan tool to talk to all the modules. There is a lot that will make a Touareg not start.

[@trayeaton]

Justmystyle 51 Did u ever figure out the issue? Mines is doing the same

[@candidemetay1296]

My key became stuck as well and that happens when the power is down. Press on the brake and the key will release, It worked for me.

[@rileyshane78]

My wife had every problem you listed. The car would not come out of park took it to our local stealership they had no idea. I found it on you tube and fixed it myself. The water was leaking under the front drivers seat and had to splice a a couple wires that had rusted clean through. Put them together the car came right out of park.

[@sixfeethobbit]

Got myself a very low mileage (2500km) 2015 touareg exec vr6 on 20" rims, and looks like the big new issue is the wheel vibration, missed that one on here. A whole blog out there for these new ones with vibration issue. Hopefully vw will fix it as it is still under warranty. Will update if it is fixed.

[@EternalyRandom]

Tires at 10,000? Brakes at 15,000 to 20,000? This is one expensive vehicle to maintain.

[@ourlife4545]

Just replace that shit with better quality shit

[@ramonantoniogonzalezewens6917]

Hey bro... I was very skeptical about asking for help, but not one mechanic in the country where I live in has figured out the problem I have with my Touareg (3.0 v6 tdi)., thing is that my car starts up fine when cold, but it just won’t start when the motor is hot, as if it had battery issues. I just bought a new battery, following a VW technician’s advice (deep in my guts I knew it wouldn’t fix the problem, but I had to give it a try)., the problem has kept even though the battery is new. Every time I drive around for a while, switch it off and try to start it up again, it won’t start... I will have to wait at least 20-30 mins or so to make it start again. Hope you get to read my message and share your useful knowledge and experience. Really appreciate it.

[@cjottovon4371]

Check the fuel pump.

[@ramonantoniogonzalezewens6917]

@@cjottovon4371 Thanks man, I changed battery, starter motor, refurbished the alternator, particulate filter pressure sensor, diesel filter… and the problem persisted. I found a great technician with all the appropriate tools required and took the car to his workshop. It was an electrical issue on one of the fuse boxes, 3 days and the car was ready and fully tested. It has been “such a pain… “ dealing with the Touareg, but it has been behaving well for a while now.

[@AZK303]

Hey man, thanks for the great video! In your experience, was the elecro-failures down to the cabling mainly or due to battery issues such as incompatible models, low voltage, short life...etc. I have noticed these issues with my 2007 car only after I changed the battery. Or is it alot more complicated than just that? Many thanks in advance.

[@jimmymodad7610]

Hey I had the same issues with my 2010 Jetta after battery replacement, what was the problem ? Did you find a solution ? Thanks

[@AZK303]

My problem was solved when I upgraded the Amp by changing the battery. But that was for a 2007 Touareg. Not sure of Jettas suffering from the same issues. If your problem is most obvious during cold days or affecting ignition mainly with fault start..then upgrading the Amp might help.

[@pclayton5063]

2008 V8; Brake booster plastic lines leaking $1500 to replace. Three years and 3k miles later they have cracked again but I caught it before they threw a CEL and sealed the cracks with RTV and electrical tape. Works fine. Headlight wiring disintegrates. Went to change a light bulb and every wire I touched crumbled. Bought new Hella headlights for $800. Wife complained about a "sloshing" noise when she turned corners. VW technician identified the problem as water in the frame.(?) He said something about sunroof drains causing it. 100k miles now and headliner is starting to drop in the back. Clearcoat on the roof just above the windshield and in front of the sunroof started to crumble. Had the top repainted ($700). Three others online in Club had the same problem in the same area with the same color (Galapagos). Just had to replace the battery and picked up a factory battery from the dealer. Bad enough it's located under the seat and dealer wanted $300 to change it (not including the battery cost). Once I got the old one out I found out the VW battery was slightly larger and the positive cable wouldn't connect because it was too short. Had to buy a new cable ($90). The only reason I keep it is because I'm tall and old and it's easy to get in and out of. Never been off road or in low range. (Well I do like the 350HP though.)

[@jaredpmoser]

Interesting. I am thinking of buying a used 2014 Touareg to pull a 4k lbs camper do you think this will be reliable and good to tow this? Also looking at a 2012 Lexus GX 460, or 2014 Q7. Need reliable and can tow 4k into mountains.

[@skylinedrevn]

Can answer for the Lexus, great vehicle.

[@cowlumbus]

The differences between the T1, T2 and T3 are so great that it makes me crazy when people talk about them interchangeably. Please be more specific what you are talking about! Same on the forums...great support out there but people talking between T1 and T3 are talking two different languages.

[@the2120company]

"tech line " WOW, what a fun, authorisation to ship vehicle with failure , funny times!

[@josephbrown8662]

I have a touareg 2005 4.2L for 5 years buy a 260.000klm now 435 ,000 klm no major problem except replace alternator replace 2 suspension table and brake 4 wheels redone also timing belt and water pump everything all work make myself very good car super strong very tank for winter

[@ToneBaltimore]

Any advice on a oil pump for that model

[@johncameron4321]

I got the 2007 V10 it's fantastic

[@TheRealMrRoboto]

They didnt make an 07? only 04 05 06 08???

[@johncameron4321]

TheRealMrRoboto May be different in the USA but I defiantly got a 2007, 5lt 10cyl TDI Touareg.

[@TheRealMrRoboto]

in the USA they might of only been 04 06 and 08. Where are you from? Its sad I Almost bought an R50 from Canada but there were too many issues with import taxes at the time.

[@johncameron4321]

TheRealMrRoboto I am from Scotland. I wouldn't bother with the new Touareg, they no longer make the V10.

[@TheRealMrRoboto]

John Cameron you are a true fan then, the R50 was the special edition V10 TDI

[@corymorrison4488]

Everyone seems to be afraid of working on their Touareg. Just got mine a week ago and the alternator pulley bolt snapped. I replaced the alternator while I was at it. I did it all in my gravel driveway and without pulling the engine. The electrical is a nightmare though...

[@midnight4109]

VW mechanics have the best job security. There is always so much work. I can understand why most of them would never work on anything else.

[@dandubz95]

Watched this because I'm looking at an 04 V8 this week. Off topic one of my weirdest VW electrical issues was bad brake light bulb was causing a glow plug harness fault in a MK4 Golf.

[@HumbleMechanic]

I believe it!

[@joehentalack2443]

well,good vid,but it would be good if you gave away the cure..for each problems???!!!Like the battery tension blem...??what is the cure..??

[@ERICtheLATE]

He did, take it to a shop. Everything you do requires a software reset, so get the repair done by pros, not perfect, but pros.

[@Rlyeh_The_Dead]

Yeah, my parents bought a Touareg. It's currently collecting dust in their garage as it won't turn on even after $1000s in recent repairs... The Audi they drive is perfect so far though

[@glasser2819]

German really go the extra mile to catch customers with short lived parts. I have a '14E35 Benz and watch these vids because the problems are 90% the same 😂

[@lancecpldave]

so is an 05 part of the bad years my wife is about to buy one

[@ramiroaburto8680]

Did you get the vw im thinking in get one but i need some advice

[@Torchi0]

Have you seen about a 08 touareg saying that a tail light bulb has failed but it actually isnt? And then randomly shuts off all the rear lights, not even the 3rd brake light works. Just the rear fog and the turn signals. If I shut down the vehicle and start it again, it will work again for a couple of minutes. Might be the J393?

[@Timpanogos5]

2012 Touareg seems great!

[@bikuda]

you have a TDI?

[@777triathlete]

I love my 2012 Hybrid! I bought it new and now have 104,000 miles on it. Just a few repairs of any consequence.

[@teddy0139]

J D hi, just curious what repairs you did so far on your Treg, and any special maintenance during whole ownership? Which gasoline are you using?

[@777triathlete]

Hi, Pawel. I use the highest premium gas available. As for repairs I've had to have the following done: 1. Replace hybrid battery cable 2. Have pistons cleaned of carbon (the build up was causing a fault light to come on) 3. Replace the catalysts (sadly this was around 102,000 miles after my extended warranty had expired - cost around $3,000). Those are the ones I can think of. One thing to mention - I am now over 105,000 miles and have never had to have a single thing done for my brakes.

[@teddy0139]

J D Hi JD, thanks for detailed response:-) over a 100k miles with only those repairs seems like pretty reliable vehicle. I had 47k so far on mine, but I heard some noise coming from the front wheels while driving. My mechanic told me that those Pirelli tires are known for being loud. But my friend mechanic told me that I may consider changing wheel bearings. Did you have any problem with wheels? What tires are you using?

[@MrKbohip]

I was thinking about buying an '04 V8 Touareg for about $3,000 but even at that price I don't know if it's worth it. It would be used as a third car primarily for hardware store runs and to hook up my small trailer to. The driveshaft bearing is no big deal but I don't want to mess with electrical issues. I've also read that a lot of front diffs develop a whine which means rebuilding with new bearings. Right now I drive an old Nissan Maxima and after 165k miles and 15 years it remains electrical issue free and mechanically perfect. Lol, it's never even had a CEL.

[@aronbennett4760]

Damn... I just bought one. OOPs

[@HumbleMechanic]

By now many have been fixed up nice

[@ClarenceLimon]

Can i ask witch year the best second generation touareg is 11 12 13 14 15 16 or 2017 ??

[@Gunny426HemiPlymouth]

lol tire pressure moniters.... my dad fckin hated them, my dad would always come home bitching about customers,, just drive the damn car!! don't worry about your tire pressure!!! just check them! its simple! lol

[@HumbleMechanic]

+Mopar Volkswagen hahah yeah. But most people today don't do that.

[@RVVASI2024]

Mopar Volkswagen my 2008 has same problem I wish they could shut them off . I had them replaced twice.

[@stevensabo2849]

you can, find some one with vag com to code them out

[@CraigEdmonds]

I have a 2004 R5. I don’t have air pressure sensors. 12 months ago I put 1,000Eur of Michelin tyres. 10k km later they are still new. Not really had any electrical issues even though I have added third party sensors, active sound, Dana in radio, rear subwoofers. Mind you I am in a relatively dry climate in south of Spain and she lives in a garage, never parked outside or used off road. I look after her. Best car in the world as far s I am concerned.

[@gglovato]

¿How in the hells cars this bugged ever go into production?, it's like they don't even bother testing them, like the design finishes, they do a couple days on the prototype and then pass to production, it's shameful they should test a new car "production model" for months or at least a full year before even doing a production run. And not only for the Touareg, but for a lot of other cars with "specific" problems

[@blower1]

+Guillermo Lovato Unfortunate reality of everything nowadays - stuff is pushed out the door as fast as they can, must get sales to recoup costs and then move on to the next model without fixing the previous models problems. Buggy phones, TV receiver boxes, computers, operating systems and cars - everything is full of bugs, unexpected operation or just outright design flaws in the hardware. Very little time is spent fixing the problems as most of the resources are focused on the next model, or other models in the 'way too many' model line up.

[@Kittyfh4]

I think that only happens to cars made in mexico “guillermoo”

[@still34u]

Right... Remember when Ford made a car so bad they had to retire the name Taurus for an entire generation, because people just wouldn't buy it because of the previous gen being garbage?

[@AndreAndFriends]

@@Kittyfh4 touareg is made in EU. Not Mexico. They make lots of good stuff in Mexico. Girls, avocados, tequila, majuana & the list goes on. .... the problem with cars is when u have a gringoes management paying only peanuts, you get donkeys. Not quality cars.

[@AndreAndFriends]

@@Kittyfh4 Sony Trinitrons, made in Mexico. VERY GOOD QUALITY!!!!

[@ding0925]

Im on my way to buy a 05 Touareg in the AM Watching this vid makes me feel better...im a passat guy so the beast will be a step up...i hope?

[@Krnnerdboy]

holy crap, you just scared me back to land rover.

[@NiHaufly]

sheep

[@Krnnerdboy]

NiHaufly meeeeeeehhhhhhhhh ✌

[@vadimnesen8060]

roy kwon oh wow vw must be that bad haha I sometimes want to switch from toyota but any little problem I hear about I get scared back to toyota... there's no going further lol.. best is toyota:)

[@vendettahobbies5769]

We have issues with the exhaust systems freezing up, like literally packing up with ice from the exhaust condensation build up, it would kill the engine (potato in the tail pipe). This happens in cold climate areas if the owner makes short trips.

[@jamocerwin5841]

Love my 7p!

[@ebie97]

Love the videos. I currently own a 2012 jetta 2.0 tdi, one of the most underrated cars and has served me well with no major issues oland issues that were very rare. I'm considering the 2012 - 2015 touareg V6 TDI but do not want to end up breaking the bank every month on repairing the vehicle. Please advise on these models.

[@dannyj1969]

hope its not too late, don't but the touareg unless under full warranty

[@ebie97]

@@dannyj1969 I'm guessing you speak from experience. I really admire these cars and as an outdoor person I just see it as an allround vehicle unless there are other vehicles that are all round vehicles that have good value for money