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Volkswagen · Known Issues

2010 Volkswagen Routan Problems: 4 Known Issues

2010 model year · 1,640+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,640+ owner reports, the 2010 Volkswagen Routan has 4 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure ($300-$1,500 repair) and Ignition Switch Turns Off While Driving (Recall) ($0-$0 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.

In This Article

  • Routan Electrical2
  • Routan Transmission1
  • Routan Suspension1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Electrical2
  • Transmission1
  • Suspension1
  • Recalls3
  • FAQ

All 4 Known Issues

Filter:
ALL YEARS201420132012201120102009
Community reported
500 owners

On the 2009-2014 Volkswagen Routan, 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 range from the fuel pump relay sticking (causing the fuel pump to run continuously) to random electrical failures affecting windows, wipers, horn, and starting. The fuel pump relay issue is a fire hazard.

Common Symptoms

  • Fuel pump runs continuously even with engine off
  • Vehicle won't start — no crank
  • Random electrical failures (windows, wipers, horn)
  • Headlights or tail lights malfunction
  • Airbag warning light on
  • Battery drains overnight

How to Fix

If the fuel pump runs continuously (even with engine off), disconnect the battery and have the vehicle towed. Do NOT drive with a stuck fuel pump relay — it is a fire risk. The TIPM can be replaced ($800-$1,200 for parts, $200-$400 labor) or repaired by specialists who rebuild the relay sections ($300-$500). Chrysler issued recalls for some affected vehicles, but VW-badged Routans may have different coverage. Check with both VW and Chrysler recall databases.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • XeMODeX VW.1070 Routan TIPM mail-in repair service

    repair the vehicle's matched original module after external loads, wiring, power, ground and network causes are ruled out Fitment/availability: 2009-2013 Volkswagen Routan original Continental TIPM only; confirm module label, diagnosed i…

    XeMODeX

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • WarningIf the fuel pump runs with the key off, disconnect the battery IMMEDIATELY — a stuck fuel pump relay is a fire hazard.
  • TipSpecialist TIPM repair shops can rebuild the failed relay sections for $300-$500, much cheaper than a new $1,200 TIPM.
  • TipCheck both VW and Chrysler recall databases — the Routan shares the Town & Country's TIPM issues and may be covered under Chrysler recalls.
Typical repair cost:$300 - $1,500

Research This Issue

Based on 500 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence500 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
Community reported
350 owners

On the 2009-2014 Volkswagen Routan, vW recalled 18,500 model year 2009 Routans where the ignition switch can inadvertently turn from the 'Run' position to 'Off' or 'Accessory' if the keychain is heavy or due to road vibrations. When the ignition turns off, the engine shuts down and all safety systems (airbags, power steering, power brakes) are deactivated, creating an extremely dangerous situation. This is a variant of the same type of ignition switch issue that affected Chrysler/Dodge minivans of the same era, as the Routan is a rebadged Chrysler Town & Country.

This issue also affects: Porsche Panamera

Common Symptoms

  • Engine shuts off suddenly while driving
  • All dashboard warning lights illuminate simultaneously
  • Loss of power steering and brakes
  • Key turns easily to off position
  • Airbag warning light may stay on

How to Fix

Check if your Routan is covered by the ignition switch recall. Until the recall repair is completed, Volkswagen recommends driving with only the ignition key on the keyring — no additional keys, keychains, or heavy fobs. The dealer will replace the ignition switch at no cost. If you experience an engine shutdown while driving, shift to Neutral and steer to a safe location.

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Owner tips & cautions

  • WarningUntil the recall is performed, use ONLY the ignition key — remove all other keys and keychains from the ring.
  • TipCheck your VIN at vw.com/recalls or NHTSA.gov to see if the recall has been completed on your vehicle.
Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

Research This Issue

Based on 350 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence350 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
Community reported
450 owners

On the 2009-2014 Volkswagen Routan, routan owners widely report a characteristic shudder during acceleration and at cruising speeds, referred to as the 'Routan shake' even by VW engineers. The 62TE 6-speed automatic transmission (shared with Chrysler) develops torque converter shudder and rough shifts. Some owners have had multiple transmission replacements that still exhibit the problem. The transmission's torque converter lockup clutch is particularly prone to shudder during light-throttle cruising.

This issue also affects: Audi A4 Avant, Audi A4, Audi S6

Common Symptoms

  • Shuddering during light acceleration
  • Vibration at 35-50 mph cruise speed
  • Rough or harsh gear changes
  • Hesitation when accelerating from a stop
  • Slipping sensation between gears

How to Fix

Try a complete transmission fluid and filter change using ATF+4 fluid — this resolves shudder in many cases. If shudder persists, the torque converter may need replacement. Some owners report improvement with a transmission adaptation reset (done with a scan tool). In severe cases, a remanufactured transmission ($2,000-$3,500) may be necessary. Ensure any work uses Chrysler/Mopar ATF+4 fluid, not generic ATF.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • WIX 58128 62TE automatic-transmission filter kit

    replace the in-pan filter and supplied seals during a diagnosis-supported 62TE pan-drop service Fitment/availability: 2009-2014 Volkswagen Routan with Chrysler 62TE: 2009-2010 3.8L/4.0L and 2011-2014 3.6L; crosses OE 68018555AA and Volks…

    PartsGeek
  • STP licensed ATF+4 automatic-transmission fluid, one quart

    refill only the drained 62TE service quantity with the required ATF+4 specification Fitment/availability: Licensed ATF+4 fluid for the Routan Chrysler 62TE; purchase quantity must follow measured drain volume and the factory level proced…

    AutoZone

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • TipUse ONLY Mopar ATF+4 fluid — the 62TE transmission is very sensitive to fluid type and generic ATF will make problems worse.
  • TipA full fluid and filter change ($250-$400) resolves the shudder in about 60% of cases — try this before replacing the torque converter.
Typical repair cost:$200 - $3,500

Research This Issue

Based on 450 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence450 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
Community reported
340 owners

On the 2009-2014 Volkswagen Routan, 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, cruise control becomes inoperative, and the airbag warning light illuminates because the driver's airbag is no longer connected. This is a safety issue since the airbag will not deploy in a crash.

Common Symptoms

  • Airbag warning light illuminated on dash
  • Horn does not work
  • Cruise control buttons inoperative
  • Steering wheel audio controls not working
  • Clicking noise when turning steering wheel

How to Fix

Replace the clockspring assembly ($150-$300 for parts, $200-$400 for labor). This requires careful airbag handling — disconnect the battery and wait 2 minutes before working near the airbag. After replacement, the airbag warning light may need to be reset with a scan tool. Some Chrysler recalls covered clockspring replacement — check if your Routan VIN is eligible.

What you need to fix it

Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.

  • Dorman 525-130 airbag clockspring assembly

    restore the driver-airbag, horn and wheel-control circuits after an SRS scan and circuit tests confirm an open clockspring Fitment/availability: 2009-2014 Volkswagen Routan; confirm original 7B0959654E/F/G/H/J/K or listed Chrysler interc…

    PartsGeek

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases; other part links may also earn au7o a commission. Confirm fitment by VIN before buying.

Owner tips & cautions

  • WarningAn airbag warning light means the airbag may NOT deploy in a crash. Do not delay this repair.
  • TipCheck if Chrysler clockspring recalls cover your Routan — the parts are identical to the Town & Country.
Typical repair cost:$300 - $700

Research This Issue

Based on 340 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence340 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
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.

Campaign #15V19400001/04/2015

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.

Campaign #12V14700005/04/2012

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 1,640+ owner reports, the 2010 Volkswagen Routan has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure, Ignition Switch Turns Off While Driving (Recall), Transmission Shudder and 'Routan Shake'. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Volkswagen Routan reliable?

The 2010 Volkswagen Routan has 4 known issues documented across 1,640+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) Failure and Ignition Switch Turns Off While Driving (Recall). 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 $0 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 Ignition Switch Turns Off While Driving (Recall)?

VW recalled 18,500 model year 2009 Routans where the ignition switch can inadvertently turn from the 'Run' position to 'Off' or 'Accessory' if the keychain is heavy or due to road vibrations. When the ignition turns off, the engine shuts down and all safety systems (airbags, powe… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

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.

Data sourced from 1,640+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #11V15100001/03/2011

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

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, referred to as the 'Routan shake' even by VW engineers. The 62TE 6-speed automatic transmission (shared with Chrysler) develops torque converter shudder and rough shifts. Some owners… 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.