2006-2020 Volkswagen Touran Problems: 6 Known Issues
2006-2020 model years · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated November 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2006-2020 Volkswagen Touran has 6 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are 1.4 TSI timing chain stretches and rattles on cold start (owner reports) and 7-speed DSG control unit can short out and cut drive — recall GAI-1924 (Japan). DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Volkswagen Touran problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2006-2020 Volkswagen Touran has 6 documented issues. Documented issues include: 1.4 TSI timing chain stretches and rattles on cold start (owner reports), 7-speed DSG control unit can short out and cut drive — recall GAI-1924 (Japan), Panoramic-roof drain water ingress affecting auxiliary-heater connections. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Volkswagen Touran reliable?
The 2006-2020 Volkswagen Touran has 6 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 1.4 TSI timing chain stretches and rattles on cold start (owner reports) and 7-speed DSG control unit can short out and cut drive — recall GAI-1924 (Japan). 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.
What year Volkswagen Touran is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Volkswagen Touran. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2006-2020 Volkswagen Touran with 6 documented issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports.
What is the 2006-2014 Volkswagen Touran 1.4 TSI timing chain stretches and rattles on cold start (owner reports)?
Owners of first-generation Tourans with the 1.4 TSI petrol engine report the timing chain stretching, with a brief rattle right after a cold start. Owners report workshops replacing the chain, and one owner reports the chain failing outright and damaging the engine. Applies to: F… Severity: high.
What is the 2010-2013 Volkswagen Touran 7-speed DSG control unit can short out and cut drive — recall GAI-1924 (Japan)?
On cars with the 7-speed DSG gearbox, the gearbox control unit can short-circuit internally and blow its power-supply fuses. If this happens while driving, the clutch disengages and the car coasts to a stop and cannot drive off again, though braking and steering still work; if it… Severity: high.
What is the 2016 Volkswagen Touran Panoramic-roof drain water ingress affecting auxiliary-heater connections?
HELLA describes a 2016 Touran 2.0 TDI with a panoramic roof where blocked roof drains allowed water to reach footwell electrical connections. Faults 148B/148C were associated with the auxiliary-heater output stage. Roof equipment and the actual leak source must be confirmed; this… Severity: medium.
What is the 2019-2020 Volkswagen Touran 1.5 TSI hesitates or jerks when pulling away (owner reports)?
Owners of second-generation Tourans with the 1.5 TSI petrol engine (engine code DADA) report the engine not responding to the accelerator when pulling away, for example at traffic lights, and jerking for the first few hundred metres after a cold start. One owner with the manual g… Severity: medium.
What is the 2010-2015 Volkswagen Touran EGR valve fails soon after the EA189 diesel emissions update (owner reports)?
Owners of 1.6 TDI Tourans report the EGR valve failing within days of the EA189 emissions recall update, with warning lights, an engine-fault message and limp mode. Dealers told them the EGR valve needed replacing and said the failure was not linked to the update. Applies to: Fir… Severity: medium.
What is the 2009-2015 Volkswagen Touran Diesel particulate filter keeps filling up on TDI Tourans (owner reports)?
Owners of first-generation TDI Tourans report the diesel particulate filter (DPF) filling up again soon after a regeneration drive, DPF warning lights, and the car going into emergency (limp) mode. Applies to: First-generation Touran (Typ 1T) TDI with a diesel particulate filter;… 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.