Incorrect torque converter or flywheel/flexplate installation can result in transmission damage. When installing an engine, flywheel or transmission, please follow the installation procedures outlined in ELSA. For the flywheel/flexplate, please be certain the correct shim is installed between it and the crankshaft (reference VWIQ120). When installing a torque converter, press the torque converter hub through the seal as far as the first stop. Turn the torque converter while pushing toward the transmission using light force, until the cut outs in the torque converter hub lock into the pump wheel plate. The torque converter slides in. The torque converter is installed correctly if it is easy t
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2006 Volkswagen Touareg powertrain problems
moderate 4 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $2,500 · see powertrain across all vehicles →
Complaints
4
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
When does it fail?
Of the 4 powertrain complaints filed for the 2006 Volkswagen Touareg, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
No new NHTSA powertrain complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 13 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
On-car analysis list of customer complaints: Transmission Concerns (including clutch assembly, bevel box and Haldex)
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Please contact VW Helpline before attempting repair
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗On-car analysis list of Customer Complaints: Transmission Concerns (including clutch assembly, bevel box and Haldex)
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗On-car analysis list of Customer Complaints: Transmission Concerns (including clutch assembly, bevel box and Haldex)
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
While traveling at highway speed, began to hear a thunking noise consistent with a flat tire. After further inspection determined the noise was originating from the underside of the vehicle in the center. Dealer was able to diagnose as a failed carrier bearing over the phone as it is a "recurring issue" (dealer's words). Since this was only a "recurring issue and not a problem", Volkswagen stuck…
I own a 2006 vw touareg. It has only 54k miles and has never been driven off road. It has been a family car and bought new in 2006. Just yesterday sept 2009 I left a parking lot and began accelerating when it sounded like and felt like the car lost the front two tires. I quickly pulled over thinking I would see blown tires but saw nothing. Got back in drove a 100 feet to have the same noise and…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2006 Volkswagen Touareg?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2006 Volkswagen Touareg?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 4 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Based on the 4 complaints filed, powertrain issues most often appear around 63,275 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2006/Volkswagen/Touareg.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.