Of the 128 electrical complaints filed for the 2009 Volkswagen Routan,
here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 50,000-75,000 mi.
0-25k
1 (12.5%)
25-50k
0 (0%)
50-75k
3 (37.5%)
75-100k
1 (12.5%)
100-125k
2 (25%)
125-150k
0 (0%)
150k+
1 (12.5%)
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
Electrical accounts for 44% of every owner complaint on file for this vehicle — the dominant problem area across 11 categories tracked.
All 2 active electrical recalls on this vehicle land at critical or severe — none classified moderate.
This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system
If the ignition key inadvertently moves into the OFF or ACCESSORY position, the engine will turn off, which will then depower various key safety systems including but not limited to air bags, power steering, and power braking. Loss of functionality of these systems may increase the risk of crash and/or increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Fix: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will modify the ignition switch, free of charge. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1- 800-822-8987. An interim notice was mailed to owners on August 29, 2014. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 28G1/U8. Note: This campaign is an expansion of NHTSA Recall No. 11V-151.
Volkswagen is recalling certain model year 2009 routan vehicles manufactured from june 2008 through july 2009
This could result in an overheated latch and a fire within the rear sliding door could occur.
Fix: Volkswagen will inspect the sliding door wire track wire assembly and the sliding door power drive unit wire assembly for damage, repair/replace as necessary, tie strap the two harnesses together and route the harnesses under the sliding door weather strip. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on october 15, 2010. Owners may contact Volkswagen at 1-800-822-8987.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering electrical 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.
Service BulletinVOS-26-15Mar 2026
This is a notice for software changes with the ODIS diagnostic program to correct the communication during vehicle programming function: A software fix is needed to correct multiple test plans: All basic settings test for the following components - Fill and bleed cooling system issue, N493, J338, Camshaft, V465 etc. Use this test for all the basic setting. You will need to select the component you need to run the basic settings. But there are also stand-alone tests for each of those components.
This is a notice for software changes with the ODIS diagnostic program to correct the communication during vehicle programming function: A software fix is needed to correct a test that is not reading any information from the battery data module (BDM) and will output:
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners of the 2009 Routan describe a pattern of life-threatening electrical failures that persist despite multiple recall attempts. The most dangerous is unintended ignition rotation: the key or ignition mechanism flicks into accessory mode on its own while driving, killing the engine, power steering, and brakes—often at highway speeds (55–60 mph). One owner reported this happened 11 times in a single evening; another lost power while driving in a busy intersection after recall "repair."
Battery and starter circuits fail intermittently, leaving owners stranded with only a clicking sound. Batteries test good, starters test good, yet the van won't turn over for 10–30 minutes, then starts fine. Some owners have replaced batteries and starters multiple times with no permanent fix.
The Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) fails catastrophically in some cases: all dashboard lights illuminate at once, wipers turn on, gauges drop to zero, and the engine shuts down. Dealers confirm this is a widespread Routan defect but VW refuses to issue a recall, even though Chrysler recalled the same part on the Grand Caravan platform.
Sliding-door wiring harness failures create a fire hazard. One owner's right door caught fire while driving, with smoke filling the cabin and the window exploding from heat—after the dealership had supposedly completed the recall. Other owners find both doors spontaneously open when parked, or doors fail to latch while driving.
Power door locks stop working, keys stick in the ignition, and one owner reported a corroded electrical control panel that created a short circuit and fire risk. Repair costs range from $300 to $1,500+ out-of-pocket even after recalls, and many owners report the same failure recurring weeks or months after repair.
Same Volkswagen Routan electrical reports on nearby years: 2010 · 2011 · 2012
Key or ignition mechanism rotates into accessory (ACC) mode unintentionally while driving, killing engine, power steering, and brakes. Owners describe the key flicking into ACC position on its own, sometimes repeatedly, especially at speed. Incidents occur at 15–60 mph, often on highways.
When: Reported from 2009–2019. Many incidents from 2014 onward; some owners report ongoing issues years after recall repair attempts.
Symptoms owners cite: Engine suddenly dies while driving; Loss of power steering and brakes; Vehicle enters accessory mode spontaneously; Repeated stalling events during single trip; Jerking sensation before stall; Multiple restart attempts required
Codes mentioned:14V396000, 15V194000
Repairs/costs cited: Ignition switch replacement cited; some owners paid $989–$1000 out-of-pocket before recall. Wireless Ignition Node (WIN) Module replacement attempted in some cases but parts unavailable for extended periods.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 14V396000 (Aug 2014) and 15V194000 issued; parts frequently unavailable. VW advised owners to wait or report to dealership. Some owners report recall repair failed to resolve issue permanently; recurring stalls after recall completion.
Battery and starter electrical circuit failure
Vehicle will not start despite battery and starter testing good. Owners click key and hear only clicking sound or no response. Some report problem resolves after waiting 10–30 minutes or manipulating the ignition repeatedly. Tow truck operators and independent mechanics suspected faulty ignition switch module, relay issues, or TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) failure.
When: Intermittent, reported for 2+ years in some cases; incidents from 2013–2019.
Symptoms owners cite: No-start condition; only clicking sound; Dash lights, radio, windows, and locks work normally; Engine does not crank over; Problem resolves after delay or key manipulation; Check engine light may illuminate
Codes mentioned:14V396000
Repairs/costs cited: Battery replacement (often multiple times), starter replacement (sometimes twice), alternator replacement, and TIPM module replacement cited. Owners report $1,500–$5,200+ spent; many repairs did not resolve issue.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers unable to replicate issue; no codes triggered. VW declined to replace TIPM under warranty, citing cost (~$1,500). Recall parts unavailable; owners advised to pay out-of-pocket with unconfirmed reimbursement promises.
TIPM (Totally Integrated Power Module) electrical system collapse
Total electrical system failure or partial collapse while driving. All dashboard lights illuminate, wipers and alarms activate, gauges fail, and loss of power occurs. Some events cause engine shut-off with loss of steering and braking. Owners report dealer mechanics confirm TIPM defect but VW refuses recall.
When: Reported 2012–2019; may occur intermittently or repeatedly during single trip.
Symptoms owners cite: All dashboard warning lights illuminate simultaneously; Speedometer, fuel gauge, tachometer read zero or fail; Wipers activate on their own; Radio stops working; Turn signals and emergency flashers inoperative; Engine may shut off; power steering and brakes lost; Beeping and alarm sounds
Repairs/costs cited: TIPM replacement recommended; Chrysler issued recall for TIPM on Grand Caravan/Town & Country but not for Routan. VW refuses to recall. Replacement cost cited as $1,500+ out-of-pocket.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued by VW despite Chrysler recall on identical platform. VW dealers acknowledge issue is common on Routan but claim no recall remedy exists.
Sliding door wiring harness failure with fire risk
Wiring harness in sliding door power system fails, causing doors to malfunction (spontaneous opening, failure to latch, inability to close). One owner reported smoke and fire emanating from right sliding door due to faulty harness. Broken wires can create short circuits and fire hazard.
When: Recall 10V252000 issued; failures reported before and after recall repair. Fire incident reported 2019.
Symptoms owners cite: Door will not close or latch securely; Door appears closed but opens spontaneously while driving; Door fails to open when commanded; Both doors may open when vehicle parked; Smoke and fire from door area; Window exploded due to heat; Sensors fail to retract, trapping hands
Codes mentioned:10V252000
Repairs/costs cited: Wiring harness replacement; some repairs used only tie wraps temporarily. Replacement cost cited as $383–$900 out-of-pocket after recall claimed to be complete.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall 10V252000 (Electrical System) issued; remedy inadequate and failed to prevent subsequent failures. Owner reported recall was marked closed without proper verification of work performed.
WIN Module (Wireless Ignition Node) failure
WIN Module controlling ignition switch fails intermittently or completely. Module switches vehicle to accessory mode unintentionally, killing engine power. One owner's battery would not hold charge after WIN Module replacement.
When: Failure reported 2018; vehicle had open recall for WIN Module.
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle will not start; Vehicle switches to accessory mode involuntarily; Battery drains and will not hold charge after module replacement; Multiple restart attempts required
Repairs/costs cited: WIN Module replacement performed; initial part received was used/programmed for different vehicle. Second replacement part received and installed; battery replacement required afterward (owner charged $150).
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall parts unavailable; dealership struggled to obtain correct part. Took 18 days to complete repair; loaner vehicle provided late in process.
Corroded control panel causing electrical shorts and fire risk
Control panel in electrical system corrodes, creating a short circuit. This shorts the headlight ballast circuit, door lock circuit, and potentially creates risk of electrical fire. No water intrusion evident; corrosion attributed to faulty voltage or design defect.
When: Issue reported; corroded panel discovered during headlight troubleshooting.
Symptoms owners cite: Front headlights intermittently fail and stop working entirely; Electronic door locks stop working; Incorrect tire pressure and speed indications; Possible fire risk
Repairs/costs cited: Control panel replacement; dealer charged $900 for part replacement. Dealer confirmed this is common issue on Routan.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall issued. VW dealers acknowledge widespread issue but do not address it; owners charged full retail cost for parts and labor.
Alternator failure
Alternator fails or does not charge battery properly, causing battery drain and no-start conditions. Replaced multiple times in some cases with recurrence.
When: Failure mileage approximately 129,631 miles; reported as second replacement in one case.
Symptoms owners cite: Battery drains even when vehicle not in use; Difficulty starting vehicle; Electrical system malfunction
Repairs/costs cited: Alternator replacement; one owner replaced alternator twice at independent shop.
Power door lock failure
Electronic power locks on doors fail to lock or unlock. Keys stick in ignition after door lock failure; difficulty removing keys from ignition switch.
When: Intermittent; reported 2018–2019.
Symptoms owners cite: Doors will not lock when ignition disengaged; Key sticks in ignition intermittently; Passenger side door lock inoperative
Repairs/costs cited: Door lock switch, locking rod, and door latch replacement cited; cable guide wire replacement needed in one case.
Synthesized from 128 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer
allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting
10 most recent
electrical · 60,567 mi
· filed 12/30/2014
We have had several occasions where the van completely shuts off even while running. Reported it to our local vw dealer and have been told that it might be an ignition problem which is part of a recall. Was informed that at this time they can't repair it because they don't make that part. Had it completely shut down on us while it was getting serviced at the dealer for new brakes. Was told that…
electrical · 124,702 mi
· filed 12/29/2016
My 2009 Volkswagen routan dies while driving. I've on the vehicle for two years and this has been happening the whole time. That usually happens at lower speeds (under 35mph). It happens when I'm going straight and when I'm turning corners, going over or no bumps at all. When my car dies I lose steering, all power/electrical. I have taken it to Volkswagen three times for this issue.…
electrical · 3,000 mi
· filed 12/22/2014
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 Volkswagen routan. The contact stated while driving various speeds, the vehicle stalled without warning. The VIN was included under NHTSA campaign number: 14v396000 (electrical system) but the part was not available. The contact felt the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made…
electrical · 160,000 mi
· filed 12/13/2016
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 Volkswagen routan. While driving 55 MPH, the vehicle was involved in an electrical fire. The contact stated that smoke entered into the cabin of the vehicle and the rear passenger side door caught fire. A police report was not filed and there were no injuries. A mechanic extinguished the fire. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was…
electrical · 100,000 mi
· filed 12/11/2014
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 Volkswagen routan. The contact received a notification for NHTSA campaign number: 14v396000 (electrical system) and stated that the part needed was unavailable to perform the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The contact experienced a failure related to the recall, but the specifics were not available. The approximate failure mileage was…
electrical
· filed 12/09/2014
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 Volkswagen routan. The contact received a notification for NHTSA campaign number: 14v396000 (electrical system) and stated that the part needed was unavailable to perform the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. The VIN was not available.
electrical · 65,000 mi
· filed 12/09/2014
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 Volkswagen routan. The contact received a recall notice for NHTSA campaign number: 14v396000 (electrical system); however, the part to do the repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that a failure related to the recall was experienced, but the specifics were not…
electrical
· filed 12/05/2021
My vehicle shows no pending recalls, but ignition switch still malfunctioning whenever it is bumped or a lanyard is on the key. Brakes malfunction, car seat moves, windshield wipers move, car seems to think it is resetting as original recall states is a problem.
electrical · 70,000 mi
· filed 12/03/2017
While driving on street or highway or stopped. Usually around 20-40mph car stalls. Brakes lock up/steering wheel locks up/no control of car at all. All lights indicate car is on, one bell goes off prior and anti-skid light comes on. By then panic cannot control car! Put car in park after stopped and it starts right up.
electrical · 90,000 mi
· filed 11/30/2015
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 Volkswagen routan. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled without warning while driving 75 MPH. The failure was experienced numerous times. The repair for NHTSA campaign number: 15v194000 (electrical system) was performed. Since the repair, the vehicle experienced the stalling failure, and the fob was replaced twice. The dealer was contacted. The dealer advised…
Had electrical trouble with your 2009 Volkswagen Routan?
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 electrical problem on the 2009 Volkswagen Routan?
It's a meaningful issue. 128 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $850.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Across the 97 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most electrical failures cluster between 58,000 and 102,619 miles, with the median around 75,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 58,000; a quarter make it past 102,619. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical 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 electrical?
Yes — 2 active recall(s) cover electrical issues on this vehicle. Recall fixes are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status. Use the VIN decoder at the top of the page to check if your specific vehicle is affected.
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/2009/Volkswagen/Routan.
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.