Volkswagen Routan problems
Light NHTSA footprint — 7 owner complaints. Either a clean record or thin data; we'll show what's there.
Limited NHTSA data — only 7 complaints on file. The score reflects what's reported, but a small sample skews easily.
Only 7 NHTSA complaints on file — too few for a confident reliability call. Could be a clean record or just thin data.
Our read of the federal NHTSA complaint and recall record for this exact year and model — not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection. How we score.
Top trouble spots 1 category with 3+ complaints
What owners are saying recent NHTSA-filed complaints · verbatim
Vehicle would shudder sometimes harshly under light throttle at 45-60mph and small hill or acceleration. Dealer diagnosed a left cylinder head failure and cylinder misfires. Vehicle has approximately 80,000 miles. Not included by VIN and falls just outside the manufacturing…
The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Routan. The contact stated while driving 50 mph, he started to hear an abnormal sound. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to continue driving to his destination. The contact stated that…
Engine won't start when brake pedal is depressed while van is parked in driveway, garage, at gas station, at sore parking lot; alarm horn sounds for no reason when van is parked; doors lock when exiting vehicle yet no lock/fob has been pressed locking both elderly parents inside…
The temperature gauge constantly moving to 220 thermostat water pump and sensor was changed with new antifreeze. Its still doing yhe same thing. I notived several people are having the same problem. It doesn't matter if I am stationary or moving ii will move.
Estimate your repair exposure
Drag to your current mileage. Numbers are derived from this vehicle's complaint history.
Common questions
Is the 2013 Volkswagen Routan reliable?
Limited NHTSA data. Only 7 owner complaints have been filed for the 2013 Volkswagen Routan, which is not enough for a meaningful reliability score. Active recalls (if any) are listed on this page and remain authoritative — those are verified defects regardless of complaint volume. For a confident reliability read we look for at least 10 owner complaints in the federal database.
Should you avoid the 2013 Volkswagen Routan?
Only 7 NHTSA complaints on file — too few for a confident reliability call. Could be a clean record or just thin data. We don't issue a buy/avoid verdict on the 2013 Volkswagen Routan without a meaningful complaint sample — doing so off a handful of filings would be guesswork.
What's the most common problem on the 2013 Volkswagen Routan?
Based on NHTSA records, the most-reported issue is engine, with 3 complaints filed. Typical failure occurs around 77,000 miles. Average repair cost runs about $3,100 at an independent shop.
What's the most expensive thing that goes wrong?
The engine is one of the costlier repair items. Average repair cost runs about $3,100 at an independent shop. Typical failure occurs around 77,000 miles. Catching early warning signs can sometimes extend life by 20–30,000 miles.
How do I check if my Volkswagen Routan has open recalls?
Paste your VIN into the decoder at the top of this page. We pull live from NHTSA, so you'll see exactly which campaigns apply to your vehicle and whether the dealer has logged the fix. Recall repairs are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status.
Is an extended warranty worth it on a 2013 Volkswagen Routan?
Hard to say from NHTSA data alone with only 7 complaints on file. A quality service contract runs $1,800–3,500 over 3 years. The decision comes down to your specific situation: vehicle cost, miles on it, how long you plan to keep it, and whether you can absorb a $3K–$8K repair without straining cashflow. With limited public data on this vehicle, lean on the recall list above and check owner forums before committing.