VIN REPORT

WVGEP9BP5DD0071812013 VOLKSWAGEN TouaregV6 FSI, TDI

26of 100
Moderate Risk
Buyer Risk Score
Recalls
2
2 campaigns found
Safety Grade
C-
72/100 composite
Complaints
30
NHTSA filed
Vehicle Age
13 yrs
Made in SLOVAKIA
BUYPurchase Verdict

2013 VOLKSWAGEN Touareg was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 2 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 30 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA — review the complaint section for the most common failure patterns.

23 MPG
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2013 VOLKSWAGEN Touareg

2013 VOLKSWAGEN Touareg was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 2 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 30 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA — review the complaint section for the most common failure patterns.

  • 2 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
  • 30 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — above average for this class
  • Common owner-reported issues: steering issues, stalling, loss of power
Owner Complaint Intelligence

30 owner complaints filed — top areas: Other (33%), Engine/Powertrain (17%), Steering (13%). Common issues: steering issues, stalling, loss of power. 1 crash reported.

26
of 100
Moderate Risk
2 moderate risk signals detected. Negotiate accordingly and verify service history.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
2 Contributing Risk Factors
Critical deferred maintenance — safety-critical components overdue
+20
2 model-wide recalls on record
+6
Critical Alerts

Title Brand Check

Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle

Vehicle Specifications

Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database

Make
VOLKSWAGEN
Model
Touareg
Year
2013
Trim / Series
V6 FSI, TDI
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Fuel Type
Diesel
Engine
6-cyl 2.967000L 240.00 hp
Doors
4
Manufacturer
VOLKSWAGEN AG
Assembly
BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA
GVWR
Class 2E: 6,001 - 7,000 lb (2,722 - 3,175 kg)

Assembly Plant Quality

Plant: BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA

CQuality55/100
Standard📍 BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA

No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.

Safety

Safety Intelligence

Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data

C-
Score: 72/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety22/30
Complaint History30/30
25/100Moderate
  • Brake system recall
2/100
Basic
1 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian AEB, Forward Collision Warning, Electronic Stability Control
Moderate
  • Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints

Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.

Driver Assistance Features

ADAS equipment data from NHTSA vPIC database

Forward Collision Warning?Unknown
Automatic Emergency Braking?Unknown
Pedestrian AEB?Unknown
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure Warning?Unknown
Lane Keep Assist?Unknown
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot Monitoring?Unknown
Rear Cross Traffic Alert?Unknown
Adaptive Cruise Control?Unknown
Adaptive Headlights?Unknown
Auto High Beam?Unknown
Parking Assist?Unknown
Backup Camera?Unknown
Electronic Stability Control?Unknown
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Direct
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash Notification?Unknown
Dynamic Brake Support?Unknown
Keyless Ignition?Unknown

Fuel Economy & Environment

EPA fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov

20
City
Below Avg
23
Combined
Average
29
Highway
Good
Annual Fuel Cost$3,450
5-Year vs AverageCost $6,250 more
CO₂ Tailpipe445 g/mi
Annual Petroleum15.5 barrels
EPA GHG Score4/10
EPA Fuel Economy Score6/10
Emissions: B5
Recalls2

Deferred Failure Risk

Components and defects approaching or past their known service milestones

82/100
Critical Deferred Risk
Critical deferred failure risk — 4 safety-critical or high-cost components are past their service interval. Without immediate attention, repair costs will compound significantly.
No odometer data on record. Mileage is estimated at ~156,000 mi based on average annual driving. Items marked EST. OVERDUE may already be due — verify service history with the seller. Items marked OVERDUE are confirmed past-due based on vehicle age alone.
EST. OVERDUECriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 13 yr · Past due by age
Service Timing Chain Tensioner immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
EST. OVERDUECriticalWater Pump
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 13 yr · Past due by age
Service Water Pump immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
EST. OVERDUEHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 13 yr · Past due by age
Service Transmission Fluid / Service immediately — already past the 60,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 13 yr · Past due by age
Service Coolant Flush immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
EST. OVERDUEModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 13 yr · Past due by age
Service Spark Plugs (iridium/platinum) immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
EST. OVERDUEModerateFuel Injectors
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 13 yr · Past due by age
Service Fuel Injectors immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.

NHTSA Safety Recalls

2 RECALLS
2found

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 2 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)

Average repair completion across 2 recalls is ~66%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.

66%
avg repaired

Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.

VOLKSWAGEN Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
84%Fair

VOLKSWAGEN completes recalls at a fair rate (84%). If this vehicle has open recalls, follow up with a dealer — average remedy time is ~22 months.

Avg time to remedy open recall: ~22 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports

Avg Fix Time
22mo
#18V329000
Invalid Date

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Eos, 2012 Passat, 2012-2016 CC, 2015-2016 e-Golf, 2011-2015 Touareg, 2012-2015 and 2017 Tiguan, and 2011-2016 Golf and 2011-2013 GTI vehicles. Modifications made while the vehicles were in an internal evaluation period may cause the affected vehicles to not comply with all of the applicable regulatory requirements.
Read full details...
ConsequenceIf the vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements, there could be an increased risk of a crash, fire, or injury.
Est. Repair Completion~64%

~36% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#16V170000
Invalid Date

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES

SummaryVolkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 Touareg vehicles. The brake pedal pivot pin may be missing a securing clip, allowing the pivot pin to move and the brake pedal to dislodge.
Read full details...
ConsequenceIf the brake pedal dislodges, the driver may not be able to apply the brakes, increasing the risk of a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~68%

~32% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

Recall Intelligence

Detailed analysis of recall history and severity

16/05/2018
2 total campaigns
Brakes
0
Part Replacements
0
Software/OTA Updates
1
Buyback/Refund
1
High-Effort Repairs
Complaints30

Complaint Intelligence

30 complaints analyzed across 7 system categories

Other
1 crash10
Engine/Powertrain
5
Steering
4
Safety Systems
3
Electrical
3
Suspension/Wheels
3
Fuel System
2
2014
5
2015
1
2016
3
2017
3
2018
4
2019
5
2021
1
2022
1
2023
1
2024
1
67% trend in recent years (improving reliability)
Stable 0%
1
Last 24 months
1
Prior 24 months
PEAKS SUMMER (JUN–AUG)

34% of complaints filed in Aug & Oct — may indicate temperature-sensitive or weather-related failures.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Engine stalling8
Electrical failure2
Conditions Reported
Highway/high-speed (11)Rain/wet (2)Parking/low-speed (2)Cold weather (1)

Owner Complaints

HIGH VOLUME

30 safety complaints filed with NHTSA

30found
1
Crash
ODI #11609208ENGINE

The weld broke at the rear pre cat connection

ODI #11562529ENGINE

So there’s a campaign to add a bracket to one of the catalytic converters. That’s great except I never knew about it and the thing they added the bracket to prevent happened to me. The exhaust pipe from the catalytic separated from the flange connecting to the manifold. It’s a 2000 dollar part from the dealer. Luckily I found a mechanic who is welding the flange and fixing what I got. Just another example of a car company knowing there’s an issue but not really attempting to fix it, only in a policy no one reads.

ODI #11461600UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The sunroof glass of the car spontaneously exploded while driving on the interstate. No rock or object ever hit the glass, and it exploded, sending glass and debris all over myself and my passenger while driving 70mph. The noise was deafening and caused me to swerve as I was so shocked. I easily could have gone in the ditch or hit another car. To make matters worse I was 50 miles from home on a Friday evening so there was no way to get help. I have seen this issue on other Touareg’s but Volkswagen has denied accountability and refuses to cover it. The issue was repaired at a VW dealer and was $2143 to repair. The issue was inspected by my Progressive Insurance rep. This issue came out of nowhere and there were no warning signs.

ODI #11404744UNKNOWN OR OTHER

MY SUNROOF IS NOT DRAINING PROPERLY, WATER IS ACCUMULATING IN MY SPARE TIRE WELL IN MY TRUNK WHENEVER IT RAINS.

ODI #11271256SEAT BELTS

THE DRIVER'S SEATBELT APPEARS TO BE BUCKLED, BUT RELEASES UNDER LOAD. WHEN INSERTING THE END INTO THE BUCKLE IT CLICKS AND LOOKS AND FEELS BUCKLED, BUT WHEN LOADED RELEASES WITHOUT WARNING. THIS OCCURRED WITH DIFFERENT DRIVERS AND RELEASED UNEXPECTEDLY MULTIPLE TIMES WHILE THE CAR WAS BEING DRIVEN. REPLACING THE BUCKLE END RESOLVED THE DEFECT.

ODI #11246442FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

ON JUNE 3, 2019 I WAS TRAVELING SOUTHBOUND ON THE I-5 NEAR TULARE, CALIFORNIA, AT APPROXIMATELY 75MPH WHEN AN INDICATOR LIGHT CAME ON THAT I HAD NEVER SEEN BEFORE. LESS THAN A MINUTE LATER, I BEGAN TO LOSE POWER AND WAS UNABLE TO ACCELERATE. I QUICKLY MOVED TO THE RIGHT LANE AND PREPARED TO EXIT THE FREEWAY LESS THAN A MILE AHEAD. A FEW SECONDS LATER, THE ENGINE COMPLETELY SHUT OFF. I WAS FORCED TO COAST OFF THE FREEWAY, NO POWER, NO POWER STEERING AND QUICKLY LOSING MY BRAKES. I WAS LUCKY THAT THERE WAS AN OPEN PARKING LOT IMMEDIATELY OFF THE FREEWAY THAT I WAS ABLE TO COAST INTO. AFTER SAFELY COMING TO A STOP, I ATTEMPTED TO LOOK UP THE INDICATOR LIGHT ICON IN THE VEHICLE MANUAL. UNABLE TO FIND THE CODE / REASON FOR THE ENGINE FAILURE, I CALLED FOR A TOW TRUCK. THE NEAREST VW DEALERSHIP WAS 45 MILES AWAY SO I OPTED TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED TO A LOCAL EUROPEAN CAR SERVICE SHOP IN TULARE, FRANK'S AUTOMOTIVE. AS LUCK WOULD HAVE IT, THEY HAD A VW MASTER TRAINED TECHNICIAN ON STAFF. HE RAN THE CODES, CHECKED THE ENGINE AND DETERMINED THAT MY HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP HAD FAILED. HE SAID THE PUMP LITERALLY DISINTEGRATED AND SENT BITS OF ALUMINUM 'SHRAPNEL' THROUGHOUT MY ENTIRE FUEL SYSTEM. THE ENTIRE FUEL SYSTEM WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. HE INDICATED THAT THIS WAS A KNOWN ISSUE AND THAT THERE WAS PARTIAL RECALL AS A RESULT. UNFORTUNATELY, MY PARTICULAR MODEL WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL AND VW DECLINED TO ASSIST. THE REPAIR ENDED UP COSTING ME MORE THAN $8,000. IF VW HAD GIVEN ME A WARNING ABOUT THIS ISSUE, I WOULD MOST CERTAINLY HAVE HAD THE PUMP REPLACED BEFORE IT CATASTROPHICALLY FAILED. VW NEEDS TO BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR THESE FAILURES. WHEN THE PUMP FAILS, IT'S CATASTROPHIC!

ODI #11219734STEERING,AIR BAGS,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HORN FAILED TO WORK. THE CONTACT RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND THE STEERING WHEEL MALFUNCTIONED. BAXTER VOLKSWAGEN LA VISTA (7108 S 124TH CIR, LA VISTA, NE 68128, (402) 983-9801) STATED THAT THE AIR BAG CONTROL MODULE AND ASSEMBLY WERE CORRODED, WHICH AFFECTED THE STEERING WHEEL FUNCTIONS, AIR BAGS, AND HORN. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THERE WERE NO RECALLS AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE WITH THE REPAIRS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 73,600.

ODI #11218128STEERING

STEERING FLUID LEAKED OUT , INTERNAL FAULT WITH RACK SEAL, REPLACED RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY IN MAY 2019 THIS IS SECOND REPLACEMENT OF RACK AND PINION ON THIS VEHICLE PRIOR REPLACEMENT IN NOVEMBER 2015 I FEEL ITS VERY UNUSUAL TO CHANGE RACK AND PINION ASSEMBLY ON SAME VEHICLE TWICE IN 4 YEARS TIME I HAVE BEEN TOLD IT HAPPENS OFTEN IN VW TOUAREG BUT HAS NOT BEEN REPORTED TO NHTSA

ODI #11195562UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2013 TOUAREG 3.0L TDI-INTERMITTENT JERKING MOTION OF VEHICLE WHEN IN MOTION, INITIALLY AT LOWER SPEED AND NOW AT 80MPH ON HIGHWAY, INTENSE JERKING OF VEHICLE CAUSING VEHICLE TO LOSE POWER AND NEAR COLLISION WITH VEHICLE BEHIND ME. IT HAS BECOME MORE FREQUENT, ALMOST DAILY OCCURRENCE NOW. I TOOK THE VEHICLE IN IMMEDIATELY TO VW DEALERSHIP. PAPERWORK STATES "ROAD TEST VERIFIED CONCERN" (OF JERKY MOTION AND NOT RUNNING RIGHT). "SCANNED FOR FAULTS. NO FAULTS STORED. NO TSBS, OR TECH TIPS REGARDING CONCERN. SEEMS TO BE A SOFTWARE ISSUE WITH NO REMEDY AT THIS TIME". THE DEALERSHIP ADVISED ME THAT THIS IS A SOFTWARE BUG IN THE EMISSIONS SOFTWARE FIX AND THAT VW HAS NOT SUBMITTED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN (TSB) TO OPEN AN INVESTIGATION FOR FIX. THEY SAID THAT THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO TO FIX THE PROBLEM. THERE IS ANOTHER CUSTOMER WITH EXACT ISSUE AS MINE. I AM TOLD THAT VW IS NOT COMMUNICATING ANY INFORMATION ON THIS ISSUE BUT IT IS ACKNOWLEDGED THAT THIS IS A SOFTWARE ISSUE BROUGHT ON BY THE EMISSIONS FIX. THE VEHICLE IS NOT DRIVEABLE WITH THIS ISSUE! THE JERKING MOTION IS EXTREMELY UNSAFE TO BE DRIVEN AT ANY SPEED, EXTREMELY UNSAFE ON THE HIGHWAY FROM MY LAST EXPERIENCE WITH NEAR COLLISION WHEN UNPREDICTABLE, SUDDEN, INTENSE JERKING MOTION OCCURRED. SYMPTOM: VEHICLE LOSES POWER BRIEFLY, LIKE IT'S CHOKING, THEN REGAINS CAUSING A FORWARD THRUST FOLLOWED BY ANOTHER POWER LOSS...CAUSING THE JERKING MOTION. DEALERSHIP CLAIMS THERE MAY NOT BE ENOUGH COMPLAINTS FILED ACCORDING TO VW CORPORATE TO INITIATE A TSB. THIS VEHICLE IS NOT DRIVEABLE, NOT SAFE. EVEN ONE COMPLAINT SHOULD INITIATE CAUSE FOR CONCERN TO RESOLVE THE ISSUE OR BUY BACK THE VEHICLE IF THIS IS CAUSED BY THE EMISSIONS SOFTWARE FIX. VEHICLE HAS ALWAYS BEEN SERVICED BY A VW DEALERSHIP ON RECOMMENDED SCHEDULED SERVICE INTERVALS.

ODI #11118510UNKNOWN OR OTHER

SUNROOF EXPLODED OUTWARD AND ENTIRE FRONT GLASS SUNROOF WAS SHATTERED. DRIVING ON HIGHWAY AT APPROXIMATELY 70MPH. ALL CAR DOOR WINDOWS WERE OPEN. TEMPURATURE OUTSIDE WAS APPROXIMATELY 85 DEGREES.

ODI #11113126UNKNOWN OR OTHER

THE AC EVAPORATION VALVE IS BLOCKED AND THERE IS BETWEEN 2-5 CUPS OF DIRTY CONTAMINATED WATER COMING INTO MY DRIVER SIDE AND PASSENGER FOOT WELL. IT HAS NOW BECOME A PROBLEM MORE THAN WATER DAMAGE AND A CONCERN BECAUSE MY SHOES GET WET AND MAKE THE PEDALS SLICK AND UNSAFE AT TIMES WHILE DRIVING. I JUST DON'T WANT ANYONE TO GET HURST OR CRASH BECAUSE OF THIS ISSUE THAT SHOULD BE RECALLED AND FIXED. I KNOW IT'S HAPPENED TO OTHER VW/AUDI/PORSCHE CARS.

ODI #11072745AIR BAGS

AIRBAG LIGHT APPEARED. HORN NOR STEERING WHEEL BUTTONS WORK. ADVISED IT WAS A STEERING WHEEL CLOCK SPRING FAULT. THERE WAS A RECALL BUT THIS PARTICULAR VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED.

ODI #11065926ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

2013 VOLKSWAGON TOUREG RECALL

ODI #11040499FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEMCRASH

2013 TDI -HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP FAILURE. HAVE NEVER PUT GASOLINE IN THE TANK. VW HAS REJECTED COST OF REPAIRS.

ODI #10980989SEAT BELTS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

THE CAR JUST SUDDENLY STOPPED WHILE DRIVING ON THE HWY 91 IN LOS ANGELES IN RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC. VEHICLE SUDDENLY LOST POWER AND WITHIN 10 SECONDS COMPLETE STOP AND STALL ON THE HIGHWAY. TOWED TO VW DEALERS AND I WAS INFORMED THAT IS FAILURE OF THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP . HTTPS://WWW.EDMUNDS.COM/CAR-NEWS/FEDS-CLOSE-PROBE-INTO-VW-AUDI-TDI-VEHICLES-FOR-HIGH-PRESSURE-FUEL-PUMP-FAILURE.HTML

ODI #10966266ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

DRIVERS SIDE SEAT WARMER BURNED THROUGH THE SEAT COVER & BURNED THROUGH MY COAT. I WAS DRIVING ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY & FELT THE SEAT BECOME HOT. I TURNED IT OFF & WAS UNAWARE MY SEAT & COAT HAD BURNED UNTIL I REACHED MY DESTINATION. CAR & COAT WERE TAKEN TO DEALERSHIP TO ORDER NEW PARTS TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM.

ODI #10920342ENGINE

I HAVE JUST OVER 50,000 MILES ON MY TOUAREG TDI AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. DEALERSHIP TELLS ME THE ADBLUE HEATER NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AND IT IS NOT COVERED UNDER THE 80K EMISSIONS WARRANTY AND WILL COST ME $1,200 TO REPAIR. HOW CAN THIS NOT BE COVERED WHEN ADBLUE'S SOLE PURPOSE IS TO REMOVE NO2 FOR EMISSIONS? NOW I AM FACED WITH AN EXCESSIVE REPAIR FOR A VEHICLE THAT DOESN'T EVEN MEET EMISSIONS ANYWAY! OWNERS OF TDI 3.0 LITERS, SUCH AS MYSELF, STILL HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THE FATE OF OUR VEHICLES WILL BE SINCE THE VW DIESEL SCANDAL BROKE OVER A YEAR AGO. NO IDEA IF THERE WILL BE A FIX OR A BUYBACK. I AM STUCK WITH A CAR THAT IS NOT ONLY LEAKING HARMFUL NO2 INTO THE AIR, BUT HAS SIGNIFICANTLY DIMINISHED IN VALUE. AND NOW I NEED TO INVEST ANOTHER $1,200?!??! I CALLED VW AND THEY ARE NOT WILLING TO OFFER ANY FINANCIAL COMPENSATION FOR THIS REPAIR, NOR IS THE DEALERSHIP WILLING TO PROVIDE A GOODWILL REPAIR. AND I'M TOLD IF I DON'T REPAIR IT, AFTER A CERTAIN NUMBER OF MILES THE CAR WON'T START. SO, I'M HAVING TO INVEST IN A PART FOR THE EMISSIONS SYSTEM AND IT STILL WON'T BE EPA-COMPLIANT. THAT JUST DOESN'T SEEM RIGHT. *TR

ODI #10907990FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

ADD BLUE HEATER SYSTEM ON THE DIESEL ENGINE WENT BAD AFTER LESS THAN 42000 MILES. I THOUGHT THIS WAS PART OF THE EMISSION SYSTEM IN THIS CAR BUT VW DOES NOT SEE IT THIS WAY. THEY WANT OVER 1,000 TO FIX THIS ON A CAR THE LIED ABOUT IN THE FIRST PLACE. SEEMS TO BE A BIG MONEY MAKER FOR SOMETHING TO MAKE THE CAR EXAUST CLEAN.

ODI #10898760VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE

WHILE TRAVELING AT NIGHT ON A 4 LANE HIGHWAY AT 70 MPH IN HEAVY TRAFFIC THE VEHICLE WENT INTO LIMP MODE WITHOUT WARNING OR ANY SYMPTOMS OF A POWER PROBLEM. WE HAD TO MOVE ACROSS FOUR LANES OF CAR AND TRUCK TRAFFIC WHILE RAPIDLY DECELERATING. LUCK AND SKILL PREVAILED TO AVOID A SERIOUS AND POTENTIALLY FATAL ACCIDENT. NO WARNING INDICATORS WERE DISPLAYED. SAFELY IN THE BREAKDOWN LANE THE VEHICLE CONTINUED AN APPROXIMATELY 1300 RPM IDLE AND WOULD MOVE AT ABOUT 15- 20MPH. I STOPPED THE VEHICLE AND THE ACCLERATOR PEDAL CONTINUED TO BE UNRESPONSIVE. I PLACED THE VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL WITH NO CHANGE IN THE ABILITY TO INCREASE RPM WITH THE ACCELERATOR. I SHIFTED BACK TO DRIVE AND NORMAL ACCELERATION FUNCTION RETURNED. WE DROVE ANOTHER 35-40 MINUTES WITHOUT FURTHER PROBLEMS. THE NEXT MORNING THE VEHICLE DROVE NORMALLY AND I TOOK IT TO THE VW DEALER. THEIR DIAGNOSTIC REVIEW SHOWED NO ISSUES AND NO MALFUNCTIONS WERE DETECTED.

ODI #10717211STEERING,POWER TRAIN,WHEELS

THE STEERING WHEEL HAS A SHAKE, SHIMMY, OR VIBRATION BETWEEN 70-80MPH. 72MPH BEING THE MOST OBVIOUS. IT ALSO TENDS TO PULL MOSTLY TO THE RIGHT. IT CURRENTLY IS IN FOR ITS 2ND ATTEMPT AT REPAIR. THE FIRST WAS A REMOUNT AND REBALANCE OF ALL 4 WHEELS AS WELL AS "CLEANING" THE HUBS. THIS WAS TO COMPLY WITH THEIR OWN INTERNAL TSB. I WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS FIXED AND IT IS NOT. I'M WAITING TO PICK IT UP.

ODI #10644612STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS

WHEN THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN AT SPEEDS BETWEEN 60 MPH - 75 MPH THE STEERING WHEEL SHAKES BACK AND FORTH. THE STEERING WHEEL SHAKE IS NOTICEABLE TO THE POINT THAT IF YOU TAKE YOUR HANDS OFF THE STEERING WHEEL YOU LITERALLY CAN SEE THE STEERING WHEEL VIBRATE BACK AND FORTH. THE AIR PRESSURE IN THE TIRES HAS BEEN CHECKED, THE TIRES HAVE BEEN ROTATED AND THE VOLKSWAGEN DEALER HAS ROAD FORCE BALANCED THE TIRES 2X IN AN ATTEMPT TO RESOLVE THE ISSUE OVER THE DURATION OF A YEAR. THE ATTEMPTS BY VOLKSWAGEN HAS NOT RESOLVED THE ISSUE AND THEY HAVE NO ANSWER TO WHY THE VEHICLE IS NOT PERFORMING CORRECTLY. *TR

ODI #10605258TRAILER HITCHES

2013 VOLKSWAGEN TOUAREG. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE FACTORY TRAILER HITCH ISSUES. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE ADVERTISING OF THE VEHICLE ABLE TO TOW 7,600 WAS MISLEADING, WHEN IN FACT THE OWNER'S MANUAL READ USE ONLY A WEIGHT-CARRYING TRAILER HITCH. NEVER INSTALL A WEIGHT DISTRIBUTING OR LOAD EQUALIZING TRAILER HITCH ON THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE IS NOT DESIGNED FOR THIS PARTICULAR KIND OF HITCH. THE CONSUMER STATED HE WAS NOT AWARE OF ANY ITEM, SUCH AS A BOAT, CAMPER, ETC, OF OVER 4,000 POUNDS THAT WOULD NOT REQUIRE THE USE OF A WEIGHT-DISTRIBUTING HITCH. THE CONSUMER DECIDED NOT TO PURCHASE THE VEHICLE. *JB

ODI #10598064FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING AND I WAS WITH HER. SHE HAS HER PERMIT. MY TOUREG STALLED THREE TIMES. ONCE AT A STOP LIGHT AND SHORT AFTER WITH HER DRIVING. IT WAS VERY SCARY AND DANGEROUS. IN ADDITION, ON WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11TH. I EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM. MY CAR IS AT THE DEALERSHIP CLOSE TO ME. THEY SAID THEY ADJUSTED SOMETHING WITH THE THROTTLE. I ALSO HAVE HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE SHAKING IN THE STEERING WHEEL AT SPEEDS OF 65-70 MPH. THEY ARE ALIGNING IT TO SEE IF THAT WILL SOLVE THE PROBLEM. I AM KIND OF SCARED TO DRIVE WITH THE STALLING PROBLEM. I HOPE THIS RESOLVES IT, OTHERWISE IT WILL BE BACK IN THE SHOP! THIS IS SOMETHING THAT VW NEEDS TO TAKE SERIOUSLY. I LOVE MY CAR BUT WANT IT TO BE SAFE! *JS

ODI #10578592FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL

I WAS TURNING ACROSS TRAFFIC (LEFT). I STARTED TO CROSS TRAFFIC AND THE VEHICLE STALLED, ALMOST SEEM TO DIE, THEN RECOUPED AND WENT ACROSS. THIS HAS HAPPENED 2 TIMES IN 1000 MILES. I ALMOST GOT HIT BY ON-COMING TRAFFIC THE FIRST TIME. IT IS A VERY SERIOUS SITUATION AND ONE THAT COULD CAUSE INJURY, OR WORSE, DEATH. I WAS TOLD BY A VW SERVICE MANAGER, AT A DEALERSHIP, THAT IT WAS A TRANSMISSION HESITATION AND THAT IT WAS NORMAL FOR A DIESEL. I HAVE DRIVEN DIESELS ALL MY LIFE AND THIS IS NOT NORMAL FOR A DIESEL, OR ANY OTHER VEHICLE FOR THAT MATTER. I HAVE ASKED TO HAVE A VW REPRESENTATIVE CONTACT ME BUT HAVE HEARD NOTHING SO FAR. *TR

ODI #10559317SUSPENSION

THE CAR KEEPS HAVING A CLICKING NOISE ON THE BACK, SUSPENSION PARTS WERE REPLACED BUT IT DOES KEEP HAVING THE SAME NOISE, BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP IT IS. *TR

ODI #10557216FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL

2013 TOUAREG TDI GLOW PLUG WARNING LIGHT CAME ON THEN THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT. THE VEHICLE LOST THROTTLE RESPONSE -- DID NOT STOP RUNNING BUT ALSO FELT LIKE RUNNING ON ONLY A FEW CYLINDERS -- COULD NOT DRIVE OVER 40 MPH ON FREEWAY. ALSO LOST ABILITY TO DOWNSHIFT AUTO TRANSMISSION. DROVE THE VEHICLE TO MY REGULAR VW DEALER, WHO SAYS THAT THE ENTIRE FUEL SYSTEM MUST BE REPLACED -- AS DIRECTED BY VW USA -- FROM BACK TO FRONT. THE DEALER CLAIMS THERE WERE "PIECES OF RUST IN THE FUEL SYSTEM?" DEALER ACKNOWLEDGES THAT SHOULD NOT HAPPEN. THE VEHICLE IS LESS THAN SEVEN MONTHS OLD. NOW INTO SECOND WEEK WAITING FOR REPAIR. READING ONLINE, THERE IS EVIDENTLY A FUEL SYSTEM ISSUE FOR THE 2011-13 TDI TOUAREG RELATING TO THE INJECTORS (CERAMIC PARTICLES) AND FUEL PUMPS ABILITY TO HANDLE USA DIESEL. *TR

ODI #10547709STEERING

CONTINUOUS (ORIG. REPORT DATE 10/3/13) WITH TWO UNSUCCESSFUL SERVICE ATTEMPTS TO DATE (10/12/13) OF A REPORTED STEERING WHEEL SHIMMY/SHAKE [AT HIGHWAY SPEED BETWEEN 60-65 MPH]. THIS ISSUE REMAINS UNCHANGED FROM THE ORIGINAL REPORT; AS ISSUE CONTINUES UNAFFECTED BY ROAD SURFACES TO INCL. OTHER VARIABLES SUCH AS: PRE-DAWN, DAYTIME AND EVENING ROAD CONDITIONS; WEATHER AND TEMPERATURES. VEHICLE STILL DEMONSTRATES A DIFFICULTY IN TRACKING STRAIGHT ACROSS MULTIPLE LANES (REMOVING ANY OF ROAD 'CROWN' INFLUENCE). HAD BEEN ABLE TO DUPLICATE AFTER THE FIRST ROUND OF ROAD FORCE BALANCE OF ALL 4 TIRES (GOODYEAR EAGLE L2 TIRES) AND A 4 WHEEL ALIGNMENT; AGAIN AT SPEED BETWEEN 60-65 MPH. ISSUE HAS BEEN RECORDED ON VIDEO POST THIS FIRST ATTEMPTED AND FAILED REPAIR. *TR

ODI #10542458STEERING

UPON REACHING SPEEDS BETWEEN 65 AND APPROXIMATELY 75 MILES PER HOUR THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD NOTICEABLY SHAKE BACK AND FORTH VERY OBVIOUSLY, SO MUCH SO THAT IT WORRIED ME THERE WAS A MAJOR ISSUE WITH THE VEHICLE.

ODI #10536956STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS

VEHICLE EXHIBITS A STEERING WHEEL SHAKE THAT CONSISTENTLY OCCURS ABOVE 60MPH ON ALL ROAD SURFACES. AT ONSET, CAN FEEL OSCILLATION IN HANDS AND ARMS. WITH HANDS LIGHTLY ON WHEEL OR REMOVED, CAN VISUALLY CONFIRM STEERING WHEEL OSCILLATION (CYCLICAL ROTATION FROM L TO R AND BACK) WITH ABOUT 3/8" TOTAL TRAVEL AT STEERING WHEEL PERIMETER. CABIN ALSO EXHIBITS SLIGHT VIBRATION WHICH CAN BE FELT IN SEAT. CAR DOES NOT TRACK WELL IN LANE AND CONSISTENTLY PULLS TO THE RIGHT. VW IS AWARE OF PROBLEM AND ADDRESSES IT IN TSB 44-13-01 FROM JUNE 2013. REPEATED APPLICATION OF THE REMEDIES IN THE TSB HAVE FAILED TO REMEDY THE PROBLEM. SUBSTITUTION OF ALL FOUR WHEELS AND TIRES FROM ANOTHER TOUAREG THAT DOES NOT EXHIBIT THIS PROBLEM FAILS TO REMEDY THE PROBLEM, SUGGESTING THAT THE PROBLEM IS NOT THE WHEELS/TIRES. ISSUE PERSISTS WITH NO REMEDY TO DATE. *TR

ODI #10459878STEERING

WE TOOK POSSESSION OF THE VEH. ON 3/14/12 WITH 495 MILES ON IT. IN THE FOLLOWING WEEK WE NOTICED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL AND COLUMN WAS INTERMITTENTLY SHUDDERING/ VIBRATING AND MAKING A NOISE. VEH. WAS INITIALLY TAKEN IN @ DEALERSHIP ON 3/27/12. ALSO HAD ISSUE WITH AD BLUE INDICATOR COMING ON. VEH WAS TAKEN BACK AGAIN ON 4/6/12 FOR THE SAME ISSUES AND ALSO NOW PULLING TO THE RIGHT AND STEERING LOCKING UP AND BINDING WHILE TURNING. STEERING RACK WAS REPLACED ON SECOND ATTEMPT TO FIX. VEH. BROUGHT BACK ON 4/17/12 FOR SAME ISSUES EXCEPT AD BLUE APPEARS TO BE FIXED. TO DATE VEH. STILL HAS RECURRENT/ INTERMITTENT ISSUES: SHUDDERING STEERING WHEEL AT BOTH HIGH AND LOW SPEEDS, VIBRATION/ SHAKING IN STEERING COLUMN, WHINING NOISE WHILE TURNING, TIGHTENING OF STEERING WHEEL WHILE TURNING SOMETIMES REQUIRING TWO HANDS TO TURN THE WHEEL, VEH PULLS TO THE RIGHT AND VEH WANDERS IN LANE REQUIRING CONSTANT CORRECTION. THE STEERING OVERALL IS VERY INCONSISTENT. SOMETIMES THERE FEELS LIKE TOO MUCH LAG IN THE STEERING AND OTHER TIMES IF FEELS LIKE IT IS FIGHTING ITSELF. THERE IS ALSO A NEW PROBLEM NOW WITH THE AC MAKING A HORRIBLE NOISE WHEN IT KICKS ON. *TR

Complaint & Reliability Timeline

Annual complaints (blue) vs. composite reliability score (amber) — recall years marked in red

Annual complaints and reliability score for VOLKSWAGEN Touareg — recall years marked in red
03505010020122014201620182020202220242026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 30 total NHTSA complaints filed over 12 years, with the worst year being 2014 (5 complaints).

The amber reliability line averaged 98/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 90/100 in 2017.

Notably, despite 30 complaints on file, no recall has been issued — either the defect pattern has not met NHTSA's threshold for a formal campaign, or a recall may be forthcoming.

Red dots on the amber line flag 2017, a year when complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.

Details & Analysis
Financial

Repair Cost Intelligence

Estimated repair costs for known VOLKSWAGEN Touareg defects — quantify your risk in dollars

EmissionsHigh
$0–$2,500
2–8 hrs labor

TDI diesel Dieselgate

VW/EPA consent decree buyback and fix program concluded in 2019. Affected 2.0L vehicles were either bought back or received the approved emissions modification. Verify fix was applied before purchase.

TransmissionHigh
$800–$3,000
6–12 hrs labor

DSG dual-clutch transmission

Worst-case total exposure$800–$5,500

Estimates based on RepairPal averages, ASE mechanic surveys, and NHTSA investigation data. Actual costs vary by region and shop.

5-Year Ownership Cost Estimate

Based on EPA fuel data, standard depreciation, and US average insurance/maintenance costs

$3,450
Annual Fuel
EPA estimate
$1,800
Annual Insurance
US average
$2,400
Annual Maintenance
13-yr-old vehicle avg
$0
Annual Depreciation
Current period
Estimated 5-Year Total Cost
Fuel + Insurance + Maintenance + Depreciation
$38,250

Estimates use EPA fuel economy data, AAA 2024 national averages for insurance and maintenance, and a standard depreciation curve. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.

5-Year Total Cost of Ownership

Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation

$53,864
~$898/mo over 5 yrs
$0.3/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$17,250
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$21,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$3,000
Depreciation
$5,114

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $53,864 (~$898/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

Negotiation Ammunition

Use these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down

2 open recalls (unverified repair status)−$1,000
Total recommended deduction−$1,000

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Tailored for the 2013 VOLKSWAGEN Touareg — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list

1 critical inspection item must be resolved before purchase. Do not skip these checks.
CRITICAL
Verify this vehicle has received the EPA-approved emissions fix or was bought back
VW TDI Dieselgate vehicles without the EPA fix may fail emissions in California, NY, and other CARB states. Confirm modification was performed at a VW dealer and obtain written documentation.
HIGH
Verify recall UNKNOWN OR OTHER has been repaired
Recall on record for: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Eos, 2012 Passat, 2012-2016 CC, 2015-2016
HIGH
Verify recall SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES has been repaired
Recall on record for: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2011-2016 Touareg vehicles. The brake pe
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ENGINE
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: SEAT BELTS
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.

Recall Probability Forecast

Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals

5%
18-month
10%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 10%

5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.

Maintenance Schedule

OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions

Auction History

Public sale records from Copart, IAAI, and auction aggregators

Searching Public Auction Records

Checking Copart, IAAI, BidFax, and other sources for WVGEP9BP5DD007181. Results appear automatically when found.

Insurance Cost Estimate

Estimated annual premiums based on vehicle profile, theft data, and NHTSA safety ratings

Full Coverage
$1,450–$1,850/yr
~$121–$154/mo
Liability Only
$560–$710/yr
~$47–$59/mo
Category: Standard Vehicle
13-year-old vehicle: −18% (depreciated ACV lowers full-coverage cost)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

Market & Background Signals

Theft risk, fleet history, dealer patterns, and emissions compliance

Volkswagen Dieselgate defeat device — emissions compliance uncertain

VW/Audi TDI vehicles from 2009–2016 had defeat device software for emissions tests. Ensure this vehicle has received the EPA-approved emissions fix or buyback settlement.

Affected states: All states

Manufacturer NHTSA Penalty History

Federal fines issued for recall delays and safety violations

VOLKSWAGEN has been fined $19000M+ by NHTSA. Most recently in 2017: Criminal plea agreement related to Dieselgate.

2016$14700MDieselgate settlement — defeat device software in TDI engines to cheat EPA emissions tests
2017$4300MCriminal plea agreement related to Dieselgate

State-Specific Legal Protections

What consumer laws apply to this vehicle purchase in your state

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Complete Data Table

All decoded fields in a single flattened view

Vehicle Identity

VINWVGEP9BP5DD007181
Model Year2013
MakeVOLKSWAGEN
ModelTouareg
TrimV6 FSI, TDI
Vehicle TypeMULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)

Body & Configuration

Body StyleSport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Doors4
Fuel TypeDiesel

Engine

Engine Cylinders6
Displacement (L)2.967000
Horsepower240.00

Manufacturer

ManufacturerVOLKSWAGEN AG
Assembly CityBRATISLAVA
Assembly CountrySLOVAKIA

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)WVG
Check Digit (Char 9)5
Model Year Code (Char 10)D
Plant Code (Char 11)D
Sequence (Chars 12–17)007181

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count2
NHTSA Complaint Count30

VIN Structure Decode

ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number

W
1
V
2
G
3
E
4
P
5
9
6
B
7
P
8
5
9
D
10
D
11
0
12
0
13
7
14
1
15
8
16
1
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
W
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
V
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
G
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
EP9BP
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
5
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
D
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
D
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
007181
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
Germany
From VIN position 1 (W)
Model Year Character
"D" → 2013
Could also be 1983
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm
Research This Model

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 8/1/2026, 7:01:18 AM.