Look for options like a sunroof, navigation, xenon lighting, power heated leather memory seats, a driver computer, a full selection of airbags, stability control and advanced braking features. Some models came with push-button sway-bar disconnectors and hill-descent control for enhanced off-road capability.
There was an air suspension system available too, though it will almost certainly present a nasty financial blow if it ever breaks. If you can do without, stay away from this feature. Ditto the xenon lights, which benefit nighttime driving on long trips but can cost hundreds when the bulbs burn out.
Issues, in typical German fashion, tend to be electronics and wiring related. Models fitted with the navigation system may drain the battery down when the vehicle is parked, as the system sometimes doesn't turn off with the rest of the vehicle. This issue is remedied by reprogramming.
The differential control module may also require reprogramming to address a problem with wheel binding or scrubbing on dry surfaces. A harsh shift from fifth to fourth gear and various other transmission hiccups may require a reprogramming of the transmission control module. Finally, a bad ground could be responsible for a mysterious drain on the battery.
Another common issue relates to interior leaks. Inspect your potential used model for wet carpeting, looking under floor mats and noting any signs of moisture or mildew. Body drains in the sunroof and along the firewall are the culprits. These help water drain off of the Touareg's body but they could become clogged and force water to leak into the vehicle-- most commonly in the front footwell area.
No major issues were uncovered in terms of mechanical failures or faulty driveline components, though a pre-purchase mechanical inspection is still advised. If for no other reason, Touareg is a complicated machine with plenty of areas for problems to manifest themselves if neglected.
You'll want to pay special attention to the underbody of the Touareg, ensuring it wasn't damaged by some careless off-road navigation by previous owners. Severe dents, holes, scrapes or excessive rust should all be questioned.
If you're not familiar with the service history of the model you're looking at, factor a full fluid change into the price, including engine oil, transfer case and differential fluid, and transmission fluid. This is especially important on a vehicle that could have been off-roaded.
If you need the capability of a large SUV alongside an upscale European driving experience, Touareg proves a more affordable alternative to the Porsche Cayenne. Just be sure you need the size and power at play here, as you'll be paying for it at the pumps.
photo:Philippe Champoux, Volkswagen
There was an air suspension system available too, though it will almost certainly present a nasty financial blow if it ever breaks. If you can do without, stay away from this feature. Ditto the xenon lights, which benefit nighttime driving on long trips but can cost hundreds when the bulbs burn out.
Issues, in typical German fashion, tend to be electronics and wiring related. Models fitted with the navigation system may drain the battery down when the vehicle is parked, as the system sometimes doesn't turn off with the rest of the vehicle. This issue is remedied by reprogramming.
The differential control module may also require reprogramming to address a problem with wheel binding or scrubbing on dry surfaces. A harsh shift from fifth to fourth gear and various other transmission hiccups may require a reprogramming of the transmission control module. Finally, a bad ground could be responsible for a mysterious drain on the battery.
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| Owners tend to love the Touareg's high driving position and relatively comfortable ride. |
Another common issue relates to interior leaks. Inspect your potential used model for wet carpeting, looking under floor mats and noting any signs of moisture or mildew. Body drains in the sunroof and along the firewall are the culprits. These help water drain off of the Touareg's body but they could become clogged and force water to leak into the vehicle-- most commonly in the front footwell area.
No major issues were uncovered in terms of mechanical failures or faulty driveline components, though a pre-purchase mechanical inspection is still advised. If for no other reason, Touareg is a complicated machine with plenty of areas for problems to manifest themselves if neglected.
You'll want to pay special attention to the underbody of the Touareg, ensuring it wasn't damaged by some careless off-road navigation by previous owners. Severe dents, holes, scrapes or excessive rust should all be questioned.
If you're not familiar with the service history of the model you're looking at, factor a full fluid change into the price, including engine oil, transfer case and differential fluid, and transmission fluid. This is especially important on a vehicle that could have been off-roaded.
If you need the capability of a large SUV alongside an upscale European driving experience, Touareg proves a more affordable alternative to the Porsche Cayenne. Just be sure you need the size and power at play here, as you'll be paying for it at the pumps.
photo:Philippe Champoux, Volkswagen
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