Volkswagen Touareg Common Problems and Solutions
Musty Smell
Problem:
There is a musty odour coming from the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system.
Solution:
This issue is caused by condensation collecting inside the heater case. You can purchase specialist cleaning tools to resolve the problem, or remove the heater case entirely, disassemble it, and clean it thoroughly. If, upon disassembly, you find that the condensation has caused damage, you will need to order a replacement from us.
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Engine Rattle
Problem:
You can hear a rattling noise coming from your engine when starting it or while it is idling.
Solution:
It’s quite possible that you have a loose timing chain, which is vibrating excessively and causing that rattling noise. If the chain isn’t too damaged yet, you can simply try tightening it. If it has become too worn from the excess movement, then you can have a new one delivered by ordering a replacement today.
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Engine Misfires and Rough Idling
Problem:
The engine has started to misfire, and you are having difficulty starting it. The car also idles roughly.
Solution:
This problem is caused by water entering your air filter. In the worst cases, it can cause serious damage to your engine, which might need replacing. If you spot the issue early, you may only need to replace the air filter, which is available on our parts list.
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Air Filter
Grinding or Squeaking Noise From Front of Car
Problem:
You might notice a grinding or squeaking noise coming from your engine.
Solution:
Although this issue can affect nearly every car, the 2007 Touareg is especially vulnerable. The problem lies with a faulty tensioner. Check your drive belt, and if it appears glossy or worn, you will need to replace both the tensioner and the drive belt, which can both be ordered from our online store.
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Weak Power and More Fuel Use
Problem:
The car has weak power, is sometimes difficult to start, and requires more fuel.
Solution:
This issue is caused by a clogged diesel particulate filter. You can try removing and cleaning yours, but in some cases, it may have become so blocked that it has suffered damage. In those instances, you will need to order a replacement from our parts list and fit a new one.
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Car Diesel Particulate Filter
Electric anti-lock problem
Problem:
When using the brakes, you might have noticed an issue with the ABS system, and the ABS warning light has appeared on the dashboard. The ABS module is usually the cause of this problem.
Solution:
This is a common problem on this vehicle, and you will need to replace the ABS module to resolve it.
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Early brake pad wear
Problem:
These vehicles are known for their brake pads wearing out very quickly, leading to poor braking.
Solution:
The only solution to this problem is fitting new brake pads. Watch the video below to see how to change the pads:
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Brake Pads
Oil leak
Problem:
If you have discovered an oil leak coming from around the back of the engine, the most probable cause is a leak in the seal ring of the engine speed sensor. This is quite common on these vehicles. The sensor is positioned between the fuel pump and the water pump.
Solution:
Seals are very inexpensive to purchase. Replacing the seal will prevent the leak.
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Gearbox problem
Problem:
Since the Volkswagen Touareg is a highly capable off-road vehicle, you may encounter issues with the front differential if you do a lot of off-road driving. Even if you don't, this remains a known problem. You will hear an intermittent whining sound coming from around the gearbox area.
Solution:
You will need to install a new front differential to resolve this issue.
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Differential
Heavy vibration underneath vehicle
Problem:
When you are driving and notice a very heavy vibration coming from beneath the vehicle, you probably have a problem with the prop shaft.
Solution:
You could attempt to repair the prop shaft, but it's very likely you'll need to replace it.
Difficulty level
Prop Shaft
Turbo problem
Problem:
If you notice either blue smoke coming from the exhaust or a whistling noise coming from the top of the engine, these are key signs of a blown turbo.
Solution:
Unfortunately, the only way to resolve this issue is to fit a new turbo. While fitting a new turbo can be costly, we offer quality used replacement parts.
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Loose Steering Rack
Problem:
The steering rack feels loose and shifts.
Solution:
This issue is serious enough to have prompted a recall by VW and is caused by an incorrectly tightened bolted connection between the steering shaft and the steering rack. Usually, you will need to replace the bolted connection of the intermediate steering shaft, which can be easily found on our parts list.
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