Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2009 Volkswagen Routan
The 2009 Volkswagen Routan has faced several complaints, particularly about its electrical system and engine, though some recalls address these. Electrical issues are most frequent, with corrosion affecting airbags and ignition problems impacting operation. Suspension and brakes also reported but less prevalent. With limited safety recalls and more than 290 owner complaints, potential buyers should approach with caution.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2009 Volkswagen Routan has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 294 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #16V083000 Air Bag Control Unit Power Supply Corrosion NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V194000 Ignition Switch may Turn Off NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V396000 Ignition Switch may Turn Off NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V055000 Rear Axle may Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #10V252000 POWER SLIDING DOOR WIRING HARNESS ASSEMBLY NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09V244000 MISSING INFORMATION ON OWNERS MANUAL NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 151 complaints
- Engine 78 complaints
- Service Brakes 38 complaints
- Steering 34 complaints
- Power Train 20 complaints
- Structure 18 complaints
Of the 294 complaints on file, 6 report a crash and 3 a fire; across all 294 complaints, owners report 12 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Ignition switch failure
How to check: Inspect key switch for loose operation or jarring events.
Engine malfunctions reported
How to check: Check for engine warning lights or misfires during a test drive.
Service brakes issues
How to check: Test brake responsiveness and listen for squealing noises.
Airbag control unit corrosion
How to check: Inspect airbag warning lights; check recall status.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for engine misfires or warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent engine warning lights
- 02
Initial acceleration
What to check: Feel for smooth gear shifts and steady acceleration.
Red flag: Rough or delayed gear shifts
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Brake pedal feels soft or squeaky
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for engine power and stability at speed.
Red flag: Lack of power when accelerating
- 05
Deceleration
What to check: Test brake response and check for noises.
Red flag: Brakes make grinding noises
- 06
Turning
What to check: Check for smooth steering during turns.
Red flag: Stiff steering or unusual noises
- 07
Parking
What to check: Ensure power steering functions without noise.
Red flag: Whining or clunking sounds turning wheel
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ignition switch been replaced?
- Were there any recent electrical repairs?
- Is there a history of engine issues?
- Have the brakes been serviced recently?
- Has the airbag recall been performed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle maintenance records
- Ignition switch recall status
- Airbag system recall status
- Brake service receipts
- Engine diagnostics report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2009 Volkswagen Routan at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2009 Volkswagen Routan? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.