- Volkswagen is recalling 12,612 2010 Routan minivans in the U.S. because of an electrical system ignition problem that can cause the engine to shut off, according to NHTSA.
- The Routan recall is related to a similar recall last week of 248,437 Chrysler vehicles for the same problem.
- The Routan recall is expected to begin in April.
WASHINGTON — Volkswagen is recalling 12,612 2010 Routan minivans in the U.S. because of an electrical system ignition problem that can cause the engine to shut off, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Another 1,000 vehicles in Canada are also being recalled.
"Some vehicles may experience inadvertent ignition key displacement from the run to accessory position while driving, causing the engine to shut off," said NHTSA in its recalls summary of the problem. "An engine shutting off suddenly while driving could increase the risk of a crash."
Chrysler notified Volkswagen Group of American that it would conduct a recall to address this defect on 2010 Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Grand Caravan and Dodge Journey vehicles, and that 2010 Routans manufactured by Chrysler were also affected by this defect.
In other documentation filed with the federal government, VW said that the affected Routans "can continue to be driven as usual. As a precaution, customers are advised to remove all objects from the key fob (such as additional keys, key chains, etc.). This may help lessen the likelihood that the vehicle will experience the problem described in this recall. Additionally, the driver should ensure that the key is securely and correctly positioned in the RUN position before driving the vehicle."
The recall is expected to begin in April. Volkswagen dealers will replace the vehicle's WIN module. Owners can contact Volkswagen at (800) 822-8987.
Inside Line says: If you own the aforementioned Routan, be aware that a recall is in the works. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent
Add A Comment »
jscion says:
09:29 AM, 03/13/2011
I never understood why VW tried entering the minivan market at a time when gas prices are out of control. For a minivan, the Routan actually looks pretty decent.....even if the same rhymes with crouton.
isend2c says:
08:22 AM, 03/11/2011
For 2009, the only year I can find full-year sales numbers for, VW sold 14,681 Routans. The van is awful, and it's sales show that.
So, @Gordancin, get a hint. They haven't sold 12 million. Not even 12 million tires for the Routan... including spares.
MY witty comment however is: Stop 'n start gone wrong!
invictaman says:
06:04 PM, 03/10/2011
The Routan is a Chrysler.
90in55 says:
01:05 PM, 03/10/2011
I believe the article says VW recalled 12,000 Routans from the 2010 moel year. Volkswagen have so lost their way on their quest for market dominance. How can the company behind the brilliant GTI unleash a re-badged Chrysler upon the public? Well, the average consumer probably doesn't know what's underneath, anyway. They're more interested in cup holders and secret storage compartments.
fantastic says:
01:04 PM, 03/10/2011
can't wait to hear from the Chrysler lover and Toyota haters...lol
fantastic says:
01:04 PM, 03/10/2011
Can't wait to read from the Chrysler lovers and Toyota haters...lol
gordancin says:
11:29 AM, 03/10/2011
Volkswagen has sold over 12 million of these vehicles already. If this isn't a misprint... I would say they definitely new what they were doing when the signed the deal with Chrysler. So much for the naysayers...