Volkswagen · 2006–2020

Common Volkswagen Touran problems, and how to check them

These are the 3 faults owners and garages report most often on the Volkswagen Touran, from the most common down. For each one: what goes wrong, how to check it yourself, and the usual fix, so you know what you’re dealing with before you buy parts.

Fact-checked by a licensed car technician · last reviewed 27 September 2026

Problem 1

Volkswagen Touran: EGR valve and DPF clogging on the 1.6 TDI

Very common 2010–2020 · 1.6 TDI common rail

What goes wrong

The 1.6 TDI has a small EGR valve that clogs with soot, usually between 100,000 and 150,000 km, faster with town driving. The DPF blocks when regeneration can’t complete.

How to check it yourself

Read the codes and the DPF soot load; check the EGR valve position against the requested value in live data.

The usual fix

Clean or replace the EGR valve, regenerate the DPF with a motorway drive or a forced regeneration, and clean or replace a filter that stays blocked.

Signs: Loss of power, Rough idle, Check engine light

Fault codes: P0401, P0402, P2002, P2463

Problem 2

Volkswagen Touran: Timing chain rattle and oil consumption on the 1.4 TSI

Common 2006–2015 · 1.4 TSI (EA111)

What goes wrong

The chain-driven 1.4 TSI stretches its timing chain, and some engines burn oil through worn rings or valve-stem seals.

How to check it yourself

Listen for a rattle at a cold start, read cam/crank correlation codes, and measure oil top-ups over 1,000 km.

The usual fix

Replace chain, tensioner, and guides with updated parts; investigate oil use with a compression and leak-down test.

Signs: Rattle on cold start, High oil consumption, Check engine light

Fault codes: P0016, P0017

Problem 3

Volkswagen Touran: Leaking or sticking diesel injector

Occasional 2010–2020 · 1.6 and 2.0 TDI

What goes wrong

A diesel injector leaks back too much fuel or sticks, so one cylinder runs badly and starting gets harder.

How to check it yourself

Read the injector correction values (balance rates) in live data and do an injector back-leak test.

The usual fix

Replace or recondition the faulty injector and code it to the engine control unit.

Signs: Hard starting, Rough idle, Misfire under load, Black smoke

Fault codes: P0201, P0202, P0203, P0204, P0300

General guidance, not a professional inspection. Confirm faults with measurements before buying parts, and use a qualified mechanic for brakes, steering, fuel leaks, airbags, and other safety-critical work. Terms and disclaimer