2015 Volkswagen Touareg Safety Report

The 2015 Volkswagen Touareg presents a mixed safety picture based on available NHTSA data. While it has a low overall complaint count of 24, with no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths, its NHTSA crash test ratings are not available (N/A) for Overall, Frontal, Side, or Rollover, making direct comparison to other vehicles difficult in terms of crashworthiness. The vehicle has been subject to two recalls. One recall addresses a potentially missing securing clip for the brake pedal pivot pin, which could lead to the pedal dislodging and increased crash risk. The other recall is broader, covering various Volkswagen models for unspecified regulatory non-compliance that could increase the risk of a crash, fire, or injury. Analysis of the 24 complaints reveals a significant pattern related to the ENGINE, accounting for 12 complaints (50%). Many of these engine complaints detail issues such as sudden power loss, stalling, throttle lag, and critically, water ingestion into the air intake system leading to potential engine damage or failure. Several complaints explicitly mention water in the air filter box, even without driving through deep water, suggesting a potential design flaw. Another notable complaint pattern involves the FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE system, with 2 complaints specifically mentioning camera failure and subsequent unavailability of safety features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. Despite the lack of crash test data, the recall for the brake pedal pivot pin is a serious concern, directly impacting the ability to stop the vehicle. The engine-related complaints, particularly those concerning water ingestion and sudden power loss, also pose significant safety risks, especially when occurring at speed or in traffic. The malfunction of critical driver assistance systems like forward collision avoidance further detracts from the vehicle's active safety capabilities. Prospective buyers should be aware of these documented issues.

Our recommendation: Given the lack of crash test data and serious documented issues like engine water ingestion and a critical brake pedal recall, prospective buyers should proceed with caution, thoroughly inspect the vehicle's service history, and consider a pre-purchase inspection focusing on engine and brake system integrity.