Volkswagen CC Reliability and Common Problems

The Volkswagen CC isn’t just all about style. This vehicle also has much to offer in terms of power and driving dynamics. But just like any other vehicle out there, you may encounter issues with this car as it gets older. Let’s take a look at what experts and Volkswagen CC owners have to say about this model’s reliability.

Is the Volkswagen CC Reliable?

RepairPal gave the Volkswagen CC an overall reliability score of 2.5 out of 5, ranking it last among 24 cars in its segment. Specific model years earned better scores, with the 2013 model receiving an 80/100 and the 2017 model earning a 74/100  quality and reliability score from J.D. Power.

Volkswagen CC Common Problems

Here are some of the most common issues you may encounter with your Volkswagen CC as it racks up mileage:

Timing Belt/Chain Failure

One of the top items on the list of 2012 Volkswagen CC common problems deal with the vehicle’s engine. Several 2012 owners complained about engine-related issues and/or engine failure at about 86,800 miles. Repairs for engine issues may cost you as much as $6,100.

Owners have reported that their cars would make rattling noises, lose power, and suddenly stop while they were on the road. Mechanics later determined that their vehicles were low on engine oil, which may have caused their timing belt to go bad and their engine to lose compression.

Luckily, replacing a faulty timing belt (or timing chain) may fix this issue.

Engine Stalling

Engine problems are also common for some units of the 2010 model. In the case of one driver, his car suddenly stalled and its engine died as soon as it went over 40 mph. Transmission and clutch issues were identified as the cause of the problem. Other owners weren’t so lucky and had to get their engines replaced.

Repairs for this issue can cost as much as $10,500. As soon as you notice symptoms related to engine stall or misfire, take your Volkswagen CC to an auto repair shop right away. This may save you time and money on costly repairs.

Malfunctioning Brake Lights

Some 2010 Volkswagen CC owners report encountering issues with their brake lights. These were observed in low-mileage vehicles with as little as 27,750 miles on the clock. Most complaints involve the vehicle’s left brake light, which would get busted repeatedly. One owner said mechanics inspected the electrical wires and other related components to get to the root cause of the issue.

Transmission Failure

Transmission problems are a fairly common concern among owners of this car’s 2010 model. Affected units had transmissions that were jerky and difficult to switch between gears.

These signs shouldn’t be taken lightly because transmission failure can compromise the safety of your vehicle. One driver recalls how the “D” shift indicator in his car flashed while his transmission jumped to the neutral gear unexpectedly. Fortunately, he was able to find a safe spot to pull over and restart his vehicle.

As soon as you suspect a transmission problem in your vehicle, take it to a mechanic right away to get an accurate diagnosis. Transmission repairs may cost you as much as $2,100. In the worst-case scenario, you may need to get the entire transmission replaced.

Carbon Build-up

Some 2009-2016 Volkswagen CCs with direct injection engines are prone to carbon buildup. Affected vehicles may experience problems like rough cold idle, hard starts, decreased acceleration, misfires, black smoke (under heavy acceleration), and an illuminated check engine light.

To fix the problem, a mechanic may have to clean the intake manifold and intake ports. Because it may take a lot of time to get this done, labor costs for this type of repair can be costly.

Odor from HVAC Vents

Several owners of CCs from the 2009 to 2014 model years have reported smelling a musty odor from their vehicle’s HVAC vents due to condensation in the heater case. To fix the issue, mechanics may need to inspect your drain system for debris. Additionally, cleaning the Volkswagen CC’s heater case may help get rid of the problem.

VW Subframe Clunk

Some 2009-2014 Volkswagen CCs may make clunking noises when accelerating from a stop or downshifting from hard acceleration. Drivers also reported feeling light impact under their feet and changes in their vehicle’s front-end alignment. This may indicate that the bolts and spacers securing your vehicle’s subframe have been stretched, making the latter unstable.

These are only some of the possible issues you may encounter with your Volkswagen CC down the road. If you’d like to know if the Volkswagen CC you’re planning to buy is part of a recall, you may read this article or go to the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) website for more information.

By doing your research, choosing the model year with the least issues, and following its recommended maintenance schedule, you’ll be able to maximize the service life of your Volkswagen CC.