Segment:
Luxury Mid-size SUV / Premium SUV
Key Competitors:
BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Lexus RX, Audi Q7 (later models), Porsche Cayenne
Platform:
Shared platform with Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q7 (first generation)
Capabilities:
Off-road prowess, luxurious interior, powerful engine options, advanced all-wheel-drive system (4XMOTION)
Engine:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Automatic transmission, manual transmission (if applicable), transfer case, differentials
Drivetrain:
Front axle, rear axle, drive shafts, CV joints, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front suspension, rear suspension, air suspension system (if equipped), shock absorbers, springs, control arms
Steering:
Steering system, power steering system, steering column, steering rack
Brakes:
Brake system, ABS, EBD, brake calipers, brake discs, brake pads, brake lines, parking brake
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, mirrors
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, climate control
Body:
Body exterior, interior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, pre-tensioners
Infotainment:
Radio, navigation system, multimedia components
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, tire rotations
Scheduled Maintenance:
Interval-based maintenance tasks as per factory recommendations
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, fault codes, symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, and reassembly
Installation:
Procedures for installing new or replacement parts and components
Adjustment:
Calibration and adjustment procedures for various systems (e.g., headlights, parking brake)
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, fluid capacities, clearances, wear limits
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex component rebuilds and diagnostics.
Engine Options:
3.2L VR6 (AXZ), 4.9L V10 TDI (AYH/CRCA), 4.2L V8 FSI (BAR), 2.5L R5 TDI (AXD/BNZ - not typically for US market 2005-2006)
Horsepower Range:
204 hp (3.2L VR6) to 310 hp (4.2L V8 FSI)
Torque Range:
236 lb-ft (3.2L VR6) to 444 lb-ft (4.9L V10 TDI)
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for VR6, Direct injection (FSI for V8, TDI for V10)
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-Star (for 2005 models tested)
IIHS Rating:
Good (for front crash protection, check specific model year for side impact)
Active Safety:
ABS, EBD, Traction Control (ASR), Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Passive Safety:
Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags, front seat belt pre-tensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year (refer to manual for specific engine variant)
Major Service Intervals:
Includes spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, and other checks at intervals such as 40,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Specification:
VW 502 00 or 505 00 for gasoline engines, VW 506 01 for TDI (long life) - check manual for exact grade (e.g., 5W-30, 5W-40)
Transmission Fluid:
G 055 005 (for 6-speed Automatic) - specific type for Tiptronic and transfer case also detailed.
Coolant Specification:
G12 / G12+ (Pink colored coolant), antifreeze mixture based on ethylene glycol.
Common Issues:
Air suspension compressor failure, window regulator failures, ignition coil failures (especially on VR6), EGR valve issues (TDI), potential for timing chain wear on earlier VR6 engines.
