Vehicle Segment:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Brand Intent:
Flagship model for Volkswagen, targeting the premium luxury market segment.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, Jaguar XJ.
Luxury Appointments:
High-quality interior materials, advanced comfort features, refined ride.
Technical Innovation:
Introduction of advanced technologies for Volkswagen at the time, including adaptive air suspension and W12 engine in a VW product.
Covered Model Years:
2005
Covered Regions:
North America (implied by typical market for Phaeton)
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (as it's software-based and digitally accessible, exact page count is dynamic but comprehensive in scope)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Online Software / Web-based Access
Access Method:
Internet Connection Required
Device Compatibility:
PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet (via web browser)
Duration:
1 Year Subscription (with renewal discounts)
Engine:
Yes (including W12, V8 FSI variants)
Transmission:
Yes (including 6-speed automatic)
Drivetrain:
Yes (including 4MOTION All-Wheel Drive)
Suspension:
Yes (including Adaptive Air Suspension)
Steering:
Yes (including Servotronic)
Brakes:
Yes (including ABS, ESP, electronic parking brake)
Electrical System:
Yes (including complex CAN bus architecture, lighting, power accessories)
Climate Control:
Yes (including Climatronic 4-zone)
Body And Chassis:
Yes (including structural components, doors, windows, exterior trim)
Interior Systems:
Yes (including seating, airbags, interior trim)
Infotainment:
Yes (including RNS II navigation, sound systems)
Diagnostics:
Yes (troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes - DTCs)
Maintenance:
Yes (scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements)
Routine Repairs:
Yes (e.g., brake pad replacement, sensor replacement)
Component Replacement:
Yes (e.g., engine components, transmission, suspension parts)
Overhaul Procedures:
Yes (for major components like engines and transmissions)
Wiring Diagrams:
Yes (essential for electrical system diagnosis and repair)
Troubleshooting Guides:
Yes (systematic approaches to diagnosing problems)
Depth:
Comprehensive (Factory-level detail for DIY and professional use)
Detail Level:
Includes step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Code Example:
BDN (for W12), BPK (for 4.2L V8)
Engine Type 1:
6.0L W12 (32-valve) Naturally Aspirated
Engine Type 2:
4.2L V8 FSI (32-valve) Naturally Aspirated
Horsepower W12:
420 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque W12:
413 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Horsepower V8:
335 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque V8:
317 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) for W12, Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) for V8.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Type:
6-speed Automatic Tiptronic
Transmission Model:
09L (for V8), 09E (for W12)
Optional Transmissions:
N/A (only one primary automatic transmission offered)
Drive System:
4MOTION All-Wheel Drive (Standard on most models)
Tiptronic Mode:
Allows manual gear selection via shifter or steering wheel buttons.
Length:
Approx. 5,055 mm (199.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,900 mm (74.8 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,450 mm (57.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,945 mm (116.0 in)
Curb Weight V8:
Approx. 2,000-2,100 kg (4,400-4,600 lbs)
Curb Weight W12:
Approx. 2,200-2,300 kg (4,850-5,070 lbs)
NHTSA Front Crash:
Likely Good (based on luxury segment and era standards, specific official ratings can be hard to find for this niche model)
IIHS Small Overlap Front:
Not tested/applicable for this model year.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esp:
Standard Electronic Stability Program
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (ASR)
Parking Assist:
Optional Parking Sensors (front and rear)
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Front and rear side curtain airbags, front side airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and belt force limiters for all seating positions.
Navigation System:
RNS II (Radio Navigation System) with CD-ROM based maps and integrated touchscreen interface.
Audio System:
Premium sound systems, often with brand-name components (e.g., Dynaudio on some models).
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).
Keyless Entry Start:
Optional Keyless Access System (KESSY).
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free telephone preparation.
Climate Control:
Advanced 4-zone Climatronic automatic climate control system, with independent control for front and rear passengers.
Seats:
Multi-way power adjustable front seats with memory, heating, and optional ventilation and massage functions. Heated rear seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. Consult specific service manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions.
Maintenance Schedule Type:
Variable service intervals based on driving style and conditions (e.g., long-life vs. normal).
Engine Oil W12:
SAE 0W-40 or 0W-30 Synthetic Oil, meeting VW 502 00 / 505 00 specifications. Capacity approx. 10.5 liters (11.1 US quarts).
Engine Oil V8:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic Oil, meeting VW 502 00 / 505 00 specifications. Capacity approx. 8.5 liters (9.0 US quarts).
Transmission Fluid:
G 055 005 A2 (or equivalent) for 6-speed automatic. Specific capacity varies, but approx. 4-5 liters for change with filter.
Coolant:
G12 (or G12+) Pink Antifreeze/Coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 12-15 liters depending on engine.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Air Suspension:
Potential for air spring leaks, compressor failure, or valve block issues, common in high-mileage luxury vehicles with air suspension.
Electronic Systems:
Complexity of electronics can lead to sporadic issues with sensors, control modules, or infotainment system glitches. Battery drain can also be a concern if not managed.
Ignition Coils:
While less common than in some other VW models of the era, ignition coil issues can still arise, particularly on the W12.
Timing Belt Chain:
W12 uses a timing chain system which is generally more durable than a belt, but can still require service. V8 FSI uses a timing chain.
Brand Focus:
Volkswagen, historically known for accessible and reliable vehicles, ventured into the ultra-luxury segment with the Phaeton.
Design Philosophy:
Designed to be a discreetly luxurious, technologically advanced, and exceptionally comfortable sedan, without the overt ostentation of some competitors.
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform (D1) with the Bentley Continental GT and Flying Spur, underscoring its premium engineering.
Production Years:
2002-2006 (for North American market, longer in other markets)
Manufacturing Location:
Dresden, Germany (Transparent Factory)
Sales Performance:
Lower than anticipated sales figures in many markets, contributing to its limited production run.
Automotive Journalism Awards:
While not a mainstream award winner in the same vein as some competitors due to its sales figures, it was recognized for its engineering and comfort by automotive critics upon release.
Industry Awards:
Some publications highlighted its build quality and discreet luxury, often comparing it favorably in terms of engineering prowess to its German rivals.
