Vehicle Segment:
Luxury SUV / Premium Crossover
Competitors:
BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz ML-Class, Lexus RX, Audi Q7 (though Q7 arrived later, it was a key competitor).
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with Porsche Cayenne and Lamborghini LM002 (conceptually), indicating robust engineering.
Off Road Capability:
Exceptional off-road prowess for its class, featuring available locking differentials and adaptive air suspension.
Manual Advantage:
Provides DIY enthusiasts with professional-grade repair data, bypassing the need for expensive dealership labor.
Convenience:
Instant online access on multiple devices, superior to bulky printed manuals.
Engine:
All engine variants available for the 2004 Touareg (3.2L VR6, 4.2L V8).
Transmission:
Automatic transmissions (Tiptronic feature).
Drivetrain:
4XMOTION all-wheel drive system, differentials, drive shafts.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service.
Suspension:
Adaptive Air Suspension (if equipped), independent suspension components, shock absorbers, control arms.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, fuses, relays, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, body control modules.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components and service.
Body And Chassis:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, locks, chassis components.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements, spark plug service, brake checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based diagnostics.
Repair:
Component removal, installation, and repair for all major systems.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II codes, sensor testing, module diagnosis.
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, including torque specifications, electrical schematics, and detailed disassembly/assembly instructions.
Engine Code 3 2L:
AXZ (3.2L VR6)
Engine Displacement 3 2L:
3.2 liters (3189 cc)
Engine Configuration 3 2L:
VR6 (Narrow-angle V)
Horsepower 3 2L:
220 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque 3 2L:
225 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Engine Code 4 2L:
AHT (4.2L V8)
Engine Displacement 4 2L:
4.2 liters (4172 cc)
Engine Configuration 4 2L:
V8
Horsepower 4 2L:
273 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque 4 2L:
277 lb-ft @ 3300 rpm
Fuel Delivery Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) / Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type Recommendation:
Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended for optimal performance)
Type:
6-speed Tiptronic Automatic Transmission
Transmission Options:
N/A for 2004 model year; 6-speed auto was standard across engines.
Drivetrain Layout:
4XMOTION permanent all-wheel drive
Gear Reduction Low Range:
Standard, providing enhanced off-road capability and towing.
Length:
189.7 inches (4,818 mm)
Width:
78.1 inches (1,984 mm)
Height:
69.2 inches (1,758 mm)
Wheelbase:
113.8 inches (2,891 mm)
Curb Weight 3 2L:
Approx. 4,773 lbs (2,165 kg)
Curb Weight 4 2L:
Approx. 4,883 lbs (2,215 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 7,700 lbs (3,500 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star (Front and Rear Passengers)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esp:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Hill Descent Control:
Standard
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, and available side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts.
Available Navigation:
Optional GPS navigation system with touchscreen interface.
Audio System:
Premium audio systems available, including branded options.
Parking Sensors:
Available front and rear parking assist sensors.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available ACC system.
Auxiliary Input:
May feature an auxiliary audio input for portable music devices.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions).
Timing Belt Chain 3 2L:
VR6 engines use a timing chain, generally requiring inspection but not replacement on a fixed schedule, though tensioners can be a wear item.
Timing Belt Chain 4 2L:
V8 engines also utilize timing chains.
Engine Oil Spec 3 2L:
VW 502 00 (e.g., 5W-40 full synthetic)
Engine Oil Spec 4 2L:
VW 502 00 (e.g., 0W-40 or 5W-40 full synthetic)
Coolant Type:
G12 or G12 Plus (Pink color, VW specification)
Transmission Fluid Type:
VW G 055 025 or equivalent ETL-7045E (for 6-speed automatic)
Air Suspension Compressor:
Common failure point, leading to suspension sag.
Ignition Coils:
Can be prone to failure on V8 models, causing misfires.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components can break, leading to stuck windows.
Rear Differential Leaks:
Potential for leaks at the seals.
Volkswagen SUV History:
First dedicated full-size SUV from Volkswagen, aimed at a premium market segment.
Initial Release Year:
2002 (for the 2003 model year in North America)
Manufacturing Location:
Bratislava, Slovakia (Volkswagen Slovakia, a.s.)