I purchased my 2012 VW Routan SE from CARMAX back in January 2018 with about 42K miles on it and noticed issues with rough gear shifts and clunking when placed into gear about 4 months later. I took it to Auto Zone to get a read on the check engine light, but every time I took it to a mechanic there were no errors and could not duplicate the issues. I had the speed sensors replaced, and a tune up done on it, at the recommendation of the mechanic, who felt it was not the transmission. This issue was just random enough that each time I took it to the mechanic, they could not "replicate" the issue It seems to help for a few weeks, then it started up again. VERY DISAPPOINTING.

I purchased my 2012 VW Routan with about 16K miles on it and noticed issues with rough gear shifts and clunking when placed into gear from the very beginning. I took it back to the dealer numerous times in the beginning and they told me there were no errors and could not duplicate the issues. Fast forward 5 years. In December 2017, the transmission would stick in 3rd gear while the RPMs continued to climb. I would have to pull over, turn off the engine and restart the vehicle. This issue was just random enough that each time I took it to the dealer for a week at a time, they could not "replicate" the issue. Finally, the check engine light came on long enough for me to drive it to the dealer. I was told the valve body needed to be replaced. That was done, but 2 weeks later it started up again. Now, sometimes it sticks in 1st gear and/or 3rd. It is back at the dealership as I type. They have had it for almost 2 weeks this time and again are unable to "replicate" the problem; therefore, it cannot be fixed. After researching Chrysler transmission issues, I am not surprised to find that the Routan has the same undefined and not fixable transmission problems. On a side note: My rental vehicle is a 2018 Dodge Caravan with 1600 miles. I had the same transmission issues with it last night and this morning. It almost left me stranded. Great job Chrysler!