The heart of the 2009 Volkswagen Touareg’s 3.6L V6 engine requires a lubricant that can handle the specific tolerances and thermal loads of European engineering. The engine code BHK C calls for oil that meets strict Audi and Volkswagen quality standards. For optimal protection, AMSOIL offers three distinct European motor oil options tailored to different driving conditions and seasonal needs. The AMSOIL 5W-40 MS is a versatile choice designed for the unique demands of gasoline, diesel, and hybrid European vehicles, featuring a precise blend of synthetic base oils and premium additives. Alternatively, the AMSOIL 5W-40 FS provides similar protection with a formulation engineered to exceed original equipment manufacturer requirements, ensuring your engine stays clean and operates smoothly. For those operating in colder climates, the AMSOIL 0W-40 FS offers the same robust protection with improved cold-start flow characteristics. The recommended oil capacity for this engine is 6.7 quarts when including a filter replacement. When performing the oil change, it is advised to add 0.5 quarts less than the total capacity, start the engine, and let it run until it reaches operating temperature to ensure proper circulation. The oil drain plug should be torqued to 22 ft-lbs to prevent leaks or thread damage. Complementing the oil change is the MANN-FILTERS Oil Filter (HU9326N), which uses premium media to offer improvements over standard OEM filters, ensuring maximum filtration efficiency to keep the engine internals free from harmful debris.
Fluids for Cooling and Transmission
Maintaining the cooling and transmission systems is just as critical as engine oil maintenance for the longevity of the Touareg. The cooling system in this vehicle requires a capacity of 18 quarts. For this application, the AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is an ideal choice. This ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix formulation provides protection for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years. It is phosphate-, nitrate-, nitrite-, silicate-, borate-, and amine-free, making it safe for all cooling system metals and hoses while remaining compatible with other antifreeze colors. For those preferring a concentrated fluid, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant offers extended service life up to 240,000 miles and greatly surpasses standards for metallic corrosion and erosion protection, requiring mixing with distilled or high-quality water. In the transmission bay, the automatic transmission fluid must meet specific Audi/Volkswagen part numbers to ensure proper shifting and durability. The AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is designed to withstand heavy towing and high temperatures, remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions to provide reserve protection during abuse. For a cost-effective yet high-performance alternative, the AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid protects against wear and sludge while promoting smooth, shudder-free shifts, guarding against leaks and ensuring reliable operation.
Differential, Brake, and Power Steering Fluids
The 2009 Touareg features sophisticated all-wheel-drive systems that rely on high-performance gear lubricants to function correctly. The front differential requires 2.1 pints of GL6SC8 rated lubricant for all temperatures. The rear differential, depending on the specific configuration with or without Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), requires 2.6 pints of GL6SC8 rated fluid. In both cases, the AMSOIL 75W-90 Long Life 100% Synthetic Gear Lube is the recommended choice. This synthetic lubricant is specifically engineered for high-load gear and bearing protection, offering rust and corrosion protection, better cold-weather shifting, and improved seal life. For the hydraulic brake system, which requires DOT 3 and DOT 4 compliant fluid, the AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid ensures excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness. Its stable viscosity over a wide temperature range guarantees consistent braking performance in any weather condition. Finally, the power steering system, designated as PS046, benefits from the AMSOIL 100% Synthetic Multi-Vehicle Power Steering Fluid. This fluid reduces friction, keeps seals soft to prevent leaks, and offers strong anti-wear protection, ensuring quiet operation and long fluid life even under stress.
Additional Maintenance and Fuel Care
Complete vehicle care extends beyond standard fluid changes. For owners who may store their vehicle or drive less frequently, the AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer is essential to keep fuel fresh for up to 12 months, protecting against varnish and gum buildup caused by ethanol corrosion. During seasonal storage, the AMSOIL Engine Fogging Oil provides a highly effective rust preventive designed to protect internal engine components, ideal for long periods of inactivity. To restore performance and efficiency, the AMSOIL P.i. Performance Improver Gasoline Additive is highly recommended. This additive restores up to 14% horsepower, brings GDI fuel injectors back to 100% flow rate, improves fuel economy, and reduces the need for higher-octane fuel, all while helping prevent carbon buildup and controlling pre-ignition knock. For further engine protection, the AMSOIL Upper Cylinder Lubricant Corrosion Inhibitor lubricates the fuel system and upper cylinders, ensuring the top end of the engine remains clean and protected.
About the Vehicle
The 2009 Volkswagen Touareg represents a pinnacle of luxury and capability in the mid-size luxury SUV segment. Based on the same platform as the Porsche Cayenne, the Touareg is known for its sophisticated engineering and robust build quality. The 3.6L V6 engine code BHK C provides a smooth and powerful driving experience, delivering ample torque for both on-road comfort and off-road adventures. This vehicle was designed to compete directly with other high-end rivals, offering a blend of refined interior comfort, advanced technology, and genuine four-wheel-drive capability that few competitors could match at the time. Owners often appreciate the Touareg’s quiet ride, precise handling, and durable construction, which makes it a popular choice for those who need a versatile vehicle for family transport, towing, or recreational use. Its reputation for reliability and its status as a premium import have kept it in high regard among driving enthusiasts. Whether tackling rough terrain or cruising on the highway, the Touareg’s 3.6L engine, when paired with the correct high-performance lubricants, delivers the performance and longevity that its nameplate promises.