Starter problems of the 2012 Volkswagen Routan

The engine will die as I'm driving down the highway. This causes me to lose power steering, all my digital guages on dash,etc. When I pull over stop and put it in neutral I can then turn the key and it will start right back up. This has happened at least 6 times while driving on the highway or in town but always while moving and for no apparent reason. Possible touched the key chain with my knee but I can't say anything triggered it. First thing I notice is I'm slowing down and have to power steering. Also, when starting the car the ignition regularly does not recognize that I've turned the key. Requires that I push the key in with force up and to the right while rotating for the key to activate the ignition. Sometime the engine will begin to start but stop when I let go of the key. My dealer said it could be the battery or the remote car starter. I've replaced both and still have the same problem. Now they are quoting me about $700 to replace the key fobs and ignition. I was told by a mechanic this is the exact type of problem that all the town & countries & Routans have had and there was a recall. It's a plastic key that wears out and stops working properly. Checking on-line vw Routan, Dodge caravan & chysler town & country all had a recall on their ignitions, but it was limited to 2009 & 2010. I have the same issue described in the recall "inadvertent ignition key displacement from the run position, which would shut off the engine and depower safety systems, such as airbags, power steering and braking".

While driving, the car will suddenly stall all lights will come on. Sometime it will start back up when pushing start button and other times it will take a few minutes. This usually happens when going under 10 mph. It is also sometimes difficult to start after all the lights will come on and then off. We have replaced the battery and starter and that hasn't fixed the issue.

For past 2 years I noticed my the van would not immediately start. Figured it was a fluke. In past year, my van has been towed to dealership for not starting after 10-15 tries. Of course, as soon as it arrives the get it to start. Thankful under warranty. Nov 2017 wiring harness and starter replaced. Dec 2017 failed to start again. Back to dealer and working fine for them. Thankful under warranty. , but come on vm!! this is nuts. Why won't they recall and re place the tipem like chrystal did. I have been stranded too many times and had to 3 car seats each time.