Volkswagen Tiguan problems
The Volkswagen Tiguan (German pronunciation: ) is a series of cars produced by German manufacturer Volkswagen since 2007, sitting between the smaller T-Roc and the larger Touareg in the company's crossover SUV range. The first generation was based on the PQ46 platform, while the second generation, released in 2016, utilizes the Volkswagen Group MQB A2 platform. It is generally considered to be a medium-sized SUV in Europe, while in North America it is considered to be a compact crossover.
The name Tiguan is a portmanteau of the German words Tiger ("tiger") and Leguan ("iguana") and won a naming contest by German car magazine publisher Auto Bild—from a field of names that also included Namib, Rockton, Samun and Nanuk.
As of the spring of 2020, six million units had been sold worldwide, with 910,926 units being manufactured in 2019 alone, making the Tiguan the best-selling car overall in the Volkswagen Group. It was also the best-selling SUV in Europe.
Its larger counterparts include the Tiguan Allspace, a long-wheelbase family-oriented version of the Tiguan with three-row seating, and the Tiguan X, a coupé SUV.
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Volkswagen Tiguan model years
Common Volkswagen Tiguan problems
The Volkswagen Tiguan, a popular compact SUV, has had its fair share of issues reported by owners over the years. The most common problems, as reported by CarComplaints.com, revolve around the engine, with the worst model year being 2016.
- Engine Shut Down While Driving (2016 Tiguan): This issue, reported by 16 owners, has an average cost to fix of $6,000 and an average mileage of 16,000 miles. The problem is described as the engine shutting down while driving, which can be a significant safety concern.
- Timing Chain Tensioner Defect / Engine Damage (2011 Tiguan): This problem, affecting the 2011 Tiguan, costs an average of $4,000 to fix and occurs around 90,000 miles. The timing chain tensioner defect can lead to engine damage, making it a critical issue for Tiguan owners.
- Engine Failure (2010 Tiguan): The 2010 Tiguan has seen numerous reports of engine failure, with an average cost to fix of $3,900 and an average mileage of 97,000 miles. This problem can result in a complete engine replacement, which is a significant expense for owners.
- Timing Chain Tensioner (2009 Tiguan): The 2009 Tiguan has had issues with the timing chain tensioner, costing an average of $3,200 to fix and occurring around 89,000 miles. This issue can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Brakes: Some Tiguan models, particularly the 2019 and 2021 models, have reported braking issues, such as leaking brake fluid, warped brake rotors, and service brakes locking up in cold weather. These issues can compromise the safety of the vehicle and should be addressed promptly.
- Electronic Failures: Newer Tiguan models have experienced various electrical issues, including problems with safety and assistance features, such as blind spot indicators, rear cameras, collision detection, and lane assist. These issues can affect the overall functionality and safety of the vehicle.
In conclusion, the Volkswagen Tiguan has had several common problems, primarily related to the engine and braking system. While these issues can be costly to fix, they are important to address to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.
Is a Volkswagen Tiguan a reliable car?
Our data suggests the VW Tiguan is reliable – averagely so. In our 2023 What Car? Reliability Survey, the Tiguan placed 16th in petrol form and 24th in diesel form and that's with reliability scores of 93.2% and 91.4% respectively and out of a pool of 34 cars in the family SUV class.
Are there any issues with the Volkswagen Tiguan?
Engine Issues
The Volkswagen Tiguan is known to have a number of issues with its engine and powertrain. Some of the most common problems include issues with the throttle body, turbocharger, carbon deposits and timing chain tensioner.
What are the disadvantages of the Tiguan?
Pros: Available third row; stronger engine than most rivals; big for a compact crossover Cons: Below-average fuel economy and no hybrid option; uninspiring design, touch climate and steering wheel controls have a learning curve The 2023 Volkswagen Tiguan is VW's most popular model, and it's easy to see why.
Is Tiguan high maintenance?
The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Volkswagen Tiguan is $730, compared to an average of $521 for compact SUVs and $652 for all vehicle models.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Volkswagen Tiguan years
We have researched Volkswagen problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Volkswagen Tiguan cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Volkswagen Tiguan model years:
- Volkswagen Tiguan 2018
- Volkswagen Tiguan 2009
- Volkswagen Tiguan 2011
- Volkswagen Tiguan 2012
- Volkswagen Tiguan 2019
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Volkswagen Tiguan model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Volkswagen Tiguan years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Volkswagen Tiguan car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Volkswagen Tiguan , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Volkswagen Tiguan vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Tiguan model years
A total of 54 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Tiguan model years
There were a total of 19 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Tiguan model years
There were a total of 52 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Tiguan model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1682 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Volkswagen Tiguan . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Volkswagen Tiguan vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Volkswagen Tiguan 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
- VIN: 3VV2B7AX3NM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: This incident occurred [XXX] at about [XXX]. My family and I were returning to Utah from an Arizona vacation. We were heading north on [XXX], in between Payson and Benjamin when the sunroof shattered. The sunroof was not open nor had it been open during the entirety of the vacation. My fiancé and I were both watching the road and did not see any debris nor rocks fly up and hit the sunroof. Our only explanation is that it exploded. The vehicle is available for inspection on request. I am thankful that no one was hurt inside the vehicle, but this could have potentially hurt my child who was in the backseat during this. If the fabric that blocks the sunroof had been pulled back, I am 100% positive that all passengers in the car would have been injured by the glass shards. I am going to call the dealership tomorrow when they are open and plan to call the non emergency phone number for the police to file an incident report, if they allow it. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Volkswagen Tiguan 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: WVGAV7AX2GW
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: My check engine light keeps turning on and off. I took it to the dealership and they gave me a list of things to fix in the future but nothing too serious. They fixed the intake manifold, which I was not aware or informed that it had a recall on it, and they cleaned the valves. They turned off the check engine light and when I picked up the car, it came back on. I informed them about it and they turned it off again. Then again it turned back on as soon as I left the dealership. They told me I had to change the oil and so I did but it turned on again. I tested it at auto zone and the reader said to change the camshaft position sensor and I did. The check engine light turned off and on again quickly. Then recently the steering wheel light turned on and locked the steering wheel.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 3VV4B7AX7NM
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The powertrain control units (engine and/or transmission) exhibit concerning behaviors when accelerating from a stop. The actual vehicle acceleration and propulsive torque does not match driver demanded torque for an extended period of time. The amount of delayed reaction is longer when the vehicle is ‘cold’ meaning that the vehicle has not been running prior to driving for an extended period of time. There is some amount of initial acceleration that allows the vehicle to move into the road but then the propulsive torque seems to go away completely for 3-4 seconds. The torque delivered after this delay is then exponential which is again not matching what the driver is asking for. The unintended torque can put the driver at risk of being in a lane without the ability to accelerate out of danger in time. For the situation of having too high of torque can put the driver in danger of hitting an object because the driver was not planning to accelerate so aggressively. These two behaviors can compound on each other as well. When the driver experiences the too low of drive torque condition, the driver could apply more throttle to correct but this will only make the too high of drive torque condition worse. These behaviors occur after every drive-off from standstill. There is a TSB to help improve this behavior. There are no active faults or warning lamps. Many other owners and dealerships confirmed this same behavior. The occurrence date was set to the date of this complaint but these behaviors have been occurring since date of purchase of vehicle.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that the vehicle was leaking oil. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the valve cover needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. There was gray smoke coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the valve stem seals needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no additional assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 53,000. The VIN was not available.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: 3VV2B7AX7KM
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The car is burning a large amount of oil. I have taken it to the dealer for an oil consumption test 3 times. Every time, VW has indicated that the problem is normal. A tech stated that it is normal to burn a quart of oil every 1000 miles between oil changes. The engine has not ceased yet but it is a real fear of mine, especially since I drive my son in this car.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 3VV2B7AX2KM
- Components: LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: Blind spot detection not working. Repaired May 2023. Occurred again September 2024. No warning that it's been deactivated. Error message when blind spot sensing is activated. VW dealer diagnosed issue.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 3VV2B7AX8LM
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Center overhead console had a catastrophic failure of the brackets holding it in place on the ceiling of the car. This resulted in the full console dangling from the ceiling of the car by wires only. This blocks driver view, the rear view mirror, and swings into driver and passenger headspace. Contacted the dealership and was told this is a common problem. There was no warning before this occurred.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
- VIN: WVGAV7AXXGW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan has a problem with the sunroof leaking and floors being filled with puddles of water in entire car. This have caused the water to cause electrical problems with the vehicle as well as meadow and mold.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- VIN: 3VV3B7AX1LM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: In my VW Tiguan, the sunglasses component that has the lights, the sunroof buttons, and hands-free microphone, dropped from the roof at the end of the day. It was one of the more warmer days that this happened on and I took it into the VW dealership to have them look at it the next day. The whole component blocked my ability to see and caused blind spots. The dealership gave me the car back with the light component taken out and everything else taped up. This caused a problem to not be able to see out of my rearview mirror. The dealership told me two weeks ago on 9/20 that until the part comes in, which is backordered and I still have an unknown timeframe of it coming in, I will be riding around with it taped up. I have found it difficult to drive even with it taped up because it will come down when the tape gives up. I am unsure of what the cause of it is, but know that this has been our hottest summer in the South since I've had my car.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-02
- VIN: WVGBV7AX6FW
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Premature timing chain failure (at 70,000 miles). Regularly maintenanced. Confirmed by mechanic. Check engine light notified 2 months prior to failure.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
- VIN: WVGAV7AX7AW
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle sometimes displays red check engine light on dash with alarm sounding. Check engine light goes away after the vehicle is stopped briefly and restarted. Oil level is normal. Mechanic found no diagnostic codes when scanned with OBD scanner. Mechanic changed oil pressure sensor, replaced oil, checked oil pan. There is no leaking. But the check engine light still comes on with alarm. It does not seem to be related to miles driven, speed driven, road conditions, or external temperature. Consumer is afraid to drive the car, or sell car. Mileage is 61,000, one owner.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
- VIN: 3VVCB7AX2NM
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: Vehicle purchased 10.31.2023 at Volkswagen Jackson (Ritchey Automotive) in Jackson, Mississippi. During the course of normal vehicle operation, multiple Travel Assist system failures and alerts as documented within Volkswagen Technical Service Bulletin 2070207/1 occur. Three repair attempts have previously been performed by Volkswagen Jackson (Ritchey Automotive) in Jackson, Mississippi as documented by invoices dated 20 FEB 2024, 27 FEB 2024, and 12 MAR 2024. These efforts appear to conform with the previously cited Technical Service Bulletin 2070207/1 and confirm the defect(s) and/or nonconformity as per the Bulletin's summary of "48‐23‐ 01-Travel Assist Currently Not Available." The frequency and persistence of visual and auditory safety alerts pose significant hazards to the safety of the driver and vehicle occupants as an unnecessary distraction and nuisance in addition to the direct hazards of antecedent electrical malfunction and driver assistance system defects/nonconformity/failure. This matter has been discussed with dealership staff, yielding no productive resolution, and further assistance is being pursued through Volkswagen Customer CARE. All rights to resolution through alternative means are documented as expressly reserved.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
- VIN: 3VV4B7AX6NM
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: These vehicles have a really bad throttle response when trying to accelerate from a stop making a turn into traffic. If you try to push the accelerator pedal to accelerate quickly there is a huge delay in the response which will almost cause you to get into an accident. Please investigate and have Volkswagen correct the issue. This is a common issue with 2020 and newer VW tiguan, and Taos and Volkswagen has done nothing to improve it.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-25
- VIN: 3VV2B7AX6MM
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 2021 Volkswagen Tijuan has an oil leak caused by a defective Timing Cover Gasket, and or PCV component(s). If you do a simple Google search, there are thousands of these vehicles experiencing the exact same issue, and numerous individuals are not happy. The warranty is 4 years or 50k miles, this problem occurred at 53K, very convenient for the dealers repairing these vehicles. This is absolutely a design flaw and should qualify for a recall. Please investigate and I am sure you will agree, thank you so much.
Volkswagen Tiguan 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-22
- VIN: 3VV2B7AX9MM
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I was driving to work a couple days ago and noticed that the control system that is connected to my rear view mirror was broken. It appears that the plastic overhead control system broke where it screws in. When I inspected it the clasps on all four sides broke with the screws still intact to the vehicle. I disconnected the ports so that I can see my mirror. I just bought my vehicle in July 2023 and I rarely use the controls. I don’t think it’s fair that I have to pay for this replacement. In my honest opinion this should never happen. I haven’t replaced it yet because I am unable to afford it at this time. However I don’t think it should be my responsibility since I’ve never had this happen on any vehicle I have owned. It appears to be a default in craftsmanship.
Latest 5 recalls Volkswagen Tiguan
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 57 recalls for different components of the Volkswagen Tiguan.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Volkswagen Tiguan 2019
- Report Received Date: 2022-10-31
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan LWB, Golf Sportswagen A7, Golf Alltrack, Golf R GP, Audi Q3, Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas, Golf A7, Audi A3, 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport, and 2021 Atlas FL vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system may not detect an air pressure loss in adequate time when deflating occurs among all four tires simultaneously. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
- Consequence: An undetected sudden loss of pressure in all four tires increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the TPMS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 18, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audis customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are (Audi) 45J7, and (VW) 45J6 and 45J8.
- Model: Volkswagen Tiguan 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-07-20
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Golf GTI, Jetta GLI, Jetta NF, Arteon FL, Tiguan LWB, 2022 Taos, Jetta PA, Tiguan PA, 2021-2022 Atlas Cross Sport, and Atlas FL vehicles. The manufacturing process of the eMMC memory module in the infotainment system may cause the rearview camera image not to display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DV.
- Model: Volkswagen Tiguan 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-07-20
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Golf GTI, Jetta GLI, Jetta NF, Arteon FL, Tiguan LWB, 2022 Taos, Jetta PA, Tiguan PA, 2021-2022 Atlas Cross Sport, and Atlas FL vehicles. The manufacturing process of the eMMC memory module in the infotainment system may cause the rearview camera image not to display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DV.
- Model: Volkswagen Tiguan 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-04-06
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022 Tiguan and 2018-2021 Tiguan long wheel base (LWB) vehicles. Due to incorrect installation instructions, the accessory rear hatch spoiler may be insufficiently attached to the vehicle.
- Consequence: An insufficiently attached spoiler may separate from the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the spoiler, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 3, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 66N5.
- Model: Volkswagen Tiguan 2020
- Report Received Date: 2022-04-06
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022 Tiguan and 2018-2021 Tiguan long wheel base (LWB) vehicles. Due to incorrect installation instructions, the accessory rear hatch spoiler may be insufficiently attached to the vehicle.
- Consequence: An insufficiently attached spoiler may separate from the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the spoiler, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 3, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 66N5.
Latest negative Volkswagen Tiguan car reviews
Latest positive Volkswagen Tiguan car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2018
The SUV is very nice both inside and out. Although there are a couple of things I need to get used to, such as the engine which could be better. I loved the power on the low end of my former TDI Jetta, and sometimes the shift changing when accelerating slowly can be a bit wacky. However, the stop-start engine at red lights is different for me. I test drove the Rogue, CX-5, Honda, and both Subaru SUVs, but this SUV seems more refined, less cluttered inside, and simpler. As an older and heavier person, I appreciate the lotta room and comfortable seats, as well as the adjustable back seat. It's easy to get in and out of the car, and the ride is very quiet and soft. The steering and brakes are great, and it's very competent in multiple driving scenarios. I choose ECO, which fits my driving style, and I haven't played too much with the other driving modes yet. The 6-year, 72,000-mile warranty is also a great plus. All in all, I love this vehicle a lot. After about 16,000 miles and 1 year and 2 months in, the engine seems adequate. However, I do not like the initial acceleration, especially if you're trying to beat traffic coming at you. From a stop, if you hit the accelerator hard, there is a major delay from stomp to go, which is actually scary and I believe a safety issue. The SUV sort of sits there for a second. Besides this problem, I still love this vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 2014
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your 2014 Tiguan R-Line! While the rear cargo room may be a bit small, it's great to hear that the rear leg room is more spacious than a 2014 Escape. The leather seats sound very comfortable, and it's great that you're enjoying the memory seats too. It's normal to experience a bit of turbo lag off the line, but it's good to hear that it clears up quickly. The engine sounds impressive and has a great exhaust note. While the fuel economy of 19mpg on mainly highway driving may be a bit disappointing, it's understandable given the cold weather and occasional hard acceleration. It's also worth noting that the car is not yet broken in. I can understand that the price of 40 grand may seem like a lot, especially without a backup camera or sat/nav, but overall it sounds like a fantastic CUV!
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Vehicle year: 2023
I traded in my 2020 Mazda CX-5 mainly due to concerns over the faulty electrical system. And I'm so happy I did! The Tiguan is much better appointed, drives better, accelerates faster, and just overall feels better to be in. The third row is kind of pointless, but it's perfect for my dog. She doesn't complain about being cramped, and that's all that matters. Overall, I think this was the perfect choice for our family.
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Vehicle year: 2016
I've been driving a 2016 Tiguan S for about a month now and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed with it. The stock stereo is fantastic, it drives like a Golf, and the interior is well-designed and feels much more luxurious than its price tag suggests. I'm not sure if VW rates their engines at the wheels, but every FWD model I've seen dyno results on matches VW's power output claim, so in reality, the engine is likely putting out 230+hp and 240+lb-ft, and it certainly feels like it. Coming from a modified, 400hp Taurus SHO, I was expecting to be disappointed, but I'm pleased with the get-up-and-go this car has. I'm also getting great gas mileage, averaging 20.5 mpg in the city (actual city) and 28 on the highway with cruise at 75. Now, for my minor complaints: the base model doesn't come with satellite radio, which was a bit of a letdown for me as a subscriber, but it's not enough to overshadow the car's many merits. Additionally, the trunk is quite small, making it difficult to fit my collie mix comfortably in the back with the rear seats fully reclined. However, this can be easily overcome by sliding or angling the seats forward. All things considered, I believe this is the most underrated small SUV on the market.
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Vehicle year: 2011
I'm so glad you're considering the Tiguan! As someone who has driven a mini cooper S for the past five years, I was a bit apprehensive about switching to a crossover. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how sporty the Tiguan feels. The handling is absolutely terrific! After doing some comparison shopping, I couldn't find anything else in the crossover segment that matches the Tiguan's interior quality and zippy nature. I highly recommend giving it a try!
Are you having problems with your Volkswagen Tiguan?
Mohammad Stanton 2025-06-20
Vehicle year: 2009
I recently purchased this car and unfortunately, I didn't do my homework before buying it. Within a month of owning it, we had to spend $1100 to fix a seat belt sensor and now it's back at VW because the timing chain broke, even though it was fixed just 10 months ago. It's frustrating that a timing chain, which should last well over 100,000 miles, broke after only 8,000 miles. As someone who has owned many VWs, I'm disappointed with this experience. I hope that VW of America and VW customer service can help us resolve these issues. Despite the setbacks, we remain hopeful that we can enjoy this car for many years to come.
Edison Hahn 2025-06-19
Vehicle year: 2012
I really enjoy the interior of my Tiguan S with Full Option. Whenever I get in the car, I feel relaxed and happy. The wide open sunroof is a great feature. While my driver seat is comfortable, my wife has had some trouble adjusting the passenger seat to her liking, especially during long drives. I've tried to teach her how to adjust the manual passenger seat position, but she still finds it difficult. Even my co-workers have had trouble with it. Unfortunately, the entertainment system is lacking, as it doesn't have a USB connector to play music or charge my phone. The engine can also be a bit shaky at slow speeds, around 30 to 35 mph, despite being a 2.0L turbo. I've heard that APR offers an ECU update and upgraded turbo to improve acceleration, but it's disappointing that aftermarket equipment is necessary to fully enjoy the Tiguan's potential. Additionally, the mpg could be better. Overall, it's an okay car.
Seth Roberts 2025-06-12
Vehicle year: 2009
Although my car is only a few months old, I have experienced some issues with it. The gas cap had to be replaced due to the engine light being on, and later on, the fuel gauge stopped working properly, displaying an inaccurate reading of the fuel tank. However, I am confident that these issues can be resolved with the help of a professional mechanic.
Logan Pouros 2025-06-11
Vehicle year: 2020
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to share my experience with my daughter's Tiguan, which we purchased as a college graduation present. Unfortunately, we encountered an issue with the sunroof leaking almost immediately. After some research, I discovered that this is a common problem that many Tiguan owners have experienced. While the dealer was able to provide a temporary fix under warranty, we were disappointed to learn that this issue has caused the resale or trade-in value of the vehicle to be lower than expected. Although we have enjoyed our Tiguan, the fact that VW has not issued a recall to permanently fix this issue has made us hesitant to consider purchasing another VW product in the future. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Taurean Blanda 2025-06-10
Vehicle year: 2013
This model is certainly fun to drive, but unfortunately, it has not proven to be reliable. Based on my experience, it appears that VW may have used cheaper parts in its construction, which can lead to significant repair bills. Specifically, the water pump and cooling system are prone to breaking.