2021 Volkswagen Tiguan problems

volkswagen logo

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.

2021 Volkswagen Tiguan

Social links

Common 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan problems

Based on complaints from owners of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, several common problems have been reported:

  • Electrical Power Loss: Some Tiguan owners have experienced complete electric power loss while driving, where all lights, radio, AC, speedometer, and other electrical components stop working, leaving only the engine running. Despite attempts to fix the issue, the problem persists, posing a safety risk to drivers.
  • Braking System Malfunction: The Tiguan's braking system has been a cause for concern, with reports of service brakes locking up in cold weather, vibrations or shaking, leaking brake fluid, and warped brake rotors. The automated braking system has also been reported to engage unexpectedly, leading to sudden and hard braking without driver input, which can be dangerous.
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Defect: Issues with the timing chain tensioner have been reported, leading to engine damage and failure. This defect has been associated with high repair costs and occurs at relatively high mileage, impacting the vehicle's performance and reliability.
  • Airbag-Related Problems: Complaints regarding airbag-related issues have been raised, including problems with the airbag control module, frontal airbag deployment, side/window airbags, and coil spring issues. These issues pose safety risks to drivers and passengers, highlighting concerns about the Tiguan's safety features.
  • Infotainment System Failures: Owners have reported issues with the infotainment screen freezing or going blank completely. While some problems can be resolved by resetting or updating the system, more severe cases have required recalls by Volkswagen to address cluster failures and other related issues.

These common problems with the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan highlight various issues related to engine performance, electrical systems, braking functionality, timing chain tensioner defects, airbag-related concerns, and infotainment system failures. Addressing these issues promptly through professional maintenance and potential recalls is crucial to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle.

2021 Volkswagen Tiguan engine

What are the common problems with Tiguan 2021?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

  • Exhaust. Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks. ...
  • Steering And Suspension. ...
  • In-car Electronics. ...
  • Climate System. ...
  • Engine Major. ...
  • Electrical Accessories. ...
  • Noises And Leaks. ...
  • Drive System.

Is the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan reliable?

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan has a predicted reliability score of 76 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

Are there any recalls on 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?

(Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Long Wheelbase and Jetta vehicles. Bolts may be missing from the front seat tracks. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model. You'll need your car's 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to know for sure.

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.

What are the common problems with Tiguan 2021?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

  • Exhaust. Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks. ...
  • Steering And Suspension. ...
  • In-car Electronics. ...
  • Climate System. ...
  • Engine Major. ...
  • Electrical Accessories. ...
  • Noises And Leaks. ...
  • Drive System.

Is the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan reliable?

The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan has a predicted reliability score of 76 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

Are there any recalls on 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?

(Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Long Wheelbase and Jetta vehicles. Bolts may be missing from the front seat tracks. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model. You'll need your car's 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to know for sure.

Is A Tiguan A Good Car to buy?

The Volkswagen Tiguan has one of the simplest recipes of any family SUV. It looks good without being too in-yer-face, is spacious without being intimidating to drive in town, and has a lovely interior without being so posh you're scared to get your kids' grubby figures anywhere near it.

2021 Volkswagen Tiguan car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Volkswagen Tiguan problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Unknown or other problems
  • Forward collision avoidance problems
  • Engine problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan

The NHTSA has received 58 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan vehicles.

2024-10-08

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-23
  • 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.
2024-09-25

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 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.
2024-09-22

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
  • 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.
2024-09-04

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
  • VIN: 3VV4B7AX3MM
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The overhead console started separating from the headliner which was annoying but I didn’t think much of it. A few days later the console was dangling just held up by wires. I taped it back up but while I’m driving it fell again. You can’t see to drive letting it dangle so I had to hold it up while driving. It takes a lot of attention away from the road when you’re messing with the console to drive. The part is back ordered so it hasn’t been fixed yet. I Juat keep taping it up but the sun melts the glue or something. It’s a daily chore before driving. For what I see this is happening to a lot of Vw Tiguan owners
2024-09-02

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-29
  • VIN: 3VV2B7AX8MM
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: PCV Failure causing the timing cover to leak oil and causing the oil pan to crack. This is a known issue with VW TSI engines. This PCV is a major issue not only causing the damage above but others are having to replace the rear main seal and crank case because of this. It's now in the shop for the next week and I'm out of a vehicle for the next week. This is not the only problem I've had with this vehicle. The last problem I had was the housing unit of the overhead lights, sunroof controls and sos when hanging down and broke out of nowhere. The plastic melted and cracked. It was replaced but was not put back together properly. There are now gaps where it should be tightly sealed. The glove comparent arm is broken. There are wheel bearings issues too we are trying to pin point the issue. The hits keep coming and the car is just a money pit.
2024-08-14

EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-30
  • VIN: 3VV3B7AX5MM
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: The overhead control console breaks free and falls down in front of the rear view mirror. Inspecting the broken console, the screws are to tight causing the plastic to fatigue and eventually break. Searching this issue on reddit, it seems common enough, people have had them fall when closing a door, pots holes ect. Mine broke free when giving over a speed bump.
2024-08-02

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-31
  • VIN: 3VV4B7AX8MM
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: We were driving to Mci airport. We felt car jerk. Was able to continue driving. Got off at exit. Pulled over looked under hood, didn’t see anything. Pulled away felt it pulling back. Was able to make it home at just 60 miles an hour. The care would hesitate and jerk if going up slight hill or accelerating. Took to shop. They said it was pvc valve. Which caused crack in oil pan as well as timing chain cover. It also coated under car in oil. I did some research and this seems to be a fairly common issue. Same issue and results. Some of them had less miles than mine but most were around the range. I think if you investigated these engines no matter what vehicle Vw put them in you will find a common thread. I would appreciate your research and feedback in this matter. Thank you
2024-07-24

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-21
  • VIN: 3VV3B7AX4MM
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: I scraped the curb with my passenger front tire and all my side air bags deployed. There was no other damage done to the vehicle.
2024-07-19

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-19
  • VIN: 3VV3B7AX5MM
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: CLIMATE CONTROL STOPED WORKING JUST FLICKERS ON AND OFF
2024-07-15

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-15
  • VIN: 3VV2B7AX4MM
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: The control panel that controls the sunroof and lights fell from my roof. It was hanging down blocking my view so I could not drive. I brought it to my dealer who said it was still under warranty and proceeded to fix the problem. I still have to go back because they have to order another part. I have read several other complaints about the same issue. I have always bought VW and this is the first time I had an issue like this! I believe this should be a recall since it has happened to so many others. It is a very dangerous situation . Thank god I wasn’t driving in the highway this would of ended quite different!
2024-07-05

WHEELS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-05
  • VIN: 3VV3B7AX5MM
  • Components: WHEELS
  • Summary: on the 3rd windshield in less than 1 year... the smallest impact breaks the windshield. There is a major problem with fragile windshields in the VW line.
2024-06-27

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-26
  • VIN: 3VV2B7AX1MM
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: In July of 23 went to get in my car and when I opened the door the center console was hanging down by wires blocking the rear view mirror and part of the windshield. Car was fixed at the dealer . Yesterday 6/26/2024 went to get in my car and the same thing has happened again !!!! . Can’t see out my rear view mirror and part of my view is blocked from looking out the windshield creating massive safty issues until it can get fixed. ( tape does not hold to keep it out of the way ) Also was told that VW will not cover the costs of repair this time even though it has been less than a year since it happened last time . This is a massive safty issue that affects driving and could very easily cause an accident at any time!!!!!!!.
2024-06-25

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-25
  • VIN: 3VV2B7AX1MM
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: Center console above rear view mirror has broken and fallen from ceiling for the 2nd time. It as repaired in Aug 2023 after this happened the first time. This is a DEFECT and it needs to be addressed ASAP! If this falls from the ceiling while driving, its very dangerous and most likely would cause an accident. I will be calling dealer tomorrow and it better be repaired under warranty.
2024-06-03

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-25
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive. The low oil level warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who observed a crack in the oil pan. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was towed back to the independent mechanic, who then diagnosed a failure with the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 50,000. The VIN was not available.
2024-06-03

VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-03
  • VIN: 3VV2B7AX2MM
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: While I was driving today, I heard a loud pop. It was caused by the car's overhead console (it houses the controls for the sun roof, garage opener, cabin lights, etc) suddenly detaching. Apparently, a lot of owners of this same VW model has reported the same issue and several has reported it as a recurring issue. You can find details here [XXX] I am concerned about the safety issues resulting from this defect. First, it causes a distraction that can result in an accident. 2nd, the console broke off on all 4 locations where it is secured in place by screws. Due to this, I was unable to put it back in place causing the console to just dangle while I was driving. Since the console is directly behind the rear view mirror, it was blocking my view of the mirror. I advise the board to examine the design of this console as the plastic ring where the screw mounts is so thin. Even if I get a replacement console, I am afraid this will happen again, as reported by several owners. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-04-18

STEERING,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-06
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 3VV1B7AX5MM
  • Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: On 4/6/24 the steering wheel locked while driving the car . Causing the car to go off the road into a 40 ft ditch and hit a tree
2024-04-13

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-28
  • VIN: 3VV2B7AX0MM
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Overhead Sunglass holder they brake easily such as the 2 clips that hold the cover.
2024-03-22

VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-03-24
  • VIN: 3VV4B7AX5MM
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: We have a cracked windshield and VW has not been able to provide us with a replacement windshield. I have contacted VW parts at the dealership, called VW care, and called harrs auto glass. No one can get me any info on when a new windshield will be available for my car. I'm told the windshield is on backorder with an unknown ETA. I have been waiting for a windshield for 1 year with no news.
2024-03-12

VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-08
  • VIN: 3VV3B7AX5MM
  • Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
  • Summary: The front windshield is very fragile. I am now replacing it again after having replaced it just a year ago from the same issue. Crack develops and travels across the entire window.
2024-03-06

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-12-22
  • VIN: 3VV4B7AXXMM
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: The seal on the passenger headlight on my 2021 Tiguan failed and condensation accumulated in the light. After a short while, the light shorted out and needed to be replaced. The dealer I went to was not very responsive and stated the light was on backorder and they could not obtain. Once the light shorted, the dealership took the car overnight, provided a loaner and replaced the headlight. For the record, I do not know if the light is VW or after-market and do not care as long as it continues to work. This is important b/c now the driver headlight seal failed and the light shorted out. Same story with the headlight on backorder and the dealership will not replace nor provide a loner. It is apparent the headlights used in VW Tiguans are faulty and run the risk of shorting out. So I am left a leased vehicle that is literally not legally fit to drive - no head light, turn-signal is also not operable.
2024-03-05

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-01
  • VIN: 3VV0B7AX9MM
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: My Tiguan was towed on [XXX] to Beyer Volkswagen [4017 Valley Pike, Winchester, VA 22602] for service to repair a sudden and unexpected vehicle failure.  On [XXX], I started the Tiguan and noticed a hard start. I drove the vehicle about 4 miles down the road and noticed a smell of gasoline when I stopped and opened the door. I immediately drove the car home at which point I noticed gasoline on the road and driveway, as well as a heavy persistent smell of gas. I moved the vehicle to the road and had it towed [$95 at my expense] to Beyer VW for service. This failure rendered the vehicle undrivable and luckily was able to get it towed before it became engulfed in flames. [XXX], after getting the vehicle back for 1 week (dealership claiming repair fixed) the problem was not fixed and in fact gas spewed from the engine at a higher rate. Pictures attach showing about of gas which instantly dispelled at start and move from driveway to road. This is a critical vw problem that will result in fire. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-03-04

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-28
  • VIN: 3VV4B7AX5MM
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? GPS, it intermittently does not work and so difficult to inspect upon request How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Directions not available on GPS system leading to incorrect turns, potential accidents and other dangers of relying on a map system Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Manufacturer (VW) was contacted, Case# 06128548 closed without resolution with a possible software update planned but no expectation of delivery Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No, GPS intermittently stopped working about a year ago
2024-01-29

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-07-29
  • VIN: 3VV2B7AX3MM
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15 - 20 MPH the "Stop and Start Failure" message was displayed. The contact restarted the vehicle and the "Fault Electronic Brake" and "Driver Door Switch Failure" messages became displayed. The contact pulled to the side of the road and opened then closed the front driver’s side door and restarted the vehicle. The contact repeated the process three times however, the messages remained displayed. The contact continued to drive the vehicle at approximately 15 - 20 MPH and the parking brake suddenly activated. Once the parking brake had independently released the contact was able to get to the side of the road and turned off and restarted the vehicle several times. The failure had started occurring more frequently. The contact stated that several other unknown messages were displayed. The dealer had been informed of the failure however, the vehicle had not been taken to the dealer. The vehicle had not been diagnosed. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 20,000.
2023-11-09

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
  • VIN: 3VV2B7AX5MM
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
  • Summary: Vehicle keeps having all warning lights and warning messages come on whenever the car starts. Warning lights maintain on constantly and has audible beeping to indicate the warnings. Vehicle would also put itself into park randomly at, as well as disengage collision and lane sensors while driving. Vehicle has been taken to the dealership, and has been reproduced by them, stating "we have never seen this before and are not sure what to do, we need to reach out to Volkswagen directly" most recent update, they needed to replace the door harness and F5 module but are still unclear with the status of the repair. Dealership has indicated it's safe to drive if I wanted to pick it up while they figure out the issue.
2023-11-03

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
  • VIN: 3VV1B7AX1MM
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: My car is a 2021 Tiguan. Car is burning oil and should not be.

2021 Volkswagen Tiguan recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan.

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.
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.
2022-03-23
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022 Tiguan, Taos, and 2021 Tiguan long wheel base (LWB) vehicles. A second notice will be sent once remedy parts become available. The left or right rear suspension knuckles may corrode, crack, and break.
  • Consequence: A broken rear suspension knuckle can cause a loss of stability, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace one or both rear suspension knuckles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 13, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 42L8.
2021-02-01
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Long Wheelbase and Jetta vehicles. Bolts may be missing from the front seat tracks.
  • Consequence: The seat can move front and back without restriction if bolts are missing, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
  • Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front seat tracks and, as necessary, install the bolts, free of charge. The recall began February 18, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 72L6.
2020-11-18
  • Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  • Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
  • Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas Cross Sport, Tiguan LWB, Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas FL and Arteon vehicles. The rear view camera could malfunction during an ignition cycle, leading to a black screen or infotainment system freeze. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
  • Consequence: A black or frozen rear view image reduces the driver's visibility when reversing, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91BB/91BC.

Negative 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan car reviews

  1. Roman Huel 2024-11-25

    I purchased my 2021 Tiguan in September of this year. Unfortunately, within the first 500km, it required an engine replacement. Additionally, it experienced a severe dual line leak within the first 4000km, and has had multiple issues with sensors and alignment. Despite these issues, Volkswagen has refused to acknowledge that the vehicle is a lemon. As a result, I have decided to trade it in for a more reliable Jeep.

  2. Walton Hermiston 2024-08-26

    This vehicle could benefit from a more powerful engine to handle its weight with ease. Unfortunately, the turbo doesn't provide much assistance and the engine lag can be a nuisance. The handling is light, and the overall road manners are numb. The touch screen controls can be frustrating, and the interior fit and finish is mediocre at best. Additionally, the doors have a lot of plastic. It's been almost 6 months since I got the Tiguan, and I still believe there is much room for improvement in every aspect.

  3. Adelbert Hodkiewicz 2024-07-21

    A few days ago, I was involved in an accident where my Tiguan was impacted from behind. Despite the impact being at the back of the vehicle, the front passenger seat failed to stay in position, resulting in injury to the passenger. I promptly notified VW of the issue, however, my message was ignored.

  4. Joe Tillman 2024-06-10

    I recently traded in my end of lease 2018 Acura Base for a Tiguan. Initially, I planned on getting another RDX, but I found that the base RDX lacked modern safety features such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert. Unfortunately, the other SUVs in this class were either too expensive or had unappealing designs. Although the Tiguan had a spartan German interior, we were satisfied with it until the auto start function began to malfunction. We became concerned when the car failed to restart at a busy intersection, and all the warning lights came on, nearly causing a collision as it rolled down a hill into oncoming traffic. The dealer acknowledged that there were 34 faults in the computer, but they were unable to reproduce the issue. Their solution was to turn off the auto start function. Now, my wife is worried that she will forget to turn it off and end up with a dead car or a collision.

  5. Elliott Kuvalis 2024-05-29

    The transmission on the 2021 VW Tiguan is experiencing some stuttering issues.

Positive 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan car reviews

  1. Sofia Ernser 2025-01-07

    Congratulations on your new Tiguan! It sounds like you made a great choice with the 2021 SE Rline. The platinum grey color and blacked-out trims make for a real head-turner, and the 20-inch black wheels are a great touch. It's good to hear that the ride is comfortable, even with the larger wheels, and that you're enjoying the SUV overall. I can understand your minor annoyances with the auto light and the lack of LED headlights on the R Line, but it's great that you've found a solution with the LED kit. It's also good to hear that you're not too concerned about the horsepower and are instead focused on the comfort and enjoyment of the car. Thank you for sharing your experience, and I hope you continue to enjoy your Tiguan for the remainder of your lease!

  2. Moriah Jenkins 2024-10-19

    The Tiguan is the perfect vehicle for comfort, space, and options. It's good on gas and has an engine that will last!

  3. Brandon Corwin 2024-10-16

    Great vehicle and very comfortable!!

  4. Javonte Bechtelar 2024-10-14

    With technology. Awesome car.

  5. Diego Lakin 2024-10-03

    I had the pleasure of driving a 2021 Tiguan as a rental for a week in sunny Florida. As a proud owner of a 2022 F150 Hybrid from Canada, I was pleasantly surprised by the Tiguan's impressive torque and get-up-and-go. The vehicle was incredibly comfortable and spacious for its size, and I was particularly impressed by its great fuel efficiency. Overall, I found the Tiguan to be a fantastic little car, and if I didn't need a truck, I would definitely consider purchasing one. I highly recommend this vehicle if you are in the market for a car of this class.

Leave your review of 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan

Other years of Volkswagen Tiguan

volkswagen tiguan 2022 photo
Tiguan 2022
Volkswagen

135

4

24

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen tiguan 2023 photo
Tiguan 2023
Volkswagen

28

0

24

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen tiguan 2009 photo
Tiguan 2009
Volkswagen

166

3

32

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen tiguan 2010 photo
Tiguan 2010
Volkswagen

108

2

29

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen tiguan 2011 photo
Tiguan 2011
Volkswagen

158

3

19

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
volkswagen tiguan 2012 photo
Tiguan 2012
Volkswagen

146

3

21

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Are you having problems with your 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?

Add car complaint
2021 Volkswagen Tiguan photo