The Volkswagen Tiguan is a popular SUV, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Understanding these potential issues can help you make informed decisions about maintenance and repairs. This guide delves into the most frequently reported Volkswagen Tiguan Problems, ranging from engine troubles to electrical glitches.
Engine and Powertrain Problems in Volkswagen Tiguans
Engine-related issues are among the most common complaints from Volkswagen Tiguan owners. These can range from minor annoyances to significant performance problems.
Throttle Body Issues
Many Tiguans, both older and newer models, experience throttle body problems. Symptoms include rough idling, fluctuating RPMs, and an illuminated check engine light. A faulty throttle body can significantly impact performance, particularly at low speeds.
Turbocharger Problems
Turbocharger malfunctions are widely reported in the Tiguan. Owners often describe a loss of power, especially when trying to maintain highway speeds. A straining engine sound can also indicate a failing turbocharger. This issue is so prevalent that some owners have petitioned Volkswagen for a recall.
Carbon Deposit Buildup
The Tiguan’s engine design is prone to carbon buildup, particularly in the TSI direct injection engine. This can lead to black smoke from the exhaust, sensor failures, and diminished performance. Symptoms include power loss, rough idling, difficulty starting, reduced acceleration, and engine misfires. Cleaning the intake manifold, intake ports, and valves is often necessary to address this problem.
Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
The plastic timing chain tensioner in the Tiguan is known to fail, leading to potentially costly repairs. Rattling or misfiring while idling, along with a check engine light and contaminated engine oil, can signal a timing chain issue.
Other Common Volkswagen Tiguan Problems
Beyond engine issues, several other problems plague various Tiguan models.
Hesitation During Acceleration
A concerning issue reported by Tiguan owners is hesitation during acceleration. This unpredictable behavior can be dangerous, especially on highways. While often not associated with diagnostic trouble codes, a lean fuel/air mixture due to a faulty mass airflow sensor, fuel pump, throttle position sensor, or dirty fuel injectors could be the culprit.
Electrical System Malfunctions
Electrical problems are common in the Tiguan, often affecting exterior lights, the infotainment screen, and the rearview camera. Exterior light issues can include malfunctioning high and low beams, as well as problems with the sunroof ambient lighting and taillights. Infotainment screen freezing or blanking is common in newer models. While resets or updates sometimes resolve these issues, some have led to recalls.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Many Tiguan owners, particularly those with 2018 models, report excessive oil consumption. While Volkswagen might consider a quart of oil per 1,000 miles acceptable, many owners find this excessive. Bad cylinder seals are often linked to this problem.
Airbag System Concerns
Airbag issues, particularly those related to the airbag control module, frontal airbag deployment, side/window airbags, and the coil spring, are frequent complaints in newer Tiguans.
Automatic Emergency Braking Problems
The automatic emergency braking system in some Tiguans can be overly sensitive, applying the brakes without driver input or failing to activate when needed. This issue primarily affects models from 2018 and newer.
Steering Problems
Two common steering problems affect the Tiguan: a broken clock spring causing multifunction steering wheel and airbag system failures, and power steering disengagement, resulting in a heavy steering wheel.
Fuel System Issues
Fuel system problems, including leaks, faulty fuel pumps, and issues with the N80 purge valve, can affect both diesel and gasoline Tiguans. Faulty fuel pumps can lead to poor performance, increased fuel costs, leaks, and stalling. The N80 purge valve can cause performance issues and poor fuel mileage due to incorrect fuel delivery to the engine. Engine stalling, often accompanied by the Electronic Power Control (EPC) warning light, is frequently attributed to a faulty fuel injector wiring harness or a faulty engine.
Finally, some owners report issues with seats tearing prematurely and seatbelt malfunctions.
While the Volkswagen Tiguan is a popular choice, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems. Regular maintenance and consulting a qualified Volkswagen specialist for repairs are crucial for addressing these issues and ensuring a positive ownership experience.
