If there’s one thing that best describes the Volkswagen Tiguan crossover SUV, is that it’s the best of both worlds. Named after the combination of the German words for tiger and iguana, the Tiguan features an off road-ready, 84-hp turbocharged engine and a 7-seater interior.
On the surface, the Volkswagen Tiguan sounds great for buyers who are interested in a vehicle that offers the roominess of a full-sized SUV, but with the overall size and maneuverability of a more compact vehicle.
But is it actually reliable?
Are Volkswagen Tiguans Reliable?
Volkswagen Tiguan reliability ratings are about average or above-average from industry reviewers and car owners alike. JD Power awarded the Tiguan with a “Great” score of 81/100, while Consumer Reports describes it as a “safe and reliable” vehicle but with a predicted reliability score of just 3 out of 5.
RepairPal also gave the Tiguan an average rating of 3 out of 5, ranking it 26th out of 26 compact SUVs.
Critics also cite the Tiguan’s modular MQB front-engine system, which shares core components with vehicles made under the VW Group, such as the Volkswagen Golf and Jetta, the Audi A3, and selected Skoda, SEAT, and Ford models. This makes it easier to find and source replacement parts, although annual repair costs remain high, at $730 on average, as reported by RepairPal.
What Are the Most Common Issues with Volkswagen Tiguans?
There are several known Volkswagen Tiguan problems, with a few resulting in manufacturer recalls. These include:
Subframe Issues
One of the most common issues with the Tiguan is the so-called “VW subframe clunk.” This is described as a clunking noise that can be heard when accelerating or downshifting, and may be accompanied by a slight impact sensation at the driver’s feet and unexpected changes to the vehicle’s frontend alignment.
The issue is attributed to the subframe bolts, which stretch over time and cause the subframe bolts to hit the bottom of the vehicle when accelerating. Volkswagen has since fitted their vehicles with sturdier bolts and spacers, although aftermarket kits are also available to correct this problem.
Affected Model Years:
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
Carbon Buildup
The Tiguan’s TSI direct injection engine is prone to carbon buildup on the intake valves, causing significant power loss and rough idling. This is commonly resolved by having the intake manifold, intake valves, and cylinder head intake ports professionally cleaned.
Affected Model Years:
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
Hesitation on Acceleration
Some owners have reported hesitation when accelerating, which can be dangerous. What’s so peculiar about this known issue is that no consistent solutions have been found to address it.
Affected Model Years:
- 2016
- 2017
- 2018
- 2019
Water Pump Failure
Tiguan model years with the 2.0T TSI engine have seen multiple reports of water pump failures.
Affected Model Years:
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2018 and newer
Engine Stalling
Some owners have experienced engine stalling, often accompanied by the Electronic Power Control (EPC) warning light.
Affected Model Years:
- 2016
- 2017
- 2018
- 2019
Timing Chain Failure
There have been widespread reports of timing chain tensioner failure, which can lead to very expensive engine damage.
Affected Model Years:
- 2009
- 2010
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
Failed Clockspring
The clockspring is the connection for the airbag and steering wheel controls. It tends to fail on many year models, leading to loss of functionality and an illuminated Airbag Warning Light.
Affected Model Years:
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
- 2017
- 2018
- 2019
Suspension Knuckle
The light and right rear suspension knuckles in selected Tiguan vehicles with a long wheelbase configuration have been reported to crack or break, resulting in loss of stability. Volkswagen has sent out a recall to dealers, instructing them to replace damaged rear suspension knuckles free of charge.
Affected Model Years:
- 2021
- 2022
Body Integrity Issues
There have been some issues with car body integrity, which can compromise safety and performance.
Affected Model Years:
- 2019
- 2021
Automatic Park Brake Issues
Many have experienced their Tiguans (2015 and newer) applying the park brakes on their own while driving.
Some owners have also reported that the system did not apply the park brake when commanded.
There have been reports that simply replacing the parking brake release switch resolved the concern. Some mechanics have suggested that this anomaly might sometimes be caused by the parking brake motor itself failing or not having enough power to operate the system.
Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems
Volkswagen has also issued a recall for certain models, including the 2019 Tiguans, for defects in the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). The issue is that the TPMS may not be able to detect air pressure loss when all four tires deflate simultaneously. Dealers have been instructed to update the TPMS software on all affected vehicles for free.
What Are the Best Model Years for the Volkswagen Tiguan?
Is the Volkswagen Tiguan a good vehicle? The fact that it is Volkswagen’s best-selling model since 2018 strongly suggests that it is. The Tiguan has been generally well received, but there are some model years that stand out among the rest, particularly for their practical design and durability.
The following are the best years for the Tiguan and are highly sought after as pre-owned models:
- 2014
- 2015
- 2016
- 2017
FAQ
Where is the Volkswagen Tiguan made??
Volkswagen Tiguans are currently being made at Volkswagen’s Wolfsburg Plant in Wolfsburg, Germany, and its SAIC-Volkswagen facility in Anting, China. Previous model years have also been assembled in various Volkswagen-affiliated plants in Mexico, Russia, Algeria, Kenya, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
How long does the Volkswagen Tiguan last?
While the reliability of Volkswagen Tiguan vehicles is fair compared to other compact SUV models, with regular maintenance and proper driving habits, it can last 150,000 to 200,000 miles with no significant issues. The latest model years, in particular, are known for their longer lifespans due to improved materials and manufacturing technologies.