2013 Volkswagen Tiguan

Routine

Owners filed 140 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the airbags. It has been recalled 3 times.

Not among the Volkswagen Tiguan years to avoid. Which Volkswagen Tiguan years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
54,000 milesMedian miles at failure

94 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan problems

59 of the 140 complaints (42%) are about the airbags.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Air Bags · airbags55
001
Engine22
000
Unknown or Other9
000
Steering9
000
Electrical System9
000
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system6
110
Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Clockspring/Spiral Cassette · airbags4
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration3
000
Structure › Body · body and frame3
000
Service Brakes · brakes3
000

3 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Unknown or Other18V329000
Filed May 16, 2018252 vehiclesVolkswagen Group of America, Inc.

Defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Eos, 2012 Passat, 2012-2016 CC, 2015-2016 e-Golf, 2011-2015 Touareg, 2012-2015 and 2017 Tiguan, and 2011-2016 Golf and 2011-2013 GTI vehicles. Modifications made while the vehicles were in an internal evaluation period may cause the affected vehicles to not comply with all of the applicable regulatory requirements.

Risk. If the vehicles do not meet all regulatory requirements, there could be an increased risk of a crash, fire, or injury.

Remedy. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles to make them fully compliant or Volkswagen will repurchase them if necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 29, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298.

Air Bags › Frontal15V483000
Filed Aug 4, 2015415,825 vehiclesVolkswagen Group of America, Inc.

Defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2010-2014 Volkswagen CC, and Passat, 2010-2013 Eos, 2011-2014 Golf, GTI, Jetta, and Tiguan, and 2012-2014 Jetta Sportwagen vehicles. In the affected vehicles, debris may contaminate the air bag clock spring, a spiral wound, flat cable that keeps the air bag powered while the steering wheel is being turned. This contamination may tear the cable and result in a loss of electrical connection to the driver's frontal air bag.

Risk. A loss of electrical connection to the driver's frontal air bag will prevent the air bag from deploying in the event of a vehicle crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install a protective cover over the steering wheel clock spring if the air bag light is off. If the airbag light is on and the steering wheel clock spring requires replacement, dealers will install a new steering wheel clock spring. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on January 15, 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987.

Fuel System, Gasoline14V441000
Filed Jul 21, 2014151,389 vehiclesVolkswagen of America, Inc.

Defect. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain model year 2009-2014 Tiguan vehicles manufactured July 2007 to June 2014. When using winterized fuel, in certain conditions bubbles may form in the fuel system which could result in the vehicle stalling.

Risk. A vehicle stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle's software to increase the fuel pump pressure, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin August 19, 2014. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-822-8987. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 24AV/2W.

All 3 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Electrical System
Filed Oct 20, 2026OH

Engine light on at around 50K - dealership said it was just an "issue with the warning lights" don't worry unless it blinks. At 74K I found out the turbo boost was the reason for this and I should have been told when the car was still under warranty. Realized in December of 2020 the car was soaking wet inside. Front and Back carpet was soaked like a sponge. Thought it was from driving in slush - turns out it's the moonroof drains. Repaired by VW dealership - all carpet and padding was ripped out and had to dry and then be reinstalled. Dealership ripped the interior moonroof headline while installing and didn't tell me. Huge fight with insurance - finally got fixed. Was told Cam cover leaking, and needed manifolds cleaned because of direct injection engine. Car has no power anymore. Car towed multiple times for jerking and flashing engine light. 2 engine coils replaced within 6 months. Even with moonroof drains cleaned yearly - car still gets wet inside and visible moisture on dashboard. Both back coil springs broke Aug 2026. Didn't realize until I saw the 2nd one laying in the driveway. $800 to repair those. Known recall issue with 2015 coil springs breaking by VW. But did include 2013 models. Dangerous to drive not knowing they have broken. No light indicator. Engine light always on because of Turbo boost. Now constantly needing coolant. Washer fluid, tire air pressure lights & gas cap light always on even when full of fluid. Broken tether to gas cap. Not even 90K miles and

Steering
Filed May 7, 2026MO

When driving down the highway, my power steering went out with zero warning or indicators leading up to it going out. Upon researching, this is a problem that many people have experienced with this make and model of vehicle.

Air Bags
Filed Feb 6, 2026NY

Feb 2026 My airbag light came on few days ago, now my horn doesn't work, and the functions on the steering wheel don't work, like being able to reset tire pressure and check functions for the car, the phone, the radio/cd information. Jan 2025 My seat belt (driver ) lock is broken ,to attach the seat belt in place..I have to just keep it clicked in, and put it over my shoulder (over a yr now) Also , as of Aug 2025, my car keeps having issues of stalling/ bucking, even though my mechanic has changed the points/plugs twice now. And the overheat light comes on ,off and on.. sometimes clears up once the car is shut off and then turned back on.. some times has to sit for a while, then clears up

Air Bags
Filed Feb 6, 2026NY

Feb 2026 My airbag light came on few days ago, now my horn doesn't work, and the functions on the steering wheel don't work, like being able to reset tire pressure and check functions for the car, the phone, the radio/cd information.

Engine
Filed Feb 6, 2026NY

As of Aug 2025, my car keeps having issues of stalling/ bucking, even though my mechanic has changed the points/plugs twice now. Now the overheat light comes on ,off and on.. sometimes clears up once the car is shut off and then turned back on.. some times has to sit for a while, then clears up

Seat Belts
Filed Feb 6, 2026NY

Jan 2025 My seat belt (driver ) lock is broken ,to attach the seat belt in place..I have to just keep it clicked in, and put it over my shoulder (over a yr now)

Air Bags
Filed Feb 6, 2026NY

Feb 2026 My airbag light came on few days ago, now my horn doesn't work, and the functions on the steering wheel don't work, like being able to reset tire pressure and check functions for the car, the phone, the radio/cd information. Jan 2025 My seat belt (driver ) lock is broken ,to attach the seat belt in place..I have to just keep it clicked in, and put it over my shoulder (over a yr now) Also , as of Aug 2025, my car keeps having issues of stalling/ bucking, even though my mechanic has changed the points/plugs twice now. And the overheat light comes on now, off and on.. sometimes clears up once the car is shut off and then turned back on.. some times has to sit for a while, then clears up I see no recall on my car VIN #, for these issues??? How can that be possible???

Engine
Filed Oct 6, 2025GA

1 of the 2 water pumps has been repaired twice. On this 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan between the years of 2022-2024. Upon the last repair of water pumps the vehicle just cut off while driving. No overheating indication notice was alarmed or visual indication of smoke / overheating from radiator. The vehicle failed to restart after putting approximate solution /liquid in the radiator/ engine coolant resvior. The vehicle has been out of commission and mobility of the vehicle to inspect or have repaired is impossible due to being locked up will not even go into neutral. The immediate loss of power and inability to maneuver any steering options posed an immediate danger n risk to health and safety. There have been no notices sent to us about recalls on this vehicle only a class action lawsuit settlement that we should know about concerning the turbocharger. We have had car checked and repairs for engine oil leaks as well. No repairs done have remied the improvement or functionality of this vehicle. On a separate incident the front two front tires wore down tread all the way across in less than 6 months( brand new tires) resulting in the repurchase of two more tires and no mechanical explanation or fix could explain this occurrence. We had vehicle alignment assessment performed and nothing indicated a reason or explanation.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 24, 2025MO

My engine shut off my battery as I was driving. This forced my car to stop in the middle of the road. There wasn’t a battery sign or engine light on until after the event. This could’ve caused a wreck, especially if it would’ve happened on the highway. I also have a problem with my gas not registering. It doesn’t show how much gas I have left in my tank. I have had other electrical issues, and problems when starting my car.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Aug 11, 2025FL

The issue involves ongoing water intrusion through the panoramic sunroof, front power windows, and windshield seals. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. This recurring leak has caused extensive interior water damage, including visible mold growth in the carpet on multiple occasions. This mold presents serious health risks to both me and my passengers, especially my sister, who is undergoing cancer treatment and has a severely compromised immune system. Water pooling beneath the carpet also threatens critical electrical systems located in the floor area, including the Vehicle Electrical System Control Module (J519), CAN/LIN bus wiring, door control harnesses, and footwell circuits. Corrosion or shorting in these systems could lead to unpredictable failures in safety-critical functions, even if not immediately apparent. Although Volkswagen dealerships have cleaned the sunroof drains as part of routine service packages, no formal diagnosis or confirmation of the leak’s source has been made. Independent mechanics have confirmed clogged drains and flushed debris to restore water flow. In 2019, I replaced the windshield at my mechanic’s recommendation because the interior glass was frequently soaked with morning condensation. Despite these measures, the sunroof continues to leak whenever it rains. No warning lamps or dashboard messages have ever appeared related to this issue. The first visible symptom occurred several years ago—possibly as early as 2019—when wate

Air Bags
Filed Apr 22, 2025PA

Front sunroof drains have shrunk over time disconnecting from drainage port causing massive amounts of water to pool in floor boards. This location is where electrical connections for the airbags are located causing failure for airbags and more. Rear drains were also disconnected due to shrinkage and crimped causing water to pool in trunk. Mold has appeared causing health issues as well.

Air Bags
Filed Feb 17, 2025PA

While I was driving, when I turned the wheel I heard a cracking noise. Then airbag light turned on, and an airbag notification popped up on the dash.

Air Bags
Filed Feb 1, 2025MN

My steering wheel was making a crackling sound then it stopped and my airbag light came on along with the message " Airbag error". no controls on my steering wheel work including my horn.

Steering
Filed Oct 29, 2024AZ

Steering of the vehicle, gets stiff and looses the ability to drive smoothly, this happened after driving the car a couple of minutes, this put other people at risk because it happens when you start the vehicle and makes the steering hard to steer, also when the steering light goes off the steering wheel feels very loose. it appeared on my dashboard about 2 months ago and took it to the shop and the mechanic told me that he couldnt find anything on it. re calibrate the steering and got the car back but the problem still continues, upon investigating this a very common problem among VW's and to fix it, it cost thousands of dollars

Engine
Filed Jul 8, 2024AR

After filling up one day I was heading home and started to smell gas from my ac vents when I turned it on I didn’t pay much attention until I got nauseous and a huge headache. Later that day my boyfriend tried to get to work and the car said “engine off” and turned off on the side of the highway if wouldn’t start. We figured maybe a battery l got it towed home afterwards and just let it sit for a day bought a new battery it didn’t start then noticed there was no gas in it suddenly I just had a full tank the day prior. When I cranked it up the next morning after going to get more gasoline it all just started spraying from under the engine and it smelled like gas. I’m to scared to move it far and it blows up or something.

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Clockspring/Spiral Cassette
Filed Mar 26, 2024116,000 milesWI

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the air bag warning light illuminated. Additionally, the horn was inoperable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the clockspring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 116,000.

Air Bags
Filed Dec 19, 202380,000 milesNV

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 MPH, the check air bag warning light illuminated. Additionally, all the buttons on the steering wheel became inoperable. The contact stated that he was unable cycle through the service screen options due to the steering wheel buttons not functioning. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was not diagnosed that there had been an electrical failure of the steering wheel. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact researched the failure online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V483000 (Air Bags). The dealer advised the contact that the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

Air Bags
Filed Jul 14, 2023TN

A few days prior to this incident, I noticed a crunching noise as I would turn the steering wheel every now and then. As I was turning right to pull into my driveway, I heard the clock spring crunch and finally give up. Airbag light on. Airbag error when I start the car. Steering wheel buttons and horn unresponsive.

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Clockspring/Spiral Cassette
Filed Jun 21, 2023139,500 milesWA

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the air bag warning light illuminated. The contact also stated that the steering wheel control buttons were inoperable. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the clock spring needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 139,500.

Steering
Filed Jun 20, 2023AZ

The power steering won’t kick in and has left me stranded several times. This happens all the time and is a safety issue for sure.

Air Bags
Filed Mar 27, 202323,000 milesMA

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that upon entering the vehicle, she saw water leaking from the sunroof. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the sunroof drain tubes needed to be flushed out. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was stalling while driving at various speeds. The air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the headliner and both frontal air bags clock springs assemblies needed to be replaced due to water intrusion. The vehicle remained at the dealer awaiting repairs. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V483000 (Air Bags). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 23,000. The contact stated was astonished at $4,700 to pay and receive the vehicle, after 3 months of paying the rental of the car filing a comprehensive liability with the insurance company. And to receive the vehicle not in the same condition as prior to the repairs. The contact stated that they were forced to pay out of pocket for a rental car since the dealership does not provide rental vehicles. They are confused as to why there wasn't a recall on the leaky sunroof when the manufacturer was aware of it and when there is currently a class action lawsuit involving this issue.

Air Bags
Filed Sep 30, 2022AZ

The clockspring in the steering wheel snapped which controls airbags and turn signals. This repair is under warranty because of a faulty part but VW has been backlogged for 11 months now on this part and still no end in sight. I see brand new vehicles coming out of VW but this part has been neglected even though its a safety concern that is purely their fault. If I am in an accident while this under warranty repair has been neglected I could severely injure myself.

Structure › Body
Filed Sep 12, 2022NJ

Fuel door actuator intermittently jams prevents access to the fuel nozzle. Yes, the car was off and locks disengaged. I had to spend $304.00 have the part replaced so that I can fuel my car. I researched this issue online VW drivers across models have experienced this issue.

Engine
Filed Aug 24, 2022CO

The turbo cracked with low mileage and regular maintenance destroying many engine components and causing the car to stop while driving. This is the 3rd instance my shop had seen with a Tiguan’s turbocharger cracking and destroying the engine for no clear reason.

Steering
Filed Aug 23, 2022130,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated while driving approximately at 70 MPH, the power steering failed. The contact had to use arm strength to pull the vehicle safely off the road. The contact stated she noticed a red warning light illuminated on the left side of the instrument panel. The contact was able to return the power steering function after waiting for about 20 minutes with the engine off. The contact stated that the power steering failure had also occurred at street speeds of approximately 30 MPH. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to a dealer who diagnosed that the failure was due to the vehicle battery and replaced the battery. The contact stated that the failure occurred again. The vehicle was not returned to the dealer and had not been repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.

Air Bags
Filed Jun 17, 2022CT

My 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan has had an airbag light on the instruments display since early March of 2022. At the same time lights on the steering wheel no longer illuminate and the horn does not function. I had earlier received a recall notice and took the car to my dealer for analysis on March 14. The service technician determined that the clock spring was defective and on and ordered the part which he said may be a week or two. I have checked with my dealer's part's department every month since then, and no part has arrived. I have been told that it is a supply issue. I am especially concerned that I have had several very close calls on limited access highways when a car has nearly veered into my car from a lane either from the left or the right, and I have no horn to alert the other driver who for some reason has failed to see me. I also am concerned that having a collision and having to airbag could be a very serious accident causing severe injury or death. This vehicle in unsafe and will not pass inspection.

Steering
Filed May 23, 2022CA

While driving on the freeway the red power steering warning light along with a loud warning signal came on and I could not steer the car anymore. The whole steering system broke down without prior warning or accident. Talking to Volkswagen the customer service told me while regrettable things like that could happen but I think this is a serious safety hazard that could have cost lives.

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Clockspring/Spiral Cassette
Filed May 9, 202289,271 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the air bag warning light illuminated. Additionally, the horn became inoperable. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer who diagnosed that the clockspring cable needed to be replaced; however, the replacement part was unavailable. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 89,271.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 1, 2022CA

The clock-spring in our VW Tiguan broke/snapped disabling the electronics on the steering wheel - including the vehicles horn and airbag which are both safety features. There are numerous other people having a similar experience on Twitter. We are being told by VW that the vehicle is still safe to drive which is frankly, insulting. The VW dealership/Indigo Auto Group in San Rafael, CA has verified this as an issue and there is a clock-spring shortage with no ETA on resolution.

Air Bags
Filed Apr 25, 2022MD

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that he had received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V483000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not available. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool showed no open recall.

Air Bags
Filed Apr 15, 2022104,222 milesCT

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while his spouse was driving approximately 65 MPH, the air bag warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle with a clock spring failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 104,222.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 1, 2022PA

The coolant pump started to leak Then there were heating issues that still have not been fixed after that the engine ran out of oil from combusting it. while I was driving at the engine started shaking the vehicle did not want to move I took it to a mechanic to put oil in it so I could get it off of the road and in my driveway I have taken it to multiple mechanics and they have all said the engine failed and it's burning oil and shooting the gas and oil up through the engine cylinders. I've had to get multiple spark plugs replaced because they keep being burnt

Air Bags
Filed Jan 27, 2022NY

The air bag clock spring keeps breaking in my Tiguan 2013. This deactivates the air bag as well as all other features in the steering wheel such as the horn and electronic controls. Risk of injury is high when the air bag does not deploy in a collision. Also, I cannot use the horn to alert others of a hazard unable to prevent a collision. VW has replaced the part 4 times but this does not solve the problem. Part keeps breaking. There's no warning to driver before air bag clock spring it breaks again.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 19, 202190,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that air bag error message was displayed. The electrical system on the steering wheel was blank. The contact was unsure if the horn was operable. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000. The VIN was invalid.

Engine
Filed Oct 6, 2021MA

The engine light went on due to a timing chain failure and then a leak on the water pump. Coolant leaked and needed to be refilled to keep the coolant light from blinking and beeping. Mechanic both needed to be replaced for ~$4000. Mileage at ~66,000.

Engine
Filed Aug 31, 2021NE

Loss of power created by stuck waste gate actuator arm attached to the turbo. Lack of boost limited the vehicle's power while on the interstate which caused panic, but I was able to pull over and there was not an accident. Check engine light illuminated and the dealer informed me the turbo would need to be rebuilt and the price for that service is just above $3,000.

Engine
Filed Jul 28, 2021WI

Engine boost stopped working around 40,000 miles. No recalls, no repair under vehicle warrantee. Check engine light is on.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch
Filed May 28, 202176,709 milesVA

The contact owns a 2013 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that the door locks failed to function as designed. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 76,709.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 27, 202190,000 milesMA

THE PANORAMIC SUN ROOF CAUSING WATER IN VEHICLE.MOLDY SMELL, WINDSHIELD MOISTURE. GASKET DO NOT APPEAR TO BE CRACKED OR DAMAGED. 2013 WV TIGUAN. STARTED AFTER 5 YEARS OF OWNERSHIP. CAR WAS PARKED. NO VISIBLE WATER MARKS ON HEAD LINER. RECENTLY HAD HEAVY RAIN. I BELIEVE SAFETY RISK. WIRES UNDER SEAT, MOLD, VISIBILITY.

Air Bags
Filed Apr 16, 2021130,000 milesOR

STEERING WHEEL MADE CLICKING NOISE, SUDDENLY THE AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON AND NO STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS WOULD WORK WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY. LOOKED UP THAT IT COULD BE THE RECALL ON THE CLOCK SPRING STATING DEBRIS COULD GET INTO THE AREA AND CAUSE A FAILURE. SPOKE WITH VW OF AMERICA, STATES THE VEHICLE IS ONLY COVERED UP TO 120,000 (MY MILEAGE AT TIME OF CALL TO VW WAS 135K). GIVEN THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE FOR THESE VEHICLES AND THE INVESTIGATION EVEN NEEDED TO BE RE-OPENED IN 2018, YOU THINK THE COMPANY WOULD CARE ABOUT THE SAFETY OF THEIR CUSTOMERS AS I AM NOW DRIVING A VEHICLE WITH AN AIRBAG THAT WON'T DEPLOY UPON IMPACT (POSSIBLY FATAL).

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 16, 202175,688 milesCA

NORMALLY VW IS EXTREMELY INTELLIGENTLY DESIGNED BUT THEIR DESIGN OF THE ELECTRONIC BRAKE MODULE LEAVES MUCH TO BE DESIRED. THE MODULE CONSISTS OF A RECESSED ELONGATED TOGGLE SWITCH THAT ALLOWS ONE TO SET THE PARKING BRAKE AT THE FLICK OF A FINGER AS OPPOSED TO THE OLD HANDBRAKE/FOOTBRAKE PEDAL (EFFECTIVE MODEL YEAR 2013). UNFORTUNATELY, IT IS SUPER EASY TO ACTIVE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE/PARKING BRAKE BY CAUSING YOUR COFFEE CUP TO PULL UP ONE THE TOGGLE SWITCH (IF MEMORY SERVES ME RIGHT, THERE HAVE BEEN 8 ACCIDENTAL ACTIVATIONS WHILE ON THE FREEWAY.) MY PROBLEM DE JOUR WAS THE OPPOSITE. I WAS IN MY DRIVEWAY AND LATE FOR WORK AND THE PARKING BRAKE WOULDN'T DISENGAGE. I TRIED EVERYTHING FROM DISCONNECTING THE BATTERY TO WIGGLING IT BACK & FORTH AND NOTHING WORKED. MY DEALER'S QUOTE WAS APPROXIMATELY $1,500.00 WHICH CAUSED ME TO FAINT. I RAN MY BLUE DRIVER OSBD II SCANNER AND IT SHOWED NO PROBLEMS? I THEN STARED HOPELESSLY AT THE SWITCH AND NOTICED IT WASN'T FLUSH WITH THE CONSOLE, MEANING IT WAS A TOP LOADER (THANK GOD). I IMMEDIATELY REMOVED IT BUT COULDN'T UNDO THE WIRE HARNESS WITHOUT TURNING IT UPSIDE DOWN & SHAKING IT. WELL, WHEN I DID THAT...AN AMERICAN D-I-M-E FELL OUT AND UNBLOCKED THE MECHANISM. IF YOU STORE LOOSE CHANGE ON TOP OF THE TWO CUBBY HOLES ABOVE THE CONSOLE---YOU WILL RISK JAMMING THE CAR IN PARK EVEN THOUGH NOTHING ELSE IS WRONG. MY SOLUTIONS: (A) MAKE IT IDIOT PROOF BY SCOTCH TAPING A BUSINESS CARD OVER THE E-BRAKE (ONE PIECE ONLY SO AS TO MAKE IT A REUSEABLE P

Wheels
Filed Mar 11, 2021CA

ONE WHEEL SHOW CRACK , NO ACCIDENT, WHEEL LOOK LIKE NEW, BUT WITH ONE CRACK CLOSE TO BOLTING AREA. (JUST FOUND RECENTLY). MOST LIKELY WILL CRACK DOWN WHOLE WHEEL DURING DRIVING, VERY DANGEROUS. I AM GOING TO REPLACE IT WITH A NEW WHEEL, BUT WOULD LIKE TO HOLD VW RESPONSIBLE.

Engine
Filed Jan 22, 20211 milesCO

NO POWER WHILE DRIVING ON CITY STREET HAD TO HAVE THE TURBOCHARGER PUT IN CAR ONLY HAS 65600 MILES

Air Bags
Filed Jan 7, 2021NY

I TURN THE CAR ON ONE AFTERNOON AND THE FRONTAL AIR GAVE ME ERROR ON THE SCREEN AND I DO NOT KNOW WHY, I AM EXTREMELY NERVOUS DRIVING MY CAR BECAUSE I HEARD THERE WAS A RECALL ABOUT THESE AIR BAGS BEFORE, I AM A HEALTH CARE WORKER AND I NEED MY CAR TO GET TO WORK SO I DON'T HAVE A CHOICE BUT TO DRIVE IT

Power Train
Filed Sep 21, 202053,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT BECAUSE OF THE MOMENTUM THEY WERE GOING THEY WERE ABLE TO PULL OVER TO THE EMERGENCY LANE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO VOLKSWAGEN OF INVER GROVE (1325 50TH ST E, INVER GROVE HEIGHTS, MN 55077, (651) 552-9100) WHO STATED THAT THE MEGA TRONIC UNIT WAS REPLACED AT 53,000. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AT 72,000 MILES THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO ANOTHER DEALER, VOLKSWAGEN OF ALAMO HEIGHTS (1402 NE LOOP 410 EXPRESSWAY, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78209; (210) 828-1201) WHO STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 53,000.

Air Bags
Filed Sep 8, 2020ND

VOLKSWAGEN-TIGUAN, 2013 - CLOCK SPRING IS OUT. BY THE LOOK OF THE THE COMPLAINTS, THIS A COMMON PROBLEM. COST - $650 FOR REPLACEMENT - BUT, REPLACING CAN CAUSE A FURTHER PROBLEM ACCORDING TO LOCAL VK DEALER, WHERE THE WHOLE STEER ELECTRICAL SYSTEM WILL HAVE ISSUES WHICH WILL LEAD TO ANOTHER $1500. DONT HAVE A CHOICE THAN TO FIX. A COST VK SHOULD BE PAYING FOR ON RECALL. OH WAIT MINE WAS NOT IN THE RECALL..PREVIOUSLY ALLOWED. OTHERS CONTINUE TO HAVE ISSUES.

Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Aug 26, 202067,000 milesNY

3 YEARS AGO THE VEHICLE HAS PROBLEMS WITH SENSORS, THIS YEAR THE ENGINE LIGHT IS ON, THE AUTO REPAIR SHOP WORKER CHECKED THE CAR AND DESCRIBED THAT TURBOCHARGER IS LEAKING AIR, THEY OFFER ME TO IT REPLACE FOR $3000. THE CAR WAS IN MOTION IN CITY STREET WHEN THE LIGHT PUMP UP. EXCEPT OF THE LIGHT THE CAR IS DRIVING AS USUALLY.

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Aug 3, 2020WI

ON JULY 13,2020 I WAS DRIVING ON A MAIN CITY STREET THE AIR BAGS ON THE PASSENGER SIDE DEPLOYED. I DID NOT HIT ANYTHING NOR WAS I HIT.

Engine
Filed Jul 24, 2020153,000 milesWI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SHAKE AND FAILED TO ACCELERATE PROPERLY WITH THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BOUCHER VOLKSWAGEN OF FRANKLIN LOCATED AT 6420 S. 108TH ST, FRANKLIN, WI 53132, TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TURBO CHARGER AND REAR OIL SEALS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 153,000.

Steering
Filed Jul 12, 202075,000 milesHI

I PARKED TO GO SHOPPING AND WHEN I GOT BACK AND TURNED ON THE CAR, THE STEERING WARMING LIGHT CAME ON AND THE POWER-STEERING WAS DISENGAGED. I WAS NOT ABLE TO DRIVE IT AS THE WHEEL WAS TOO HEAVY. THE STEERING CORRECTED AFTER WAITING FOR AN HOUR TO START THE CAR. MY WIFE HAD THE SAME ISSUE THE NEXT DAY AFTER DROPPING OFF OUR DAUGHTER AT SCHOOL AND HAD TO WAIT 30 MINUTES BEFORE THE PROBLEM CORRECTED. WE TOOK THE CAR THE HONOLULU VW THE NEXT MORNING ON 7/7/2020, AND THEY SAID THEY COULD NOT FIND AN ERROR ON THE CAR DIAGNOSTIC AND THEREFORE COULD NOT FIX THE PROBLEM, THEY SAID TO BRING IT BACK WHEN IT HAPPENS AGAIN. THEY RECOMMENDED WE HAVE THE STEERING RACK REPLACED FOR ROUGHLY 3K. WE CALLED VW CUSTOMER CARE ON JULY 9,2020 AND ASKED FOR HELP AND LET THEM KNOW THAT WE WERE CONSIDERING LEGAL ADVISE AS WE HAVE FOUND ROUGHLY 30 OTHER CAR OWNERS REPORTING THE SAME PROBLEM, WITH THIS MAKE, MODE AND YEAR WITH ROUGHLY THE SAME MILEAGE, AND THIS SEEMED TO BE A FACTORY FLAW (A VERY DANGEROUS ONE), THEY SAID WE SHOULD HAVE LEGAL REPRESENTATION REACH OUT TO THEM.

Complaints 1-50 of 140, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2018
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202638010Routine
202557300Routine
202477240Routine
202372100Routine
2022274510Above average
2021144500Routine
2020141300Routine
2019196510Routine
20182881430Do not drive
201776401Fatalities reported
201697220Routine
201562410Routine
201484300Routine
2013 — this page140310Routine
2012153300Routine
2011162320Routine
2010110240Routine
2009168360Routine

Compare every Tiguan year →

Reading this record

No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: May 16, 2018. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.