Volkswagen Tiguan Complaints (2021)

144 consumer complaints on file.

#11772772October 21, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER, BACK OVER PREVENTION: REARVIEW SYSTEM BRAKING
A software update from Volkswagen causes the infotainment system to crash and become unusable and no longer functions. Car owner is forced to purchase a new infotainment control system which is back ordered nationally with no estimation of arrival. The back up camera, and rear traffic warning no longer works as the screen is black. There is no radio, safety controls, vehicle notifications, no media control or connectivity to phones. This is a national problem, this is effecting thousands of Volkswagens through various models and years. Its a known problem, and Volkswagen is aware of it caused by their mandatory OTA update.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11771198October 14, 2026
SUSPENSION
I am writing because of a premature rear axle coil spring fracture , which could have caused immediate risk of tire puncture and loss of vehicle control. An engine light had come on in our vehicle, and we brought it in to the dealer to find out why. They could not find any reason that the light had come on, and said everything was fine, but that they did find that the rear spring was broken. We are aware that in 2019, Volkswagon had a recall on some of its models, and I believe that there is a design flaw that made this happen in our vehicle. The technician sent us a video of the situation. Unfortunately, the file of this video is too large to attach.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11768541October 2, 2026
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
The high pressure fuel pump has failed within 40,000 miles and now again at 110,000 miles. It causes the vehicle to randomly turn in drive and while idle. It has had oil consumption issues and oil leak issues that constantly occur. The dealer has replaced the high pressure fuel pump under warranty 40,000 miles and has now detected it needs to be replaced again at 110,000 miles. I paid for oil leak repair which was over 5,000 dollars and now I have another oil leak issues with the oil separator.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11766250September 22, 2026
ENGINE
At 58,218 miles, the engine on this 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan failed after excessive oil consumption progressed to engine knocking. The vehicle was brought to Volkswagen of Orange Park on July 24, 2025, for excessive oil consumption. The dealer performed a second oil-consumption test. During the test, the engine was heard knocking. The dealer removed the oil pan and found excessive metal. Volkswagen replaced the engine under warranty. The repair invoice was dated August 31, 2025. This created a safety concern because an engine failure can cause loss of propulsion or stalling while driving. The dealer confirmed and repaired the condition.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11764736September 16, 2026
ENGINE
At approximately 53,876 miles, my 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan experienced a severe, premature failure of the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve / oil separator assembly. The failure of this component caused an immediate, dangerous buildup of internal crankcase over-pressurization. Because the excess pressure could not vent safely, it caused a catastrophic domino effect through the engine block, structurally blowing out multiple critical engine gaskets and rubber oil seals. Furthermore, the extreme downward pressure physically cracked the factory-installed composite plastic oil pan, leading to an immediate and rapid engine oil leak. A sudden and rapid loss of engine oil and internal oil pressure while operating a vehicle at highway speeds poses an extreme safety hazard. Had the oil pressure dropped completely while driving with my children in the vehicle, it could have resulted in a sudden engine seizure, sudden loss of motive power, or complete engine failure on a live highway, placing my family and surrounding drivers in imminent danger of a high-speed collision. Volkswagen is aware of this engine design defect, as evidenced by active internal Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and a pending federal class-action lawsuit (Reece v. Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.) detailing identical PCV-induced seal and plastic oil pan failures in the exact same model year. Volkswagen's failure to issue a safety recall for this unlisted "lifetime" part forces families to drive under the threat of sudden component blowout and subsequent engine failure. A mandatory safety investigation and recall are required to address this systemic powertrain defect.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11763032September 9, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SERVICE BRAKES
2021 Tiguan parking brake comes on without being commanded. There is a fault with the drivers door. I believe the the driver door module or corresponding wiring. The front drivers window toggle switch does not work the toggles switches for the rest of the window work only if the is not an error displayed on the dash. The lock button does not work on the drivers door at all and only works on the rest of the door when an error message is not displayed on the dash. The dash displays the following errors: 1. Driver Door Contact Switch. 2. Start/Stop. 3. Electronic Parking Brake. It also displays Attention: Engine is running. So far the parking brake only comes on(un commanded) when the vehicle is stopped.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11762412September 6, 2026
ENGINE, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Like many others, at 55k miles, our oil separator malfunctioned causing our oil pan to crack and dump every drop of oil. We had to replace the oil pan and fortunately our mechanic friend figured out it was the new pcv valve malfunction causing too much pressure in the engine. My wife was luckily pulling onto our property when the car essentially shut itself off. When searching for the valve I needed, talking to multiple parts dealers and then a vw tech, none of them are sure why there’s no recall. It happens between 50-60k to THOUSANDS of people now. Then I watched videos on the issue and the mechanics online are all saying the same thing- this should’ve been a recall 2 years ago and are all asking the same question. It’s time VW does what’s right. It’s awfully coincidental that they installed plastic oil pans that would crack and leak under instead pressure, rather than a blowout seals because of the valve failure.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11762263September 4, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The J949 SOS emergency communication unit failed, disabling vehicle 911 automatic crash notifications and emergency response capabilities.” NHTSA opens defect investigations based on consumer complaint clusters for this exact failure pattern.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11760429August 28, 2026
ENGINE
Known issues with Tiguan models of overconsumption of motor oil due to faulty engineering of top(head) of engine.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759910August 27, 2026
ENGINE, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Taking left turns is dangerous. My turn very slowly and Hard press on pedal to turn. Oil consumption is insane. Started at 38k miles, manufacture warranty ended after 4 years. I’m under 52k miles now and have to fill oil about every 1k miles. I’ve had 4 oil changes this year alone. I’m regular about Maintenence. Last oil change was 08/03/26 check oil light came on 8/15 had to add 3.5 quarts 8/26/26 Will keep track of each time I need to add oil and update here. This has been an issue for many Tiguan owners where is the recall???
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11759299August 25, 2026
ENGINE
Noticed the check engine oil light started coming on periodically between oil changes 3-4 years ago, but no external or noticeable oil leaks. Was told by VW multiple times it’s standard for VWs to burn oil. I started having to top off oil much more frequently over the last year, 1 quart per 1000 miles. The check engine oil light would turn on every month at random times while driving. Took my car to a shop; they removed 02 Sensor 1 and borescoped the exhaust system. Found oil leaks from valve seals, leaking into the exhaust manifold. A few weeks later, the check engine light came on for the first time (codes: P24D6 and U3501). Brought car to another shop; they scanned the car and the following codes were found: U350100 (Passive/Sporadic) - Control Module Input Power "A" Circuit Low U041600 (Passive/Sporatic) - Invalid data received from vehicle dynamics control module) P003000 (Passive/Sporatic) - O2 Sensor Heater Control Circuit Bank 1 Sensor 1 U105400 (Passive/Sporadic) - Information electronics 1 control unit No communication P24D600 (Passive/Sporadic) - Evaporative Emission (EVAP) system pressure sensor/switch B circuit range performance. The second shop also stated the valve stem seals needed to be replaced in addition to the Upstream Oxygen sensor and PCV valve. The car was brought to Volkswagen for repair under the extended warranty. Volkswagen confirmed the PCV valve and valve stem seals were bad and needed to be replaced. VW also noted smoke coming from the exhaust. The vehicle has 53k miles on it.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11758308August 20, 2026
ENGINE
Vehicle abruptly lost power on the highway and limited itself to 3000 RPM. PCV valve failed and oil pan cracked at only 45k vehicle miles.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11755894August 10, 2026
ENGINE
PCV value/oil leak is a known issue with this specific model of car. The repair I was quited was over $2700 when the car is just out of warranty. There was no oil light indication showing that the oil was low! I only checked everything out because I saw oil in the drive way. The car read zero oil on the dip stick. I added 4 quarts and finallt started to get into operating range. My wife drives this car and could have been in a major accident if it hadn't been noticed. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11755246August 6, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
My name is [XXX], and I am writing today to express my complete frustration mentally and financially with a CPO 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan (VIN [XXX]) I purchased XXX. To date my vehicle has been in for service multiple times – countless times for an issue with the infotainment system and driver warning indicators that is still unresolved and again for months waiting on a new engine due to an oil consumption issue that was finally resolved November of 2025 (Case XXX). My recent service visit on XXX was due to a “12 v battery not charging” error message. The vehicle was immediately taken to VW of [XXX] where we were advised it would be 3 weeks before my vehicle would even be looked at (which is atrocious) and not to drive it because further damage would be caused with no alternative solution offered for transportation. I then had the vehicle towed to a repair shop where I was advised the alternator “fried a 400-amp fuse and killed the battery, which should not happen, especially on a vehicle that has less than 50,000 miles on the odometer.” I paid $1,605.37 for a new alternator, 400-amp fuse and battery. Completely appalling and disappointing considering I take excellent care of my vehicle and it is supposedly an inspected, certified pre-owned vehicle – that’s a lemon in my opinion! I am seeking reimbursement for this huge expense for a vehicle that should not have these issues! I look forward to a resolve to this urgent complaint. Regards, INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11754156August 1, 2026
ENGINE
My Tiguan leaks and burns oil like crazy. Now it has 111k miles on it, but this has been an ongoing issue for the last five years since I've had it. I now have to put a quart of oil in every 100 miles. This is not the fault of me getting an oil change, this is a persistent problem caused by the manufacturing of the car. I have had the engine nearly seize up while driving on the freeway due to low oil from this issue. Please investigate and fix.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11753051July 27, 2026
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Electrical screen fail. Makes backup camera turn black and turns off while using. off and on repeatedly while in use. Very dangerous.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11750380July 14, 2026
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving downhill at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost automotive power. The vehicle was coasted into a driveway and restarted. Upon restarting the vehicle, the electronic power control (EPC) warning light and the yellow triangle for the central warning light illuminated. The vehicle was idling roughly and jerking while driving to the dealer. The vehicle was previously serviced at 50,500 miles due to an EPC fault, and dealer replaced an electronic actuator. Additionally, the battery was replaced at 50,500 miles, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 51,960.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11749364July 9, 2026
ENGINE
The PCV valve does not last past 60k miles. Multiple forums and customers stating this. When the failure shows up as a check engine light symptom it has already caused a major oil leak in the crank shaft that leaks with the car off at about 500ml and is significantly worse while driving- Up to a quart of oil loss from driving 10miles. VW has had issues with the PCv valve design from 2012. I bought a 2012 Passat but it did not leak till well after 200k miles but the code would continuously go on and off.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11746430June 25, 2026
ENGINE
approximately 1 year after purchase, we started having the oil light come on. Returned to dealer and they stated it was normal. This continued for approximately 4 or 5 more times. A "comprehensive" test/diagnostic was conducted and they said normal consumption but no issues. Moving now in 2026 with 40k and now out of warranty with age of vehicle, we brought it back to Scott Motors and NOW it's an issue with the head. The same common problem that they have known about with all their vehicles in this class with this motor since I believe 2018. They want to split the repair bill 50/50 and then 70/30. I stated I addressed and documented the issue years ago and now since we are out of warranty, now you find it. Please Help.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11743947June 14, 2026
ENGINE
My 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan is experiencing excessive engine oil consumption. The oil level drops rapidly between oil changes, and I have had to add oil multiple times to prevent engine damage. The low oil warning light has appeared unexpectedly while driving, creating a safety hazard. I am concerned about potential engine failure, stalling, or loss of power at highway speeds. I have reviewed multiple NHTSA complaints from other 2021 Tiguan owners (IDs 11742786, 11741539, 11741067, 11739933) reporting the same oil consumption and low oil pressure issues. This indicates a pattern of defects involving the EA888 2.0 TSI engine. Volkswagen dealerships often claim this is ‘normal,’ but the frequency and severity of oil loss suggest a mechanical defect involving piston rings, PCV system, or internal engine components. This poses a serious safety risk, especially during long distance travel. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this issue for the 2021 Tiguan model year.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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