Model-year record

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan
See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.
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Complaints filed
152
Reports to NHTSA, 2012
Safety recalls
3
NHTSA campaigns on record
NHTSA crash test
Not rated
Overall NCAP rating
Combined MPG
22.5
EPA estimate
Known issues
Engine issues lead owner complaints (25% of 152 reports), followed by air bags (16%).
+ 10 more component categories with fewer reports.
Share of all 152 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11330749, ODI 11682937, ODI 11648866, ODI 11633465, ODI 11605547.
Individual complaint reports(152)
Showing the 50 most recent reportsSteeringNov 2025 · ODI 11697066Details +Close −
Steering wheel gets locked up while driving; power steering fails. The red steering light turns on. This is a problem that happens to several Tiguans. There were no prior symptoms prior to failure. This is extremely dangerous and difficult to deal with while driving, especially on the freeway. please help.
- Reported
- Nov 2025
- Incident date
- Oct 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringAug 2025 · ODI 11683568Details +Close −
I was driving the car and the steering wheel locked out of nowhere A red steering light came on the dashboard. I’ve never seen before
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineAug 2025 · ODI 11682937Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing excessive oil consumption. Additionally, while driving at 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. The vehicle was able to restart. The check engine, EPC, and TPMS warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 135,000.
- Reported
- Aug 2025
- Incident date
- Jan 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsApr 2025 · ODI 11653875Details +Close −
The clockspring has failed and there are recalls on similar models of Tiguans of the same year.
- Reported
- Apr 2025
- Incident date
- Aug 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineMar 2025 · ODI 11648866Details +Close −
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Defective Primary Engine Water Pump, yes. The original primary engine water pump system for a 2012 VW Tiguan 2.0 was replaced under the VW extended warranty in 2020 by an authorized dealer as a the result of the class action suit---please see Water Pump Class Action and Limited Warranty Extension bulletin issued by NHTSA. The replacement primary engine water pump system installed in 2020 has been found to be defective in March 2025 and the primary engine water pump requires replacement a second time -- without a warranty extension and less than five years from the date of service of the replacement under the Water Pump Class Action and Limited Warranty Extension issued by NHTSA. VW is still using defective primary engine water pump systems throughout the warranty period----does the NHTSA have any evidence that VW made modifications to the primary engine water pump system after the bulletin issued by NHTSA? Was it a requirement that VW modify the primary engine water pump system? I have been informed that no changes were made to the VW primary engine water pump that was used to replace defective primary engine water pump systems as a result of the Water Pump Class Action and Limited Warranty Extension. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? A defective primary engine water pump is a safety risk because it creates a potential for engine failure. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? The problem has been confirmed by an authorized VW dealer. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? UNKNOWN Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Indicator warning lights on dash--RED.
- Reported
- Mar 2025
- Incident date
- Mar 2025
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineDec 2024 · ODI 11633465Details +Close −
The engine could not be started after 13 years and 103,000+ miles. I had to get the car towed to my garage at night, after several prior trips same day. There were no check engine lights or any other indicators. The engine had newer spark plugs, ignition coils and pcv valve installed as well as chain checked a year prior to this. Had a mobile mechanic come by and inspect the car. He determined that the engine has lost compression and that the oil was low. The spark plugs were soaked in gas because engine could not properly compress and ignite the fuel. After adding oil the problem did not go away. He performed the compression test and confirmed his suspicion about engine not being able to compress the fuel. The most likely cause was the timing chain issue but he could not inspect the chain to confirm due to difficulty of doing it. The engine valves were not moving as expected as well. He could not read any meaningful codes from the car computer. There were no electrical or starter issues, just that engine has lost compression. The car had regular oil changes, break fluid changes and tire rotations. Just two weeks prior to car breaking down it passed emissions test. As far as I know, these vehicles have had issues with timing chains stretching out and VW has sent out a recall about these issues a while back. I don't believe my vehicle was under this recall. This vehicle has had all recalls addressed. At this point I will have to get rid of the car because the cost to fix this issue will be the same or more than the car is worth.
- Reported
- Dec 2024
- Incident date
- Dec 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel SystemAug 2024 · ODI 11608994Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated while driving at approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road to restart the vehicle. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent and had occurred at various speeds. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V441000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 143,000.
- Reported
- Aug 2024
- Incident date
- Jul 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJul 2024 · ODI 11605547Details +Close −
I was accelerating on the highway when my engine started making a rattling sound and the check engine light came on. I took my car into a specialty European auto shop and they determined my timing chain and tensioner needed replacing. The price is going to be over $5k and there are only 113,763 miles. I’ve always taken my car to a VW dealership for scheduled maintenance. As others have mentioned I never received a notice about this problem earlier from VW.
- Reported
- Jul 2024
- Incident date
- Jul 2024
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemMar 2024 · ODI 11576555Details +Close −
Sunroof lets water in and floods in car causing electrical problems, mold, rust, ruining roof interior and carpets. The air bag and horn stopped working and clock spring needs to be replaced. I had no prior warning of that these problems would occur. I have spent thousands of dollars in repairs for electrical trying to figure out why the car stopped working and also how water was getting into car when there is no leaks around the sunroof. This puts the safety of my family as well as others on the road when my car breaks down. I wasn't able to drive my car for months during the winter because the area around the fuel tank froze from rain water sitting in area unknown.
- Reported
- Mar 2024
- Incident date
- Oct 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemSep 2023 · ODI 11546885 · crashDetails +Close −
I made a report on 11/1/19 about issues with my vehicle due to a manufactures defect that the panoramic roof drains did not drain properly and water leaked throughout the vehicle. Please refer to ODI# 41277589 and Ref.# 238025. This is a known issue with these vehicles and should have been recalled by volkswagon. On September 18, 2023 my daughter got into an accident because the vehicle shut off and couldn't stop. Air bags never went off either. It has officially been determined that there was in fact an electrical short.
- Reported
- Sep 2023
- Incident date
- Sep 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
Electrical SystemJul 2023 · ODI 11534376Details +Close −
The contact owns a 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the instrument panel display turned on and turned off intermittently. The contact continued driving at an unknown speed. The contact had since experienced failures related to the electrical system, with the interior and exterior lights not working as needed, the door open indicator malfunctioning, and the infotainment unit not working as needed. There were several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 154,000.
- Reported
- Jul 2023
- Incident date
- Sep 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringJun 2023 · ODI 11529490Details +Close −
Steering wheel lock every time I start the engine.
- Reported
- Jun 2023
- Incident date
- Jun 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringMay 2023 · ODI 11521270Details +Close −
While making a uturn my neighborhood with steering wheel turned to the left I started to hear and feel a "clicking and grinding" noise in steering wheel. Moments later, the airbag error light illuminated on dash and has not turned off. Front driver airbag error, airbag will not deploy in the event of a collision. Horn no longer works. Steering wheel controls do not work. Airbag error warning light displayed on dash and alarms during vehicle ignition. Clock spring seems to be defective and complete power steering failure has happened on multiple occasions, in very dangerous and inconvenient situations (i.e getting on the freeway). Once the engine and computer is powered down and restarted, no longer power steering failure for the time being. No active recall but all sources say this is the recall that has been covered previously. Car is unsafe to drive.
- Reported
- May 2023
- Incident date
- Apr 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsApr 2023 · ODI 11516227Details +Close −
Water pump melted and needed to be replaced, car won't start, airbag light is on and clock spring needed to be replaced, heated seat gets extremely hot on driver's side when turned on.
- Reported
- Apr 2023
- Incident date
- Apr 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
TiresMar 2023 · ODI 11513244Details +Close −
Tires had 17,000 miles on them. Tire pressure was checked 6 days prior to tire failure. Tire failure occurred on 3/11/23. My 19 year old daughter and two friends were driving on I-26 just east of Columbia, SC, when the tire sidewalls spontaneously failed. The TPMS is functional and never alerted the driver to low tire pressure. I contacted Continental Tire and provided them photos, and they have brushed it off saying that the tire was driven with low tire pressure. Continental Tire recalled 94,000 tires during the same time frame that these tires were manufactured due to sidewall failures. As noted in my correspondence with Continental Tire, there was a hairline crack in the rim which Discount Tire said may have caused the low tire pressure. The TPMS did not go off - the crack in the rim was a result of my 19 year old daughter trying to get to safety while driving at 70 MPH on I-26.
- Reported
- Mar 2023
- Incident date
- Mar 2023
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherNov 2022 · ODI 11493359Details +Close −
The front headlight does not work on one side but the high beam and running lights still work on both sides. Might be an issue with the ballast or electrical system. A few days later my car would not start in the morning. The engine would crank but never start. There were no warning lights or signs of anything not working correctly. Seems like it might be because of the timing system either the belt/chain or the tensioner. Have to get cared towed to shop to have inspected and prices for repairs are very high. I've owned this vehicle for only 3 months.
- Reported
- Nov 2022
- Incident date
- Nov 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineMay 2022 · ODI 11463527Details +Close −
Ignition Coil failed while on highway. Car hesitated , shook, and and slowed down. Created dangerous situation where we had to merge across to get off highway.
- Reported
- May 2022
- Incident date
- May 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsApr 2022 · ODI 11462669Details +Close −
Pulling out of parking space with steering wheel turned to the left. Heard and felt a "click/grind" in steering wheel and airbag error light illuminated on dash.Front driver airbag error, airbag will not deploy in the event of a collision. Horn does not work. Steering wheel controls do not work. Airbag error warning light displayed on dash and alarms during vehicle ignition. Clock spring defective. Problem was confirmed with independent service center and dealership. VW of America notified. Clock spring is covered under warranty but is on an indefinite national back order, could be months, years or eternity. Car is unsafe to drive without resolution from dealer or Volkswagen.
- Reported
- Apr 2022
- Incident date
- Apr 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsApr 2022 · ODI 11459690Details +Close −
Bought vehicle used--had apparently been taken in at some point prior to our purchase for clock spring recall. Clock spring has failed and cannot find replacement part at any US-based source. Driver's airbag now deactivated.
- Reported
- Apr 2022
- Incident date
- Mar 2022
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineFeb 2022 · ODI 11450588Details +Close −
At 77k miles the engine's timing chain jumped a tooth or two at startup. This seems to have destroyed the engine. Prior to that: no problems. My DTC scanner said the cam timing was off. VW wanted $25k to fix it after having it towed in. It sounded like rocks in a coffee can. It had just come from Chicago to visit and my son was stranded. I had to put him on a train home. I now am putting in a used engine for $9500 & it is going to take several weeks. When I looked on the internet I see this has been described as "a ticking time bomb". (REF Jalopnik.com). There was a class action law suit, but I guess --- since we had not had an issue--- redress was over. Still... 77k miles.
- Reported
- Feb 2022
- Incident date
- Dec 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringDec 2021 · ODI 11442950Details +Close −
unexpectedly power steering stop working, second it happened
- Reported
- Dec 2021
- Incident date
- Dec 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherOct 2021 · ODI 11437321Details +Close −
Our daughter's veh. has mold in the rt front & rt rear seat flooring. The inside of the windshield has water to the point that it is very hard to see out of it at night and the pano. glass roof also has water inside of the suv as well. We have taken the veh. to (2) glass shops & a body shop & they are saying this is a safety & defect issue with this model. We researched on this & there are thousand of consumers who have the same complaints & concerns about the mold that this has caused & also many cases electrical issues inside this model suv. no matter what year same issues. We also know of a relative same thing same model & leakage as well and luckily hers so far no mold as of yet. Our daughter cannot use this suv due to the mold & is forced to use another veh. to get to college. We have video and photos showing the water in the veh & inside the rt windows during the night & day time. We have tried getting this resolved & have done all we could in so far as also going to the dealership but they did not want to hear it nor their VW "Care" dept. as well they just stated to contact NHTSA as our veh. could be included as again there are numerous complaints on this issue. Please let us know what is needed from us to investigate this. I can be reached at [XXX] or email us at [XXX]. ***Thank you so very much for any assistance you can provide us on this.*** Sincerely concerned parent INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
- Reported
- Oct 2021
- Incident date
- Jun 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringMay 2021 · ODI 11417593Details +Close −
Power steering malfunction, it’s a serious safety concern reason why being there is no indication or warning of steering problem. Before The steering stop working. Went online to see if there is a recall and there was none. Seen a lot of report on the same situation.
- Reported
- May 2021
- Incident date
- May 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Fuel/Propulsion SystemFeb 2021 · ODI 11396125Details +Close −
AFTER I TURN THE CAR OFF, THE FUEL HOSE CONNECTED TO THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMPS DOESN'T POPS OFF AND GASOLINE LEAKS ALL OVER MY ENGINE. THIS STARTED HAPPENS REPEATEDLY NOW. WHEN I GET INTO MY CAR, IT IS FILLED WITH THE SMELL OF THE GASOLINE THAT IS LEAKING BECAUSE THE HOSE DOESN'T STAY ON THE FUEL PUMP. I HAVE TO POP OPEN MY HOOD AND SLIDE THE HOSE ONTO THE FUEL PUMP BEFORE I START DRIVING. I'VE TRIED USING DIFFERENT BRACKETS TO KEEP THE HOSE TIGHT ON THE FUEL PUMP, HOWEVER, THE HOSE KEEPS ON FALLING OFF. I'M NOT SURE WHAT ELSE I CAN DO, AND I CAN'T IMAGINE HOW DANGEROUS IT IS THAT THERE ARE POOLS OF GASOLINE SITTING AROUND MY ENGINE.
- Reported
- Feb 2021
- Incident date
- Feb 2021
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemDec 2020 · ODI 11377561Details +Close −
WATER IS LEAKING FROM THE SUNROOM ON THE PASSENGER FRONT SIDE WHEN IT RAINS. I AM CONCERNED BECAUSE IT IS SOAKING THE AREA AROUND THE ELECTRONICS, AND HAS FLOODED THE FOOTWELLS OF THE FRONT AND REAR PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, NOW THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE HVAC SYSTEM IS NOT FUNCTIONING PROPERLY AND I CANNOT DE-FOG THE ENTIRE RIGHT SIDE OF THE WINDSHIELD WHILE DRIVING. THERE IS ALSO SIGNIFICANT MOLD BUILD UP FROM THE DAMP AREAS, AND IT DOESN'T SEEM LIKE A GOOD IDEA TO BREATHE THAT IN. WATER DRIPS AND SOAKS THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE VEHICLE WHEN STATIONARY OR IN MOTION IN THE RAIN. LEAK HAS BEEN GETTING PROGRESSIVELY WORSE OVER THE LAST SEVERAL MONTHS.
- Reported
- Dec 2020
- Incident date
- Nov 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringNov 2020 · ODI 11377174Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE POWER STEERING FAILED TO OPERATE AS NEEDED. THE ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING SYMBOL APPEARED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CONTACT HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC ON SEVERAL DIFFERENT OCCASIONS WHERE THE RACK AND PINION, STEERING ANGLE SENSOR, CLOCKSPRING, AND THE POWER STEERING CONTROL MODULE WERE ALL REPLACED. THE COMPUTER SOFTWARE IN THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO UPDATE HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED SHORTLY AFTER EACH REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE HAD YET TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 91,000.
- Reported
- Nov 2020
- Incident date
- Oct 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Visibility/WiperSep 2020 · ODI 11353913Details +Close −
FAULTY AND FAILING DRAINS IN ALL 4 CORNERS OF PANORAMIC SUN ROOF HAVE CAUSED EXTENSIVE WATER DAMAGE ON PILLARS, HEADLINER, CARPET, PAD AND SEATS IN FRONT AND BACK SEAT, PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDE OF CAR. MOISTURE INSIDE OF CABIN CREATES FOGGED WINDSHIELD AND UNKNOWN POTENTIAL ELECTRICAL DAMAGE.
- Reported
- Sep 2020
- Incident date
- Jul 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemJul 2020 · ODI 11340966Details +Close −
WE ALREADY HAD A PRIOR COMPLAINT IN ABOUT THE MANUFACTURERS DEFECT OF THE DRAINAGE SYSTEM IN THIS VEHICLE ODI# 412775589 REF# 238025. WE SAID IT WAS AFFECTING THE ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS IN THE CAR. TODAY WE HAD TO REPLACE THE IGNITION STARTER BUTTON DUE TO THE CONDENSATION. WE HAVE ALSO CONTACTED VOLKSWAGON PRIOR TO THIS, BUT THEY JUST IGNORE THE ISSUE.
- Reported
- Jul 2020
- Incident date
- Jul 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemJul 2020 · ODI 11340620Details +Close −
I'VE ONLY OWNED THE VW TIGUAN 2012 FOR 6 MONTHS, JANUARY 2020 AND THE VEHICLE ENGINE SHUTS OFF, ALL POWER LOST AND HAS TO BE RESTARTED. THIS HAS HAPPENED MORE THAN 8 TIMES IN THE PAST 6 MONTHS, 2 TIMES IN THE PAST WEEK, IT SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND YESTERDAY JULY 20,2020 WHILE DRIVING THROUGH AN INTERSECTION.
- Reported
- Jul 2020
- Incident date
- Jul 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJun 2020 · ODI 11330749 · crashDetails +Close −
GRADUAL COOLANT LEAK WITH DEALERSHIP KNOWLEDGE UPON SALE OF THE CAR (44,000 MILES). REFILL OVERFLOW EVERY 8 TO 10 MONTHS. LEAK UNKNOWN. HAD TO INCREASE REFILLING GRADUALLY OVER TIME, THOUGHT IT WAS DUE TO USE FROM WORK IN 2016. INCREASED TO ONCE EVERY FEW MONTHS 2017. FILL EVERY WEEK OR TWO FROM 2018 TO 2019....DAILY SINCE LATE 2019 TO NOW. ENGINE DOES NOT OVER HEAT. REFILLING OVER FLOW COOLANT TANK EVERY TIME I NEED TO DRIVE THE CAR. I HAVE TO TURN ON THE CAR, POP THE HOOD, AND SEE HOW MUCH IT GOES BELOW THE MINIMUM LINE. THEN FILL TO MAXIMUM. DAILY REFILL STARTED AROUND OCTOBER 2019. RECEIVED TRANSMISSION FLUSH AND FUEL INDUCTION SERVICE. MECHANIC SAID I NEED A WATER PUMP AND RADIATOR. HE THOUGHT THE RECALL WOULD COVER MY CAR BUT SAID MY VIN WASN'T SHOWING A DEFECT. I'M NOT SURE WHY IT'S NOT. DEALERSHIP KNEW ABOUT THE LEAK UPON THE SALE OF THE CAR. HELP!! I HAD NO IDEA THE LEAK WAS GOING TO GET WORSE. THE DEALERSHIP MADE IT SOUND LIKE SOMETHING MINOR I JUST HAD TO DEAL WITH. *TR
- Reported
- Jun 2020
- Incident date
- Oct 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- Crash
EngineMay 2020 · ODI 11325073Details +Close −
THE VEHICLE CHECKS ENGINE AND OIL LIGHT OFTEN APPEAR IN THE PANEL, EVEN AFTER CHANGE THE OIL AND THE CAR SHOW NO LEAKING. THE OIL WAS CHANGED ALWAYS BY VW, WHO NEVER DETECTED ANY PROBLEM, EVEN WHEN THE PAPER THEY GAVE TO US SAYS, 'OUR TECHNICIAN HAS INSPECTED YOUR VEHICLE'. WE LEFT THE CAR IN VW SERVICE WE RECEIVED THE DIAGNOSTIC: "REPLACE TIMING CHAIN AND TURBO." BY THE WAY, THIS IS THE THIRD TIME THEY REPLACE THE TURBO: ORIGINAL ONE, AND 2 REPLACEMENT. AFTER THEY CHANGE THE TURBO, THEY DISCOVERED A NEW PROBLEM WITH CAMSHAFT. OUR CAR HAS THE MPP COVERAGE, THE LAST OWNER HAS TOO. ALL THE REPAIR AND OIL CHANGE NEVER BE MADE BY OUTSIDE OF VW. THIS COST TO OUR COVERAGE AND FOR US A LOT OF MONEY AND WE SPEND A LOT OF TIME WITHOUT THE CAR. WE WOULD DO LIKE AN ANSWER FROM VW ABOUT THIS SITUATION BECAUSE THE CAR STILL HAS A PROBLEM WITH VIBRATION. *TR
- Reported
- May 2020
- Incident date
- May 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMay 2020 · ODI 11323898Details +Close −
THE INSTRUMENT PANEL DISPLAYS FAULT: ABS/STABILIZATION CONTROL. TIRE PRESSURE ERROR AND AIRBAG ERROR WHEN DRIVING AND CAR BEGIN TO SLOW DOWN WHILE I WAS DRIVING DOWN A CITY HIGHWAY AT 60 MPH. *TR
- Reported
- May 2020
- Incident date
- May 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Air BagsMay 2020 · ODI 11323498Details +Close −
MY AIRBAG LIGHTS ARE ON. BOTH ON THE DASHBOARD AND ON THE SCREEN. IT SAYS AIRBAGS: ERROR. *TR
- Reported
- May 2020
- Incident date
- Apr 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherMay 2020 · ODI 11322966Details +Close −
I WOKE UP AND THERE WAS WATER ON THE ON THE RIGHT PASSENGERS' SIDE FLOOR. YET IT HASN'T RAINED IN ALMOST A MONTH. I DON'T KNOW HOW IT WAS THERE BUT MADE THE DISCOVERY AFTER CARRYING A PASSENGER AT THE FRONT AND BACK SEAT.
- Reported
- May 2020
- Incident date
- Apr 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemApr 2020 · ODI 11321359Details +Close −
MY CAR ONLY HAS 50K MILES ON IT. THE COOLANT LIGHT COMES ON EVERY MONTH OR SO. WHEN I CHECK THE COOLANT THE LEVER IS SEVERELY LOW. THERE MUST BE A PROBLEM WITH A DEFECTIVE PART ON THE VW TIGUAN WHY THIS IS HAPPENING. CAN SOMEONE EXPLAIN THE ISSUE HERE? THANKS. *TR
- Reported
- Apr 2020
- Incident date
- Apr 2020
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Power TrainJan 2020 · ODI 11299503Details +Close −
I HAVE VW TIGUAN, 2012 MANUAL TRANSMISSION. IT APPEARS THAT WHEN THE CAR IS COLD, ESPECIALLY DURING COLD WEATHER, THE ACCELERATION OF THE CAR IS INCONSISTENT. TOOK TO DEALER TO TAKE A LOOK BUT THEY DIDN'T FIND ANYTHING. THE ISSUE APPEARS TO AFFECT MULTIPLE OWNERS AND MULTIPLE TIGUAN MODELS, AS SEEN HERE IN THIS FORUM DISCUSSION: HTTPS://FORUMS.VWVORTEX.COM/SHOWTHREAD.PHP?9237567-VERY-DELAYED-ACCELERATION-NO-FIX
- Reported
- Jan 2020
- Incident date
- Nov 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineDec 2019 · ODI 11292323Details +Close −
THE WATER PUMP HAS BEEN CRACKED, LEAKING THE COOLANT. THE CAR ENGINE WAS OVERHEATED BUT DIDN'T LEAD TO ACCIDENTS IN MY CASE. VW GROUP IS PRODUCING THE WATER PUMP OUT OF PLASTIC, WHICH EVENTUALLY CRACKS FOR MANY OF VW AND AUDI CAR OWNERS, AND COULD LEAD TO THE ROAD ACCIDENT INDIRECTLY.
- Reported
- Dec 2019
- Incident date
- Nov 2018
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherNov 2019 · ODI 11281310Details +Close −
AFTER RAIN DRIVERS SIDE FRONT & REAR CARPET IS SOAKED
- Reported
- Nov 2019
- Incident date
- Oct 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Electrical SystemNov 2019 · ODI 11277589Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PANORAMIC SUN ROOF WAS DEFECTIVE AND CAUSED WATER TO LEAK INTO THE VEHICLE. AS A RESULT, CERTAIN ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS WERE AFFECTED, SUCH AS THE GEAR LIGHTS AND VANITY LIGHTS. ALSO, THE PUSH START ENGINE BUTTON WAS DEFECTIVE. THE CONTACT HAD TO PUSH THE BUTTON SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE THE VEHICLE WOULD START. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: [XXX]. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS LESS THAN 50,000. *DT *TR CONSUMER STATED CAR IS DEVELOPING MOLD INSIDE WHERE IT IS LEAKING.*DT CONSUMER ALSO STATED AIRBAG GOES ON AND OFF, BUT FOR NOW DUE TO CONDENSATION IT IS STAYING ON.*DT ('PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).')*JB*JB THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING AND WOULDNT STOP, WHICH RESULTED IN AN ACCIDENT.
- Reported
- Nov 2019
- Incident date
- Oct 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineOct 2019 · ODI 11270186Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A PUDDLE OF OIL IN THE DRIVEWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BOISE VOLKSWAGEN (8400 W FRANKLIN RD, BOISE, ID 83709) WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE TURBO NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE DEALER REPLACED THE TURBO IN SEPTEMBER OF 2018 AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AGAIN. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE RECURRENCE AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 190720353. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 113,000.
- Reported
- Oct 2019
- Incident date
- Sep 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringOct 2019 · ODI 11268366Details +Close −
CAR WAS PARKED IN AN OUTSIDE PARKING LOT AFTER RETURNING FROM A 160 MILE TRIP. AFTER MY LUGGAGE WAS UNLOADED INTO MY APARTMENT, I WENT BACK TO THE CAR TO GO PARK IT IN THE DETACHED GARAGE. UPON STARTING THE CAR, THE STEERING WHEEL BEGAN TO SHAKE VIGOROUSLY. THE SHAKING STOPPED AFTER A FEW SECONDS AND THE STEERING WHEEL WAS LOCKED IN POSITION AND COULD NOT BE TURNED. AT THAT POINT THE STEERING POWER FAILURE LIGHT CAME ON ALONG WITH A LOUD WARNING SOUND (I HAVE A VIDEO OF THIS EVENT THAT I CAN PROVIDE VIA EMAIL. I AM NOT ABLE TO UPLOAD IT HERE, THOUGH). I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO LEAVE THE CAR AS IT WAS. I CHECKED THE CAR THE NEXT MORNING AN IT TURNED ON WITHOUT ISSUE. LATER THAT DAY I TOOK THE CAR TO THE NEAREST VW DEALER. I SHOWED THEM THE VIDEO OF WHAT HAPPENED AND THEY WERE IMMEDIATELY CONCERNED, BUT WHERE NOT ABLE TO OFFER ME AN APPOINTMENT UNTIL THE FOLLOWING WEEK. THE NEXT WEEK (TODAY), I DROPPED THE CAR OFF AT THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTICS. I RECEIVED A CALL LATER INFORMING ME THAT THE FOUND THAT THERE WAS A FAILURE OF THE STEERING RACK AND THAT IT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THEY STATED THAT IT IS A MAJOR HAZARD AND THAT THE DO NOT RECOMMEND DRIVING THE CAR. IF I DID WANT TO DRIVE THE CAR I WOULD HAVE TO SIGN A WAIVER OF LIABILITY.
- Reported
- Oct 2019
- Incident date
- Oct 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringSep 2019 · ODI 11258339Details +Close −
WHILE RIDING ON THE EXPRESSWAY WITH MY WIFE DRIVING, EVERYTHING ON THE DASHBOARD AS WELL AS THE RADIO STARTED FLICKERING ON AND OFF THEN WE LOST POWER STEERING. JUST ABOUT EVERY CODE LITE UP FROM THE ENGINE LIGHT, BRAKE LIGHT AND GOT A MESSAGE SAYING EPC & ABS FAILURE.
- Reported
- Sep 2019
- Incident date
- Sep 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
VisibilitySep 2019 · ODI 11257616Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN. THE CONTACT NOTICED PUDDLES OF WATER ON THE PASSENGER SIDE FLOOR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUN ROOF WAS LEAKING WATER ONTO THE PASSENGER SIDE AND FRONT AIR BAGS. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE AIR BAGS WOULD NOT DEPLOY IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION DUE TO WIRE RUST. THE CONTACT RESEARCHED THE FAILURE ONLINE AND FOUND THAT THE SUN ROOF'S HOSE DRAINAGE WAS DEFECTIVE. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
- Reported
- Sep 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringSep 2019 · ODI 11254455Details +Close −
INTERMITTENTLY POWER STEERING WOULD NOT ENGAGE WHEN THE CAR WAS STARTED. TURNED THE CAR OFF AFTER GETTING THE STEERING WHEEL TO LOCK AND POWER STEERING CAME BACK.. LATER NOTICED THE STEERING WAS LOOSE AND WOULD THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD OSCILLATE RAPIDLY. PROBLEM BECAME MORE FREQUENT OVER TWO WEEKS. TOOK TO DEALERSHIP AND THEY DIAGNOSED AS STEERING MODULE NEEDED REPROGRAMMING. PROBLEM RETURNED THE NEXT DAY AFTER BRAKE VACUUM PUMP WAS REPLACED FOR ~$500. REPAIR NOW DIAGNOSED AS REPLACE STEERING RACK AND WIRING MODULE. CAR HAS 112K MILES MOSTLY HIGHWAY DRIVING. NO OFF ROAD DRIVING. VW SAYS BEYOND WARRANTY NOT THEIR PROBLEM. $2200 TO REPAIR. SORRY BUT STEERING IS A FUNDAMENTAL ASPECT OF DRIVING A CAR. WILL MY CAR STILL BE SAFE TO DRIVE?
- Reported
- Sep 2019
- Incident date
- Aug 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
VisibilityAug 2019 · ODI 11245542Details +Close −
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CABIN OF THE VEHICLE WAS FILLED WITH WATER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MOMENTUM VOLKSWAGEN (2405 RICHMOND AVE, HOUSTON, TX 77098, (844) 894-5462) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SUN ROOF DRAIN WAS CLOSED, WHICH CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO FILL WITH WATER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 40,000. THE VIN WAS INVALID.
- Reported
- Aug 2019
- Incident date
- Aug 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringJul 2019 · ODI 11233882Details +Close −
POWER STEERING RED LIGHT CAME ON COULDN'T MOVE CAR (WHILE PARKED) HAPPENED TWICE IN ONE DAY. TODAY STEERING WHEEL IS MOVING BY ITSELF.
- Reported
- Jul 2019
- Incident date
- Jul 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
SteeringJun 2019 · ODI 11221641Details +Close −
THE STEERING FELT UNUSUALLY LOOSE WHILE DRIVING ON A RAINY DAY, THEN AFTER PARKING THE CARE FOR SOME 30 MINUTES AND TURNING TI BACK ON THE RED STEERING WHEEL INDICATION WAS ON AND IT WAS VERY HARD TO STEER, THE DEALER SCANNED IT AND FOUND NO PROBLEMS. AFTER THAT IT WAS TURNING ON/OFF, IT FEELS NORMAL WHILE DRIVING THE BECOMES VERY LOOSE, AND THEN BACK AGAIN. THREE INDEPENDENT MECHANIC HAVE DIAGNOSED THAT THE CONTROL UNIT OF THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING WAS DAMAGED. THE UNIT IS SOLD AS A WHOLE PART FORCING THE CHANGE OF THE RACK AND PINION PART.
- Reported
- Jun 2019
- Incident date
- May 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
Unknown Or OtherJun 2019 · ODI 11218836Details +Close −
WAS DRIVING SOUTH BOUND ON I5 HEADING TOWARDS CHEHALIS FROM WHERE I LIVE GOING 65 MPH DRIVING IN THE FAST LAST LISTENING TO MUSIC AND MY FRONT HALF OF THE SUNROOF SHATTERED DROPPING GLASS ON TO ME AND THE FRONT SEATS RIGHT BEFORE THE TROSPER ROAD EXIT IN TUMWATER WASHINGTON .
- Reported
- Jun 2019
- Incident date
- May 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineJun 2019 · ODI 11218449Details +Close −
VEHICLE ENGINE SUDDENLY BEGAN IDLING ROUGHLY WHILE STOPPED AT CITY STREET INTERSECTION. WHILE DRIVING THE ENGINE STILL FELT ROUGH AND WOULD OCCASIONALLY STOP RUNNING. AFTER GETTING IT TO A VW SERVICE MECHANIC IT RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING DIAGNOSTIC - "CHECK ENGINE LIGHT: FOUND CAMSHAFT SPOOL VALVE HAS COME APART. FOUND CAM SHAFT BEARING BRACKET OIL SCREEN DAMAGED." AT 81,000 MILES THIS CAR SHOULD NOT EXHIBIT SUCH PROBLEMS. THERE APPEARS TO BE A RECALL ON 2015 VW TIGUAN ENGINES RELATED TO THE SAME PART, CAM SHAFT. I REACHED OUT TO VW FOR ANY INFO ABOUT THIS, AND HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY RESPONSE.
- Reported
- Jun 2019
- Incident date
- May 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
EngineApr 2019 · ODI 11194867Details +Close −
THE TIMING CHAIN & TIMING CHAIN TENSIONER MALFUNCTIONING PRIOR TO 93,000 MILES, BELOW THE PROJECTED OWNERS MANUAL 120,000 MILES, CAUSED THE TIMING CHAIN TO FAIL AND THE ENGINE TO NOT HAVE THE CORRECT OIL PRESSURE/VOLUME. THIS LED TO OIL LEAKING FROM ALL OF THE COVERS AND LED TO COMPLETE ENGINE FAILURE. ALTHOUGH THE ENGINE WAS SERVICED REGULARLY BY CERTIFIED MECHANICS FOR OIL CHANGES AND MULTIPLE WATER PUMPS ( 3 WATER PUMPS IN 4 YEARS) THE ENGINE EXPLODED DUE TO HIGH OIL PRESSURE CAUSED BY THE FAULTY TIME CHAIN TENSIONER AND TIMING CHAIN MALFUNCTIONING.
- Reported
- Apr 2019
- Incident date
- Mar 2019
- Mileage
- Not provided
- Outcome flags
- None reported
This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.
Recalls(3)
Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.
Air BagsApr 2015 · 15V483000Details +Close −
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.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Fuel System · 14V441000Details +Close −
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.
Open full NHTSA recall record →Unknown Or Other · 18V329000Details +Close −
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.
Open full NHTSA recall record →A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.
Investigations
3 NHTSA investigations on record
Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.
In August 2015, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) launched Safety Recall 15V-483 to address the loss of the protection provided by the front driver air bag in several models due to the failure of the clockspring.Debris entry into the steering wheel hub can result in contamination and ultimately failure of the clockspring in 2010-2014 Model Year (MY) CC, Passat, Eos, Golf, GTI, Tiguan, Jetta and Jetta Sportwagen models.Contamination of the clockspring can cause the ribbon cable to tear resulting in loss of the electrical connection to the front driver air bag and any steering wheel mounted controls.The loss of the electrical connection to the front driver air bag will result in illumination of the air bag warning light and will prevent operation of the front driver air bag in a crash of sufficient severity requiring a commanded deployment.In November 2017, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Recall Query (RQ17-009) after the agency received 90 complaints alleging failure of the clockspring in the subject models.Several of the complaints allege failure of the clockspring after receiving the recall remedy.The majority of the complaints allege the same failure mode without being included in the original recall, 15V-483.In its March 2018 response to ODI's Information Request under the Recall Query, Volkswagen provided approximately 700 consumer complaints and field reports on the recalled vehicles.These reports allege clockspring failure similar to the NHTSA reports described above.To date, NHTSA has received approximately 154 allegations of clockspring failure since the recall has launched.The total of 852 reports shown in the table above eliminates 6 duplicative reports received by ODI and the manufacturer.An Engineering Analysis has been opened to further evaluate the scope and effectiveness of the remedy associated with 15V-483 and perform a thorough review of the design changes implemented by Volkswagen and its suppliers to address this issue.The ODI complaints cited above can be viewed at www.NHTSA.gov under the following ODI identification numbers: 11080741, 11079877, 11079805, 11079124, 11076709, 11076645, 11076297, 11076249, 11076133, 11075756, 11075726, 11075358, 11075259, 11075055, 11074920, 11074565, 11073090, 11072745, 11072457, 11072089, 11071933, 11071880, 11071630, 11071592, 11067396, 11067061, 11066738, 11066601, 11066511, 11065909, 11065871, 11065262, 11064701, 11064564, 11064544, 11064531, 11063961, 11063501, 11063095, 11062772, 11062464, 11062353, 11062344, 11061463, 11061310, 11061311, 11060735, 11058154, 11057519, 11057477, 11057341, 11056793, 11056243, 11056063, 11055639, 11054279, 11052812, 11052678, 11052384, 11052228, 11051336, 11051155, 11051074, 11048803, 11047037, 11044226, 11043653, 11039142, 11033893, 11033330, 11032548, 11025475, 11025356, 11024647, 11023423, 11020570, 11020312, 11019415, 11019067, 11015441, 11015431, 11014595, 11014016, 11013709, 11013415, 11012596, 11011753, 11006668, 11006521, 11006307, 11006181, 11005301, 11003865, 11001780, 11001783, 11001334, 10994184, 10993360, 10993524, 10992490, 10985926, 10983678, 10981220, 10980831, 10980941, 10980549, 10979418, 10971152, 10967344, 10967155, 10959968, 10958624, 10957279, 10956488, 10949129, 10947562, 10945122, 10936498, 10936543, 10933950, 10927311, 10925421, 10924034, 10915612, 10915569, 10911171, 10902066, 10898733, 10896537, 10896510, 10895526, 10893938, 10891686, 10864967, 10863742, 10861984, 10851242, 10822505, 10821562, 10818403, 10795068, 10794402, 10788738, 10787804, 10782544, 10780725, 10780145, 10779145, 10776477, 10775448, 10763492, 10763423, 10763289, 10762670, 10760644, 10758777, 10749901, 10748922
In August 2015, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) launched Safety Recall 15V-483 to address the loss of the protection provided by the front driver air bag in several models due to the failure of the clockspring.Debris entry into the steering wheel hub can result in contamination and ultimately failure of the clockspring in 2010-2014 Model Year (MY) CC, Passat, Eos, Golf, GTI, Tiguan, Jetta and Jetta Sportwagen models.Contamination of the clockspring can cause the ribbon cable to tear resulting in loss of the electrical connection to the front driver air bag and any steering wheel mounted controls.The loss of the electrical connection to the front driver air bag will result in illumination of the air bag warning light and will prevent operation of the front driver air bag in a crash of sufficient severity requiring a commanded deployment.In November 2017, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Recall Query (RQ17-009) after the agency received 90 complaints alleging failure of the clockspring in the subject models.Several of the complaints allege failure of the clockspring after receiving the recall remedy.The majority of the complaints allege the same failure mode without being included in the original recall, 15V-483.In its March 2018 response to ODI's Information Request under the Recall Query, Volkswagen provided approximately 700 consumer complaints and field reports on the recalled vehicles.These reports allege clockspring failure similar to the NHTSA reports described above.To date, NHTSA has received approximately 154 allegations of clockspring failure since the recall has launched.The total of 852 reports shown in the table above eliminates 6 duplicative reports received by ODI and the manufacturer.This Recall Query has been upgraded to an Engineering Analysis (EA18-003) to further evaluate the scope and effectiveness of the remedy associated with 15V-483 and perform a review of the design changes implemented by Volkswagen and its suppliers to address this issue.The ODI complaints cited above can be viewed at www.NHTSA.gov under the following ODI identification numbers: 11080741, 11079877, 11079805, 11079124, 11076709, 11076645, 11076297, 11076249, 11076133, 11075756, 11075726, 11075358, 11075259, 11075055, 11074920, 11074565, 11073090, 11072745, 11072457, 11072089, 11071933, 11071880, 11071630, 11071592, 11067396, 11067061, 11066738, 11066601, 11066511, 11065909, 11065871, 11065262, 11064701, 11064564, 11064544, 11064531, 11063961, 11063501, 11063095, 11062772, 11062464, 11062353, 11062344, 11061463, 11061310, 11061311, 11060735, 11058154, 11057519, 11057477, 11057341, 11056793, 11056243, 11056063, 11055639, 11054279, 11052812, 11052678, 11052384, 11052228, 11051336, 11051155, 11051074, 11048803, 11047037, 11044226, 11043653, 11039142, 11033893, 11033330, 11032548, 11025475, 11025356, 11024647, 11023423, 11020570, 11020312, 11019415, 11019067, 11015441, 11015431, 11014595, 11014016, 11013709, 11013415, 11012596, 11011753, 11006668, 11006521, 11006307, 11006181, 11005301, 11003865, 11001780, 11001783, 11001334, 10994184, 10993360, 10993524, 10992490, 10985926, 10983678, 10981220, 10980831, 10980941, 10980549, 10979418, 10971152, 10967344, 10967155, 10959968, 10958624, 10957279, 10956488, 10949129, 10947562, 10945122, 10936498, 10936543, 10933950, 10927311, 10925421, 10924034, 10915612, 10915569, 10911171, 10902066, 10898733, 10896537, 10896510, 10895526, 10893938, 10891686, 10864967, 10863742, 10861984, 10851242, 10822505, 10821562, 10818403, 10795068, 10794402, 10788738, 10787804, 10782544, 10780725, 10780145, 10779145, 10776477, 10775448, 10763492, 10763423, 10763289, 107626
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an investigation based on consumer allegations of steering wheel clock spring/steering column control module (SCCM) failures in model year (MY) 2012 Volkswagen Passat and CC models.The SCCM is a module within the steering column that incorporates a spiral conductor (a ribbon cable) to electrically connect the steering wheel to the vehicle's electrical system while allowing for the turning of the steering wheel.Complainants alleged that that the clock spring failed while driving and without warning.When the SCCM fails electrically, an air bag warning light is illuminated on the dash of the vehicle.If a vehicle with a failed SCCM were to be involved in a crash of sufficient severity to require deployment, the driver air bag may not deploy properly, or deploy at all.As the result of an Information Request response from Volkswagen, ODI determined that the same SCCM was used in several vehicle models and MYs including: 2010-2013 CC, 2010-2013 Eos, 2011-2013 Golf, 2012-2013 Jetta and Jetta SportWagen, 2010 and 2012-2014 Passat and 2011-2014 Tiguan.ODI identified a total of 29 NHTSA complaints across all affected vehicles potentially indicating a failed SCCM.Drivers often indicated that an audible noise was heard from the steering column when the unit failed. Some drivers also mentioned that there was a noticeable but minor resistance to turning of the steering wheel after the failure with noises coming from the steering column.The average failure mileage is approximately 30,500 miles and failures often occur outside of the factory warranty.There were no reported crashes or injuries identified in either the NHTSA or Volkswagen data as a result of SCCM failures.On July 30th, 2015 Volkswagen notified ODI that it would conduct a safety recall (15V-483) to remedy the SCCMs in 415,825 MY2010-2014 vehicles.According to Volkswagen, the SCCM can become contaminated with human hair or similar fibers entering the unit between the steering wheel and steering column.Over time this can cause the electrical cable to tear and lose connection between the steering wheel and vehicle.Volkswagen will install a cover that attaches over the SCCM to help prevent contaminants from entering the unit.A new SCCM designed to reduce outside contamination intrusion was previously introduced into new vehicle production during the 2014 model year; accordingly vehicles equipped with the new design SCCM are not included in the recall.The recall action initiated by the manufacturer addresses the safety risks identified by the investigation.Accordingly, the investigation is closed.The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchSafetyIssues under the following identification (ODI) numbers: 10760644, 10758777, 10748922, 110734168, 10731545, 10721424, 10717651, 10715305, 10713742, 10713139, 10712295, 10711945, 10704830, 10704221, 10702926, 10702212, 10701406, 10691906, 10683944, 10682136, 10672715, 10670517, 10669312, 10628549, 10607240, 10575783, 10561143, 10552113, 10397670.
Crash-test ratings
2012 Volkswagen Tiguan SUV FWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Not rated
- Frontal
- Not rated
- Side
- Not rated
- Rollover
2012 Volkswagen Tiguan SUV AWD NHTSA source
- Overall
- Not rated
- Frontal
- Not rated
- Side
- Not rated
- Rollover
Fuel economy by trim
| Trim | Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City | Hwy | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tiguan | 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 22 | 26 | 24 |
| Tiguan | 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 18 | 26 | 21 |
EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.
Before you buy
Useful next checks
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Compare the year-by-year record
Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.
2012 Volkswagen Tiguan: frequently asked
What does the complaint record show for the 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Owners filed 152 NHTSA complaints about the 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.
What are the most common problems on the 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan?
The most-reported problem areas are Engine (25% of complaints) and air bags (16%).
How many recalls does the 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan have?
3 recalls have been issued that affect the 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan, covering components such as air bags. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.
What gas mileage does the 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan get?
The EPA rates the 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan between 21 and 24 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.