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Model-year record

2019 Volkswagen Tiguan
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2019 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.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Federal source records

Complaints filed

185

Reports to NHTSA, 2019

Safety recalls

5

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

25

EPA estimate

Known issues

Electrical System issues lead owner complaints (28% of 185 reports), followed by unknown or other (13%).

Electrical System28% · 52 reports
Unknown Or Other13% · 24 reports
Power Train9% · 16 reports
Engine8% · 15 reports
Service Brakes8% · 15 reports
Forward Collision Avoidance7% · 13 reports
Suspension3% · 6 reports
Vehicle Speed Control3% · 6 reports

+ 12 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 185 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11485954, ODI 11329287, ODI 11748835, ODI 11743905, ODI 11743681.

Individual complaint reports(185)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
Power TrainJul 2026 · ODI 11749983Details +

The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle drove over a pothole or an object on the roadway and the vehicle stalled. The failure had reoccurred on several occasions. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer to be diagnosed; however, the vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11749983 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJul 2026 · ODI 11749450Details +

While I'm driving, the engine will still be running, but the entire dash shuts down. The radio turns off. The needles for the speedometer, shift gauge, gas gauge, wont work. The ac turns off, but the engine will still run. The warning ignition turned to off please pull over carefully comes up before everything but the engine, turns off completely

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11749450 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2026 · ODI 11748835Details +

During Hot weather the vehicles electrical will shut down while driving displaying a message saying check starter system and I will loose all lighting and brake lights and turn signals and HVAC systems and engine will shut off also I was going down the highway when this happened to me and it only happens in hot weather. This has been happening since we purchased the vehicle Volkswagen refuses to fix it and the 2020 models are on recall for this same issues.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11748835 at NHTSA →
SuspensionJun 2026 · ODI 11745696Details +

I am submitting this complaint regarding a safety defect on my 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan (VIN: [XXX]) consistent with NHTSA Safety Recall No. 19V188 (VW Recall Code 42J5) - premature fracture of rear axle coil springs. The vehicle exhibits uneven rear ride height indicative of coil spring fracture. The installed rear coil spring bears a manufacturer production label dated November 2018, which falls within the recalled production period (March 2017 – November 2018) identified in the recall documentation for 2018–2019 Volkswagen Tiguan vehicles. My VIN falls outside the published recall range. However, the recall documentation expressly acknowledges that affected VINs are non-sequential, as the defect originated in specific sub-supplier production batches. Springs from the same defective batch may have been installed in vehicles outside the published range. The failure mode - premature spring fracture due to substandard material or incorrect manufacturing process parameters - is identical to the defect in Recall 19V188, presenting the same safety risk: rear tire damage, loss of vehicle control, and potential crash. I request that NHTSA investigate whether Recall 19V188 adequately encompasses all affected vehicles and direct Volkswagen to review sub-supplier batch records to determine whether additional VINs warrant inclusion. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11745696 at NHTSA →
EngineJun 2026 · ODI 11745493Details +

Oil separator valve went out which caused the upper timing cover gasket, Cambridge assembly seal, oil pan and seal to fail. Could have caused the engine to fail whiling driving which could have resulted in an accident occurring. Confirmed by dealership. No other inspection has been done on it. Oil light came on whiling driving. I put in more oil. It goes in for regular oil changes and as not been noted prior to 6/19/26 that there was an issue with the vehicle.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11745493 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJun 2026 · ODI 11743875Details +

XXX, the emergency mode kept coming on, on the dash of my daughters 2019 Tiguan. I Took the tiguan to VW and they recommended replacement of gear selector unit. This is the car my daughter drives. She recently graduated and is now going to the military, leaving for bootcamp on 6/15. The part has been on backorder for 6 months (since Dec 2025), so she has only been able to drive on short trips and can not take her car to bootcamp or to her first duty station in [XXX]. She is essentially carless due to this issue. We've been waiting on a part of over 6 months. The car is not safe to drive as it also constant message, "Only exit vehicle in P position", "Trans in emergency mode". I can't in good faith sell the car to buy another knowing it has this issue. We have been working with White Allen VW in Dayton Ohio. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11743875 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2026 · ODI 11743905Details +

When driving car will read error code that states there is problem with the starter and shuts off all electric components while engine is still running. Has happened multiple times since initial incident.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11743905 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2026 · ODI 11743681Details +

While driving my car, I get a loud beep and all of a sudden it says system switch failure pull over safely. It seems to do this on hot days. We thought it was maybe the battery and replaced that at $280. It was fine for about a week and then started doing it again. Everything on my dashboard goes completely blank my AC stops working I cannot see my gauges. Nothing works. It’s very scary especially when you’re driving. You can’t see your speed. Even the manual speed goes out my gas meter doesn’t work. None of the meters work. I just bought this car six months ago. This is absolutely insane and after looking up what is going on with my car this seems to be a very common occurrence which would make me wonder if the ignition switches need to be replaced or the 645 relay is faulty, but it’s not adding up something absolutely needs to be done. It’s an unsafe occurrence that could potentially kill someone while they’re driving.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11743681 at NHTSA →
EngineJun 2026 · ODI 11742516Details +

My car jumps and lags due to fuel injector. It will be replaced by Volkswagen but only if there believe it’s Ana issue even though there are several reports of this issue

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11742516 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesMay 2026 · ODI 11739787 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +

While driving and starting to go into the turn lane on the right, to make a right turn, the car would not slow down, while pressing the brake the car would not slow, I could not turn at the speed and was unable to get back into the flow of traffic either , so was left driving into a guard wire holding up a pole.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 1 injuries
Open ODI 11739787 at NHTSA →
SuspensionMay 2026 · ODI 11739595Details +

There has been a safety recall for CERTAIN 2019 VW Tiguan's due to improper materials or incorrect process parameters during manufacture of the rear coil springs, which are weaker than intended (Volkswagen's recall number is 42J5). While parked in my driveway on May 17, 2026, my family members heard an exceptionally loud bang from the house and from the street. The coil spring had fractured, and caused damage to the rest of the rear suspension. This was confirmed by my independent mechanic, who has since repaired the problem, despite initial difficulty in getting the necessary parts. They had been told by the dealership that there was an "indefinite backorder" for the coil springs. When I called the dealership back to inquire further, I was informed that there were not many of these parts available, and there are no after-market parts available. A shortage of a non-electronic part is often due to an increased demand, suggesting the problem is more widespread than acknowledged by Volkswagen. I contend that the 42J4 recall should be further investigated, and likely extended to included additional vehicles, particularly those with the exact make, model, and year of manufacture as already covered under the recall, especially since this part is crucial to vechicle safety/handing and is generally expected to "often last the life of the vehicle". Had I been driving on the highway when this occurred, significant property damage, and potential bodily injury could have been a likely result. Reference: (NHTSA campaign 19V-188) for 2018–2019 models due to rear coil springs

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11739595 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2026 · ODI 11738875Details +

The car stopped at a light on a busy street in [XXX] (in the middle lane), then the engine stopped, and my wife could not restart it. I went as fast as possible and met her. I was eventually able to get it started. This is the third time we have had problems like this. I did the same thing for me and another time for my wife. I believe it is the stop-start capability, but I can't say for sure. We have also had bad engine oil burning problems and electrical problems. All of these (I now know, but did not before) are recurring problems for 2019 Tiguans. The cylinder head was rebuilt last year, associated with a similar instance. I am now fully aware that the 2019 Tiguans are known to experience all of these problems, but when I brought my car in on previous occasions, that never got mentioned. I am told XYZ is an issue, then billed for repairs. The car was originally leased, and when I purchased it at the end of the lease, I also purchased a full premium warranty. When the issue happened in May of 2025, the policy eventually covered this, but it took over a month of justifications and records before the third-party insurance company agreed to cover the repairs. All of this said, I am no longer comfortable that this car is safe for my wife to drive, as the issues that are repeating are known issues, and yet Volkswagen seems to sweep these under the rug from both a manufacturer and dealership perspective. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11738875 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2026 · ODI 11737658Details +

When it is really hot outside 90 and above my car does messes up. As I'm driving my car will throw the code pull over and Check starter system. Everything turns off, and then it takes minutes from my car to restart. It has happened multiple times when I'm in traffic at a stop light or driving and it throws the code as my car is moving. I have taken it to shops and still no auto shop can figure out the fix. Happened for the first time a year ago, and now its happening constantly

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11737658 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemApr 2026 · ODI 11734486Details +

The vehicle will randomly shut off while driving. A message will appear stating "Check the Starting System" Attempts to restart the engine are unsuccessful. The engine will start, stall after about 2 seconds and the message "Check Starting System" will display. The first time it happened, I was turning a corner at a rather dangerous intersection and the vehicle stalled. It took about three attempts before the engine would remain running. When the engine would stall the dash would go dark and the engine would not remain running this happened about a month ago in hot weather. It occurred again on April 25th, 2026 way worse this time. The temperature in the area reached 91 Degrees Fahrenheit. My vehicle was sitting outside in the heat for at least 5 hours, same issue, The vehicle would then proceed to stall in the middle of the freeway, I was able to coast to the breakdown lane where the vehicle would remain unable to start and the message "Check Starter System" would display. Looking on NHTSA webpage before filing a complaint, it seems that this is a rather common issue. VW had a recall for other models (Campaign 28H7) for models such as the Jetta, Golf and other like models. This is a really dangerous issue and could end up getting someone seriously injured or worse killed in a collision if my vehicle stalls like this. The vehicle is scheduled for a service appointment in the near future (Local VW dealer is at least 2 weeks out before they can even look at my vehicle) After viewing this information, I can't help but believe it is possible the 28H7 recall is affecting more models than anticipated.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Apr 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11734486 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMar 2026 · ODI 11727589Details +

In warm weather, the car will start but immediately shut off with warning check starter system. All electrical will go off including brake lights, signal, a/c

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11727589 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMar 2026 · ODI 11726268Details +

Car turns off while driving and says to check starter system when sitting in the sun, mechanics can not find anything wrong. Has happened twice in a two week period

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11726268 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMar 2026 · ODI 11726333Details +

The starter system failed & yes it is available for inspection. Others & my safety was put at risk, as the car shut off while I was driving. The gauges turned off, I could not see how fast I was going and the turning and brake lights did not work either, the radio & a/c all turned off. The problem has been reproduced while the vehicle is parked on hot days and in the winter when the the heater is on for a period of time. There are online forums of other Volkswagen owners having the same issue. Volkswagen owners have had the ignition switch replaced and the issue has not happened to them again. There were not any warnings or messages prior to the failure. The message that appears says, "please check the starter system. When the vehicle is parked in the shade it turns on fine. I have an appointment scheduled at my local Volkswagen service department to have the ignition switch replaced on my 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan. Please contact me asap, this should be a recall and any costs associated with it should be covered by Volkswagen as this is a common safety issue.

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11726333 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMar 2026 · ODI 11723406Details +

Relates to the Volkswagen Recall: 28H7-Ignition Switch that for some reason is only applied to Jetta's but needs to be expanded to include 2019 Tiguans . In vehicles equipped with a conventional ignition switch, the polyfuse can fail, particularly when the vehicle is operated in high temperature environments. If the polyfuse fails, it can result in the engine stalling while driving and failure of the vehicle's electrical system, increasing the risk of a crash. I have had this issue happen over 5 times since the initial incident last week. Now anything above 70 degrees Fahrenheit causes the interior to "lose power" but the engine will continue to run. The A/C, infotainment system, all the ADAS, instrument cluster, headlights, and turn signals shuts off completely. No brake lights, no blinkers, no odometer reading, nothing. I can still drive (accelerate & brake) when this is happening but without all of those systems working I cannot safely operate this vehicle.

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11723406 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMar 2026 · ODI 11723159Details +

When it is hot out, while i am driving the car will say "pull over, shutting down" and then it says "please check the starter system." The car will just shut off This was SOO dangerous. This happened on the highway, with my two kids in the car and nothing worked. everything black and my blinkers and lights werent working and just stopped in the middle of the street and wouldn't turn on. VERY UNSAFE I am bringing it in to the dealership but they do not think it is that. It quickly flashed and then just shut off This has happened numerous amount of time-- only when its hot out. The first occurrence was last summer but now that its hot out again, happened today 3/9/26 I see that there was a recall for this of my car and MY year but nothing on my vin

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11723159 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemFeb 2026 · ODI 11720559Details +

Experienced water leaks due to improperly routed sun roof drains. Experienced air bag electrical malfunctions, locking doors and unlocking doors, and air bag sensor/wiring harness inside passenger door.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Jul 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11720559 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJan 2026 · ODI 11708398Details +

Well driving on highway, front portion of sunroof shattered. Very loud, exploding sound.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11708398 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemNov 2025 · ODI 11697565Details +

Parking brake would not disengage and the shop told me it was because water was in the floor pan behind the passenger seat and it’s causing shorts In the electrical system. The cause of the water was diagnosed as a leaking sunroof. This has caused me loss of vehicle, time and too much money!

Reported
Nov 2025
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11697565 at NHTSA →
VisibilitySep 2025 · ODI 11689743Details +

The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that after a heavy rainstorm, approximately 4-inches of water was discovered in the rear driver’s side floor and on the rear driver’s side seat. Upon inspection, the contact discovered mold inside the vehicle due to the rainwater entering the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure was due to a faulty drainage from the sunroof. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 69,000.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Mar 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11689743 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemSep 2025 · ODI 11689200Details +

My 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan suddenly shut off on the highway with my children in the car. The vehicle lost all power, including steering, air conditioning, radio, navigation, and windows. I was barely able to coast to safety. The dealership diagnosed the issue as the ignition switch, part number 5Q1 905 865. This is the exact same part number included in Volkswagen’s current recall of nearly 50,000 Jettas for ignition switch failure. Despite this, VW has not expanded the recall to cover Tiguans. I paid over $700 for the repair, even though the part itself costs around $50. Worse, the dealership reinstalled the same recalled part number into my Tiguan, meaning the defect has not been corrected and could occur again at any time. This is a serious safety hazard. A sudden engine shutdown at highway speeds could easily result in injury or death. Volkswagen is fully aware of this defect but is refusing to extend the recall to affected Tiguan vehicles. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this issue immediately and require Volkswagen to expand the ignition switch recall to include Tiguans equipped with part number 5Q1 905 865.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11689200 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemSep 2025 · ODI 11686117Details +

When it’s hot outside I get a warning about the starting system then all the electronics shut off including all dash, radio, and exterior lights

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Jul 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11686117 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemSep 2025 · ODI 11684296Details +

My car has delayed acceleration issues of between 3 - 6 seconds. The last one that was 6 seconds ore more was on June 29. In addition it's happened several times. I took the vehicle in for its last service and was told the issue was my battery. Battery was replaced and issue not resolved. The service before that I was told it was a carbon build up. Continues to happen sporadically.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11684296 at NHTSA →
VisibilityAug 2025 · ODI 11683151Details +

The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving approximately 68 MPH, there was a booming sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stopped to inspect the vehicle and discovered that the rear glass sunroof panel had shattered from the inside and shards of glass were ejected from the sunroof panel. The contact wrapped the roof with plastic to secure the damaged sections of the sunroof, to ensure no other glass shards fell from the vehicle while driving. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 44,000.

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11683151 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlAug 2025 · ODI 11682755Details +

I am writing to bring to your attention a pressing safety concern regarding my 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan, with VIN [XXX] . Despite reaching out to Volkswagen of America on August 18th, 2025, and visiting my local dealership multiple times, the issue remains unresolved. The problem is with the gas pedal, which fails to accelerate properly when starting from a standstill, such as when reversing or driving from a traffic light or stop sign. This issue also occurs when attempting to merge onto a highway or freeway. The dealership has been unable to identify the cause, and the problem is becoming more frequent. I am extremely concerned for the safety of my family and other road users. I have attached a video recording of the issue, taken by my daughter on [XXX]. I urge Volkswagen to take immediate responsibility for providing a safe and reliable vehicle. I request that they provide a loaner car while my vehicle is under inspection. However, when I requested a loaner car from the dealership, they informed me that none were available and suggested that I rent a car instead. Unfortunately, I am unable to afford the cost of renting a car, especially for an indefinite period. I would appreciate your assistance in resolving this matter. Please find below the details of my previous correspondence with Volkswagen: - Initial complaint to Volkswagen of America: August 18th, 2025 - Visit to local dealership: August 14th, 2025 - Scheduled appointment: August 29th, 2025 Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to a prompt response. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11682755 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlJul 2025 · ODI 11674577Details +

When trying to accelerate from a full stop the car is not accelerating when pressing the gas pedal. It happened at a stop light, I pressed the gas, the car went nowhere, pressed the gas harder until gas pedal was floored and then the car accelerates forward very quickly. Also happened when i was making a left turn crossing 2 lanes of traffic. Stepped off the gas to make a left turn, car begins to roll forward but when i press the gas nothing happens, I am now in both lanes of traffic flooring my gas pedal, nothing happens for about 5 seconds and the car lurches forward quickly. There are no lights illuminated on the dashboard. Brought car to VW delearship, they say they went over the entire car and found nothing wrong. When investigating online it seems others are also having the same issue and getting the same response from VW.

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Jul 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11674577 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJun 2025 · ODI 11668611Details +

When the car is at a complete stop such as at a light or pulling onto a street, when you press the gas there will be a delay before it lurches forward. This becomes a very real safety risk trying to pull onto busy roads or even at lights. This car has been taken into multiple shops without it being fixed, the last one kept saying they had no idea why since there are no warning lights. They said they contacted VW who is saying a 5 second delay is within what they consider normal. It's not normal and is a very real risk and has almost caused us to get into numerous accidents.

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11668611 at NHTSA →
EngineJun 2025 · ODI 11668280Details +

Water pump leak/failure

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11668280 at NHTSA →
EngineJun 2025 · ODI 11667798Details +

High oil consumption

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11667798 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2025 · ODI 11667089Details +

On three (3) separate occasions, my 2019 VW Tiguan has produced an error stating "Check Starter System" on the console and shut down electrical systems such as instrument panel, brake lights, headlights, taillights, back up camera, and other electrical systems while driving. All three (3) situations followed the same series of events whereas the car was out in the sunlight on warmer days (70+ degrees) and occurred within 5 or so minutes of starting. After shutting the vehicle off and attempting to restart, the ignition will not always work and the car will not turn over. When it does, the key will need to be turned farther than a normal ignition start and most likely produce an immediate error and electrical system shut down. In the most recent occurrence, I found a parking garage and left the car for around an hour and did not experience the issue for the rest of the trip. It appears that there was a recall for a similar issues with the Jetta models made in the same year (2019). Volkswagen Recall: 28H7-Ignition Switch / NHTSA campaign number: 23V604

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11667089 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2025 · ODI 11665051Details +

The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving in extremely hot weather, the fault code message stating that the ignition was switched off, check the starter system, and to please pull over to the side of the road was displayed, while emitting a beeping sound to alarm the driver. The electrical systems, excluding the engine, became disabled. The contact stated that the headlights, taillights, instrument panel, and several other electrical functions were inoperable. The driver coasted to the side of the road and waited until the engine had cooled off before continuing to drive. The failure occurred consistently, in approximately 2 to 3 minutes, causing the driver to repeat the actions for the vehicle to operate as needed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The code starter fault error message was displayed; however, the dealer did not believe the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V60400 (Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The contact stated that the Part Number: 521905865; for the ignition switch, was the same and believed that the failure was related to the recall. The dealer was unable to duplicate the failure because the temperature was not 90 degrees or higher. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 74,103.

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Oct 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11665051 at NHTSA →
Engine And Engine CoolingJun 2025 · ODI 11664278Details +

The contact owns a 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed at night, the headlights unexpectedly failed to illuminate until the vehicle passed over a bump in the road, and shortly afterwards the headlights became illuminated again. Additionally, the engine oil and TPMS warning lights remained illuminated after the vehicle had an oil change and the tires were properly inflated. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where the vehicle was purchased, but the dealer provided no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon investigation, the contact discovered that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V815000 (Tires). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 103,000.

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Nov 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11664278 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2025 · ODI 11664308Details +

My vehicle will have a slow start when I start the car and also a delay when it is at a stoplight. I took it in for service twice and they told me it was because I had an after market battery. However - yesterday my car completely went dead at a stop light and I had to turn the engine off and in. It often lags or stops at a light. According to Reddit it seems it’s a crank start issue.

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11664308 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemMay 2025 · ODI 11663877Details +

Was driving on the freeway in my 2019 VW Tiguan when I experienced a sudden unexpected loss of power. Warning lights came on and the car went into a "limp mode" not allowing the engine to rev past a certain RPM. I took the car to be serviced at a local dealership where it was determined that the Fuel Injector Harness was faulty and needed to be replaced. When I informed the dealer that there was an extended warranty on the harness (2018-2019 model years within 10 years/120 miles) and the part should be covered, the dealer and later VW of America said that my vehicle was not part of the warranty. VW of America could not explain to my as why my car was not part of this warranty, but it is obviously a known problem on their end and they should honor what they advertised with their warranty extension with the NHTSA. [XXX] I find VW of America's response to this problem completely unacceptable and quite dangerous. Their unwillingness to take care of this critical component with a known failure rate unnecessarily costs consumers for repairs that VW should be honoring according to their own posted Warranty Extensions and could potentially cost bodily damage and lives. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
May 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11663877 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2025 · ODI 11660372Details +

Volkswagen Recall: 28H7-Ignition Switch. In vehicles equipped with a conventional ignition switch, the polyfuse can fail, particularly when the vehicle is operated in high temperature environments. If the polyfuse fails, it can result in the engine stalling while driving and failure of the vehicle's electrical system, increasing the risk of a crash. When sitting in the sun, this has happened 5 or so times. Yesterday it was only 77 degrees outside and it happened. The electrical shuts off completely. No brake lights, no blinkers, no odometer reading, nothing. The windows worked once. And several times, the car will still drive; however it is terrifying driving in these conditions. After letting it sit in the shade overnight, the car wont start the first time and then usually starts the second attempt. I have had the car shut off one time after the electrical stopped working, my car shut off as well. This is the exact thing that is happening to my 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan; however, when I call the dealership, they say that this recall does not apply to my VIN #.

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
May 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11660372 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemApr 2025 · ODI 11657563Details +

Hit a small patch of black ice, not sure what happened but it caused the turbo to fully quite working creating a loss of power Engine Valve seals also were damaged Possible over boost

Reported
Apr 2025
Incident date
Feb 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11657563 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesApr 2025 · ODI 11656267Details +

Driving my vehicle on two occasions the brakes just automatically engaged, an error warning with an exclamation mark flashed briefly then went away. The car did not come to a complete stop but engaged the brake for at least 2 seconds. I was driving approximately 30-40 mph. I took it to the dealership were they indicated that they get about two complaints a month on this issue. They stated they believe the car falsely recognized someone in front of me and engaged the brakes. The dealership was unable to recreate the issue and said they found no signs of the warning that came on the screen in the logs. I was able to provide the exact times that the issue occurred so Im concerned there was no log of it. If I was on the express way and the brakes engaged it would have caused a serious accident. The fact that there is no way to trace the issue is concerning to me, as well as the serious safety implications that cannot apparently be reproduced or an error that was not logging but still notifying me that it occurred. This issue occurred multiple times several months apart

Reported
Apr 2025
Incident date
Apr 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11656267 at NHTSA →
Power TrainApr 2025 · ODI 11652651Details +

Transmission in emergency mode. Exit the vehicle only when in P park

Reported
Apr 2025
Incident date
Apr 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11652651 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesMar 2025 · ODI 11651393Details +

I dont know what fail in the car.brakes system sensors i really dont know.but i was leaving the dentals office about to take main road when all the sudden my car just fully stopped all four weels where some how braked and the car turned off by itself i was stuck in the middle of the road and cars barely missed me. I honestly was in a very dangerous situation.i have a video of how the car braked by itself the engine turned off on its own..please help us check this immediatly in my opinion it is super dangerous..it has happened to me once but thays enough. There was no warning lights on the dash..thats all i can remember..thank yku

Reported
Mar 2025
Incident date
Mar 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11651393 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2025 · ODI 11638958Details +

VW CUSTOMER # 06426725. REAR HATCHBACK OPENED TWO (2) TIMES ALL BY ITSELF WHILE PARKED IN MY GARAGE OVERNIGHT. THE HATCH DOOR COULD NOT OPEN ALL THE WAY UP BECAUSE IT CAME IN CONTACT WITH MY GARAGE DOOR. SINCE I WAS NOT READILY ABLE TO SEE THE HATCH WAS OPEN, IT WAS OPEN ENOUGH TO COME IN CONTACT WITH MY GARAGE DOOR WHEN I OPENED THE GARAGE DOOR FROM THE GARAGE DOOR BUTTON AT THE FRONT OF THE TIGUAN. NOW MY GARAGE DOOR IS DAMAGED AND MY VW TIGUAN REAR HATCH DOOR IS BENT BUT STILL OPERATIONAL. VW CUSTOMER SERVICE REGION HAS OFFERED NO HELP OR ASSISTANCE TO ALLOW THE VW DEALER TO FURTHER INVESTIGATE THE PROBLEM. I AM APPALLED THE THE NATSHA HAS NOT INVESTIGATED THIS FURTHER AS I KNOW IT HAS BEEN HAPPENING WITH OTHER VW TIGUANS. IF CHILDREN SIT AT THE REAR HATCH WHILE DRIVING, THEN THE CHILD MAY FALL OUT OF THE VEHICLE AND END UP AS A FATALITY. IF A LARGE BAG OF DOG FOOD FALLS OUT THEN IT COULD CAUSE A FATALITY FOR THE VEHICLES BEHIND THE VW TIGUAN. THE FRONT WARNING/BRAKE ASSIST ENGAGES AT LOW SPEEDS WHEN GOING DOWN A SMALL CREST DOWNWARD TO EXIT A PLACE OF BUSINESS ONTO A STREET. AGAIN VW DEALER LOOKED BUT COULD NOT REPLICATE. THIS UNWANTED STOP CAN RESULT IN A FATALITY IF THE DRIVER IS REQUIRED TO MERGE QUICKLY ONTO A MAJOR ROAD.

Reported
Jan 2025
Incident date
Sep 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11638958 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperDec 2024 · ODI 11632665Details +

The windshield fluid washer disappeared aka consumed mystery without the operator usage. I had to fill in a gallon of the windshield washer every2-3 months, and I did not do any washing or anything to use the fluid. Last week, the check engine came in and told me to fill the washer fluid and it could not pump the washer fluid onto the windshield while I was driving the vehicle during the snow storm that blind me visibility on the road that could cause a very serious accident if that happened. This is a very serious safety issue that could kill someone. as of today, 12/27/2024 I just filled the windshield washer fluid and it consumed 3 gallons of the washer fluid. The question is where all the fluid went even that I did not use it?

Reported
Dec 2024
Incident date
Dec 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11632665 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesDec 2024 · ODI 11629370Details +

At 79,200 mi. metallic grinding noise was coming from rear wheel. Disassembly of rear brake pads on driver side revealed inner brake pad completely worn to the metal backing (no braking material remaining.) An inspection of the pad showed that the manufacturer installed the pad such that the brake pad wear indicator was positioned too far from the pad. The wear indicator never made contact with the pad and therefore, never made the characteristic high pitched audible tone as the inner pad reached critical wear. This resulted in a complete failure of the driver side rear brake pad.

Reported
Dec 2024
Incident date
Dec 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11629370 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesDec 2024 · ODI 11628704Details +

The electronic parking brake would not disengage. After trying all the tips found online I finally got it to disengage but now it won’t re-engage and I am getting a warning “electronic brake fault” on the dash. It’s very dangerous not to have a working parking brake.

Reported
Dec 2024
Incident date
Dec 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11628704 at NHTSA →
EngineOct 2024 · ODI 11618614Details +

The car is burning a large amount of oil. I have taken it to the dealer for an oil consumption test 3 times. Every time, VW has indicated that the problem is normal. A tech stated that it is normal to burn a quart of oil every 1000 miles between oil changes. The engine has not ceased yet but it is a real fear of mine, especially since I drive my son in this car.

Reported
Oct 2024
Incident date
Sep 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11618614 at NHTSA →
Lane DepartureOct 2024 · ODI 11618383Details +

Blind spot detection not working. Repaired May 2023. Occurred again September 2024. No warning that it's been deactivated. Error message when blind spot sensing is activated. VW dealer diagnosed issue.

Reported
Oct 2024
Incident date
Sep 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11618383 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemAug 2024 · ODI 11610542Details +

A month ago I started my vehicle and 1/2 a mile into driving, all my electronics turned off with no warning(radio, instrument cluster, A/C, gauges, turn signals, headlights). The only electrical component working was the power windows. I couldn't see my speed, any warning lights or my turn signals. I immediately pulled over as I couldn't even tell if my car was still drivable. I Turned off the car (just the engine at this point) and tried to start it again with no response when I turned the key. When it finally turned back on, all the electronics turned on and immediately turned off again. The display on the instrument cluster briefly said "check starter system". Since then it will happen any time it is hot out. Heat is definitely what is triggering the symptoms. This same issue has been seen in the VW 2019 Jetta. This is a huge safety issue.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Jul 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11610542 at NHTSA →
VisibilityAug 2024 · ODI 11610190Details +

See attached document for complaint.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11610190 at NHTSA →

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(5)

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.

StructureJun 2022 · 22V226000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022 Tiguan and 2018-2021 Tiguan long wheel base (LWB) vehicles. Due to incorrect installation instructions, the accessory rear hatch spoiler may be insufficiently attached to the vehicle.

Risk: An insufficiently attached spoiler may separate from the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the spoiler, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 3, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 66N5.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
SuspensionJun 2019 · 19V188000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Golf Sportwagen, 2019 Jetta, 2015-2019 Golf, and 2018-2019 Tiguan vehicles. The rear coil springs may prematurely fracture.

Risk: If a coil spring fractures while driving, it may damage a rear tire causing a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear axle coil springs, free of charge. The recall began April 12, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 42J5.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Electrical System · 18V824000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Volkswagen Atlas and Tiguan and 2019 Volkswagen Jetta vehicles that do not have keyless entry. The instrument cluster may not provide an audible warning to let the driver know that the key is still in the ignition when the door is open. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection."

Risk: If the driver is not notified by an audible noise that the key is left in the ignition, it can increase the risk of vehicle theft or crash.

Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the instrument cluster, free of charge. The recall began December 13, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 90L3 and 90L4.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Equipment · 19V241000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Tiguan LWB vehicles. The tire information label contains inaccurate tire dimension and inflation pressure specifications. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."

Risk: The incorrect specifications can result in improper tire inflations or to installing a tire of the wrong size on the vehicle. Either of these situations can increase the risk of a vehicle crash.

Remedy: Volkswagen has notified owners, and dealers will install a corrected tire information label, free of charge. The recall began April 16, 2019. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 01D2.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Tires · 22V815000Details +

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan LWB, Golf Sportswagen A7, Golf Alltrack, Golf R GP, Audi Q3, Audi A3 Cabriolet, 2019-2020 Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas, Golf A7, Audi A3, 2020-2021 Atlas Cross Sport, and 2021 Atlas FL vehicles. The tire pressure monitoring system may not detect an air pressure loss in adequate time when deflating occurs among all four tires simultaneously. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."

Risk: An undetected sudden loss of pressure in all four tires increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the TPMS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 18, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298 or Audi’s customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are (Audi) 45J7, and (VW) 45J6 and 45J8.

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

0 NHTSA investigations on record

No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.

Crash-test ratings

2019 Volkswagen Tiguan SUV AWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2019 Volkswagen Tiguan SUV FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Tiguan2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive222925

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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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.

2019 Volkswagen Tiguan: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan?

Owners filed 185 NHTSA complaints about the 2019 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 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan?

The most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (28% of complaints) and unknown or other (13%).

How many recalls does the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan have?

5 recalls have been issued that affect the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan, covering components such as structure. 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 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan get?

The EPA rates the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan at 25 mpg combined.