TireKick

Problems to check

2021 Volkswagen Tiguan reported problems

These problems appeared in the records we reviewed. This is not a list of what happens most often, and it does not predict the condition of one car.

What to look for

Electrical System owner reports

Moderate severity
Evidence: Limited confidence

Owner reports are bound to model year 2021.

Symptom
3 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention electrical system.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the inspection and service records to check whether this car shows the reported problem.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Tha back up camera system is glitching out. We reset the system but is keeps freezing/blacking out after about 30 seconds. This is known issue with this model of Volkswagen.”
NHTSAcomplaintMay 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Vehicle was just turned on and put into reverse. Dash and infotainment center lights flashed and shut off. Vehicle rolled backwards uncontrollably down a sloped driveway. Steering and brakes were not properly functioning. Vehicle came to a stop when it struck a parked vehicle in its path.”
NHTSAcomplaintMay 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Parking brake violently engaging with every stop”
NHTSAcomplaintMay 2026Open source record

Engine owner reports

Moderate severity
Evidence: Limited confidence

Owner reports are bound to model year 2021.

Symptom
11 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention engine.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 633 to 1,878 miles.

Based on 2 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the inspection and service records to check whether this car shows the reported problem.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“The PCV valve does not last past 60k miles. Multiple forums and customers stating this. When the failure shows up as a check engine light symptom it has already caused a major oil leak in the crank shaft that leaks with the car off at about 500ml and is significantly worse while driving- Up to a quart of oil loss from driving 10miles. VW has had issues with the PCv valve design from 2012. I bought a 2012 Passat but it did not leak till well after 200k miles but the code would continuously go on and off.”
NHTSAcomplaintJul 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“approximately 1 year after purchase, we started having the oil light come on. Returned to dealer and they stated it was normal. This continued for approximately 4 or 5 more times. A "comprehensive" test/diagnostic was conducted and they said normal consumption but no issues. Moving now in 2026 with 40k and now out of warranty with age of vehicle, we brought it back to Scott Motors and NOW it's an issue with the head. The same common problem that they have known about with all their vehicles in this class with this motor since I believe 2018. They want to split the repair bill 50/50 and then 70/30. I stated I addressed and documented the issue years ago and now since we are out of warranty, now you find it. Please Help.”
NHTSAcomplaintJun 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“My 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan is experiencing excessive engine oil consumption. The oil level drops rapidly between oil changes, and I have had to add oil multiple times to prevent engine damage. The low oil warning light has appeared unexpectedly while driving, creating a safety hazard. I am concerned about potential engine failure, stalling, or loss of power at highway speeds. I have reviewed multiple NHTSA complaints from other 2021 Tiguan owners (IDs 11742786, 11741539, 11741067, 11739933) reporting the same oil consumption and low oil pressure issues. This indicates a pattern of defects involving the EA888 2.0 TSI engine. Volkswagen dealerships often claim this is ‘normal,’ but the frequency and severity of oil loss suggest a mechanical defect involving piston rings, PCV system, or internal engine components. This poses a serious safety risk, especially during long distance travel. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this issue for the 2021 Tiguan model year.”
NHTSAcomplaintJun 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Car is burning an excessive amount of oil”
NHTSAcomplaintMay 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Excessive oil consumption. Paid out of pocket and 2 weeks later the same issue. Dealer is aware of this common problem and refuses to do anything. These vehicles have faulty piston rings and PCV valves.”
NHTSAcomplaintMay 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Oil consumption issues affecting all cars of this make and model”
NHTSAcomplaintApr 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Engine has excessive oil consumption. Low oil indicator light will come on and Engine oil needs to be topped and added about every 2500 miles sometimes more often depending on driving conditions.”
NHTSAcomplaintApr 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Oil consumption issue. The vehicle is experiencing blue / white smoke from tailpipe when starting also lost of oil due to a valve seal issue with engine that requires dealers to remove head and service it”
NHTSAcomplaintApr 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Tiguans have been reporting excessive burning oil consumption- reported this to the dealership and consider this "normal" but how is going through several oil containers to make sure there's enough oil in the car "normal"??? I've never had this issue with any other car- other Tiguan owners have reported this issue and it's over a 6k repair.”
NHTSAcomplaintApr 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“After oil changes (always maintained at dealerships) it would require a quart of oil with in 2 days. Random starts will blow smoke out the rear. random sluggish behavior. Dealership confirmed PCV valve is causing a buildup in engine pressure which caused a premature oil pan gasket leak. Without full teardown cannot know full extent of damages caused. (which spills out of the bottom and towards tires.....) dealership and fellow Tiguan owners have all reported the same issue! with a repair cost of $1,000-8,000+. same with alot of other years as well.. The date below that i will list is for when the problem was fully confirmed (89k miles) but has always been an issue told its fine ... really noticed it after (68k miles) when i purchased the vehicle. With how many people are dealing with this it is hard to understand how we dont see an open recall for them..... also dealer said pvc valves are on back order and have been. why should one replace with oem if they won't acknowledge its a faulty part?”
NHTSAcomplaintMar 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Check Engine Light came on and got estimate from Pete Moore VW Dealer in Pensacola, Florida and was told the car needed extensive engine repair which included a new cylinder head part. So we waited to come get the car repaired on 3/5/2026 once we had saved up the money for it. We found out the cylinder head is on a Nationwide back order with NO estimated time to get it fixed properly. The technician who gave us the estimate back in September 2025 failed to mention that the cylinder head has been on a Nationwide back order during that time. I am not the only person dealing with this issue in the USA but feel VW has not provided a fix or estimate time to repair these cars properly causing a safety hazard. This time to wait for a part is unacceptable and feel our cars fall under the Lemon Law.”
NHTSAcomplaintMar 2026Open source record

Back Over Prevention recall

High severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record for model year 2021.

Symptom
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

What to inspect

  • Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.

Fix listed in the records: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91BB/91BC.

Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Atlas Cross Sport, Tiguan LWB, Jetta NF, Jetta GLI, Golf GTI, Atlas FL and Arteon vehicles. The rear view camera could malfunction during an ignition cycle, leading to a black screen or infotainment system freeze. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility." A black or frozen rear view image reduces the driver's visibility when reversing, increasing the risk of a crash. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will update the infotainment system software, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91BB/91BC.”
NHTSArecallOpen source record

Seats recall

High severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record for model year 2021.

Symptom
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

What to inspect

  • Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.

Fix listed in the records: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front seat tracks and, as necessary, install the bolts, free of charge. The recall began February 18, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 72L6.

Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Long Wheelbase and Jetta vehicles. Bolts may be missing from the front seat tracks. The seat can move front and back without restriction if bolts are missing, increasing the risk of injury during a crash. Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front seat tracks and, as necessary, install the bolts, free of charge. The recall began February 18, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 72L6.”
NHTSArecallJan 2021Open source record

Suspension recall

High severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2021 through 2022.

Symptom
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

What to inspect

  • Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.

Fix listed in the records: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace one or both rear suspension knuckles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 13, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 42L8.

Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022 Tiguan, Taos, and 2021 Tiguan long wheel base (LWB) vehicles. A second notice will be sent once remedy parts become available. The left or right rear suspension knuckles may corrode, crack, and break. A broken rear suspension knuckle can cause a loss of stability, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace one or both rear suspension knuckles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 13, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 42L8.”
NHTSArecallOpen source record

Structure recall

High severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2018 through 2022.

Symptom
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 36,263 to 73,250 miles.

Based on 3 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.

Fix listed in the records: 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.

Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“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. An insufficiently attached spoiler may separate from the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash. 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.”
NHTSArecallJun 2022Open source record

Back Over Prevention recall

High severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2021 through 2022.

Symptom
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 15,023 to 45,008 miles.

Based on 2 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.

Fix listed in the records: Dealers will update the infotainment software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DV.

Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Golf GTI, Jetta GLI, Jetta NF, Arteon FL, Tiguan LWB, 2022 Taos, Jetta PA, Tiguan PA, 2021-2022 Atlas Cross Sport, and Atlas FL vehicles. The manufacturing process of the eMMC memory module in the infotainment system may cause the rearview camera image not to display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility." A rearview camera that does not display an image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will update the infotainment software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 16, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen's customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DV.”
NHTSArecallOpen source record

Manufacturer warranty extension

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2018 through 2021.

Symptom
This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 41,123 to 69,500 miles.

Based on 10 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension”
NHTSAtsbAug 2023Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension”
NHTSAtsbAug 2023Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension”
NHTSAtsbAug 2023Open source record

Manufacturer warranty extension

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2018 through 2021.

Symptom
This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension FAQ for commonly asked questions
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 41,123 to 69,500 miles.

Based on 10 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension FAQ for commonly asked questions”
NHTSAtsbAug 2023Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension FAQ for commonly asked questions”
NHTSAtsbAug 2023Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension FAQ for commonly asked questions”
NHTSAtsbAug 2023Open source record

Manufacturer warranty extension

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2018 through 2021.

Symptom
This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension FAQ for commonly asked questions.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 41,123 to 69,500 miles.

Based on 10 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension FAQ for commonly asked questions. Revised to include info on how to proceed with vehicles not applicable to the 60E2/60E5.”
NHTSAtsbSep 2023Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension FAQ for commonly asked questions. Revised to include info on how to proceed with vehicles not applicable to the 60E2/60E5.”
NHTSAtsbSep 2023Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension FAQ for commonly asked questions. Revised to include info on how to proceed with vehicles not applicable to the 60E2/60E5.”
NHTSAtsbSep 2023Open source record

Manufacturer warranty extension

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2018 through 2021.

Symptom
This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension revision.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 41,123 to 69,500 miles.

Based on 10 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension revision. Revised to include info on how to proceed with vehicles not applicable to the 60E2/60E5.”
NHTSAtsbSep 2023Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension revision. Revised to include info on how to proceed with vehicles not applicable to the 60E2/60E5.”
NHTSAtsbSep 2023Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Document informs dealers on the Sunroof Class Action Limited Warranty Extension revision. Revised to include info on how to proceed with vehicles not applicable to the 60E2/60E5.”
NHTSAtsbSep 2023Open source record

Manufacturer warranty extension

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2018 through 2022.

Symptom
These documents are for the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Limited Warranty Extension as part of the Class Action Settlement
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 3,060 to 66,000 miles.

Based on 14 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“These documents are for the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Limited Warranty Extension as part of the Class Action Settlement”
NHTSAtsbMay 2024Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“These documents are for the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Limited Warranty Extension as part of the Class Action Settlement”
NHTSAtsbMay 2024Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“These documents are for the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) Limited Warranty Extension as part of the Class Action Settlement”
NHTSAtsbMay 2024Open source record

Manufacturer warranty extension

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2019 through 2022.

Symptom
Volkswagen Warranty has extended the coverage for the overhead console on 2019-2022 Tiguan Vehicles for 2 years 24,000 from the expiration of NVLW
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 1,350 to 52,750 miles.

Based on 11 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Volkswagen Warranty has extended the coverage for the overhead console on 2019-2022 Tiguan Vehicles for 2 years 24,000 from the expiration of NVLW”
NHTSAtsbNov 2024Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Volkswagen Warranty has extended the coverage for the overhead console on 2019-2022 Tiguan Vehicles for 2 years 24,000 from the expiration of NVLW”
NHTSAtsbNov 2024Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Volkswagen Warranty has extended the coverage for the overhead console on 2019-2022 Tiguan Vehicles for 2 years 24,000 from the expiration of NVLW”
NHTSAtsbNov 2024Open source record

The records cannot show the service history, repairs, title, accidents, or condition of the car you found.

Check a 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan at its mileage