RoadVitals

2017 Volkswagen Tiguan Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
73
Latest Jun 19, 2026
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
13
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
6

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Reports by component

Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category

  • Airbags3032.6%
  • Engine1617.4%
  • Electrical1112.0%
  • Steering1112.0%
  • Fuel system77.6%
  • Powertrain (other)55.4%
  • Body & structure44.3%
  • Brakes33.3%
  • Tires & wheels11.1%
  • Driver assistance11.1%
  • Visibility11.1%
  • Exterior lighting11.1%
  • Seat belts11.1%

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Each component in detail

What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

30
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

No crash or incident occurred. While starting the vehicle normally, the airbag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed fault code P0588 — driver side airbag igniter at resistance limit. The mechanic confirmed that all airbags are non-functional as a result of this fault. No accident, collision, or unusual event preceded this failure. The part failed during normal use and operation. This is the same component covered under Safety Recall 69P4, issued February 2017 for driver and passenger airbag igniters on 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan vehicles. My VIN was not included in that recall but is experiencing the identical failure. I purchased this vehicle certified pre-owned from a Volkswagen dealership in 2020. The Carfax report provided at purchase shows no record of any airbag recall service ever being performed on this vehicle. When I contacted VW Customer Care, they confirmed my vehicle has an extended clock spring warranty and directed me to a dealership for service. The existence of an extended warranty on this specific component suggests Volkswagen is aware of a defect population broader than the original recall. I am currently driving a vehicle with non-functional airbags, creating significant safety risk to myself and my family. I believe this recall should be investigated for expansion to additional 2017 Tiguan VINs experiencing the same failure.

NHTSA ID 11745250 · filed Jun 19, 2026

During a collision in which my vehicle was struck by another driver, the airbag warning light activated, my seatbelt locked in place, and white smoke with a strong electrical smell filled the cabin. No airbags deployed (frontal or side). There is now an "ERROR: Airbag" warning on my dashboard, and the seatbelt is completely locked. The vehicle currently has multiple open safety recalls for airbag systems, including frontal and side/window airbags. I am concerned that these recalls may be related to the malfunction experienced. This failure could have resulted in serious injury if the impact had been greater. I am requesting investigation and confirmation as to whether the non-deployment is related to known defects.

NHTSA ID 11680342 · filed Aug 13, 2025
All 30 reports naming airbags

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

16
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I am filing this complaint to seek a full buyback and debt cancellation for a 2017 VW Tiguan (VIN: [XXX] ) sold to me by Carvana for $40,000. Summary of Deception: Carvana sold this vehicle as "Certified" with a "150-Point Inspection" guarantee. This was a fraudulent misrepresentation. Within six months, the vehicle required 45+ mechanical services, including a full internal teardown that revealed catastrophic wiring corrosion caused by a long-term sunroof leak. These were latent defects present at the time of sale. The vehicle has has 2 Turbos: one recalled (now currently being recalled again) and one replaced 3 months into ownership. The vehicle slowed down on [XXX] traffic and I had to make an emergency exit and take to the dealership. This make and model were completely overhauled engine and externally after my model 2017. 45 mechanical services in 12 months justifies a recall and an exchange, Safety & Financial Hardship: As a high-level executive commuting from [XXX] to [XXX] , I required a reliable vehicle. Instead, this car decelerated dangerously on [XXX] , nearly causing a collision. Despite active steering and turbo recalls, Volkswagen mechanics have deemed the car "unsafe for road use" since January 2025. I am warned that any further driving will void my warranties due to engine damage risk. Bad Faith Negotiations: I have attempted to resolve this with Carvana and Volkswagen Executive Care. Carvana offered a mocking $500 gesture for a $40k total loss, while their supervisors were condescending and dismissive. They have refused to provide the original inspection report. Impact: I have lost tens of thousands in wages, rental costs, and storage fees while my credit and mental health suffer under $19,000 of debt for a "shell. " I am seeking an immediate buyback at their expense to resolve this matter and restore my ability to work safely. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11729125 · filed Apr 3, 2026

On December 3, 2025, Volkswagen of XXX performed an intake manifold recall repair on our 2017 Tiguan (VIN: [XXX] ) while the vehicle was under factory warranty. Approximately six weeks later the low coolant warning light appeared and the vehicle began actively leaking coolant. No other work had been performed between the recall and the onset of the leak. Our independent mechanic discovered physical damage to the original water pump consistent with a tool strike during the recall procedure. A new OEM water pump was installed but failed immediately due to an underlying pressure issue originating underneath the intake manifold. The vehicle has been at VW of South Charlotte since February 11, 2026 — seven weeks — with no root-cause diagnosis or repair. The dealership falsely documented OEM parts as aftermarket, refused to diagnose the vehicle, and the service manager made his final decision based on text messages rather than any inspection. VW Customer Care opened and closed six separate case numbers on this single unresolved complaint. Safety concern: The vehicle is non-operational and actively leaking coolant. The damage originated during a recall repair and has never been properly diagnosed or repaired. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11728157 · filed Mar 31, 2026
All 16 reports naming engine

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

11
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I was driving and the fuel gauge quit working randomly. I am unsure how much gas is in my vehicle. I have had to get several repairs since purchasing my car from Carmax including my turbo boost, fuel pump and gas line. I financed the car in 2021 from Carmax.

NHTSA ID 11578584 · filed Mar 20, 2024

It is nearly 2 years since the "clock spring wire" in the steering wheel failed. While this results in the buttons on the steering wheel not working, that is a minor inconvenience (such as not being able to reset the tire pressure warning light). The major problem is that the steering wheel air bag is not functional. Local VW dealers and VW of American customer support have been unable to obtain this part for more than 18 months. A very reliable source (local mechanic) tells me the local VW dealer has several customers with the same need for this part. We have been checking with local dealers for more than a year to see if/when this part might become available if no success.

NHTSA ID 11558523 · filed Dec 5, 2023
All 11 reports naming electrical

Steering

Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.

11
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I am filing this complaint to seek a full buyback and debt cancellation for a 2017 VW Tiguan (VIN: [XXX] ) sold to me by Carvana for $40,000. Summary of Deception: Carvana sold this vehicle as "Certified" with a "150-Point Inspection" guarantee. This was a fraudulent misrepresentation. Within six months, the vehicle required 45+ mechanical services, including a full internal teardown that revealed catastrophic wiring corrosion caused by a long-term sunroof leak. These were latent defects present at the time of sale. The vehicle has has 2 Turbos: one recalled (now currently being recalled again) and one replaced 3 months into ownership. The vehicle slowed down on [XXX] traffic and I had to make an emergency exit and take to the dealership. This make and model were completely overhauled engine and externally after my model 2017. 45 mechanical services in 12 months justifies a recall and an exchange, Safety & Financial Hardship: As a high-level executive commuting from [XXX] to [XXX] , I required a reliable vehicle. Instead, this car decelerated dangerously on [XXX] , nearly causing a collision. Despite active steering and turbo recalls, Volkswagen mechanics have deemed the car "unsafe for road use" since January 2025. I am warned that any further driving will void my warranties due to engine damage risk. Bad Faith Negotiations: I have attempted to resolve this with Carvana and Volkswagen Executive Care. Carvana offered a mocking $500 gesture for a $40k total loss, while their supervisors were condescending and dismissive. They have refused to provide the original inspection report. Impact: I have lost tens of thousands in wages, rental costs, and storage fees while my credit and mental health suffer under $19,000 of debt for a "shell. " I am seeking an immediate buyback at their expense to resolve this matter and restore my ability to work safely. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11729125 · filed Apr 3, 2026

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Steering rack and pinion, yes. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? There is no power steering and unable to make a quick turn to maneuver the car around a potential hazard in the road. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, two independent service centers. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? Just a power steering light when it failed.

NHTSA ID 11693994 · filed Oct 17, 2025
All 11 reports naming steering

Fuel system

Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.

7
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I am filing this complaint to seek a full buyback and debt cancellation for a 2017 VW Tiguan (VIN: [XXX] ) sold to me by Carvana for $40,000. Summary of Deception: Carvana sold this vehicle as "Certified" with a "150-Point Inspection" guarantee. This was a fraudulent misrepresentation. Within six months, the vehicle required 45+ mechanical services, including a full internal teardown that revealed catastrophic wiring corrosion caused by a long-term sunroof leak. These were latent defects present at the time of sale. The vehicle has has 2 Turbos: one recalled (now currently being recalled again) and one replaced 3 months into ownership. The vehicle slowed down on [XXX] traffic and I had to make an emergency exit and take to the dealership. This make and model were completely overhauled engine and externally after my model 2017. 45 mechanical services in 12 months justifies a recall and an exchange, Safety & Financial Hardship: As a high-level executive commuting from [XXX] to [XXX] , I required a reliable vehicle. Instead, this car decelerated dangerously on [XXX] , nearly causing a collision. Despite active steering and turbo recalls, Volkswagen mechanics have deemed the car "unsafe for road use" since January 2025. I am warned that any further driving will void my warranties due to engine damage risk. Bad Faith Negotiations: I have attempted to resolve this with Carvana and Volkswagen Executive Care. Carvana offered a mocking $500 gesture for a $40k total loss, while their supervisors were condescending and dismissive. They have refused to provide the original inspection report. Impact: I have lost tens of thousands in wages, rental costs, and storage fees while my credit and mental health suffer under $19,000 of debt for a "shell. " I am seeking an immediate buyback at their expense to resolve this matter and restore my ability to work safely. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11729125 · filed Apr 3, 2026

when was driven i lost power and got the ECU light and check engine light when scan for codes got fuel system and also car went into limp mode and had low fuel reading from live feeding and since have replaced the high pressure fuel pump and live reading are good now it still won’t start and won’t come out of limp mode

NHTSA ID 11683981 · filed Aug 29, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

5
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

On December 3, 2025, Volkswagen of XXX performed an intake manifold recall repair on our 2017 Tiguan (VIN: [XXX] ) while the vehicle was under factory warranty. Approximately six weeks later the low coolant warning light appeared and the vehicle began actively leaking coolant. No other work had been performed between the recall and the onset of the leak. Our independent mechanic discovered physical damage to the original water pump consistent with a tool strike during the recall procedure. A new OEM water pump was installed but failed immediately due to an underlying pressure issue originating underneath the intake manifold. The vehicle has been at VW of South Charlotte since February 11, 2026 — seven weeks — with no root-cause diagnosis or repair. The dealership falsely documented OEM parts as aftermarket, refused to diagnose the vehicle, and the service manager made his final decision based on text messages rather than any inspection. VW Customer Care opened and closed six separate case numbers on this single unresolved complaint. Safety concern: The vehicle is non-operational and actively leaking coolant. The damage originated during a recall repair and has never been properly diagnosed or repaired. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11728157 · filed Mar 31, 2026

I suffered a front-end collision on 11/15/2022 in my 2017 VW Tiguan. I was going on I-66 in Virginia 40-45mph back to college at Howard University, and a car stopped suddenly after being cut off, but it was raining horribly and I was in half a foot of water, so even with braking, I hydroplaned into the vehicle in front of me, causing insubstantial damage to them but very significant damage to my vehicle as well as whiplash.

NHTSA ID 11494504 · filed Nov 21, 2022

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Body & structure

Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.

4
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that upon entering the vehicle after a rainstorm, the contact became aware that the interior of the vehicle was flooded, and that water had entered the vehicle through the sunroof. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the sunroof drainage system. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 66,000.

NHTSA ID 11670895 · filed Jul 2, 2025

I suffered a front-end collision on 11/15/2022 in my 2017 VW Tiguan. I was going on I-66 in Virginia 40-45mph back to college at Howard University, and a car stopped suddenly after being cut off, but it was raining horribly and I was in half a foot of water, so even with braking, I hydroplaned into the vehicle in front of me, causing insubstantial damage to them but very significant damage to my vehicle as well as whiplash.

NHTSA ID 11494504 · filed Nov 21, 2022

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I was traveling down a road and my brake gave out, when i had it towed to the dealership they said the inside of the brake vacuume exploded???? I was driving with my daughter and we could not stop. I have never had brake issues with this car and we almost ended up being smashed in an intersection going downhill with no brakes I wrote to VW CEO and he never responded. They made me pay for this when it was not fair.

NHTSA ID 11419994 · filed Jun 7, 2021

THE ROTORS SEEM TO BE GRABBING WHEN STOPPING. I BOUGHT THE CAR WITH ALMOST 13000 MILES ON IT AND IT STARTED SHORTLY THERE AFTER. I THINK THAT IS TOO SOON FOR THIS SORT OF THING TO BEGIN.

NHTSA ID 11210254 · filed May 28, 2019

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Tires & wheels

Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

Tires treads are peeling or shredded at 40.000 miles in left front driver side, rear driver side and right front passenger side I went to Costco tire and was advised to replace the tires for safety reasons

NHTSA ID 11480454 · filed Aug 21, 2022

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

Hello, I have had much trouble with this automobile. In fact it’s has become a nightmare. While driving on highway 75/85 with massive traffic in a major city, my level of anxiety was raised because I was about 15 minutes from home. I had to travel for 40 minutes. I took a chance hoping that the car did not stop or give out in traffic in the middle of the highway. First my navigating system would not function, it kept blanking out off and on or dancing around, so and I could not get it to give directions toward home. Then the dashboard began to light up with multiple lights. I’m a senior citizen over 70 years, with a compromised immune system and felt very anxious or worried for my safety as well as others and that the car would stop in a 6 lane interstate going one way in traffic. June 2022- the Thermostat housing and water pump gave out for no reason. The Control Arms Brushes had to also be replaced which should have lasted for at least 80,000 miles. At the time my automobile had only 48,000 miles as a 2017 Tiguan. On 9/16/22, I was told by the dealership that it would take 2 weeks before I could get in to them to have a diagnostic to see what maybe the problem. Right now the car is parked, I live on a fixed income, with medical problems and doctors appointments of which I can’t afford to miss. This is my only means of transportation and I don’t have multiple cars as well as I live alone. This is very frustrating!!! Out of all the automobiles I have owned, I’ve never had such problems as I have with this one. The warning lights are still showing. I counted 6 as of this date. I am asking that you will consider the circumstances and replace this automobile for the blue book value, at least, so that I can feel safe and that I’m not jeopardizing my life as well as others around. Thank you!

NHTSA ID 11484947 · filed Sep 17, 2022

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Visibility

Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

VW NEW MODEL INSIDE REARVIEW MIRRORS ARE SELF DIMMING (ELECTRICALLY) BUT THEY DO NOT DIM AS MUCH AS THE MECHANICALLY (DRIVER) DIMMING MIRROR OF PRIOR YEARS. DRIVER EYE FATIGUE AND GLARE, ESPECIALLY FOR OLDER DRIVERS, WITH THIS DEVICE IS MADE UNBEARABLE, ESPECIALLY WITH NEW WHITE, HALOGEN FOLLOWING HEADLIGHTS. IF THERE IS A SPECIFICATION FOR A MIRROR DIMMING FEATURE, IT IS NOT BEING MET BY VW, SINCE ANY REGULATION WOULD REQUIRE COMPLIANCE EQUAL TO PRIOR TYPE DIMMING MIRRORS.

NHTSA ID 10991400 · filed May 24, 2017

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Exterior lighting

Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

REAR LIGHTS ARE NOT ADEQUATE. ILLUMINATION IS UNEVEN IN PATTERN.

NHTSA ID 11111869 · filed Jul 17, 2018

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Seat belts

Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

My [XXX] daughter was a front seat passenger in her friend‘s car the 2017 Tiguan when the driver swerved to avoid another car and struck a pole. The damage was primarily on the front passenger side of the car. My daughter hit the windshield. It was broken in two places and she sustained several other injuries. The airbags never deployed. The car was totaled. I’m interested in knowing whether or not it can be determined if the airbags should have deployed and did not, and if the seatbelt worked properly or not, and whether or not you’ve had other complaints about this make and model. My daughter has sustained a concussion and has been out of work since he accident thank you. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11652619 · filed Apr 3, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

Data on this page last refreshed .