2022 Volkswagen Tiguan Engine Problems

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? During a multipoint inspection that was earlier than advised due to multiple dashboard lights engaging, we were told that our car has an oil leak due from the timing covers and lower pan seal. They removed the oil separator and found value stem seals to be out towards the exhaust side creating an oil leak that stemmed from blown timing covers and the lower oil pan seal being the cause of the leak. The oil separator was noted as failed. This car has been brought in for every inspection and continued to have lights on post inspection that we were told regularly that they forgot just to turn off the lights but that the oil had been changed. In fact, our next oil change wasn't due until February 2027. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Our safety has been put at risk driving a car with a substantial oil leak and faulty components that only seem found after we are 8,000 over the warranty. In searching the internet, this oil valve and leak situation is common in 2022 Tiguans enough so that there are multiple threads and articles about it. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? The dealer confirmed that this is an ongoing issue with these cars and that Volkwagen may be looking into doing a rebate for repairs. That doesn't fix the issue with the safety of the vehicle. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? We will be checking in with our insurance provider as well as an independent service center after dealing with Heritage Volkswagen Group due to our warranty. That warranty obviously provided us nothing for its cost or coverage. The lights were present and always brought in to be checked at the dealer we bought the car from. Again, we were always told that the lights didn't mean anything and they were left on after service accidentally

NHTSA ID

11756299

Incident

Aug 11, 2026

The vehicle logged code P0491 due to a clogged cylinder head internal port at 28,000 miles (26,000 at the time vehicle was inspected.) Volkswagen's official repair protocol requires a complete engine cylinder head replacement. The vehicle's onboard computer has disabled the factory-installed remote start system as a result of this engine fault.

NHTSA ID

11755056

Incident

May 8, 2026

The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The oil light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the cylinder head needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired because parts were on back order. The manufacturer was contacted, and the contact was referred to the service and the general manufacturer. The manager informed the contact to continue driving the vehicle and to continue to take it in for the oil to be topped off. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.

NHTSA ID

11750052

Incident

Feb 1, 2026

Mileage

30,000 mi

Oil warning light was on while driving on a highway. My vehicle was losing engine oil. I just had an oil change recently. Current odometer is at 25000 miles.

NHTSA ID

11749468

Incident

Jul 8, 2026

The vehicle intermittently fails to accelerate normally from a stop, especially in hot weather and when the A/C is running. When pressing the accelerator, the vehicle can hesitate for an extended period before moving. In a recent incident recorded on video (reference attachment), I pressed the accelerator and the vehicle failed to respond normally for more than 10 seconds, requiring me to pull over. This creates a serious safety risk when entering intersections, making U-turns, crossing traffic, or pulling into traffic, because the vehicle does not respond when acceleration is needed. The issue is intermittent and more frequent and severe during summer temperatures, when the AC is running continuously. The concern has been reported to the Volkswagen dealer multiple times. Dealer repair attempts were made in 2025, but the issue still exists. An independent mechanic also inspected/tested the vehicle and confirmed there is an issue, but advised that it likely requires Volkswagen-specific diagnosis, software, adaptation, or calibration. No consistent warning light appears before the hesitation occurs. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. I have video evidence showing the delayed acceleration condition.

NHTSA ID

11747947

Incident

Jul 18, 2025

I have a 2022 Tiguan 2.0L gas engine with a 10yr 120k mile Volkswagen warranty and all previous maintenance and services performed by the Volkswagen dealer. Just over 40k miles and a check engine light comes on so I go to the dealer. The oil separator, an emissions device, failed and needs to be replaced with the oil pan and timing chain cover. This separator is not noted anywhere on the manufacturer service schedule but based on talking to the dealership and my own research its is a known issue failing frequently over the last 5-6 years with Volkswagen redesigning parts several times in failed attempts to correct the issue but, to date, they have not issued a recall. As such, owners are having to pay significant repair bills as Volkswagen refuses to repair this under emission control or extended warranty coverage.

NHTSA ID

11747225

Incident

Jun 29, 2026

I am submitting this complaint regarding my Volkswagen vehicle because it has experienced two recurring defects during the warranty period that remain unresolved despite repeated repair attempts by the dealership. Issue 1 – Excessive Oil Consumption The vehicle has had a persistent excessive oil consumption problem since the warranty period. The dealership has attempted to repair this defect six times, including replacing an engine valve, but the issue continues. The vehicle still consumes excessive oil, requiring frequent monitoring and topping off. This creates a serious safety concern because low engine oil can result in engine damage, sudden loss of engine power, engine seizure, or an increased risk of fire while driving. Issue 2 – Electrical System Failure The vehicle has also experienced ongoing electrical problems involving the keyless entry system, repeated 12V Battery Low warnings, inoperative interior lights, and loss of connectivity with the Volkswagen mobile app. These problems have persisted despite nine repair attempts by the dealership and remain unresolved. The vehicle has spent a significant amount of time at the dealership throughout 2025 and 2026 for these recurring defects. The repeated electrical failures raise significant safety concerns. The keyless entry system can fail to unlock or recognize the key, the low 12V battery warnings indicate an unresolved electrical issue, and the loss of interior lighting reduces visibility inside the vehicle. The repeated failures also raise concerns about the reliability of other critical electrical systems and the possibility of the vehicle failing to start or operating unpredictably. Despite six repair attempts for excessive oil consumption and nine for electrical defects, Volkswagen has been unable to permanently fix these issues. I request NHTSA investigate whether these recurring failures indicate a broader safety defect requiring corrective action. Currently car is back to dealership for repair again

NHTSA ID

11746538

Incident

Mar 5, 2025

My backup camera stopped functioning not too long after the warranty was expired. It began by not coming on sometimes and then it went completely out. The entire unit is no longer functioning which prevents me from being able to use my backup camera and that is a safety issue.

NHTSA ID

11742356

Incident

Feb 3, 2026

Oil Change and Check Engine Light continuously appear. Have gotten oil changes during the prescribed timings and still after being within the timeframe of the oil change the sensor appears. The car has stalled while driving due to this and have on multiple occasions have had to buy oil to add to the vehicle even after getting a oil change at a dealership.

NHTSA ID

11742264

Incident

Jun 5, 2026

My 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan (VIN: [XXX] ) is experiencing excessive engine oil consumption. The vehicle requires oil replenishment every less than 1,000 miles, which is far beyond what any reasonable consumer would expect from a properly functioning engine. I reported this issue to the Volkswagen dealership while the vehicle was still under the manufacturer’s warranty. The dealership stated that this level of oil consumption is “normal” and only added oil without performing any diagnostic testing or repairs. No repair order documenting a defect was issued, and no corrective action was taken. This problem is consistent with the known defect in the EA888 2.0L TSI engine, specifically the defective piston rings that fail to create a proper seal, allowing oil to leak into the combustion chamber and burn off during operation. A class action lawsuit has been filed against Volkswagen regarding this exact defect in 2022–2023 Tiguan models. The excessive oil consumption poses a serious safety risk. If oil levels drop critically low without warning, the engine could suffer catastrophic failure, stall unexpectedly, or overheat while driving — all of which significantly increase the risk of a crash. Despite this being a warranty-covered vehicle and a known manufacturing defect, Volkswagen and its authorized dealership have refused to repair the issue or acknowledge it as a defect. I am requesting that NHTSA open a formal investigation into this matter and consider a safety recall for all affected 2022–2023 Volkswagen Tiguan vehicles. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11741657

Incident

May 4, 2026

2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SE, ~70,000 miles. The vehicle experienced a cylinder head failure in the EA888 2.0L TSI engine, causing the check-engine light to illuminate. The cylinder head developed internal cracks, resulting in excessive oil consumption over a period of more than one year prior to the current repair. During multiple service visits to the authorized VW dealership over the past year or more, I reported abnormal oil consumption and expressed concern about a possible engine problem. On each occasion I was told no fault was found. On at least one visit I was discouraged from requesting a deeper diagnostic by being told it would require a significant out-of-pocket fee, despite the vehicle being under the manufacturer's warranty. The vehicle was dropped off for the current repair on [DATE] after the check-engine light came on. The dealership confirmed the cylinder head failure is covered under Volkswagen's New Vehicle Limited Warranty. However, the required cylinder head part has been on backorder for over 60 days with no confirmed ETA. No loaner or rental vehicle has been provided despite the extraordinary duration of the repair. The dealership's own service advisor stated that in the state of Texas alone, approximately 7,000 cylinder heads are currently pending replacement across Volkswagen vehicles — indicating this is a widespread, systemic defect actively being managed within the dealer network, not an isolated incident. The dealership has also proposed that I bear 50% of the repair cost, despite the vehicle being under warranty and having a complete and consistent maintenance record. This cost-sharing proposal was framed as a courtesy, which I do not accept. I own a second 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SE with the same engine and model year, which I am also concerned may be affected by the same defect. Public records, owner forums, NHTSA complaint databases, and ongoing class action filings confirm this is a known, widespread issue affecting numerous 2022

NHTSA ID

11739902

Incident

Mar 27, 2026

The light appears on my dash indicating low oil level frequently between oil changes. I have to add oil to my car every 2-3 weeks. An abundant amount of white smoke comes from the exhaust pipes. I’ve been told it’s burning oil. This could ruin my engine or become catastrophic by fire. I was told it could be something to do with the pistons or cylinder head. Mechanic shops don’t want to/have the ability to work on Volkswagens. The dealership says this is normal. I’m afraid for my children and my safety. This is a major safety issue that needs to be corrected. This is potentially life threatening.

NHTSA ID

11737071

Incident

May 1, 2026

2.0 liter engines suffer from excessive oil consumption due to defective piston rings which can lead to engine failure. This is a class action lawsuit in other states. We now need a new engine at the cost of $6,500

NHTSA ID

11736182

Incident

May 1, 2026

Noticed large amount of oil on driveway. Check engine light came on. Took it to the VW dealer. They advised that there is a recurring problem with 2022 Tiguan, where a premature head gasket failure causes engine and coolant leaks. Requires a cylinder head replacement. Since a large number is affected, there is a 8-10 back order of the part. Also, I was told that VW is repairing the defect under Service Bulletin TSB 15-23-01 or TSB /action 2071245, however they would not honor it in my case since the vehicle has 90000 miles.

NHTSA ID

11732934

Incident

Apr 15, 2026

Check Engine light illuminated, code: P2402 #07E8 EVAP SYSTEM LEAK DETECTION PUMP CONTROL CIRCUIT HIGH. Checked online and same year, same model have recall for same issue.

NHTSA ID

11731844

Incident

Apr 1, 2026

Excessive oil consumption caused by the PCV Valve failing. The PCV Valve failed causing pressure build up in the engine which luckily for me only caused the valve stem seals to pop out of position on the exhaust valves. This caused oil to leak into the combustion chambers and burn through the exhaust. In other known cases this failure has caused the oil pan and timing covers to Crack and vehicle will lose its oil all over the roadway. No check engine light came on for me only low oil light every 800 miles starting around the 70,000 mile mark. Dealership determined the cause and failure. Manufacturer determined the cylinder head needed replaced. Dropped car off on Nov. 7 2025 and was given a loaner. Part on backorder. Part came in in February and installed. During test drive the cylinder head failed internal and they had to order the same part again. 6 loaner cars later finally got car back on April 10 2026. Extended warranty covered all but $100 of the $4800 cost.

NHTSA ID

11730693

Incident

Oct 27, 2025

Since purchasing this vehicle, along with 2 other tiguans in my family. ALL of them have had excessive oil consumption. I have complained each time I bring the car in for service and i always being told “this is normal”. I was told there was a company notification issued advising that you could use up to 1 Qt every 1,000 miles!! That is INSANE and I’ve never heard anything that absurd in my ENTIRE LIFE! NOW I’m finding out that it is an absolute defect with the cars and numerous people are advising they’re being advised there are Cylinder head issues and they have needed to have theirs replaced. The big issue is it’s a problem with the Tiguan engine but the real issue is they are only covering if you vehicle is still under warranty. Even though I’ve voiced my complaints numerous times if something happens to my car happens I’m screwed because I recently went over my mileage! So I know if something happens with mine VW is NOT going to cover the repair so me and thousands of others are going to be screwed. It’s obviously a known issue! How has a RECALL not have been issued for these engines for this obvious manufacturers defect with their Tiguans engines. If there was ever a time there should be a recall issued this is the prime example! I’m sure there will be class action suits issued because there are going to be plenty of cases of this occurring. Please advise how we can get a case opened or a recall issued for this obvious defect with this VW engine. You would be saving thousands of people lots of stress and money. VW should absolutely be held accountable for this defect and not be screwing their customers

NHTSA ID

11730666

Incident

Jul 31, 2022

The contact owns a 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to O'Reilly, where an unknown diagnostic result was provided. The vehicle was taken to the used car dealer where it was purchased, and the engine was disassembled. The dealer determined that the cylinder head was cracked. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25 MPH after the repair, the vehicle stalled in the middle of the roadway. The vehicle was restarted after an extended while; however, the vehicle was bucking while driving. The vehicle was driven to the dealer, where an unknown repair was performed; however, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle was bucking and making an abnormally loud sound while driving. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was test-driven, and the failure was duplicated. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted while attempting to drive the vehicle out of the dealer's parking lot. The vehicle remained with the dealer. The dealer then advised the contact to inform the insurance company of the failure; however, the insurance company referred the contact back to the dealer because the failure was not caused by a crash. The dealer was advised accordingly and threatened to tow the vehicle at the contact's expense and to charge the contact for vehicle rental if the contact did not return the rental. The contact advised the dealer that the vehicle was not repaired and was unsafe to drive. The vehicle was not repaired. The Volkswagen dealer and manufacturer were not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 67,000.

NHTSA ID

11730156

Incident

Jan 9, 2026

Mileage

67,000 mi

My 2022 Tiguan burns excessive oil between oil changes and the check oil light comes on. I have to top it off between oil changes. I purchased in Nov 2023 and the light came on in less than 6 months. It has been brought to dealerships attention on mulitple ocassions however they are unable to find a problem or a solution. They have replaced my leak detection pump and a cover without results. I have also had on going issues with the travel assist light coming on almost daily. They replaced my steering wheel already without resolution as well. Currently there is a class action lawsuit for 2022 Tiguans for the excessive oil consumption issue so hopefully they will fnd a resolution soon. Here are some notes of dates of occurances 11/2023 Purchased 5/15/24 oil light on 9/6/24 oil light on 10/31/25 oil change, steering wheel replaced 4/1/25 oil light on 6/16/25 Oil changed 6/27/25 Leak Detection Pump replaced 6/23/25 oil light on 1/13/26 oil change and oil leak from upper timing cover 3/18/26 oil light on

NHTSA ID

11728274

Incident

Apr 1, 2025

My 2022 keeps burning oil and I am having to put a quart to a quart and a half of oil about every 10 days into my car

NHTSA ID

11727781

Incident

Sep 1, 2025

I am filing this complaint because my Volkswagen Tiguan has a serious and ongoing engine issue involving excessive oil consumption and a faulty cylinder head. The vehicle burns through an abnormal amount of oil between changes, requiring constant top‑offs, sometimes as frequently as every few hundred miles. Despite regularly adding oil and following all manufacturer‑recommended maintenance, the issue continues to worsen. The dealership has confirmed that the cylinder head is defective, which is causing the engine to consume oil at an extremely accelerated rate. However, I have been told the replacement cylinder head is on national backorder, and there is currently no estimated timeframe for when the part will be available. This means I am forced to continue driving a vehicle with a known, documented engine defect that can: Lead to engine stalling Create loss of power while driving Increase the risk of engine seizure Potentially cause a safety hazard on the road Additionally, being required to constantly add oil just to keep the vehicle operable is not only unsafe but financially unreasonable. The problem remains unresolved despite multiple service visits, documentation, and repeated oil consumption tests. This is a safety issue, not just a maintenance concern, because the engine can fail unexpectedly if the oil drops too quickly. I believe this is a significant defect affecting multiple Volkswagen vehicles and should be investigated by NHTSA. I request that NHTSA open a formal investigation into the excessive oil consumption and cylinder head defects on Volkswagen Tiguans, as owners should not be left with unsafe vehicles due to known manufacturing issues and unavailable critical engine components.

NHTSA ID

11727194

Incident

Mar 26, 2026

The cylinder head has passages that collect carbon build up that build up outside of general maintenance that clog the cylinder head and can eventually lead to combustion failure. This car has been taken to an independent, reputable mechanic in the area, as well as now the dealer. Dealer has confirmed they have at least 4 other vehicles currently with the same issue in just this one location, and parts replacement to remedy the issue (new cylinder heads) are on back order (over 2500 on order in US). This car has been caught early, before this engine failure, as the check engine light first came up and multiple rounds of mechanic checking and trying to fix have lead to this conclusion. Car at this time has not failed in a safety situation, but has the potential to if not remedied, by engine failing while driving. Engine has been inspected by mechanic, and is currently being inspected by manufacturer. Error code was presented once reading the module, and check engine light is visible to prompt servicing the car (code for emissions)

NHTSA ID

11722170

Incident

Mar 5, 2026

Vehicle started smoking last September/October (2025) after catching several examples of it on camera, VW says it needs new heads. I’ve been on a “waiting list” ever since. The vehicle continues to get worse, recently the low oil light came on as it burns oil excessively . I’ve called VW and they’ve documented it. I’m concerned because I work out of town - My wife drives this car with our 2 1/2 year old and 5 month old.

NHTSA ID

11719475

Incident

Sep 1, 2025

The contact owned a 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact pulled over and added oil to the engine. The failure occurred on several occasions, and the contact stated he consistently added oil for the vehicle to return to normal operation. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer to be diagnosed; however, the dealer stated that it was normal to consistently check and add oil to the engine and stated that the issue was not a failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.

NHTSA ID

11717907

Incident

Jan 13, 2025

Mileage

81,000 mi

On 7/22/25, I started an oil consumption test. It was eventually diagnosed that it was an issue because the cylinder head was replaced 9/25/25. Then a total engine replacement 1/26/2026 and on 2/10/2026 the dipstick tube was replaced. The car has consistently had engine oil consumption and still under the manufacturer warranty. It’s a lemon

NHTSA ID

11717424

Incident

Jul 21, 2025