2024 Volkswagen Tiguan Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2024 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
- Electrical2225.9%
- Engine2023.5%
- Driver assistance1517.6%
- Visibility89.4%
- Powertrain (other)55.9%
- Fuel system33.5%
- Interior & seats22.4%
- Body & structure22.4%
- Exterior lighting22.4%
- Steering22.4%
- Airbags11.2%
- Brakes11.2%
- Tires & wheels11.2%
- Other / unspecified11.2%
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
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
The infotainment system no longer works after an over the air update. The backup camera is including all other cameras are no longer visible . Before it completely just stopped working When attempting to back out the infotainment system would freeze and not signal something was back there . The digitally dynamic road display is not working so car ACC is not operable . Additionally since the blackout the windshield wipers randomly turn on even if not raining causing distraction and obstructed visibility at times Problem has been confirmed by independent VW dealers in several states (there is a whole Facebook VW owners group where several people are reporting the same issue) there are also known topics related to these issues on VWs help center page regarding OTA updates and infotainment system issues It gives instructions on how to troubleshoot but then says see your local dealer if that doesn’t resolve the issue Vehicle has been inspected by VW dealer. The backup camera would freeze intermittently and dealer would report nothing to see so it’s working fine . After last ota update system blacked out longer and has not turned back on
The back up camera, Bluetooth and radio system has all gone black.
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
Symptoms started at 65k-70k miles, just after 50k warranty expired. First symptom was low oil warning and needing to add oil between changes. Then oil spots, then i found a bad leak and replaced oil pan, timing chain cover and assembly, turbo actuator. Warnings progressed to frequent low oil light, check engine light, blue smoke on start and acceleration, strong burning oil smell, and now visible oil spitting from tailpipe onto rear windshield. I now have to carry oil every time I drive. Timeline: bought new with 5 miles, no issues to 65k, 65k-70k start of leaks, 84k now 2 quarts per 50 miles and oil from exhaust. Ive notified VW about the situation.
On 8/29/2026, my 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan experienced a sudden mechanical failure while I was driving on the highway at approximately 55mph, with only 27,842 miles. Prior to this incident, I had reported to the VW dealership at my previous oil change that I repeatedly had to add oil between scheduled oil changes. While driving, the vehicle suddenly began producing a significant amount of smoke and the check-engine light came on. After I pulled over, fluid was visibly leaking from underneath the vehicle. A State Trooper responded and told me I was lucky the vehicle did not catch fire. The vehicle was disabled and had to be towed from the highway to the VW dealership. The VW technician subsequently diagnosed the oil separator as having failed. In a video inspection provided to me, the technician stated that the failed oil separator caused excessive pressure in the engine crankcase, which "blew out" the upper timing cover and oil pan. The dealership replaced the oil separator, upper timing cover, and oil pan. The dealership then performed an approximately 30-mile test drive. The technician stated that the oil level remained full, but the vehicle produced a "big blue plume of smoke." He then stated, "there's an issue with these vehicles and the cylinder heads," and advised that the cylinder head now needs to be replaced. The vehicle remains at the VW dealership. I am reporting this because the failure occurred suddenly at highway speed and resulted in substantial smoke and fluid loss, creating a potential fire and safety hazard. I am also concerned that significant blue smoke continued after the initial repairs and that the vehicle now requires major engine repair at fewer than 28,000 miles. Thankfully, there were no injuries or collision. uploaded: text with svc advisor, stating part of this is a known issue; screenshot from the video the dealer sent me - the web address to view the video is at the top. i do not have the police report yet
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
The infotainment system no longer works after an over the air update. The backup camera is including all other cameras are no longer visible . Before it completely just stopped working When attempting to back out the infotainment system would freeze and not signal something was back there . The digitally dynamic road display is not working so car ACC is not operable . Additionally since the blackout the windshield wipers randomly turn on even if not raining causing distraction and obstructed visibility at times Problem has been confirmed by independent VW dealers in several states (there is a whole Facebook VW owners group where several people are reporting the same issue) there are also known topics related to these issues on VWs help center page regarding OTA updates and infotainment system issues It gives instructions on how to troubleshoot but then says see your local dealer if that doesn’t resolve the issue Vehicle has been inspected by VW dealer. The backup camera would freeze intermittently and dealer would report nothing to see so it’s working fine . After last ota update system blacked out longer and has not turned back on
On XXX, my 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan experienced an internal electrical failure of the 5F Infotainment Control Module (Part #3Q5-035-842-J). There were no advance warning lights or symptoms prior to the screen going completely black and unresponsive. The failure was officially diagnosed and confirmed by an authorized dealership, Fitzgerald Volkswagen in [XXX], on XXX. The component is currently installed in the vehicle and available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: The 5F module failure completely disables the primary display screen, rendering the rearview camera system frozen and entirely inoperable. This creates a severe rear-visibility safety hazard while reversing, particularly when transporting my minor child, and fails to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard FMVSS No. 111 (Rear Visibility). Systemic Failure & Backorder: The module failure also disables the radio, wireless charging, and front/rear USB ports. Fitzgerald VW special-ordered the replacement module under warranty but confirmed the part is on a nationwide backorder with no estimated time of arrival (ETA) and approximately 59 units currently backordered nationwide. The vehicle has not been inspected by law enforcement or insurance, but the manufacturer (Volkswagen Group of America) has been formally notified under Customer CARE Case #XXX. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
The infotainment system no longer works after an over the air update. The backup camera is including all other cameras are no longer visible . Before it completely just stopped working When attempting to back out the infotainment system would freeze and not signal something was back there . The digitally dynamic road display is not working so car ACC is not operable . Additionally since the blackout the windshield wipers randomly turn on even if not raining causing distraction and obstructed visibility at times Problem has been confirmed by independent VW dealers in several states (there is a whole Facebook VW owners group where several people are reporting the same issue) there are also known topics related to these issues on VWs help center page regarding OTA updates and infotainment system issues It gives instructions on how to troubleshoot but then says see your local dealer if that doesn’t resolve the issue Vehicle has been inspected by VW dealer. The backup camera would freeze intermittently and dealer would report nothing to see so it’s working fine . After last ota update system blacked out longer and has not turned back on
Following a recent Volkswagen software update, the 5F module on my 2024 VW Tiguan (VIN: [XXX], Mileage: 14,449) completely failed. The local dealership (RO Number: XXX) confirmed the failure and advised replacing the 5F module (Auth code:XXX), which is on backorder with no ETA. This initial failure disabled critical safety systems: the backup camera (violating FMVSS 111), the SOS emergency system, and the TPMS. Volkswagen Corporate (Case with [XXX]) has refused VOR escalation and denied alternative transportation. Furthermore, since retrieving the vehicle from the dealership, the electrical issues have escalated severely. The vehicle now experiences intermittent total electrical/lock-out failures 3 to 4 times a day. During these episodes, neither the key fob nor the physical interior lock/unlock buttons function. The vehicle remains completely unresponsive for several minutes before randomly working again. This poses a severe safety risk of trapping occupants inside or leaving them stranded outside. VW's negligence in addressing these escalating software and electrical safety defects is unacceptable. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
Catastrophic loss of throttle response and severe acceleration lag from a standstill under high ambient temperatures, presenting an immediate collision hazard. On more than ten (10) separate occasions, the acceleration on this vehicle from a complete standstill has unexpectedly dropped to a dangerous level, performing at or below the speed and power of an un-indicated "limp mode."This hazardous condition is explicitly triggered by ambient heat: it frequently occurs in temperatures above 90°F and consistently occurs when temperatures exceed 95°F. The defect manifests unannounced from a stop while sitting in traffic, idling at a light, or attempting to pull out or merge onto a roadway.Once the vehicle is in motion, the engine runs fine and all auxiliary systems—including the air conditioning, infotainment, and advanced driving assistance systems—operate normally. Crucially, the vehicle displays absolutely no dashboard warning lights, check engine lights, or stored diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), making the malfunction impossible for standard onboard diagnostics to register. Over time, I have learned to detect a subtle, tell-tale change in the cadence of the engine idle that foreshadows when this dangerous throttle failure is about to occur.Based on the symptoms, the failure appears to reside within the electronic accelerator pedal assembly, throttle body, Engine Control Module (ECM/ECU), transmission control system, or a thermal management software conflict between these components. I have presented this vehicle to an authorized dealership, Lokey Volkswagen, on two (2) separate occasions for this exact issue. On both visits, the service department failed to provide any remedy, diagnostic resolution, or repair suggestions to the lack of stored fault codes.Because this severe lag occurs when trying to accelerate into live traffic, it leaves the vehicle dangerously exposed and creeping along at walking speeds. I firmly believe this defect will result in a severe injury
Our vehicle does not respond to the throttle pedal being depressed when the AC has been turned on at full and the car has been in direct sunlight for a period of time. We reside in Florida so it is common to enter the vehicle during the summer months and the cabin temperatue is in excess of 200 degrees which requires putting the AC system on MAX. This problem occurs periodically and was address in the summer of 2025 at the VW dealership locally
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
Our vehicle does not respond to the throttle pedal being depressed when the AC has been turned on at full and the car has been in direct sunlight for a period of time. We reside in Florida so it is common to enter the vehicle during the summer months and the cabin temperatue is in excess of 200 degrees which requires putting the AC system on MAX. This problem occurs periodically and was address in the summer of 2025 at the VW dealership locally
The fuel gauge does not read properly even after it has been replaced.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Interior & seats
Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.
From owner reports, verbatim
The car seat was put in the rear seat of the vehicle. The seat belt was used first and then switched to the lower anchors to secure it in the seat. First noticed there was more then an inch of play in the seat after tightening it down with the seat belt and then the lower anchors. Next the seat would not level up either in the rear seat of the vehicle. After moving the height adjustment to the different levels it had the seat would still not get level and be in the indicator on the bubble. We tried several times to get it level and tighten it down and it still would not level up and still had a lot of play in it side to side. Based on this we did not feel comfortable putting the baby in this seat. The car seat was not inspected by anyone.
The engine started smoking at 11,000 and new valve seals were replaced in the head. The engine has started to smoke again at 16,800 mile and dealer said the next step would be to replace the head. Car has been to the dealer 6-7 times for electrical and engine problems. The SOS light comes on almost every morning. Driver seat memory does not work and dealer can't figure it out after 5-6 times, they have replaced about everything on the seat and it still doesn't work.
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.
From owner reports, verbatim
On 10/11/2025 while driving, the vehicle caught fire.
The rear passenger door won’t latch when it is cold out. The dealership replaced the lock, but it is still happening. I have been stranded multiple times because my door is stuck open.
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.
From owner reports, verbatim
On [XXX], my 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line AWD (VIN: [XXX] ) was damaged in a deer collision, requiring replacement of the right headlight assembly (P/N 5NL941114D/E, adaptive IQ.Light matrix with turning signal). The part was ordered June 9, 2025, via New Motors VW (Erie, PA) but remains on national backorder with no ETA (dealer confirms not even "top 25" priority). The vehicle has been undrivable and unreleasable from Betts Brothers Collision (Titusville, PA) for 194 days (as of Dec 13, 2025). The shop refuses to release it without the OEM headlight for safety reasons—operating with one functional headlight + inoperable turning signal violates FMVSS 108 (S9.1: paired headlamps required for visibility; turning signals per S5.1.1). This creates an unreasonable crash risk (impaired night driving, rural area with no transit). VW Care (Case #[XXX]) refuses ETA, loaner (via Customer Mobility Program), or lease/insurance relief despite $10k+ hardship (6 months payments/insurance + lost use). PA BCP mediation (forwarded Nov 3) and CFPB #[XXX] pending—no resolution. Similar backorders reported nationwide (e.g., 4-6 month waits on forums/X). VW's systemic parts shortage effectively renders the vehicle a safety defect—demanding NHTSA investigation for trends/recall/service campaign. No crashes/injuries yet, but prolonged hold endangers if forced release. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that the vehicle was involved in a crash that damaged the driver's side headlight. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for repair; however, the contact was informed that the headlight Part Number: 5NL-941-113-D was on a national back order. The vehicle was not repaired and remained with the dealer. The manufacturer was contacted for assistance in shipping the part to the dealer, but no assistance was provided. Additionally, the contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V082000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
See attached document for complaint.
Lane keep assist will activate randomly and try to steer the car and vibrate the steering wheel like lane departure warning going off. Also the Lane keep assist and emergency sos fault lights will randomly come on.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
I was driving Eastbound on I-94 at 6am pitch black dark out and looked down at my dog and veered off to the grated area of the highway and the nosie startled my dog and he jumped, hitting my arm and the front left wheel went off the road and i lost control at about 50mph after braking and swerving and we hit the guardrailand scraped.the cables and rail and lost bumper, 2 tires and front end without airbags going off.
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.
From owner reports, verbatim
Car suddenly accelerates on its own and does not respond to breaks.
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.
From owner reports, verbatim
235/55R 18 100H I was driving going north on [XXX], after I passed [XXX] I heard blowout sound, then immediately I stopped at side of the street, change to spare tire, and found out the inside of the tire was blown out (ripped), I didn’t hit any thing in the road. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
The car seat was put in the rear seat of the vehicle. The seat belt was used first and then switched to the lower anchors to secure it in the seat. First noticed there was more then an inch of play in the seat after tightening it down with the seat belt and then the lower anchors. Next the seat would not level up either in the rear seat of the vehicle. After moving the height adjustment to the different levels it had the seat would still not get level and be in the indicator on the bubble. We tried several times to get it level and tighten it down and it still would not level up and still had a lot of play in it side to side. Based on this we did not feel comfortable putting the baby in this seat. The car seat was not inspected by anyone.
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
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .