Are you in the market for a used Volkswagen Tiguan? Before you purchase, you need to know which model years to steer clear of.
Don’t let a faulty engine or electrical issues ruin your driving experience and drain your wallet with costly repairs. We’ve done the research and identified the worst of the worst.
Brace yourself – the 2009, 2010, and 2011 models are notorious for their problems. But fear not. We’re here to guide you through the pitfalls and help you find a reliable vehicle that will give you peace of mind for years.
So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty and arm you with the knowledge you need to make the best choice for your Volkswagen Tiguan.
Contents
- 1 VW Tiguan Years to Avoid and Main Problems
- 2 Turbocharged Engine Issues
- 3 Timing Chain Problems
- 4 Diesel Engine Concerns
- 5 Volkswagen Tiguan reliability by year
- 6 Best Years to Consider
- 7 What are Tiguan model year changes?
- 8 First Generation (2007-2016)
- 9 Second Generation (2017-present)
- 10 Comparisons with Competitors
- 11 Honda CR-V
- 12 Kia Sportage
- 13 Mazda CX-5
- 14 Toyota RAV4
- 15 Standard and Available Features
- 16 Reliability and Maintenance
- 17 Safety Ratings and Features
- 18 Cabin Space and Comfort
- 19 Price and Financing Options
- 20 Share this post:
VW Tiguan Years to Avoid and Main Problems
Let’s now dive into more details of some Volkswagen Tiguan model years that are best to avoid and their main problems.
We’ll cover turbocharged engine issues, timing chain problems, and diesel engine concerns.
Turbocharged Engine Issues
The 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan is considered one of the worst years due to its numerous engine-related problems, including turbocharger and ignition coil failures.
In the 2010 model year, you have also experienced similar engine malfunctions, such as main oil seal leaks and excessive oil consumption. As a Tiguan owner or potential buyer, you should be aware of these issues and steer clear of these specific model years.
Timing Chain Problems
Another common problem affecting the 2009 and 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan models is skipping timing chains. Faulty timing chains can lead to engine failure and costly repairs.
Ask about any past timing chain issues or repairs made to address them, especially if considering a 2009 or 2010 model.
Diesel Engine Concerns
Volkswagen has faced some controversy regarding its diesel engines, so it’s essential to consider potential issues when looking at Tiguan diesel models.
While not specific to a particular year, diesel engine concerns are something to remember when researching and considering a used Tiguan.
It is essential to watch for issues related to turbocharged engines, timing chains, and diesel engines and avoid the 2009 and 2010 Tiguan models for a more reliable and enjoyable driving experience.
EDITOR TIPS: Here is another relative Volkswagen car model guide: The VW Atlas years to avoid and the VW Touareg SUV problems and common complaints!
Volkswagen Tiguan reliability by year
Best Years to Consider
Good news! There are some fantastic Volkswagen Tiguan years worth considering when shopping for your next vehicle, so we show you the best years and models that offer the most value and reliability for your investment.
The 2023 model: One standout year for the Volkswagen Tiguan is the 2023 model. As part of the second Generation, its modern design and features place it among the top picks.
You’ll find higher trim levels offering advanced technology and comfort options, making your driving experience even more enjoyable.
The 2017 model: The 2017 Tiguan is another solid choice, as it was the final year of the first Generation.
The model received numerous improvements during this time, making it a reliable and well-developed version. You can expect fewer issues and better performance than its earlier counterparts.
What are Tiguan model year changes?
To begin with, let’s take a look at the different generations of the Volkswagen Tiguan. As you explore the model year changes, you’ll notice how Volkswagen has constantly improved to refine and enhance Tiguan’s performance and features.
First Generation (2007-2016)
The first Generation Volkswagen Tiguan debuted in 2007 and was introduced in the 2009 model year.
Known for its upscale design and above-average cabin space, this compact SUV garnered attention for its excellent road manners.
However, it would help if you were cautious about the 2009, 2010, and 2011 model years, as they have been reported to have significant engine and electrical problems.
During this Generation, there were several changes and updates over the years, such as:
- Upgraded infotainment systems
- Improved fuel efficiency
- The introduction of various driver assistance features
Second Generation (2017-present)
The second-generation Volkswagen Tiguan started with the 2017 model year, featuring a complete redesign that significantly increased the size of the vehicle.
This new Generation provides more interior space, an optional third-row seat, and refined technology. Over the years, various updates to the Tiguan include:
- Enhanced infotainment systems
- Expanded availability of driver assistance features
- Increased fuel efficiency
- Introduction of a plug-in hybrid version called Tiguan hybrid
As you familiarize yourself with the different Tiguan model year changes, remember the importance of researching each Generation’s everyday issues and improvements.
This knowledge will help you make an informed decision when considering a Volkswagen Tiguan for your next vehicle purchase.
Comparisons with Competitors
The VW Tiguan has close and distant rivals, a positive fact that offers you more choices. Four competitors are Honda CRV, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX5, and Toyota RAV4:
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a popular choice for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It offers comfortable interior space and ample cargo capacity.
One notable advantage it has over Tiguan is its reputation for lower-cost maintenance and better long-term performance. Some CR-V car drawbacks and issues are listed here.
Kia Sportage
If you’re looking for a stylish and affordable alternative, the Kia Sportage might be the right choice.
It has a bold design, Sportage modern technology features, and a comfortable interior. However, it lacks some of the more advanced safety features of the Honda CR-V and the Mazda CX-5.
Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 offers excellent performance, fuel efficiency, and luxury. With its stylish exterior, it stands out from its competitors. Discover the exact Mazda CX-5 years to avoid and positive models to consider!
It also comes with a wide range of advanced safety features, making it a solid choice for those prioritizing safety and reliability. Can you compare this 2023 CX 5 and Mazda CX50 to discover which you prefer?
Toyota RAV4
Lastly, the Toyota RAV4 is a dependable SUV known for its longevity and substantial resale value. It offers a comfortable ride and good fuel efficiency while providing the versatility of a spacious cargo area.
Here’s a comparison table highlighting some critical facts about these competitors:
| Vehicle | Fuel Efficiency (mpg) | Cargo Space (cu ft) | Advanced Safety Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CR-V | 28/34 | 39.2 | Yes |
| Kia Sportage | 23/30 | 30.7 | No |
| Mazda CX-5 | 25/31 | 30.9 | Yes |
| Toyota RAV4 | 28/35 | 37.6 | Yes |
Standard and Available Features
It is equally important to know the standard and available features that contribute to its overall appeal.
The base S trim typically has basic features like a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
As you move up in trim levels, more advanced features become available. The available panoramic sunroof can make your drives more enjoyable by letting in natural light and providing a more open feel to the cabin.
Vehicles with a panoramic sunroof often have a higher perceived value, making it an attractive feature for potential buyers.
Adaptive cruise control is another feature to look for, as it helps maintain a preset distance from the vehicle ahead of you.
It can adjust your speed automatically, allowing you to focus more on the road and less on constantly adjusting your cruise control settings.
Safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane assist are always essential. Automatic emergency braking can help prevent collisions by applying the brakes if it senses an impending crash.
Lane assist keeps you in your lane by providing gentle steering corrections if the system detects you unintentionally drifting out of your lane.
One convenient feature that many car owners appreciate is remote start. If your Tiguan model has this feature, you can start your car from a distance, allowing it to heat up or cool down before you even get in. This can be especially helpful during extreme weather conditions.
Reliability and Maintenance
As a potential Volkswagen Tiguan owner, you should know this vehicle’s reliability and maintenance aspects.
It’s essential to pay attention to the reliability ratings organizations like Consumer Reports provide.
Although the 2023 Tiguan is expected to be less reliable than the average new car based on data from previous models, it is still essential to consider these ratings when deciding.
Maintenance costs can affect your satisfaction with any vehicle. Regular maintenance keeps your Tiguan running smoothly and prevents potential issues.
The 2009 Tiguan model had issues with its water pump, requiring some Tiguan owners to replace it multiple times within 20,000 miles, leading to average repair costs of $910 for parts and labor.
Global supply issues can also directly impact the availability and cost of parts for your Tiguan. As a result, it’s crucial to research and ensure the availability of parts and service centers in your region before purchasing a Volkswagen Tiguan.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Avoid the 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan model due to its numerous issues
- Check the reliability ratings from sources like Consumer Reports
- Maintain your car with regular maintenance to prevent potential issues
- Keep in mind global supply issues and the availability of parts for your Tiguan
Safety Ratings and Features
When considering a Volkswagen Tiguan, keeping safety ratings and features in mind is essential.
The 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan received a 4-star Overall Safety Rating from the NHTSA, while the IIHS granted the 2020 model the highest ” Good ” score.
Various safety features complement these safety ratings. In the 2021 Tiguan, you can expect standard safety features like daytime running lights and blind spot detection.
Additionally, optional features such as lane departure warning and lane departure prevention make your driving experience even safer.
Finally, the new vehicle warranty offered with the 2023 Tiguan is worth noting. In comparison, the model received an average quality and reliability rating of 73 out of 100 from J.D.
The new vehicle warranty can provide you with some additional peace of mind. Do thorough research on different Tiguan years and models to ensure you choose the one that best fits your safety and reliability requirements.
Cabin Space and Comfort
One more vital factor to consider is cabin space and comfort. In some models, the front-wheel drive configuration can reduce interior space. However, many models offer adequate seating and cargo capacity throughout the Tiguan’s life.
In front seats, you can expect a comfortable experience with adjustable positions and ample head and legroom, even in the earlier or problematic years.
Earlier Tiguan models didn’t offer standard leather seats, but they are available as an upgrade or in higher trims. Later models may offer leather seating for even greater comfort, adding luxury to your driving experience.
Regarding back and rear seats, issues may arise in less favored Volkswagen Tiguan years. In these models, rear-seat space might feel cramped for adult passengers, especially on longer rides. It’s essential to consider whether comfort for rear-seat passengers is a priority for your needs.
Cargo space is essential to any SUV, and the Tiguan is no exception. The cabin offers a spacious experience, though some older models may provide slightly less. A general metric is to look at the cubic feet available for cargo storage:
- With both rows folded, around 65.7 cu ft.
- With the second row in the raised position: approximately 33.0 cu ft.
The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, for example, offers increased storage capacities:
- With both rows folded: 73.5 cu ft.
- With the second row in the raised position: 37.6 cu ft.
These figures help show that newer models have improved cabin space and comfort.
Price and Financing Options
Let’s leave out price and financing options, which may enhance your acquisition of later and best-year models.
For a new Tiguan, the 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T S FWD base model has an average price of $28,128 and an MSRP of $26,490.
Regarding financing, you can typically expect monthly payments based on price, down payment, and trade-in value.
When you visit a VW dealership, remember to negotiate the best deal for factors like the average cost of the Tiguan you’re interested in, financing options, and any applicable incentives. Remember to take a test drive today to ensure the Tiguan is the perfect SUV for your needs.
Finally, pay attention to the prices and financing options you may want to avoid for the Volkswagen Tiguan model years, like the 2018 and 2009 models. Be thorough in your research, and don’t hesitate to explore options at the dealership.
