This page covers 7 recalls, 118 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan.
25 mpg combined
9.4 L/100km
Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted.
5/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
For the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, engine complaints make up the largest share of what owners report, with excessive oil consumption the most common theme. Owners describe needing to add oil well between scheduled intervals, and several report the problem persisting after repairs. The structure category is the second-most-reported area, driven largely by two recurring issues: spontaneous windshield cracking and sunroof failures. Owners describe windshields developing long horizontal cracks without any impact, often accompanied by a loud popping sound. A smaller number of owners report the sunroof shattering or exploding while driving, with glass contained by the interior screen. Electrical system complaints follow at a lower volume, with no single symptom dominating those reports. The oil consumption pattern and the windshield cracking accounts are the clearest repeating threads across this model year's complaint set.
118
Total Complaints
1
Crash-Related
2
With Injuries
By System
The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan has 7 recalls, the most serious involving rear suspension knuckles that can corrode, crack, and break while driving, causing a sudden loss of stability and raising the risk of a crash. This recall applies to Long Wheelbase models.
On the Long Wheelbase trim, bolts may be missing from the front seat tracks, allowing the seat to slide freely forward or backward in a crash rather than staying in position to work with the seatbelt and airbag.
Several recalls address the rearview camera failing to show an image when reversing, whether due to a software problem, a faulty infotainment memory module, or a camera malfunction during startup that leaves the screen black or frozen. These represent the same real-world result: the driver has no rear view while backing up.
There is also a body concern: the accessory rear hatch spoiler may not be properly secured and can detach from the vehicle while driving, becoming a hazard for other road users.
At a glance
What can fail
A manufacturing issue with the infotainment system's memory module may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying on the screen.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the infotainment software at no cost to restore rearview camera display function.
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Driver Assistance
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The accessory rear hatch spoiler may not be securely attached to the vehicle due to incorrect installation instructions.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the spoiler at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The left or right rear suspension knuckle may corrode, crack, and break, potentially affecting vehicle handling and stability.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the rear suspension knuckles and replace one or both if necessary, at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The rear suspension knuckles may crack or break, which could cause sudden loss of vehicle stability while driving.
What the fix does
Volkswagen will mail you instructions to have a dealership inspect and replace the rear suspension knuckles if needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Bolts that secure the front seat tracks may be missing, which could affect seat stability.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the front seat tracks and install any missing bolts at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A software issue may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying or cause it to freeze when you shift into reverse gear.
What the fix does
Volkswagen will mail you instructions to take your vehicle to a dealer for a rearview camera software update.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The rear view camera may malfunction when the vehicle is started, causing the infotainment display to go black or freeze.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the infotainment system software at no cost to restore camera function.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
