2017 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact SUV that offers a comfortable ride and decent cargo space. For the 2017 model year, the Tiguan was equipped with a single engine option: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the Tiguan’s responsive handling and available all-wheel drive, while others find the fuel economy and limited rear passenger space to be drawbacks. Common complaints also involve premature water pump failure, electrical glitches, and interior trim issues.

Engine

2.0L TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) Engine

• Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, low coolant warning light. The plastic water pump impeller is prone to cracking and disintegrating.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump with an updated design (often with a metal impeller). Replacement of the thermostat housing assembly is sometimes also recommended since it is closely installed near the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Can lead to catastrophic engine damage if the timing chain jumps.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides. An updated tensioner design is available.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noise from the engine, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger. Inspect and replace any related components, such as oil lines and intercooler hoses, as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (09G/Aisin)

• Rough Shifting/Delayed Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, especially between 1st and 2nd gear. Delayed engagement when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and fill using the correct VW-approved fluid. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $4000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially when accelerating. Transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. It is often recommended to flush the transmission cooler lines to remove any debris.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noise coming from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts. Updated designs are available.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows stop working intermittently or completely.
  • Solution: Check the window regulator and motor. Replacement is often required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock, making clicking noises, or only working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight or after a few days of inactivity. Difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic drain. Common causes include faulty infotainment systems, door lock modules, or aftermarket accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, making grinding noises, or leaking water.
  • Solution: Inspect and repair the sunroof mechanism. This may involve cleaning and lubricating the tracks, replacing broken parts (such as cables or gears), or replacing the entire sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling noises coming from the dashboard, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: This is a common complaint with no easy fix. Possible solutions include tightening screws, adding foam padding to contact points, or replacing damaged trim pieces. The source of the rattle must be located first.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on the complexity of the repair).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Infotainment System
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, slow responsiveness, or failure to connect to Bluetooth devices.
  • Solution: In some cases a software update is available from the manufacturer. In other cases the module may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan has several common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The most significant problems relate to the engine, particularly the water pump and timing chain tensioner, which can lead to expensive repairs. Electrical issues and interior rattles are also prevalent. While some issues may be relatively minor, others can be costly to fix, potentially impacting the overall ownership experience. It’s advisable to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic and to check the vehicle’s maintenance history.