2018 Volkswagen Tiguan
The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan marked the start of the second generation of the vehicle, offering a more spacious interior and updated styling. The most common engine option for the 2018 Tiguan is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. This engine is typically paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the Tiguan for its comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and user-friendly technology. However, some common complaints include lackluster fuel economy for the class, some instances of electrical issues and occasional reports of premature wear on certain components.
Engine
2.0L TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) Engine
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report the 2.0L TSI engine consumes more oil than expected, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Visible blue smoke from the exhaust upon startup or acceleration is also a common symptom.
- Solution: In some cases, the issue is attributed to faulty piston rings. Repair involves replacing the piston rings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ depending on the extent of the repairs.
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, and a check engine light are typical symptoms.
- Solution: Replacement of the turbocharger unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic Transmission (Aisin)
- Rough Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
- Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and software update can resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or a full transmission rebuild might be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 for fluid flush and software update; $800 - $1,500 for valve body replacement; $3,000 - $5,000+ for transmission rebuild/replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- Hesitation or Delay in Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: A noticeable delay between pressing the accelerator pedal and the transmission engaging a gear, particularly when accelerating from a stop.
- Solution: Possible causes include low transmission fluid level, a faulty shift solenoid, or internal transmission damage. Diagnosis involves checking fluid levels, scanning for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and possibly performing a transmission pressure test. Depending on the cause, repair options include adding fluid, replacing a shift solenoid, or overhauling the transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 for fluid top-off; $300 - $600 for shift solenoid replacement; $3,000 - $5,000+ for transmission overhaul/replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps.
- Solution: This is sometimes attributed to worn sway bar bushings or end links. Replacement of these components can resolve the issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and navigation errors are frequently reported.
- Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In other cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update is available); $500 - $1,500+ for infotainment unit replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not driven for a few days.
- Solution: This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty component, such as a module that isn’t shutting down properly. Diagnosis involves performing a parasitic draw test to identify the source of the drain. Repair options include replacing the faulty component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for diagnostic testing; $200 - $1,000+ for component replacement, depending on the part.
- Recalls: None Found
- Faulty Door Lock Actuators
- Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to lock or unlock electronically, requiring manual operation.
- Solution: Replacement of the affected door lock actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per door.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof leaks or fails to open or close properly.
- Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks and seals may resolve minor issues. More severe problems may require replacement of the sunroof motor or entire sunroof assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200 for cleaning and lubrication; $300 - $800+ for motor replacement; $1,000 - $2,000+ for assembly replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Rattling from Dashboard or Door Panels
- Description/Symptoms: Annoying rattling noises coming from the dashboard or door panels, especially when driving on rough roads.
- Solution: This can be caused by loose trim pieces or components. The solution involves locating the source of the rattle and securing the loose components with adhesive or shims.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ depending on the complexity of the repair.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan generally provides a comfortable driving experience, but owners have reported several issues. The most significant and costly issues are related to excessive oil consumption and turbocharger failure within the engine, as well as transmission problems like rough shifting and hesitation. Electrical issues, especially those concerning the infotainment system and battery drain, are also frequent complaints. While some of these issues can be resolved with relatively inexpensive fixes, others may require major repairs costing several thousand dollars. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect any used 2018 Tiguan before purchase.