2020 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact SUV known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available third-row seating (on FWD models). It is primarily powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. People generally appreciate the Tiguan for its practicality, user-friendly technology, and smooth ride. Some common complaints include underwhelming fuel economy and somewhat sluggish acceleration.

Engine

2.0L TSI (Turbocharged Stratified Injection) Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms can include the low oil pressure light illuminating, or the engine running rough.
  • Solution: In some cases, addressing oil leaks can mitigate the issue. In more severe cases, piston ring replacement or engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners reported premature turbocharger failure. Symptoms include loss of power, whining noises from the engine, and potential check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic Transmission (Aisin)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced harsh shifting, particularly during low-speed acceleration or when downshifting. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop is also reported.
  • Solution: A software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may resolve the issue. In some cases, transmission valve body replacement or a full transmission replacement may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Experiencing a delay or “slipping” feeling during gear changes, especially when accelerating. This can be accompanied by unusual noises.
  • Solution: This can be caused by low transmission fluid, a faulty valve body, or worn clutch packs within the transmission. The solution can range from a fluid change and filter to a complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature wear of suspension components such as bushings, struts, and sway bar links. This can lead to clunking noises when driving over bumps, and diminished handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Common complaints include the infotainment system freezing, lagging, or randomly rebooting. Bluetooth connectivity problems are also frequently reported.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In some cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,500+ (depending on warranty and if a software update fixes the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (e.g., Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning parking sensors or blind spot monitoring systems are sometimes reported. Symptoms include false alarms or the system not functioning at all.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with the battery draining quickly, especially if the vehicle sits unused for several days.
  • Solution: Diagnose parasitic draw, check alternator functionality, and potentially replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, particularly after rain or car washes. This can result in wet carpets and potential electrical damage.
  • Solution: Cleaning of sunroof drains, resealing the sunroof, or in severe cases, replacing the sunroof assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Hatch Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning power liftgate (if equipped). The hatch may not open or close properly, or may become stuck.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair/replacement of the liftgate motor, struts, or latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling and Squeaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported various rattles and squeaks from the dashboard, door panels, or rear cargo area.
  • Solution: Locating and securing the source of the noise. This may involve adding foam padding or tightening loose fasteners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on the complexity of the repair)
  • Recalls: None Found
• AC/Heater Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The AC doesn’t blow cold air or the heater doesn’t blow hot air.
  • Solution: Replace blower motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan has some common issues, with electrical gremlins and engine oil consumption being more prevalent. Suspension and transmission issues can also occur, and range in cost from minor repairs to more extensive and expensive replacements. While these issues should be considered, many Tiguan owners do not experience these problems, but its something to look out for if you are purchasing the vehicle.