2014 Volkswagen Tiguan Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The driver's airbag clock spring is the most critical component to inspect, as failures are common and compromise safety.
- Expect potential issues with the electrical system and steering, which frequently appear in owner complaints.
- While the NHTSA overall safety rating is 4 out of 5, the driver's airbag clock spring issue represents a significant ownership risk.
- The high volume of TSBs (588) suggests a complex vehicle with numerous potential, albeit often minor, issues that require diligent maintenance.
2014 Volkswagen Tiguan
The 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan presents a mixed bag for used car shoppers. While it offers a solid driving experience and respectable safety scores, its reliability record is a significant concern. The vehicle has a high number of complaints, with a dominant focus on the airbag system, specifically the clock spring component. This issue can lead to a loss of airbag functionality, horn, and steering wheel controls, posing a critical safety risk. Additionally, there are notable complaints regarding the electrical system and steering. Three recalls were issued, including critical ones for potential stalling due to fuel system issues and the aforementioned airbag clock spring. With 588 Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), potential buyers should be aware of numerous other documented issues.
Critical Failure Risk
The driver's side airbag clock spring is a frequent failure point, causing a clicking noise, airbag light, and loss of steering wheel controls. This significantly impacts safety as the airbag may not deploy.
Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$4,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Savvy used car shoppers who prioritize driving dynamics and are willing to undertake a rigorous pre-purchase inspection, specifically focusing on the **airbag clock spring** and **electrical systems**, might consider this Tiguan if priced accordingly.
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or those with limited mechanical knowledge should avoid the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan due to its documented reliability shortcomings and critical safety-related component failures.
2014 Volkswagen Tiguan Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Manual 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- EPA Combined MPG
- 21
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See the full 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 43 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 22 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-40 or 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil (VW 502 00 spec), Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks - Battery Test - Light Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection - Service Indicator Reset
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan is 8.1/10. Reliability score is 8.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 124.
How practical is the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.8/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 395 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Tuning 5.0/10. Practicality 4.8/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil and Filter Change (Parts: 5W-40 or 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil (VW 502 00 spec), Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake Inspection - Fluid Level Checks - Battery Test - Light Inspection - Multi-Point Inspection - Service Indicator Reset at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $900. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag Clock Spring (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,000).
What engine is in the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan, transmission is Manual 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2014 Tiguan require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan?
EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan, seating capacity is 5.
What drivetrain does the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Manual 6-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 3/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 5/10. The 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan (US market) presents a moderate tuning platform, primarily centered around its 2.0T TSI engine. Popular platforms: 2.0T TSI EA888.1.
What are the most common air bags problems on the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Top complaint category: air bags (43 reports, 34.7% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan?
This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.