2016 Volkswagen Tiguan Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Airbag System Concerns: A critical recall and numerous complaints highlight potential issues with the airbag system, specifically the clock spring, which can lead to inoperable airbags, horns, and steering wheel controls. This is a significant safety risk that requires thorough inspection.
- Steering and Electrical Issues: Beyond the airbag-related clock spring problems, the steering system and electrical components are frequent sources of complaints, including power steering failures and various electrical glitches.
- Below Average Reliability: The 2016 Tiguan is rated as 'Below Average' for reliability due to these safety and electrical concerns, despite a decent overall NHTSA safety score of 4 out of 5.
- Fuel Economy: Expect fuel economy figures around 21 MPG city and 26 MPG highway, which is less competitive than some rivals in the compact SUV segment.
2016 Volkswagen Tiguan
The 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan offers European driving dynamics and a refined interior, but its 'Below Average' reliability verdict warrants caution. With 144 complaints and two recalls, including a critical one for the airbag ECU, potential buyers must be aware of its weaknesses. The most frequent issues involve the airbag system, electrical system, and steering, often linked to the clock spring. While it boasts engaging handling, its fuel economy is less competitive than rivals.
Critical Failure Risk
Failures in the airbag clock spring are a significant concern, leading to inoperable airbags, horn, and steering wheel controls. This issue is frequently reported and can occur even at lower mileages. Symptoms include illuminated airbag warning lights and malfunctioning steering wheel buttons.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$2,500 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
Drivers who prioritize European driving dynamics and a premium interior feel over outright reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair concerns.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2016 Volkswagen Tiguan Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 23
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 31 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 26 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil (VW 502 00 / 505 01), Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake System Inspection - Safety Inspection - Exterior/Interior Light Check
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan is 7.9/10. Reliability score is 7.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 2. Owner complaints: 144.
How practical is the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.2/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 4.2/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil (VW 502 00 / 505 01), Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Brake System Inspection - Safety Inspection - Exterior/Interior Light Check at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag Clock Spring (typical at 65,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $350 • Max: $500).
What engine is in the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2016 Tiguan require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 3/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan is a practical SUV with a 2.0L turbocharged engine. While it offers a comfortable ride and decent fuel economy, i...
What are the most common air bags problems on the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Top complaint category: air bags (31 reports, 21.5% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
This model year has 2 official safety campaigns listed.