2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Engine oil consumption and potential failure is the primary concern for used Tiguan buyers.
- Inspect forward collision avoidance systems, particularly Adaptive Cruise Control, for proper function.
- Check for completed recalls, especially those related to the rear camera and suspension components.
- Be aware of electrical system glitches, including potential issues with the overhead console and fuel door.
2021 Volkswagen Tiguan
The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan offers a practical package with a comfortable ride and a decent fuel economy for its class, achieving an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined. Its safety ratings are strong, with an overall 5-star NHTSA score. However, used-car shoppers should be aware of its below-average reliability verdict. With 7 recalls and 148 complaints logged, potential buyers need to be diligent. The most frequent issues reported revolve around the engine, electrical system, and forward collision avoidance systems. Given the number of recalls, potential repair costs associated with chronic issues should be factored into the ownership equation.
Critical Failure Risk
Excessive oil consumption is a significant concern, often requiring frequent top-offs and potentially leading to oil leaks and internal engine damage. This issue is frequently cited in owner complaints.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
This Tiguan is best suited for a cautious used-car shopper who prioritizes a thorough pre-purchase inspection and is prepared for potential repair costs.
+1 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience or those on a tight budget for unexpected repairs should look elsewhere.
+1 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Transmission
- Automatic (S8)
- Drivetrain
- FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 25
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 29 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 17 reports
First Service Interval
- Synthetic Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter)
Est. shop cost: $300 - $450
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan is 7.3/10. Reliability score is 7.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 7. Owner complaints: 148.
How practical is the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.1/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG. Seating capacity is 7.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Tuning 3.0/10. Practicality 5.1/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Synthetic Oil Change (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil, Oil Filter) at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Oil Leaks (e.g., oil pan, timing cover) (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).
What engine is in the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?
EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?
14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, seating capacity is 7.
What body style is the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Is the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan good for tuning?
Tuning potential is rated 3/10. The 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan is a practical SUV with strong safety ratings, achieving an overall 5-star NHTSA rating.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Top complaint category: engine (29 reports, 19.6% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan?
This model year has 7 official safety campaigns listed.