2020 Volkswagen Tiguan
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Electrical system is the leading concern among 140 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 8th highest complaint count among 17 Tiguan model years with reports.
Of the 2020 reports, 5 involved a crash. 7 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Structure, bodyApr 6, 2022
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2022 Tiguan and 2018-2021 Tiguan long wheel base (LWB) vehicles. Due to incorrect installation instructions, the accessory rear hatch spoiler may be insufficiently attached to the vehicle.
An insufficiently attached spoiler may separate from the vehicle, becoming a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Dealers will replace the spoiler, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 3, 2022. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 66N5.
Campaign 22V226000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat beltsSep 23, 2020
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2020 Tiguan LWB vehicles. The third row seat belt anchor bolts may not have been properly torqued.
Improperly torqued bolts may prevent the third row seat belt from performing as designed in a crash, increasing the risk of injury to the occupant.
Volkswagen will notify owners and will repurchase the vehicles. Owners are advised: No one should occupy the third row seat due to the safety risk. The recall began October 7, 2020. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen number for this recall is 69BA.
Campaign 20V579000 on NHTSA.gov
SeatsAug 26, 2020
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen ) is recalling certain 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, Jetta, Jetta GLI and Tiguan and Audi Q5 and SQ5 and 2021 Volkswagen Atlas vehicles. Parts of the front seat frame and backrest adjuster may not have been welded properly.
In the event of a rear-end crash, the backrest adjustment could break, possibly reducing the amount of occupant restraint, thus increasing risk of injury.
Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the front seats, and, as necessary, replace the seatback frames, free of charge. The recall began September 11, 2020. Volkswagen owners may contact their customer service at 1-888-241-2289. Audi owners may contact their customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 72L1, 72K8, and 72K9.
Campaign 20V505000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
140 reports, newest first.
Engine and engine cooling, Engine, Jan 5, 2026
The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that after adding a quart of oil, the contact became aware that almost every three weeks there was blue smoke coming from the exhaust pipes. The contact stated that the oil warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 68,000.
Engine, Dec 20, 2025
I am reporting excessive engine oil consumption on my 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan. The vehicle consumes approximately one quart of oil per 1,000 miles. The vehicle has already undergone multiple diagnostic and repair attempts, including PCV-related repairs, all paid by the owner. Despite these repairs, the excessive oil consumption continues. Volkswagen and the dealership have stated that this level of oil consumption is “within range” and have required additional paid testing to further evaluate the issue, even though prior repairs failed to resolve it. I am concerned this reflects a broader engine design or component issue, as similar oil consumption problems have been widely reported by other Tiguan owners. I am submitting this complaint to document the issue and request further review. THE ISSUE OF OIL COSUMPTION WAS REPORTED AFTER THE THIRD OR FOURTH OIL CHANGE BEFORE THE 50,000 MILES WARANTY.
Electrical system, Forward collision avoidance, Nov 18, 2025
I am experiencing the Driver Door Control Switch / EBS error. When this occurs my emergency break activates when I am driving, throwing me into a complete stop unexpectedly, pulls several check engine lights and a series of loud distracting alert sounds. This is extremely dangerous on the road and I’ve almost been rear-ended multiple times. I have brought my vehicle in to Volkswagen and European Specialty Auto Shop and they were not able to replicate the issue thus we’re not able to help me. There are several forums online that point to this being a recall issue with Volkswagen and yet my VIN number is showing as not affected. It is my understanding that this issue is being caused by a faulty driver door wiring harness. It is random when this issue occurs. Forums online have led me to believe it is due to weather fluctuations. At this point I no longer feel safe driving my vehicle. This needs to be escalated to a Volkswagen as a public safety concern.
Engine, Sep 30, 2025
The crankcase breather valve (PCV system) on my 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan failed, which caused catastrophic engine damage. VW Southtown diagnosed the engine as condemned and stated that a full engine replacement is required. Prior to the engine being condemned, I have already spent 3,787.59 in repairs at VW Southtown addressing recurring oil-related issues caused by the PCV valve being stuck closed. This caused an excessive crankcase pressure buildup of over 0.5 psi, as documented on the VW service repair order. The failure occurred while my husband was driving our [XXX] son in the car, and the warning message immediately displayed on the dashboard was: “12V battery not charging. Stop engine.” This sudden loss of engine function and dashboard warning posed a serious safety risk, as it could have resulted in loss of power or control while driving. The problem has been confirmed and documented by an authorized VW service department, including detailed repair orders and technical diagnosis. Prior to failure, there were oil-related warning lights and symptoms of excessive oil pressure, which appeared intermittently and indicated the underlying PCV failure. Research indicates this is a known, widespread issue affecting 2020–2021 Tiguans, with multiple owners reporting breather valve/PCV failures leading to oil loss, excessive crankcase pressure, and engine damage. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Other or unspecified, Sep 8, 2025
Overhead console fell out of ceiling. Hanging by wires. This poses a danger especially when it falls during driving. It is a known vw issue. The plastic tabs at each of the 4 mounting points of the panel had cracked, and snapped causing the entire panel to fall down, dangling by the wires. Whether the mounting points failed due to heat or whether it was the mounting screws being over-tightened causing the plastic to crack is indeterminable, but it failed at each of the 4 mounting screw points.
Engine, Sep 8, 2025
Exceeding manufacturer recommended oil consumption. Car emits white smok out of the exhaust upon start up. The vehicle has been in the shop three times for this problem. The first time valve seals were replaced. The second time the oil pressure regulator was replaced the third time the recommended fix is to replace the engine head however they are nationally on backorder for months now so the fix has yet to be applied. Personal research has resulted in numerous Facebook groups and reddit post of customers with the exact same story.
Other or unspecified, Aug 12, 2025
The overhead console on the VW Tiguan fell out of the ceiling. This is actually the second time this has happened (was originally replaced by the dealership at time of purchase). It so far has only fallen out a little bit and I taped it a bit, but it's still coming out. It blocks visibility and exposes electrical wires of the car. If it should fall out during a sudden stop, the whole thing could hit me in the head and cause an accident as I am a shorter driver and closer to the windshield. VW extended the warranty coverage given this known defect, but completely dependent on miles driven versus age of car-so mine is unable to be fixed without a costly repair, that I still cannot trust will not happen again since this is a repeated issue. Many VW owners have the same problem and this is a safety hazard VW needs to address immediately.
Electrical system, Visibility/wiper, Aug 9, 2025
The windshield wipers have been acting up, turning on unexpectedly when I use the turn signals, with no input from me, or when I drive over bumps, which seriously blocks my view and creates a danger on the road, especially in bad weather or during turns. This problem started showing up in October 2023 when the car had about 16,000miles, still under the 4-year/50,000-mile warranty. I took it to a dealership that month, but they checked the turn signals, scanned for faults, and found nothing, yet the issue didn’t go away. I tried again in September 2024 with another appointment, but the dealership wanted $250 for a diagnostic and to keep the car overnight, so I couldn’t proceed. The car and wiper system can be inspected if needed. There were no warning lights or messages beforehand; the trouble began in October 2023. Only the first dealership looked at it, with no fix. I have several videos showing the problem.
Structure, Jul 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that the interior overhead console had become detached from the interior roof of the vehicle. The contact used tape to temporarily secure the console. The cause of the failure was not determined. The local dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 40,000.
Other or unspecified, Jun 27, 2025
The overhead console came loose while parked during a heat wave and over the course of a day, it ended up hanging by the wires needing to be held up while driving. It blocks the rearview mirror, has exposing wires and swings around. This occurred during a heat wave. It seems that the plastic holding the screws melted, causing it to fall off. There are no warning lights or sounds and were none prior. Warranty states they do not cover this damage. Many others online say this happened to them with the same vehicle.
Fuel/propulsion system, Jun 3, 2025
It appears that my Volkswagen Tiguan is experiencing an issue where the fuel nozzle shuts off prematurely during refueling, requiring multiple attempts to fill the tank completely. There have been no recalls on my vehicle, but it is getting to the point where I can barely fill my tank up due to prematurely shutting off. This has been an ongoing issue
Other or unspecified, May 30, 2025
The overhead console is falling off due to weak plastic brackets in the housing. This overhead console failed over time with no contact and seems to be a big issue for many 2020 Tiguan owners. The console hanging down creating a driving hazard. There are many forum discussions laying out the issue and VW will not repair.
Exterior lighting, Apr 25, 2025
Aftermarket headlights were purchased online. Manufactured by AKD Aokeding in China. The headlights were installed by a ASE certified tech. The left low beam light went out within minutes while driving. Headlights were removed and internals inspected. The construction of these lights are very unsafe and would not meet any manufacturer specs. Not sure how these headlights would pass any safety compliance. The internal components were loose, unsecure and fragile. The wiring used was very thin approximately 28/30 gauge diameter. Right side headlight displayed excessive heat. These lights and company products need further review for further sales to the U.S. Other complains are online about this manufacturer.
Electrical system, Apr 23, 2025
After sitting in the hot sun for an hour or so, turned it on, and got a "check starter" warning, and all the dash instruments went off. No lights, turn signals, brake lights. Radio worked, windows worked for a bit, then nothing. Had power steering and brakes. Had warning lights on the mirrors. No AC/heat. Speedometer, tach, fuel, temp, display - all off. Car still ran. Found issue to be a faulty ignition switch
Other or unspecified, Mar 31, 2025
Car-Net module that connects with emergency services keeps failing. This part has failed 2x on my vehicle and it is not even 5 years old yet. A simple internet search shows that this is a known issue and is experienced across models and production years for Volkswagen vehicles.
Engine, Mar 30, 2025
The vehicle has had repeated failures of the oil filter adapter to block gasket. This gasket has been replaced three times in 41,000 miles. There appears to be a failure on the part of the gasket. The vehicle has been repaired for the third time, the gasket remains with the dealership where it was repaired. I do have photos of the gasket. A catastrophic failure would result in radiator fluid pouring out of the vehicle, causing the vehicle to come to a complete stop, regardless of location. This problem has occurred three times within 41,000 miles. The part has been inspected b the mechanic who replaced it. There is no warning other than to watch for leaks.
Electrical system, Mar 3, 2025
SOS malfunction light came on after downloading & syncing the car with the MyVW app. I took the car to the dealer & they said the module needs to be replaced & it would be $1500 because it’s out of warranty but it seems like in 2021 VW replaced it for free because it’s a known issue. I did not purchase this car until 2024 so it’s not covered. There are multiple people noting the same issue on online forums.
Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 23, 2024
Car exhaust is under car and does not come outside of under the car. We were in an accident and were told that because there are now cracks and gaps under the car that the exhaust is leaking into the body of our car and could cause co2 poisoning. If the exhaust were not under the car there wouldn’t be a safety concern
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Nov 23, 2024
Control panel on the ceiling of the car (holds the sos button, controls for sun roof) fell off and was hanging on by wires. Dealership said it was defective clips GPS in car and through car play also does not work. Navigation shows car significantly off course. Vw said it was a Verizon issue, but it has not been resolved
Other or unspecified, Nov 9, 2024
Passenger door (front) will not open with fob or door lock/unlock button. You can not open the door from the outside. Driver has to reach across to use the door latch. Won’t unlock with app either.
Exterior lighting, Oct 7, 2024
Center overhead console had a catastrophic failure of the brackets holding it in place on the ceiling of the car. This resulted in the full console dangling from the ceiling of the car by wires only. This blocks driver view, the rear view mirror, and swings into driver and passenger headspace. Contacted the dealership and was told this is a common problem. There was no warning before this occurred.
Other or unspecified, Visibility/wiper, Oct 4, 2024
In my VW Tiguan, the sunglasses component that has the lights, the sunroof buttons, and hands-free microphone, dropped from the roof at the end of the day. It was one of the more warmer days that this happened on and I took it into the VW dealership to have them look at it the next day. The whole component blocked my ability to see and caused blind spots. The dealership gave me the car back with the light component taken out and everything else taped up. This caused a problem to not be able to see out of my rearview mirror. The dealership told me two weeks ago on 9/20 that until the part comes in, which is backordered and I still have an unknown timeframe of it coming in, I will be riding around with it taped up. I have found it difficult to drive even with it taped up because it will come down when the tape gives up. I am unsure of what the cause of it is, but know that this has been our hottest summer in the South since I've had my car.
Other or unspecified, Sep 16, 2024
The GPS in this vehicle constantly gives wrong information and directions. It has consistently shown wrong directions and has tried to make me turn around on the freeway and has sent me down one way streets. This is much more serious at night when a person can’t see road signs and depends on the built in GPS.
Structure, Visibility/wiper, Sep 6, 2024
The overhead console hangs down with wires blocking my rearview mirror and creating a blind spot on the right mirror. Volkswagon in Colorado told me that the console replacement part is on a national back order with no ETA at the time. My safety and the safety of others are put at risk because the overhead console swings while I am driving, which is a major distraction. I have to use one hand to keep the overhead console where it's supposed to be so I'm driving with one hand. Additionally, it blocks my view to my right mirror, impeding me from doing lane changes. Yes, it's been confirmed in writing from my local dealer and they are well aware of this problem because it's occurring all over the US with 2020 VW Tiguan cars. Check out this website: [XXX] Yes, my Volkswagen dealer has inspected it, however, they did not repair it because they did not have the console part. No, there were no warnings--it happened suddenly and by itself. The overhead console is made of cheap plastic and likely started dangling due to the summer heat waves which weakened the console. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Vehicle speed control, Other or unspecified, Engine, Sep 6, 2024
I have been experiencing a noticeable delay in throttle response when accelerating, particularly when attempting to slowly merge into traffic. For example, when I press the accelerator to make a left turn, my Tiguan hesitates for approximately 2-3 seconds before responding, creating a significant safety concern as I find myself stuck in oncoming traffic. I took the vehicle to the dealership for diagnostic testing, but no fault codes were detected, and no warning lights were illuminated. To demonstrate the issue, I had to conduct a test drive with the mechanic. Following this, the mechanic escalated the issue to the quality engineering team at Volkswagen. They acknowledged that they were aware of this problem but stated that there is no available fix. I was advised to use top-tier premium fuel and switch to manual mode to potentially mitigate the delay. When I escalated this issue to the VW Customer Care, they claim that it is operating as designed and no repairs would be made. I suspect that this issue stems from a defect in the vehicle's control software, which VW appears to be aware of but has not addressed with a permanent solution.