533 of the
3,543 complaints filed about the Volkswagen Tiguan
are about the electrical system —
100% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2022.
2022 VW Tiguan, VIN [XXX], 54,953 mi. Infotainment screen went black; because the rearview camera image displays only on that screen, the backup camera is completely inoperative in reverse. Failure is constant. I replaced a blown #20 fuse and attempted a hard restart with no result. XXX, Volkswagen of [XXX] [XXX]: tech found DTC in ECM stating no communication with 5F module (infotainment control unit); VW guided test plan directs replacement of the 5F module. Quoted $501.54. Dealer stated this is a known issue and multiple customers there are waiting on the same backordered part. VW has already recalled 2022 Tiguans for this component and this consequence. Campaign 22V-514 ([XXX]): infotainment memory module defect causing rearview camera image not to display, certified by VW as an FMVSS 111 noncompliance. Campaign 25V-082: 2022-24 Tiguan camera control unit error, same loss of camera display. NHTSA VIN lookup on XXX shows no open recalls; my vehicle was included in neither campaign and no remedy has ever been applied. My vehicle has the identical failure (same model year, platform, component, and loss of rear visibility) as the recalled population. The dealer's statement that multiple customers await the same part indicates the defect population extends beyond the recalled VINs. I request NHTSA evaluate whether the scope of 22V-514 and 25V-082 was underinclusive and whether a recall query or scope expansion is warranted for uncovered 2022 Tiguans. RO and VIN lookup available on request. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11763774 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
2021 Tiguan parking brake comes on without being commanded. There is a fault with the drivers door. I believe the the driver door module or corresponding wiring. The front drivers window toggle switch does not work the toggles switches for the rest of the window work only if the is not an error displayed on the dash. The lock button does not work on the drivers door at all and only works on the rest of the door when an error message is not displayed on the dash. The dash displays the following errors: 1. Driver Door Contact Switch. 2. Start/Stop. 3. Electronic Parking Brake. It also displays Attention: Engine is running. So far the parking brake only comes on(un commanded) when the vehicle is stopped.
NHTSA complaint #11763032 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Travel assist currently unavailable warning goes off frequently in 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan SE-R Line creating a loud repetitive dinging noise which is very distracting and alarming while driving, thus causing a safety issue. This occurs even when not using travel assist features and there is no way for the consumer to disable the travel assist to prevent the warning from occurring. This has been an ongoing issue since purchasing the vehicle in May 2022 and has been reported to the local Volkswagen dealership multiple times with no acknowledgement of the issue or offer to repair while the vehicle was under warranty. I have recently discovered that Volkswagen issued a Technical Service Bulletin for dealerships in May 2023 under (TSB) 2070207/1 (also known as TSB 48-23-01). It is a known issue to Volkswagen and they have failed to issue a recall or properly train their dealerships about the issuance of the Technical Service Bulletin to appropriately repair while covered under warranty.
NHTSA complaint #11762466 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My vehicle was parked on my worksite and when I can out to check a truck in. I noticed my windows looked tinted and when I went to investigate my vehicle was on fire or smoking badly and I closed the door and call [XXX]. This was a very traumatic experience for me considering I had only purchased the vehicle from the dealership on the 18th and had recently been training one of my kids for driving lessons. While I am grateful that me or my family where not physically injured it is unacceptable that both the manufacturer and dealership knowingly put both me and my family in harms way and I expect to be compensated for this preventable traumatic experience we've endured due to no fault of ours. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11762316 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The J949 SOS emergency communication unit failed, disabling vehicle 911 automatic crash notifications and emergency response capabilities.” NHTSA opens defect investigations based on consumer complaint clusters for this exact failure pattern.
NHTSA complaint #11762263 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On unusually hot days, my VW Tiguan 2019, pops up a Check Start system and shuts down the dash and all electrical components (speedometer, A/C, infotainment system, blindside monitors, brake lights etc.) Car still runs but everything does not work. On searching, there are other VW users complaining about this issue as well making it a known manufacturer defect/issue. I called my local VW dealer letting them know that this is a safety issue and to find out if there is currently a recall for this issue but was told there is none. As this is a massively known safety issue. I think the NTHSA must mandate Volkswagen to do a complete recall for all VW vehicles they know are affected by this issue on their own budget without having consumers have to pay for this repair. Thank you.
NHTSA complaint #11761079 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
A/C has been a consistent issue since I purchased this from Columbia SC- CarMax's dealership in 2022. I've replaced the compressor and valves, and no resolve. The car sucks up oil and the electrical system is wacky!
NHTSA complaint #11760545 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Following a recent Volkswagen software update, the 5F module on my 2024 VW Tiguan (VIN: [XXX], Mileage: 14,449) completely failed. The local dealership (RO Number: XXX) confirmed the failure and advised replacing the 5F module (Auth code:XXX), which is on backorder with no ETA. This initial failure disabled critical safety systems: the backup camera (violating FMVSS 111), the SOS emergency system, and the TPMS. Volkswagen Corporate (Case with [XXX]) has refused VOR escalation and denied alternative transportation. Furthermore, since retrieving the vehicle from the dealership, the electrical issues have escalated severely. The vehicle now experiences intermittent total electrical/lock-out failures 3 to 4 times a day. During these episodes, neither the key fob nor the physical interior lock/unlock buttons function. The vehicle remains completely unresponsive for several minutes before randomly working again. This poses a severe safety risk of trapping occupants inside or leaving them stranded outside. VW's negligence in addressing these escalating software and electrical safety defects is unacceptable. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11759815 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tiguan purchased 7/3 2026. The SOS car info that feeds other instruments did not work. Then the car play communication dropped and would only return after car restarts. Not sure what instruments it ties to but no calls and no sos
NHTSA complaint #11759836 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I purchased this 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan in September 2019 and began noticing an intermittent rearview-camera problem around that time. I do not remember the exact date of the first occurrence because the problem initially happened only occasionally and was not persistent. When the vehicle is placed in reverse, the rearview camera intermittently fails to provide a reliable image. At other times, it operates normally. Because the problem is intermittent, it has been difficult for the dealership to reproduce consistently. Loss of the camera image reduces visibility behind the vehicle and creates a safety concern while backing up. An authorized Volkswagen dealership inspected the vehicle. The service manager stated that the stored fault indicates an intermittent open circuit in the video cable. The dealer’s diagnostic history reportedly shows approximately 90 fault occurrences beginning July 19, 2026. During recent testing, the dealership was able to get the fault to set once. The dealership has not conclusively confirmed that the camera control module failed. It proposes replacing the module as the first repair step for approximately $1,165 and stated that additional repairs may be necessary if the module replacement does not correct the problem. Volkswagen Customer CARE documented the concern under Case Number 07696586. I am submitting this report because the intermittent loss of the rearview-camera image may reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle and increase the risk of a backing collision.
NHTSA complaint #11759418 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
According to the report I received from Nucar in Tilton NH, my 5F module for the infotainment system is not working after an OTA update. Navigation, volume, road sign assistance (speed limit signs), bluetooth sound, seat memory, etc .. I had to pay $700 to have them look at the car and they did not fix it. Now My estimate for repair is $1700 ... This car has 68501 miles .. just over 60K - this is not an abuse failure - it is a product failure. There are many reports online indicating multiple model years with this issue. I am not sure what this report will do but I hope it supports fixing these expensive cars which break before you can pay them off.
NHTSA complaint #11759515 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
On XXX, my 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan experienced an internal electrical failure of the 5F Infotainment Control Module (Part #3Q5-035-842-J). There were no advance warning lights or symptoms prior to the screen going completely black and unresponsive. The failure was officially diagnosed and confirmed by an authorized dealership, Fitzgerald Volkswagen in [XXX], on XXX. The component is currently installed in the vehicle and available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: The 5F module failure completely disables the primary display screen, rendering the rearview camera system frozen and entirely inoperable. This creates a severe rear-visibility safety hazard while reversing, particularly when transporting my minor child, and fails to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard FMVSS No. 111 (Rear Visibility). Systemic Failure & Backorder: The module failure also disables the radio, wireless charging, and front/rear USB ports. Fitzgerald VW special-ordered the replacement module under warranty but confirmed the part is on a nationwide backorder with no estimated time of arrival (ETA) and approximately 59 units currently backordered nationwide. The vehicle has not been inspected by law enforcement or insurance, but the manufacturer (Volkswagen Group of America) has been formally notified under Customer CARE Case #XXX. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11759131 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I brought my vehicle to the dealership because it was shifting itself into Park while I was driving. I have brought the car in four times. During the last two visits, the dealership performed a system update called **VW 47DM Collision Vehicle Software Update for Travel Assist/Emergency Assist**. Immediately after leaving the dealership following these updates, my vehicle developed additional and more serious problems. The infotainment system stops working for several minutes at a time before turning back on. The vehicle is also now displaying a “Front Assist Not Available” warning. In addition, the vehicle jerks violently while driving forward or accelerating, and the front end is making a grinding noise. This software update has made my vehicle worse than it was before. I have contacted Volkswagen Customer Care multiple times, but I have been denied assistance because there is reportedly no diagnostic code in the system. However, I have video evidence of these issues occurring while driving. Volkswagen has refused to repair the vehicle or take it back despite these ongoing problems. A vehicle shifting into Park while driving, jerking during acceleration, displaying a Front Assist warning, and experiencing other system failures presents a serious safety hazard to me, my passengers, and others on the road.
NHTSA complaint #11758908 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My name is [XXX], and I am writing today to express my complete frustration mentally and financially with a CPO 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan (VIN [XXX]) I purchased XXX. To date my vehicle has been in for service multiple times – countless times for an issue with the infotainment system and driver warning indicators that is still unresolved and again for months waiting on a new engine due to an oil consumption issue that was finally resolved November of 2025 (Case XXX). My recent service visit on XXX was due to a “12 v battery not charging” error message. The vehicle was immediately taken to VW of [XXX] where we were advised it would be 3 weeks before my vehicle would even be looked at (which is atrocious) and not to drive it because further damage would be caused with no alternative solution offered for transportation. I then had the vehicle towed to a repair shop where I was advised the alternator “fried a 400-amp fuse and killed the battery, which should not happen, especially on a vehicle that has less than 50,000 miles on the odometer.” I paid $1,605.37 for a new alternator, 400-amp fuse and battery. Completely appalling and disappointing considering I take excellent care of my vehicle and it is supposedly an inspected, certified pre-owned vehicle – that’s a lemon in my opinion! I am seeking reimbursement for this huge expense for a vehicle that should not have these issues! I look forward to a resolve to this urgent complaint. Regards, INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11755246 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle has experienced multiple intermittent electrical and safety-related malfunctions that have become more frequent over time. The most serious issue involves the Automatic Emergency Braking system activating unexpectedly while the vehicle is slowly reversing out of a residential driveway. The brakes suddenly apply with significant force even when there is no visible obstacle behind the vehicle. This causes the vehicle to stop abruptly, jerks all occupants forward, and creates a risk of being struck by other vehicles because the sudden stop is unexpected. The vehicle has also experienced an intermittent engine shutdown while stopped in traffic. While waiting at a stoplight or waiting for another vehicle to reverse, the engine will unexpectedly shut off and a message appears instructing the driver to place the vehicle in Park. This creates a safety hazard because the vehicle cannot continue moving until it is restarted. Additional intermittent electrical issues include the infotainment/navigation screen freezing or glitching, the air conditioning unexpectedly blowing warm or hot humid air instead of cold air, and the horn failing to operate properly. The horn will sometimes not sound at all or will be much quieter than normal, reducing the driver’s ability to warn other motorists or pedestrians in an emergency. These problems occur intermittently and without warning. There are no consistent warning lights prior to the failures other than the message instructing the driver to place the vehicle in Park when the engine shuts off. The unexpected braking, engine shutdown, and horn malfunction create significant safety concerns for the driver, passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists. The cause of these issues is UNKNOWN.
NHTSA complaint #11755378 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that occasionally while driving at various speeds, the Collision Warning light and Auto emergency braking warning light illuminated. The messages "Front Assist not Available", and "Lane Assist System Not Available" were display on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed; however, the cause for the failure was not found. The contact stated that the failure codes were cleared. The manufacturer declined the repair, and the vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The contact stated that the failure had reoccurred and an appointment with the dealer was scheduled to inspect the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 3,000.
NHTSA complaint #11755265 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The infotainment MIB3 system failed. Infotainment screen is completely black and non functional. This has put my family at risk because I can’t see my backup camera and have very limited visibility through rear view mirror when backing up. I also lost safety features such as rear cross traffic warning, rear auto braking, ability to see pedestrians or vehicles when backing up, and the emergency cell call system. My car also no longer can access navigation or CarPlay which makes navigation dangerous on my small phone. Failure of MIB3 infotainment brain was confirmed by VW dealer. Car is under factory warranty but part is backordered with no ETA so I’m forced to drive an unsafe car. Was denied a loaner vehicle. This failure happened 1 day after overhead console spontaneously broke and fell down from headliner. Error lights now persist on the dashboard.
NHTSA complaint #11755040 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle logged code P0491 due to a clogged cylinder head internal port at 28,000 miles (26,000 at the time vehicle was inspected.) Volkswagen's official repair protocol requires a complete engine cylinder head replacement. The vehicle's onboard computer has disabled the factory-installed remote start system as a result of this engine fault.
NHTSA complaint #11755056 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.