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2016 Volkswagen Tiguan problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan has been recalled for, how often it fails the UK MOT and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 2safety recalls
- 97owner complaints
- 4crash reports
- 2fire reports
- 15%fail the UK MOT
97 complaints, against an average of 127 for the other 14 Volkswagen Tiguan model years.
Every Volkswagen Tiguan model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
The components named most often in the 97 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 97 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
- Why is the airbag light on in my 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?21 owners · 21.6% · Recall 19V535000
- Can the sunroof on the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan shatter or fail?8 owners · 8.2%
- Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?5 owners · 5.2%
- Why does the power steering fail or feel heavy on my 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?5 owners · 5.2%
- Why is my 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan burning or losing oil?4 owners · 4.1%
- Why does my 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan stall, lose power or shut off while driving?3 owners · 3.1%
Has the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan been recalled?
2 U.S. safety recalls. Repairs are free at a franchised dealer; some are done over the air.
Air Bags: Air Bags/Restraint Control Module Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Tiguan and CC vehicles. The air bag Electronic Control Unit (ECU) may have a defective power supply capacitor that can result in air bag deactivation or inadvertent deployment of the air bags.
Risk: Deactivated air bags increases the risk of injury. Inadvertent deployment of the air bags increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install new software and replace the air bag ECU as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 25, 2019. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69Z5.
Latches/Locks/Linkages Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2016 CC vehicles manufactured January 12, 2016, to February 3, 2016, Golf R and Tiguan vehicles manufactured November 25, 2015, to January 28, 2016, and e-Golf vehicles manufactured November 25, 2015, to January 11, 2016. Vibrations, such as those created by opening and closing a vehicle door, may cause the rear child door locks to disengage, allowing a child to open a rear door while inside the vehicle.
Risk: If an unrestrained child unexpectedly opens a door, they may fall from the vehicle increasing their risk of injury.
Fix: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the child lock(s), free of charge. The recall began on August 22, 2016. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 58C9.
Is the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
UK DVSASteering rack bolt replacement
Risk: On vehicles of a limited production period corrosion can cause a tear of a bolt head on the steering rack. This can result in a loss of steering functionality.
Fix: On the affected vehicles the affected bolted connection of the steering rack is replaced on the right-hand side of the subframe.
UK DVSATakata Front airbag
Risk: The function of the driver airbag inflators can degrade due to air and moisture ingress.
Fix: Replace airbag
UK DVSAA tow bar with a possibly defective locking mechanism in the swivelling module has been fitted
Risk: A tow bar with a possibly defective locking mechanism in the swivelling module has been fitted.
Fix: The tow bar has to be checked and if necessary the swivelling module of the tow bar replaced.
UK DVSAThe roof spoiler can partially or completely detach from the vehicle
Risk: The roof spoiler can partially or completely detach from the vehicle.
Fix: The roof spoiler is additionally fixed in position with bolts on the rear lid.
UK DVSAA condenser may fail in the airbag control unit
Risk: A condenser in the airbag control unit may fail.
Fix: The software of the airbag control unit must be updated.
UK DVSATow bar with a possible defective locking mechanism may have been fitted
Risk: A tow bar with a possible defective locking mechanism in the swivelling module.
Fix: The affected tow bar has to be checked and if necessary the swivelling module of the tow bar replaced.
UK DVSAA short circuit in the led module of the panorama sun roof can occur
Risk: Possible short circuit in LED lighting module of the panoramic roof.
Fix: Modify wiring with integrated fuse adapter cables.
UK DVSAAirbag/belt tensioners may not trigger in event of an accident
Risk: Due to an error in the manufacturing process the air bag and/or seat belt pretensioner may not trigger in the event of a collision
Fix: On affected vehicles replace air bag assembly and seatbelt pretensioner where necessary.
UK DVSAFront seat backrest may collapse in a collision
Risk: The back-rests of the front seats may not have been assembled correctly. This may increase risk of injury to occupants during a collision.
Fix: On affected vehicles check frames and if necessary replace affected components.
UK DVSALights may fail without warning
Risk: It has been identified that due to a programing issue with the On-Board Supply Control Unit it is possible that the failure of one of the vehicle lights (dipped beam/main beam/daytime running light/rear fog light or indicator) may not be recognised by the control unit and therefore not shown in the instrument cluster. It is also possible that vehicle lights may be shown as faulty when they are not. Furthermore a failure of a dipped beam may not trigger a replacement response (activation of side lights). A light failure without a display in the instrument cluster or without replacement response can pose a danger of an accident especially in the dark.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to reprogramme the On-Board Supply Control Unit.
UK DVSAChild lock may disengage
Risk: The door child locks may disengage without driver knowledge. Though the door remains close it is possible for the door to then be opened from the inside.
Fix: On affected vehicles inspect lock mechanism and replace where necessary.
EU Safety GateMoisture ingress could lead to corrosion of a steering rack bolt, which may result in a fracture of the bolt and a loss of steering…Moisture ingress could lead to corrosion of a steering rack bolt, which may result in a fracture of the bolt and a loss of steering capability, increasing the risk of accidents.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 07/10/2026
EU Safety GateThe propellant in the driver airbag may deteriorate over time.If the airbags deploy, it can result in fragments from the inflator injuring the vehicle's occupants.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateDefective material may be used in the rear suspension helical springs.As a result, the springs could break, impairing the driving stability and increasing the risk of an accident. The product does not comply with the requirements laid down in the Regulation on the approval and market surveillance of motor vehicles and their trailers, and of systems, components and separate technical units intended for such vehicles
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Importer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: 13/05/2019
EU Safety GateThe towbar swivel mechanism may have a defective locking pin.As a result, the pin could break while driving, increasing the risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateDue to to errors in the adhesive bonding process, the upper rear (roof) spoiler may be insufficiently affixed.As a result, it can become detached from the vehicle and fall onto the road, posing a risk to the following traffic.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe roof-edge spoiler may not be secured enough due to an incorrect adhesive bond.As a result, the spoiler may become detached in motion, posing a risk to the following traffic.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateCars initially used for internal purposes of Volkswagen AG might not have been correctly modified before they were sold to the general…Cars initially used for internal purposes of Volkswagen AG might not have been correctly modified before they were sold to the general public. There is a possibility that certain safety systems of these cars are not correctly modified for street use.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateAs a result of a production error, a capacitor in the airbag control unit may fail.In rare instances, the control unit may interpret the change in voltage when the capacitor fails as a signal similar to that in a crash and initiate the unwanted activation of the airbag(s) and/or the belt tensioner(s). Unexpected activation of the airbags may increase the risk of injury to the car occupants.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateMoisture can reach the LED module of the sunroof's ambient lighting which may cause a short-circuit and a build-up of heat.If this happens, there is a risk of fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateSome vehicles have differences in the mixture ratio for the initiating device, which could lead to the driver and passenger airbag or…Some vehicles have differences in the mixture ratio for the initiating device, which could lead to the driver and passenger airbag or seat-belt pre-tensioner not activating in the event of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateIt is possible that the wheel bolts were not tightened with the correct torque which could result in the loss of the wheel.Also, the running direction of the tyres may not have been taken into account when the winter tyres were fitted which could have a negative effect on driving stability.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe welded joint connecting the seat back adjuster to the side support of the seat back may not be strong enough, increasing the risk of…The welded joint connecting the seat back adjuster to the side support of the seat back may not be strong enough, increasing the risk of injury to passengers in the event of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateIn the affected vehicles, the mechanical rear-door child-proof locking system may have been damaged during manufacturing.This can cause the child-proof locking system to be switched off without this being noticed, especially in the event of strong vibrations, making it possible for the door to be opened from the inside by children.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
How often does the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan fail its MOT?
Why they failed: the share of failed tests with at least one fault in each area (a test can fail on several). Cars first registered in 2016, tested in Great Britain in 2023; first registration is usually, but not always, the model year. Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results, Open Government Licence v3.0.
What do 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan owners report?
12 of the 97 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
Steering failure all of a sudden safety concern steering became very difficult the steering wheel became stiff and felt really unsafe. Red light for the steering turned on.
* Purchase Date: January 23, 2016 * Current Mileage: Approximately 71,500 miles For the past several months, my vehicle has experienced continuous engine oil loss. The oil level drops approximately one gallon every two months, and the engine oil warning light has illuminated on multiple occasions. Because of this recurring problem, I brought my vehicle to Volkswagen Glendale on April 23, 2026. After inspecting the vehicle at the Glendale dealership, I was informed that loose oil pan bolts were the cause of the oil loss. Based on this diagnosis, I took the vehicle to three different local auto…
The contact's friend owns a 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the power steering assist failed with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and a diagnostic test was performed. The diagnostic test showed that the vehicle and determined that the steering rack, wheel speed sensors, and engine cooling fans needed to be replaced. The contact's friend declined the repair, and the warning lights remained illuminated. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic who discovered that coolant was leaking into…
My car has never been in an accident. One day while turning into my driveway, I heard a large clicking sound. Since then, my airbag malfunction light is on and my car horn does not sound/work. All steering wheel controls are broken. This has been an issue for about 6 months. I've been waiting on a recall impacting my specific VIN/year/make/model, however I am being informed that I will need to pay out of pocket to have this major safety concern taken care of. I will be taking this car to the dealership this week in hopes to have a repair quote that I will have to save a significant amount of…
Subject: Known Carbon Buildup Issue in 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan TSI – Request for Recall and Accountability To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to formally express my concern and request action regarding a well-documented and dangerous issue affecting Volkswagen TSI engines—specifically, severe carbon buildup. I am the current owner of a 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan TSI, which I purchased in April 2025 with approximately 84,000 miles on it. In June 2025, I had to have the intake manifold replaced due to carbon buildup—a repair that was still covered under warranty. However, shortly after, I was…
Electronic Power Steering fails and there is a loss of control with turning the wheel (left/right). This is a hazard especially on the road as it not only puts myself at risk but other drivers lives at risk. There is a red steering wheel that lights up on the dash which indicates loss of power steering. There have been multiple reports already of Electronic Power Steering Failure with Volkswagen vehicles. They have yet to issue a massive recall on anything which can turn potentially hazardous to peoples lives. The electronic power steering failure always seems to persist no matter if it’s too…
The contact owns a 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving at unknown speeds, the entertainment, cruise control, and TPMS turned on and off without application. The horn was inoperable. The seat belt, air bag, and tire warning lights were illuminated. A tree fell on the vehicle, and the sunroof was leaking. The contact stated that there was an abnormal amount of fuel outside of the vehicle. The contact and her dog were exposed to fuel, and medical attention was provided. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but no assistance was provided. The vehicle was…
The 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan has a problem with the sunroof leaking and floors being filled with puddles of water in entire car. This have caused the water to cause electrical problems with the vehicle as well as meadow and mold.
I bought a 2016 VW Tiguan in 2019 from the Audi Rockville dealership. Recently I had an oil leak issue that requires a substantial repair. I first took it to a certified VW mechanic, Ourisman VW of Rockville, and they diagnosed the issue to be a 4,109.19 dollar repair. Following this, I took it to get a second look at an independent mechanic shop, Wilniq Auto Body & Mechanical Repairs, and the mechanic came to the conclusion that the engine head gasket needs to be replaced and that it should be covered under the manufacturers power train warranty. Unfortunately my car is out of warranty by…
Airbag error light on dashboard, passenger seat shorted out water pooled under passenger seats front and rear soaking wet coming up through carpets with moldy smell. You tube says it may be the panoramic roof drains.
I had a coolant leak and needed to replace the water pump. My control arms were corroded out at 67k miles and needed to be replaced.
While driving on the freeway, the car came to a sudden stop in the fast line. I tried multiple things.....moving it in and out of gear, and flipping the parking brake switch off and on. After maybe a minutes, the brakes unlocked and I was able to move the car over to the shoulder. There was not warning, the car just stopped. I have just recently had the car inspected, 50,000 mile service. No issues were detected by the service group. The service dept at VW diagnosed the problem as being a short in the emergency parking brake. Thankfully we were not hit. Am very concerned someone else won't be…
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2016 Volkswagen Tiguan: questions owners ask
Is the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 97 complaints with NHTSA about the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan; the most common categories were air bags (37, 38.1%), electrical system (27, 27.8%), steering (13, 13.4%). There are 2 safety recalls. 4 complaints mention a crash, 2 mention a fire, 3 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Across 97 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are air bags (38.1% of complaints), electrical system (27.8% of complaints), steering (13.4% of complaints), engine (10.3% of complaints), structure (6.2% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan; the most recent (campaign 19V535000, 2019-07-17) concerns Air Bags: Air Bags/Restraint Control Module. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why is the airbag light on in my 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
21 of the 97 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan (21.6%) describe airbag warning lights or airbag faults. A related recall exists: campaign 19V535000 (air bags: air bags/restraint control module). The fix: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will install new software and replace the air bag ECU as necessary, free of charge. One owner wrote: "My car has never been in an accident. One day while turning into my driveway, I heard a large clicking sound. Since then, my airbag malfunction light is on and my car horn does not sound/work. All steering wheel controls are broken." (NHTSA complaint 11694522, October 2025). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Can the sunroof on the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan shatter or fail?
8 of the 97 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan (8.2%) describe the sunroof or panoramic roof shattering, exploding or failing. One owner wrote: "As I was driving on the Long Island Expressway at 50mph, there was a sudden VERY loud explosion that sounded like a gun shot. I thought perhaps a tire had blown out but then I heard air rushing by. My sunroof had spontaneously exploded!" (NHTSA complaint 11689263, September 2025). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
5 of the 97 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan (5.2%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "Turbocharger went out on this vehicle rendering it unsafe to drive. Check engine light came on and after several opinions, it was determined that the Turbocharger went out and needed replacement in order for the vehicle to safely run." (NHTSA complaint 11526973, June 2023). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does the power steering fail or feel heavy on my 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
5 of the 97 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan (5.2%) describe power steering failing, locking up or turning heavy. One owner wrote: "Steering failure all of a sudden safety concern steering became very difficult the steering wheel became stiff and felt really unsafe. Red light for the steering turned on." (NHTSA complaint 11771991, October 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why is my 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan burning or losing oil?
4 of the 97 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan (4.1%) describe excessive oil consumption or oil leaks. One owner wrote: "Oil consumption issue. “Normal” oil consumption is 1 quart per 1200 miles according to VW. My Tiguan with 70k miles is burning 3 quarts every 2,000 miles. No obvious oil leak or burning of oil. I’m told I need a new engine and this is a known issue for VW." (NHTSA complaint 11504781, January 2023). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan stall, lose power or shut off while driving?
3 of the 97 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan (3.1%) describe the engine stalling, losing power or shutting off while driving. One owner wrote: "Electronic Power Steering fails and there is a loss of control with turning the wheel (left/right). This is a hazard especially on the road as it not only puts myself at risk but other drivers lives at risk." (NHTSA complaint 11647085, March 2025). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Check your own Tiguan
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA anonymised MOT results (Open Government Licence v3.0), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2016 only.