*Median odometer reading when the problem happened, where owners gave one. One complaint can name several problem areas.
Engine
While driving my 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan (equipped with approximately 39,000 miles), the vehicle suffered a sudden and catastrophic total engine failure without prior warning, resulting in an immediate loss of power and propulsion while in motion. This sudden stall on an active roadway created a severe, immediate safety hazard and a high risk of a collision. The vehicle has been meticulously maintained with a complete and documented history of annual professional servicing. Prior to the failure, the engine repair light would frequently illuminate. Upon subsequent teardown and investigation of the failed engine, the authorized manufacturer dealership discovered heavy metal shavings in the…
Oct 2, 2026Electrical system
Vehicle threw SOS emergency call feature error two years ago. I replaced the module at the dealership. Today, the same SOS emergency call feature again showed up and I am unable to make an emergency call. This is a known and common issue with VW.
Sep 15, 2026Unknown or other
I was driving the car it died while driving. The dealership canât figure out whatâs going on. And it will die WHILE driving and then say check starter ignition system. I open the door it says the engine is on but it is not. This vechicle had a physical key and you have the press the breaks to start the car
Aug 26, 2026Engine and engine cooling
The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while the outside temperature was cool, the vehicle operated normally. However, when the heat index was high, the message that the starter was hot was displayed. Shortly afterwards, the instrument cluster went black, and the vehicle stalled. The driver was able to coast the vehicle to the roadside. The contact waited approximately five minutes and restarted the vehicle. While driving in a subdivision, the vehicle stalled again. The local dealer was contacted, but there was no response despite the contact leaving a voicemail. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been notified of the…
Jul 22, 2026 · 63,000 milesInterior lighting
The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, upon entering the vehicle, the contact became aware that the dome light had detached and fallen. The contact stated that the electrical wiring was hanging down. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that the failure was a known failure with similar vehicles. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that the mileage was 2,000 miles over the extended warranty limitation. The failure mileage was approximately 76,000.
Aug 7, 2026 · 76,000 milesStructure › Interior panels › Ceiling
The contact owns a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH with two toddlers inside the vehicle, the ceiling of the vehicle detached and caused a bump on the head. A dealer was contacted, and the contact was informed that it was a known issue with similar vehicles. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that there was a recall associated with the failure but had expired. No assistance was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact about an extended warranty. The approximate failure mileage was 110,738.
Jul 31, 2026 · 110,738 milesUnknown or other
The overhead console by the rear view mirror suddenly detached - only hanging by cords. It will not go back on. Duct tape will not even hold it. It is a safety hazard to drive it, and it impairs visibility. The dealership I took it to says this is a problem with 2020 tiguans, but I will have to pay for the repair.
Jul 22, 2026Carry handle, shell, base
This appears to be a design defect in the interaction between the lock-off bar and the seat belt during removal. Beyond the property damage, this creates a safety risk: a caregiver who cannot remove or reinstall the seat may drive with an improperly secured car seat, and a damaged or cut vehicle belt in that seating position is unusable until repaired. I reported this to Evenfloâs ParentLink support on 7/19/2026 (ref:!00Df402dTF0.!500Uy0uvwTd:ref). Evenflo responded that the tangling meant I âincorrectly followedâ a step, without asking any diagnostic questions, and denied reimbursement. My requests for escalation on 7/21 and 7/23 have gone unanswered. Photos of the seat, the belt…
Jul 1, 2026
Owner complaints are submitted to NHTSA by the public and are not verified. Shown as filed (NHTSA removes personal details); long reports are shortened.