The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan, while popular for its stylish design and European engineering, has not been without its share of problems. Numerous owners have reported issues across various platforms, including NHTSA and CarComplaints.com. These problems range from engine failures to electrical glitches, significantly impacting the overall driving experience. In this article, we’ll explore the most common problems with the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan, emphasizing key issues that owners should be aware of.
Engine and Transmission Issues
One of the most alarming problems with 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan involves engine and transmission failures. Many owners have reported instances where their vehicles suddenly lose power while driving. For example, one user on CarComplaints.com mentioned that their Tiguan’s engine shut down completely while driving at 45 mph, leaving them unable to use brake lights, hazards, or blinkers, which almost led to multiple collisions. This problem seems to stem from both the engine and the DSG transmission, where delayed gear changes and random shutdowns have been frequently noted.
Excessive Oil Consumption
Another prevalent issue with the 2018 Tiguan is excessive oil consumption. Owners have reported that their vehicles consume oil at an unexpectedly high rate, sometimes requiring oil top-offs every few thousand miles. This issue typically emerges around 20,000 miles and can lead to more severe engine problems if not addressed promptly. In some cases, this excessive consumption has been linked to worn-out piston rings, which are costly to replace.
Electrical System Glitches
The 2018 Tiguan has also been plagued by several electrical system problems. These include issues with the infotainment system, battery drain, and malfunctioning door locks. For instance, one owner reported that the door locks malfunctioned, trapping a child inside the car due to the vehicle locking itself with the keys inside. This is not only inconvenient but also a significant safety concern. Additionally, problems with the reverse camera and the infotainment system have been noted, where the screen either goes black or displays error messages, severely impacting the usability of these features.
Safety and Reliability Concerns
Safety is a critical concern for any vehicle owner, and unfortunately, the 2018 Tiguan has faced its share of issues in this area. Multiple reports indicate that the vehicle’s automatic emergency braking system can engage unexpectedly, causing the car to brake suddenly without any obstacle in front of it. This has understandably caused panic among drivers and passengers alike, raising concerns about the reliability of the vehicle’s safety feature.
Conclusion
In summary, while the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan offers a sleek design and a comfortable ride, it is marred by several significant issues that potential buyers and current owners should be aware of. The problems with 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan—ranging from engine and transmission failures to electrical system glitches—can severely impact the vehicle’s reliability and safety. For those considering purchasing a 2018 Tiguan, it is crucial to weigh these potential issues against the vehicle’s benefits and to ensure that any necessary repairs have been made.
