These Are The Volkswagen Tiguan Model Years You Should Avoid Buying Used

The 2011, 2009, and 2010 Tiguan model years have significant engine and electrical problems that cannot be ignored.

The Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the best all-around compact SUVs, providing great features and setting the standard for its class. Fulfilling performance, delicate interior design, and top-level safety attributes make this vehicle a favorite in the SUV segment.

Having said that, even for a car like Tiguan, it is vital to investigate and find out every detail there is to make sure that you are making the right decision buying that vehicle. So, let's get detailed and discover important information about Volkswagen Tiguan.

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According to the CarCompliants website, the 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan has the highest overall complaints; however, the 2011 model year is dubbed the worst Tiguan ever because of the higher repair costs and more problems at lower mileages. The 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan hosts a long list of engine problems.

The most severe issue with its engine is the timing chain tensioner defect. In terms of severity and costs, this issue takes the cake. " I'm 63 years old and bought this vehicle not even one year ago. I planned on this being my last vehicle; however, now I have to replace 3 out of 4 cylinders or replace the engine.

I have always heard good things about VW, but would I buy another one? Not so sure. I still work every day and have to pay for repairs and a rental." Stated one Tiguan owner. The common solution to this problem is the replacement of the engine, and it typically costs around $4,000 but can get up to $10k sometimes.

Besides engine problems, the 2011 model also has major electrical issues. Many owners have reported that the ignition coil tends to stop working on low mileages. This is not as costly as its engine problems, but it is very hazardous and can cause irreversible damage if not taken care of.

The 2009 model also features many engine problems. The leading engine issue of the 2009 model is the plastic intake manifold failure. This particular problem has the most complaints and for good reasons. This seems to be a recurring problem as many owners have reported multiple malfunctions in a short period. It is not the most costly problem, but its frequency makes this a significant downside.

Another frequently reported problem of this vehicle is the cooling system issues. Water pump failure happens quite often in the 2009 model. This seemingly minor problem costs around a grand and can go higher depending on the circumstances. The 2010 Tiguan's engine failure is as troublemaking as it gets. It costs a lot to repair, creates dangerous incidents, and you must go through hell to fix it.

That makes it hard to suggest this model year to anybody. Accommodating the engine failure problem is the main oil seal leakage. Many have identified that the PCV valve causes the rear main seal to blow. The main oil seal must be replaced to fix this issue, which generally takes around $1000.

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It is said that a Volkswagen Tiguan can last anywhere between 150,000 to 200,000 miles. However, you can get more than 200,000 miles with proper care and maintenance. Typically, you can expect to get 10 to 15 years of driving out of a Tiguan. All that depends on how you take care of your vehicle.

Certain procedures suggested by the manufacturer can elongate your Tiguan's lifespan if followed. Here are some of the most critical ones:

According to Repairpal, it costs $730 to maintain a Volkswagen Tiguan year-round, which is way above the average for a compact SUV class at $521. Also, the chances of a repair being a significant issue is 12 percent for the Tiguan, one percent higher than the class average.

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Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the more reliable compact SUVs in the present market and can climb the ladders of success and become the best-selling SUV in the US. It provides many desirable features but, like any other vehicle, has some bumps in its manufacturing road.

The 2009, 2010, and 2011 model years have major engine and electrical issues that cannot be ignored. So, it's better to avoid these specific model years if you are in pursuit of buying a used Tiguan. Also, make sure to evaluate your vehicle of interest thoroughly to eliminate any chance of trouble.

Sources: Volkswagen, Reparipal, Carcomplaints

Seyyed is a literature student, fitness guru, writer, and gearhead. He is a fanatic about a healthy lifestyle, music, and anything car-related. He is a massive devotee of vintage muscle cars. His favorite hobby is clanging and banging in the gym.