The 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan is a versatile option in the compact SUV segment. While its design and platform have started to show their age, the vehicle delivers a potent performance, thanks to its quick turbocharged engine, refined handling characteristics, and a renounced driving demeanor. It comes with a potent set of specifications and is packed to the hilt with safety features for added likability. Yet, the 2014 Tiguan’s malfunctioning airbag unit is the largest blockade in its overall reliability and makes for well more than 50% of the total registered complaints. Apart from that, the SUV’s mechanical components and structural integrity also come under the radar. A 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan for sale starts at $24,170 and competes with the likes of the Honda CR-V, the Chevrolet Equinox, and the Toyota RAV4.
2014 Volkswagen Tiguan User Complaints and Problems
Safety Complaints
- Illumination of driver airbag warning light: A majority of the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan problems are concerned with its airbag system. In several cases, buyers have reported their steering wheel making a clicking noise, which results in the horn and mounted controls ceasing to operate as intended. This is followed by the illumination of the driver’s airbag light, indicating the disabling of the driver’s side airbags. This happens because of the failure of the clock spring placed inside the steering wheel. Considering the impact of the problem, Volkswagen has introduced a recall, referenced by NHTSA ID 15V483000, however, the parts for repair are on back order and not available with the dealerships.
Mechanical Complaints
- Check engine light: The 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan engine problems deal with the vehicle’s check engine illuminating randomly. While in one case, a failure of the timing chain resulted in the illumination of the light, in other cases, a reason could not be ascertained. However, buyers did report the vehicle losing its power and stalling inadvertently.
- Problems with the suspension unit: The list of the Volkswagen Tiguan faults also include the issues with its suspension system. In more than a couple of cases, buyers have reported the vehicle making a clunking noise when in motion. Where a diagnosis was conducted, damaged coil springs were attributed as the cause of the problem. Additionally, in one case, a user also reported the premature failure of the sway bar links causing the vehicle to make such noises.
Electric System Complaints
- Dim image from the backup camera: Buyers of the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan have also reported problems with the vehicle’s rearview camera. When put in reverse, complainants have recorded the image from the camera not being adequately bright. As a result, the dim outputs restrict the driver’s visibility, which can increase the risk of a crash. While it is a recurring complaint, mentioned on both official and unofficial forums, there is no solution available for the problem, as the brand claims that the compact SUV’s backup functionality works as intended.
Structural Complaints
- Explosion of sunroof: The VW Tiguan panoramic sunroof problems are concerned with its explosion. Without any impact or incidence, buyers have reported the sunroof of the vehicle shattering into pieces, which results in the glass fragments flying outwards. A similar problem was also reported by the buyers of the yesteryear models.
2014 Volkswagen Tiguan Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
16th May 2018 |
18V329000 |
Non-compliance with regulatory requirements |
Due to certain modifications made to the vehicle in the internal evaluation phase, the affected units fail to comply with regulatory requirements. |
Dealers will either make the vehicles compliant or repurchase them if required. |
|
2. |
4th Aug 2015 |
15V483000 |
Airbag clock spring failure |
A tear in the cable due to the contamination might result in the loss of electrical connection to the driver’s frontal airbag. |
As per requirement, dealers will either replace the airbag clock spring or install a protective cover, free of cost. |
|
3. |
21st July 2014 |
14V441000 |
Possible engine stall |
In certain cases when using winterized fuel, bubbles may develop in the fuel system, resulting in an engine stall. |
Dealers will update the software to increase the fuel pump pressure, free of cost. |
Should you buy the 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan?
The 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan is an impressive option that delivers a comprehensive performance without burning a hole in the pocket. It is uniquely designed, comes with a finely-crafted interior, and resonates with quick performances. While it is not as popular as its contemporaries, the German SUV is consistent in its performance. Its sales-to-problem ratio has always been adequate as per segment standards and in most cases, buyers have been provided with a readily available solution. So, in a market filled with established adversaries, the Volkswagen Tiguan does promise a breath of fresh air. However, if you want to continue with a mainstream option, the 2014 Toyota RAV4 is the most dignified offering.
