How common are engine problems in the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan?

NHTSA lists 90 engine-related complaints out of 283 total complaints for the 2018 Tiguan, making up 32% of all complaints for that year.

Is there an engine recall for the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan?

Yes. Recall 18V159000 covers long wheelbase 2018 Tiguan models where the engine support bolts may not have been properly tightened. Volkswagen dealers replace the bolts free of charge.

At what mileage do engine problems usually appear?

NHTSA data shows a median mileage of 8,000 miles at the time of failure for engine-related complaints on the 2018 Tiguan.

Are the engine problems dangerous?

NHTSA records show 1 crash, 1 fire, and 1 injury among the engine complaints for the 2018 Tiguan.

2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Engine Problems

Engine problems account for 90 of 283 complaints (32%) filed on the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan, the highest engine share of any recent model year. A related recall (18V159000) covers loose engine support bolts, and the median mileage at failure is 8,000 miles.

Engine complaints: 90; 32% of 283
Crashes reported: 1
Fires reported: 1
Injuries reported: 1
Median mileage: 8,000 mi
Related recalls: 1

Typical engine symptoms owners report

Owners describe sudden power loss or hesitation with the EPC warning light illuminated, sometimes while merging onto highways.
Several report rough or jerky acceleration and delayed throttle response, especially at low speeds.
Some describe the auto start/stop feature causing the engine to shut off and restart unexpectedly at intersections, followed by hesitation.
Oil leaks from the intake camshaft adjustment valve were reported, recurring even after dealer repair.
One owner reported a burning odor and a fire after the vehicle was parked in a garage.

When 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan engine complaints were filed

First complaint Mar 28, 2018, latest Sep 23, 2026.

90 complaints filed with NHTSA from Mar 2018 to Sep 2026; peak Aug 2018 (8).

Engine recalls for the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan

NHTSA 18V159000Mar 8, 2018Engine4 vehicles
Engine
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2018 Tiguan long wheel base (LWB) vehicles. The engine support bolts on these vehicles may not have been properly tightened.
Risk: If the engine support bolts were not properly tightened, an unexpected engine breakdown or loss of engine power may occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Volkswagen will notify owners, and dealers will replace engine support bolts, free of charge. The recall began March 26, 2018. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 10F7.

Engine complaints by Tiguan model year

Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.

201056 (51%)
201166 (41%)
201253 (35%)
201333 (24%)
201412 (14%)
20159 (15%)
201614 (15%)
201716 (21%)
201890 (32%)
201952 (27%)
202030 (21%)
202160 (43%)
2022126 (47%)
202329 (44%)
202420 (29%)
202511 (23%)

Frequently asked questions

How common are engine problems in the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan?: NHTSA lists 90 engine-related complaints out of 283 total complaints for the 2018 Tiguan, making up 32% of all complaints for that year.
Is there an engine recall for the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan?: Yes. Recall 18V159000 covers long wheelbase 2018 Tiguan models where the engine support bolts may not have been properly tightened. Volkswagen dealers replace the bolts free of charge.
At what mileage do engine problems usually appear?: NHTSA data shows a median mileage of 8,000 miles at the time of failure for engine-related complaints on the 2018 Tiguan.
Are the engine problems dangerous?: NHTSA records show 1 crash, 1 fire, and 1 injury among the engine complaints for the 2018 Tiguan.