CarRecallWatchThe 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan has 2 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 97 complaints with NHTSA, including 4 crashes, 2 fires, 3 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Air Bags (37 reports).
2016 Volkswagen Tiguan recalls
Air bag control module may deactivate or deploy air bags
The air bag control module (electronic control unit) in certain 2015-2016 Volkswagen CC and Tiguan vehicles may have a defective power supply capacitor.
Rear Child Locks May Disengage, Letting Kids Open Doors
Certain 2016 Volkswagen CC, e-Golf, Golf R, and Tiguan vehicles built within specific production windows may have rear child door locks that disengage from vibration, such as from opening and closing a door.
Most common 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan problems
Problem areas named in the 97 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Air Bags | 37 |
| Electrical System | 27 |
| Unknown Or Other | 23 |
| Steering | 13 |
| Engine | 10 |
| Structure | 6 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 4 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 4 |
| Service Brakes | 3 |
| Power Train | 3 |
What owners report
Steering failure all of a sudden safety concern steering became very difficult the steering wheel became stiff and felt really unsafe. Red light for the steering turned on.
* Purchase Date: January 23, 2016 * Current Mileage: Approximately 71,500 miles For the past several months, my vehicle has experienced continuous engine oil loss. The oil level drops approximately one gallon every two months, and the engine oil warning light has illuminated on multiple occasions. Because of this recurring problem, I brought my vehicle to Volkswagen Glendale on April 23, 2026. After inspecting the vehicle at the Glendale dealership, I was informed that loose oil pan bolts were the cause of the oil loss. Based on this diagnosis, I took the vehicle to three different local auto repair shops for additional inspections. All three repair shops independently diagnosed the issue as
UNKNOWN INCIDENT. I had a 2016 VW Tiguan with just over 80k miles (approximately 80,200 mi). On 1/6/2026 about 10 min after driving home from the gym, I heard a small explosion from the garage where my car was parked. The garage was filled with smoke and large flames were visible from under the front end of the vehicle. We called 911 and tried to put it out with a fire extinguisher but it continued to re-ignite. The fire burned down our entire garage with all its contents and made it's way into the home completely destroying our laundry room and adjoining bathroom. I had no previous issues with the vehicle, no warnings or check engine lights.
The contact's friend owns a 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the power steering assist failed with several unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and a diagnostic test was performed. The diagnostic test showed that the vehicle and determined that the steering rack, wheel speed sensors, and engine cooling fans needed to be replaced. The contact's friend declined the repair, and the warning lights remained illuminated. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic who discovered that coolant was leaking into the engine and discovered various engine leaks. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was no
Iâll be driving for 2-10 minutes and power steering cuts out. Wheel will jerk a little and alarm will sound with the alert light remaining red through remainder of drive. Sometimes it will not work at all while driving, but Iâve found the it usually works for the first few minutes until I speed up a little more.
2016 Volkswagen Tiguan questions
Does the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls for the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan: Air bag control module may deactivate or deploy air bags; Rear Child Locks May Disengage, Letting Kids Open Doors. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Based on 97 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Air Bags (37), Electrical System (27), Unknown Or Other (23).
How do I check if a recall on my 2016 Volkswagen Tiguan has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.