2024 Volkswagen Tiguan: All the problems encountered and what to know before buying

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan represents the third generation of the German compact SUV, one of the best-selling in its segment in Europe. With a sharper design, advanced technology, and a completely updated engine lineup, the new Tiguan promises efficiency and comfort. However, no car is without flaws: even the new Tiguan has some critical issues noted by users and testers, which deserve careful analysis. Below is a detailed and updated guide to the main issues with the 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan.

⚙️ MOST COMMON MECHANICAL PROBLEMS

1. 🔄 DSG GEARBOX: EXCELLENT BUT NOT PERFECT

The DSG dual-clutch transmission, available on many versions of the 2024 Tiguan, offers quick and smooth shifts. However, some users have reported jerkiness and delays when starting, especially when cold. In some cases, it has also experienced inconsistent behavior between lower gears. These issues appear to be linked to a less responsive electronic calibration or premature clutch wear in heavier or aggressively driven models.

Advice: Update your transmission software regularly and adhere to scheduled maintenance, including oil changes every 60,000 km.

Read Also: DSG GEARBOX: EXCELLENT BUT NOT PERFECT - ADVANTAGES, DRAWBACKS, AND MAINTENANCE TIPS

2. 🐸 1.5 TSI ENGINE AND THE FAMOUS "Jerky"

Despite optimization with the ACT (cylinder deactivation) system, the 1.5 TSI engine still suffers from minor hesitations below 2,000 rpm, especially in urban traffic. This problem, also known as the "kangaroo effect," is quite annoying when driving at low speeds. Volkswagen has already released software updates to mitigate this issue, but they aren't always effective.

Read Also: 1.5 TSI ENGINE AND THE FAMOUS "Jerky" ENGINE: WHAT YOU REALLY NEED TO KNOW

3. 🛢️ PROBLEMS WITH LAMBDA SENSORS AND DPF IN DIESEL ENGINES

On 2.0 TDI diesel models (150 and 200 hp), lambda probe malfunctions and premature blockages of the particulate filter (DPF) have been observed, even under 50,000 km. This is particularly evident in cars used primarily in the city.

Symptoms: engine lights on, loss of power, increased fuel consumption.

Read Also: Lambda Sensor and DPF Problems in Diesel Engines: What You Need to Know

💻 ELECTRONIC AND SOFTWARE PROBLEMS

4. 📱 INFOTAINMENT: UNINTUITIVE AND SOFTWARE BUG-FOUND

The new MIB4 infotainment system, while feature-rich, has been criticized for being unintuitive and lagging. Some users have reported issues with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as occasional system crashes.

5. 🧠 ADAS SYSTEMS ARE TOO INVASIVE

Many customers have found the ADAS systems (automatic braking, lane keeping, and Travel Assist) to be excessively intrusive. In particular, the lane assist intervention when cornering is considered abrupt and sometimes counterintuitive.

Note: Most ADAS functions are adjustable, but require time and familiarity with the central system menus.

Read Also: ADAS SYSTEMS ARE TOO INVASIVE ON THE 2024 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN: HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

6. 🚨 PARKING SENSORS WITH FALSE POSITIVES

Several online reports have revealed a malfunction in the front parking sensors, which emit proximity beeps even when there are no obstacles present. Volkswagen has already launched a software update campaign for the affected vehicles.

Read Also: Parking Sensors with False Positives: What's Happening and How to Intervene

🛋️ COMFORT-RELATED CRITICAL ISSUES

7. 🌧️ PANORAMIC ROOF AND WATER INFILTRATION

Models with panoramic roofs can suffer from water infiltration during heavy rain, a problem inherited from previous generations. The problem is caused by faulty seals or clogged drains.

Remedy: Regular inspections and cleaning of side drains.

8. 💺 STIFF AND UNCOMFORTABLE SEATS ON LONG DISTANCES

Despite good lateral support, some customers complain that the seats are too firm, especially in versions without electric lumbar adjustment. On long journeys, they can strain the back.

9. 📦 REDUCED BOOT SPACE IN ELECTRIFIED VERSIONS

Mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions have a smaller trunk space due to the size of the batteries. This is an important aspect to consider when purchasing.

💰 HIDDEN COSTS AND OPTIONAL PAYMENTS

10. 🧾 ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES NOT ALWAYS INCLUDED

Many essential accessories, such as wireless smartphone charging, rear USB ports, and adaptive full LED lights, are only available for an additional fee, even on mid-range models. This impacts the final price, which is often much higher than the initial list price.

✅ CONCLUSION: IS THE 2024 TIGUAN WORTH BUYING?

The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan is a technologically advanced, comfortable SUV with a good balance between performance and efficiency. However, it presents some significant issues that could impact the user experience, especially if used in urban environments or if high electronic reliability is required. Those seeking cutting-edge technology will have to get used to a complex infotainment system, while those looking for mechanical robustness should opt for diesel versions with regular maintenance.

Final advice: before purchasing, carefully evaluate the desired options, request a thorough test drive, and find out about current software update campaigns.