Tiguanbuyer's guide

The first-generation Tiguan is cheap because it has a long list of well-known faults. Timing chain tensioner failure on the EA888, DSG mechatronic faults, and the 2.0 TDI oil pump balance shaft are three failures that can each total the car. This guide walks you through the field checks before you pay a deposit.

This guide covers ten documented issues: timing chain and oil-service risk (EA888 1.4 TSI / 2.0 TSI), DSG and torque-converter automatic judder, coolant leaks and water-pump failure, infotainment and software electrical faults, suspension knocks and uneven tyre wear, brake corrosion and electronic parking brake faults, oil leaks and PCV diaphragm failure, panoramic roof and boot water leaks, ADAS radar and camera calibration after windshield work, and the full recall and campaign checklist. Each fault has a field check and a real repair-cost range.

A clean, documented Gen 1 Tiguan with the right engine and a serviced timing chain is a sensible used family car. The wrong one is a four-figure repair waiting to happen. This guide tells you which one you're standing next to.