2017 Volkswagen Tiguan Safety Report
2017 VW Tiguan: Average crash ratings, but significant airbag and steering component failures reported.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan
Reliability Score
The 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan receives a reliability score of 60 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbag System Failure (Clock Spring) Clock spring failure leads to disabled driver's airbag, horn, and steering wheel controls, increasing injury risk in a crash. Multiple complaints report this issue, often around 50k-70k miles. |
High | Common | 50000-70000 miles |
| Power Steering Failure (Rack And Pinion) Loss of power steering assist due to defective rack and pinion, making the vehicle difficult to control, especially at low speeds or during emergency maneuvers. Several complaints detail this as an intermittent or complete failure. |
High | Occasional | 60000-130000 miles |
| Engine Issues (Timing Chain, Power Loss) Reports of timing chain issues, sudden power loss, check engine lights, and complete engine failure, sometimes leading to the vehicle stalling while driving. |
High | Occasional | 80000-120000 miles |
| Infotainment System/Backup Camera Malfunction Infotainment system fails to start or reboots randomly, causing the backup camera not to work, which is a hazardous condition when reversing. |
Medium | Occasional | any miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan:
Frequent reports of airbag warning lights, non-deployment in crashes, and 'clock spring' failures disabling the driver's airbag and steering wheel controls.
Loss of power steering due to rack and pinion failure, making the vehicle difficult to maneuver and posing a safety risk.
Issues including timing chain problems, sudden power loss, check engine lights, and complete engine failure.
General electrical issues, sometimes related to airbag system failures or infotainment malfunctions.
Complaints related to brake system performance or warning lights.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan
Is the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan has an 'Overall' 4-star safety rating, with good side-impact protection (5 stars). However, it has a lower 3-star frontal crash rating and a significant number of complaints (70 total) related to critical safety components like airbags (19 complaints) and steering (6 complaints), including reports of airbags failing to deploy in crashes and loss of power steering. There have been 4 recalls, two specifically addressing airbag and seat belt pretensioner issues.
What are common problems with the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan?
The most reported issues for the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan are related to the AIR BAGS system (19 complaints), often involving 'clock spring' failures that disable the driver's airbag and steering wheel controls. Other common problems include STEERING issues (6 complaints) such as loss of power steering due to rack and pinion failure, and ENGINE problems (6 complaints) like timing chain issues and sudden power loss.
Are there any recalls for the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan?
Yes, the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan has 4 recalls. These include recalls for incorrect front driver airbags, seat belt pretensioners, and two broader recalls for regulatory non-compliance that could increase the risk of injury, crash, or fire. These recalls directly address some of the most frequently reported safety concerns.
How does the 2017 Tiguan perform in crash tests?
The 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan received an 'Overall' 4-star safety rating from NHTSA. It performed well in side-impact tests, earning 5 stars, and received 4 stars for rollover resistance. However, its frontal crash test rating was 3 stars, indicating average performance in head-on collisions.
What should I look out for when buying a used 2017 VW Tiguan?
When considering a used 2017 VW Tiguan, pay close attention to any airbag warning lights, check for proper function of the horn and steering wheel controls, and listen for any clicking sounds from the steering wheel, as these can indicate a 'clock spring' failure. Also, test the power steering thoroughly for any signs of intermittent loss or stiffness, and inquire about engine service history, especially regarding timing chain or sudden power loss issues.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the significant safety-critical complaints regarding airbags and steering, and multiple recalls, a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended, focusing on these known issues and ensuring all recalls have been addressed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan. The data includes 70 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 4 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 4 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 3 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.